Introduction: Flying Can
Start with your favorite beverage, make sure it is empty.
Step 1: Remove the Top Lid
Use a Half Round Bastard File to cut through the rolled Top Lid. Be patient and careful not to dent the can. I then use an old piece of Emory Cloth or Sandpaper to smooth any jagged edges.
Step 2: Cut Off Bottom
Use a pair of scissors to cut the bottom off. The first cut can be hacked as long as the can is not dented. clean up your hacked first cut with a second or third cut.
Step 3: The Flying Can
Use the same piece of Emory Cloth or Sandpaper to clean the bottom of the can.
Step 4: Good Flying Form
I tried to load a video, but the feature is "coming soon".
The Flying Can cannot be forced through the air.
Throw like a quarterback throwing a tight spiral football, with the "Top" of the can being the leading edge.
Don't throw for power, instead focus on the spin. Again, it is all in the spin.
The leading edge should have a slight increased angle of attack. The spin keeps Flying Can stable like a bullet from a rifle. The angle of attack creates an airfoil on the upper and lower surfaces.
Flying Can is great for playing catch, however some receivers don't have soft hands. If Flying Can gets intercepted, be ready to make another.
I feel like I should add a disclaimer here, Aluminum cans are sharp.
Mike Vans
14 Comments
8 years ago on Introduction
Go Cats!
9 years ago
I don't get it
Reply 9 years ago
It's a hollowed out can that you throw and it glides through the air like a frisbee or a giro scope
9 years ago on Introduction
I love ale8 so much better out of a glass bottle but good any way, especially mixed with Jameson.
9 years ago
Ale8one! Are you from central Kentucky? I live in Lexington, the world doesn't know what they're missing. I had a toy in the 80's called "too bee" that was a manufactured version of this flyer. It's cool when it flies it looks like its on a string.
9 years ago on Introduction
Ale 8!
Glad to see some Kentucky pond water on here! Love the stuff.
9 years ago on Introduction
Awesome idea!
9 years ago on Introduction
Oh, it's like a DIY Xylo toy - I made one out of paper:
https://www.instructables.com/id/Roll-your-own-UFO/
I also usually throw it under-arm, but I think your overarm technique is more appropriate for heavy materials.
For the sharp edges, maybe trim with duct tape, or wrap in Sugru?
Reply 9 years ago on Introduction
Kiteman, pretty awesome made them in school also. did you ever make the paper triangle version? I will dig deep and post an instructable.
Reply 9 years ago on Introduction
Triangular version? I haven't seen that.
9 years ago
Nifty, I made the past ones years ago, I can't wait to try the can version.
Reply 9 years ago
that should be paper one
9 years ago on Introduction
Cool, you must upload the video
9 years ago
When you can, definitely upload a video! I'd love to see it!