How To Make A Gopher Blaster

How to Make a Gopher Blaster: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you tired of gophers wreaking havoc on your lawn and garden? Gophers can be a persistent nuisance, but thankfully, there are humane and effective ways to deal with them. While commercial gopher traps exist, building your own gopher blaster can be a rewarding and surprisingly simple project. This guide will walk you through the process, emphasizing safety and effectiveness. Note: Always prioritize the safety of yourself, your pets, and the environment when dealing with pest control.

Understanding the Gopher Blaster Concept

A gopher blaster isn't a high-powered weapon; it's a cleverly designed device that utilizes compressed air to scare gophers away from their burrows. It doesn't harm the gophers, but the sudden burst of air is enough to disrupt their comfort and encourage them to relocate. The design leverages readily available materials, making it a cost-effective solution.

Materials You Will Need

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

• A sturdy PVC pipe: Approximately 2-3 feet long, with a diameter suitable for creating a good seal (around 2 inches is a good starting point).
• A PVC end cap: This will seal one end of the pipe.
• A bicycle pump: This will provide the compressed air.
• A strong rubber stopper or cork: Slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the pipe. This will act as your air valve.
• PVC glue: To securely attach the end cap.
• Measuring tape or ruler: For accurate measurements.
• Sandpaper (optional): To smooth any rough edges.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Building Your Gopher Blaster

Follow these steps to construct your effective and safe gopher blaster:

Step 1: Preparing the PVC Pipe

Ensure the PVC pipe is clean and free of debris. If necessary, use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges on the inside or outside of the pipe.

Step 2: Attaching the End Cap

Apply a generous amount of PVC glue to the inside of the PVC end cap and carefully attach it to one end of the PVC pipe. Allow the glue to set completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. This will create an airtight seal.

Step 3: Fitting the Air Valve

Carefully insert the rubber stopper or cork into the open end of the pipe. It should fit snugly but still be removable. This will serve as your air valve. You can adjust the tightness of the stopper if needed.

Step 4: Testing Your Gopher Blaster

Before deploying your gopher blaster, test it in a safe area. Attach the bicycle pump to the open end of the pipe and begin pumping air. The air pressure should build inside the pipe. Once you have sufficient pressure, quickly remove the rubber stopper. You should hear a forceful expulsion of air. This indicates your gopher blaster is working correctly.

Deploying Your Gopher Blaster

Locate active gopher mounds or tunnels. Carefully insert the open end of the gopher blaster into the gopher hole. Make sure to seal any gaps around the pipe to prevent air leakage. Pump the air and quickly remove the stopper. Repeat this process multiple times on different gopher holes.

Tips for Effective Gopher Control

• Consistency is key: Use the gopher blaster regularly to discourage gophers from establishing themselves.
• Target active holes: Focus on holes that show fresh signs of activity, like loose dirt or raised mounds.
• Combine methods: For optimal results, consider combining the gopher blaster with other pest control methods, such as planting gopher-resistant plants.
• Be patient: It may take time to see results. Gophers are persistent, so perseverance is necessary.

By following these steps, you can successfully build your own homemade gopher blaster. Remember always to prioritize safety and be respectful of the environment while dealing with gophers. This eco-friendly approach will help protect your garden without causing harm to the gophers.