Cheap & Expediant Perimeter Security

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Something I made as a teenager to pull a prank on my sister could also be used as a very inexpensive perimeter security device.

Using a large mouse/rat trap, a couple of nails, fishing line and some black powder percussion caps – a simple alarm can be built to alert you in the event that something or someone enters a particular area.

Here is how it is built:

Above:I have taken a standard rat trap and placed 2 nails so that the lever will impact the top of the nails when it is tripped.

Above: As you can see – I used nails extra long so they would penetrate the trap and extend some distance. The purpose of this was so that the nails could be pushed into the ground to secure the device.

Above: A small can of black powder percussion caps. If both detonate – they are about as loud as a .22LR. Larger caps can be purchased and used.

Here are a few possible uses:

Place in ground and attach fishing line to trip device – then attach other end to tree/stick/branch. Once something crosses into area and contacts fishing line – BOOM!!!!
Place several around garden to keep deer out.
Scare your buddy half to death!!!!

There are certainly some limitations with these. Weather for example could impose a problem. They are not very durable as once you use one a few times the nails tend to get loose in their holes (which can just be moved).

Anyways – they are very cheap and do work. I have an idea for an improved version – will let you know if it works out.

Rourke

Tags: self defense

Defense | Rourke October 25, 2010

4 Comments to “Cheap & Expediant Perimeter Security”

By Al, October 25, 2010 @ 10:31 pm

I think your easiest expedient would be a package of pull-string alarms. You pull them apart they go “Bang!”.
You can get them from Bud K Enterprises online.
By Rourke, October 25, 2010 @ 11:58 pm

Good idea – I have another idea as well that I will be working on this weeekend. Hope to post on it next week.

Thanks – Rourke
By tom, October 27, 2010 @ 3:15 am

There are two variants on using black powder (BP) percussion caps. First, use Musket Caps- they are larger and louder; also they are varnished, and significantly more moisture resistant, and you can help seal them easily. No matter what, you are going to have to increase the noise they make- an easy resolution for the BP alarms.

A better alarm can be made from using an altered shotgun shell, firing systems (strikers) are easy field expedients, even easier home made.

No matter which type system you use, be aware of you state’s firearms & game laws. Things will always ‘go wrong’ and you can be held liable for the consequences up to the Illegal Manufacture of Firearms.

tom
By Rourke, October 27, 2010 @ 10:51 am

Hey Tom –

Thanks for the info. I have another idea I am working on right now. Hopefully will post on it next week.

Thanks – Rourke