It's a Trap! 001: The DuPont Hand Trap

Published on December 1, 2020
Duration: 15:23

This video delves into the history and mechanics of the DuPont Hand Trap, a vintage clay throwing device patented in 1901. It highlights DuPont's marketing strategy to boost gunpowder sales through increased clay shooting. The demonstration covers the trap's spring-loaded mechanism and the 'bayonet thrust' technique for optimal performance, noting the physical effort required.

Quick Summary

The DuPont Hand Trap, patented in 1901 by John C. Porterfield, was a marketing tool for DuPont gunpowder. It featured a heavy-duty spring mechanism and was designed to increase clay shooting, thereby boosting shotgun shell and gunpowder sales.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Hand Traps
  2. 01:50History and Patents
  3. 02:10DuPont's Marketing Strategy
  4. 03:15Mechanical Overview
  5. 04:18Demonstration and Technique
  6. 11:15Historical Context and Pricing

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the original purpose of the DuPont Hand Trap?

The DuPont Hand Trap was marketed by DuPont, a gunpowder company, to encourage more clay shooting. This increased the consumption of shotgun shells, directly boosting DuPont's gunpowder sales.

Who patented the DuPont Hand Trap?

The device was patented by John C. Porterfield in 1901 and granted in 1902. It was initially known as the JC Hand Trap and first marketed by Mitchell Mfg. Co.

How does the DuPont Hand Trap operate?

The trap features a heavy-duty spring and a wire trigger mechanism. It is manually cocked, requiring significant physical effort, and then released to propel clay pigeons at high speeds.

What historical marketing strategies were used for the DuPont Hand Trap?

DuPont used the hand trap as a promotional tool. By encouraging clay shooting, they aimed to increase demand for their gunpowder, demonstrating a direct link between shooting sports and ammunition sales.

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