It's a Trap! 023: Pike's All-Angle Bird Flinger

Published on April 21, 2025
Duration: 19:01

This video reviews the Pike patent, also known as the All-Angle Bird Flinger, a handheld clay bird thrower patented in 1900 and sold by Wesley Richards. The presenters demonstrate its use, discuss its historical context, and analyze its effectiveness, noting modifications like the replacement of original rubber components with plastic tubing. The video also includes a historical anecdote about a dispute between the Pike brothers and another company over patent infringement.

Quick Summary

The Pike patent, known as the All-Angle Bird Flinger, was a handheld clay bird thrower patented in 1900 and sold by Wesley Richards. While the example shown has had its original rubber replaced with plastic tubing, it could still project clay targets an estimated 60-70 yards, demonstrating its historical effectiveness despite modifications.

Chapters

  1. 00:11Show Intro & Range Setup
  2. 01:29Pike Patent History & Marketing
  3. 02:07Condition of the Bird Flinger
  4. 03:40First Throw Attempt
  5. 05:28Observing the Device Markings
  6. 06:38Second Throw Attempt & Pattern
  7. 07:51Review and Effectiveness
  8. 08:06Historical Effectiveness & Design
  9. 10:51Patent Dispute Letter Reading
  10. 13:20Analysis of the Historical Letter
  11. 15:16Discussion on Septic Tanks & Toilet Paper
  12. 16:30Show Production & Historical Facts
  13. 17:16Filming the Intro
  14. 17:47Camera Angles & Goomer Pile Reference
  15. 18:50Septic Tank Maintenance

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the Pike patent, also known as the All-Angle Bird Flinger?

The Pike patent, marketed as the All-Angle Bird Flinger, was a handheld clay bird thrower patented in 1900 and sold by Wesley Richards and Company. It was designed for projecting clay targets by hand and has a unique mechanism for its era.

What historical dispute is mentioned regarding the All-Angle Bird Flinger?

The video discusses a letter from the Pike brothers to the Arms and Explosives Journal, protesting a competitor's 'Swift Shore projector.' They claimed the competitor's device was an inferior imitation of their patented design, highlighting early patent disputes in firearms accessories.

What is the condition of the Pike patent bird flinger shown in the video?

The example shown has had its original rubber components replaced with automotive-grade plastic tubing, which has been riveted in place. This modification affects its performance compared to the original design.

How far could the All-Angle Bird Flinger throw clay targets?

Based on the presenters' demonstrations and estimations, the Pike patent bird flinger could throw clay targets approximately 60 to 70 yards. The distance achieved varied with throwing technique and the device's condition.

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