MythBusters Episode 35: Border Slingshot
Air Date: July 27, 2005
Illegal immigrants are being launched over the United States border by the means of a giant slingshot.
busted
In addition to being unable to achieve the distance and accuracy reported, the device could not be constructed in such a way as to allow the quick assembly and disassembly required for the myth. In addition, the person being thrown would likely be killed on impact.
Newer: Episode 36: Killer Tissue Box
Older: Special 8: JAWS Special
This was perhaps one of the most hilarious episodes EVER.
June 29, 2007 at 10:53 PMThis is the most insane tests I have heard of. LOL! I got to get a hold of this episode! :)
September 21, 2007 at 1:43 PMYou would have to use a catapult to get the needed loft, and the impact would be fatal.
November 5, 2007 at 3:21 PMWe use small slig shots made with medical tubing to launch mini pumpkins at our pumpkin farm’s fall festival. we would like to build a larger slig shot to launch full sized pumpkins this year. Are any of your test results on surgical tubing or plans available for review? Thanks
January 6, 2008 at 10:33 AMI thought it was a bit crazy even with a safety specialist but its okay I might do it when Im older and can swim so see you in the bermuda triangle
March 9, 2008 at 3:50 PMCan you say, “Trebuchet”? (trey boo SHAY) I think it is a French name for a version of catapult. (See “Punkin Chunkin’”)
Of course, you two are the Kings of the Air Cannon! But that is not a likely possibility for human propulsion.
Question? Could a trebuchet be rigged to look like/ work like a flatbed trailer when not in use hauling stuff?
December 25, 2009 at 7:19 PM