Spring weather kicks off the 2026 rifle launcher season with a bang. RLCNJ group members have already been experimenting with novel launcher projectiles and accessories.
The first successful functional prototype projectile was developed for the X Products Can Cannon. It features a 3D printed Apollo capsule launched from 3D printed shot cups, which drop away to deploy a parachute for a soft landing back to Earth.
This was no simple task! It took a few weeks of refinement to the design, materials, and methods of this project to get it to a reliable, repeatable, and enjoyable experience. With that said, it has been a ton of fun.
The launch parameters are designed for a low pressure blank (3.5 grains of 700x in a .223 blank) that will send the capsule up to 50 yards downrange.
This two cup payload is loaded with the capsule cup first, with the open end facing downrange, and the top parachute cup second, with the open end facing the capsule cup.
Essentially, you sandwich the capsule and parachute between two cups. The cups both drop off during ascent, and the chute deploys for the descent.
Below is a slo-mo demo of a successful launch and parachute deployment.
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