M-80's

M80's are
small salutes (exploding fireworks) originally used to simulate gunfire
during military training. They were sold in the U.S until the Child
Protection Act banned them in 1966. Originally, they were approximately
1-1/2" long cardboard tubes, 9/16" in diameter filled with Flash Powder.
Several slightly different variations existed by different names (such as
the "Silver Salute" and "Ash Can"), but in general, all the devices were
functionally identical.
Below is the procedure used for assembling
these devices.
Keep in mind that assembling
and even possessing such a device is illegal and considered a very serious
offense unless you are licensed to do so. It is also worth noting that due
to Federal Regulations, Pyrotechnic Suppliers can not even so much as sell
you the components to make M-80's. Exploding fireworks have caused more
injuries that any other type, mainly resulting from improper use. The
explosive force generated can easily remove fingers from the hand or send
flying particles into the eye causing permanent blindness. As tempting as it may be to do, never light one of these and
throw it. There have been many recorded cases of defective fuse where
there was minimal delay, exploding the device in someone's hand. Exploding
fireworks are not toys and should only be handled by adults licensed to do
so
Always set the firework on the ground (with no obstructions
around), light fuse and get away.

Components needed for assembling an M-80, Visco (cannon) Fuse, White
Glue, Paper End Plugs, a thick-walled Paper Tube and Flash Powder. The M-80
shown here is made from a paper tube 2" long with an inside diameter of 5/8",
although almost any size tube and matching end plugs can be used.

Using a 1/8" drill bit, a hole is drilled in the side of the casing. This
is where the fuse will be installed.

A bead of glue is spread just around the inside of one end of the M-80
tube. This will adhere the End Plug to the case

The End Plugs used are just heavy weight paper pressed into a cup shape
that fit snugly inside the tube. There are many other ways to plug the ends of
the tube if commercial End Plugs are not available. Some old manufacturing
techniques use plaster or similar thick pastes to secure the ends. These are
dangerous and should not be used. When the M-80 explodes, these solid plugs
become projectiles and can blind or penetrate the skin and must be avoided. It
is a misconception that End Plugs must be thick for a loud report. Stick with
thin, lightweight plugs that will fragment & not travel far when the
firework explodes. Plugs made from pieces of tissue rolled into a ball, pressed
into the end of the tube and thoroughly covered with white glue are
acceptable.

The End Plug is pressed into the tube until flush with the surface. Wipe
off any extra glue that might seep out when the plug is inserted.

A piece of Visco Fuse is cut, no shorter than
3", and inserted into the tube. Make sure that the fuse is unobstructed and
extends all the way to the bottom of the tube.

Lay a thin bead of White Glue around the fuse sealing it to the
case.

The tube is then filled 3/4 full with
standard 70 / 30 Flash Powder. This is the only Flash Powder that should ever be
used in exploding fireworks of this type. Do not fill the tube more than 3/4
full. The formula and mixing procedure for this Flash Powder can be found here.

Just as was done before, run a bead of White
Glue just around the inside of the tube and insert an End Plug flush with the
case. Wipe off any excess that may squeeze out.

Just for looks, the case can be painted red, signifying an explosive
device. There are many different types of paper tubes available that already
have a colored outer wrap.

The completed M-80. Remember that these devices were
banned for a reason. It is suggested that the construction of M-80's and similar
devices be left to the licensed pyrotechnician. Never light any exploding
fireworks in your hand, always follow the basic fireworks theme... lay on
ground, light fuse and get away.