Outdoor Power Equipment (Lawn Mowers, Snow Blowers, Chain Saws and more) Discussions

We had a really dry miserable winter last year in Spokane, and I have been toying with the idea of building a snow gun. I really like the HAGO External Mix Snow Gun described here:

http://webpages.charter.net/hagosnowgun/



I have a suitable air compressor and pressure washer - the nozzles, valves  and brass hardware wouldn't cost over $50. The gages would add $20 or so.... I know the kids would like to be able to sled even if Mother Nature doesn't cooperate. I like this design because of the low cfm requirement - my Sears compressor (9scfm @ 40 psi) has a 50% duty cycle and won't tolerate continuous running.

Has anyone on the forum built their own snow making weapon? Howzit do? Can you comment on the one I linked, or can you recommend a better design?

Thanks.

John Davies

Have never made my own snow, Yet. I did do some research a few years ago, and found out There is a guy in my town with one of these

www.backyardblizzard.com. 

He had a TV crew show up and was giving sled rides in his yard, with a ton of snow, the only snow for miles around. Since then, we have had snowy winters, so I never tried anything. But I did have plumbing experiance, and the oil burner nozzles and a pressure washer was what I thought would work best.

That Backyard Blizzard Sport is GROSSLY overpriced - $2400 plus $199 shipping for a combination air compressor and water pump, plus the wand and nozzles!!?? There can't be even 30% of that in materials cost. There isn't even an air tank - just a honking big electric motor running the two pumps. The only positive aspect is that it is really compact and suited for renting out for winter parties, where you have to transport it often, and into inaccessible yards.

I guess with an extremely limited market they can sell some to rich folks with steep hills and no snow.... or to equipment rental companies.

The SnowWand is even more of a rip-off for $525 plus $79 shipping:



I would be willing to try snow making as an experiment for less than $100, but I won't blow a wad of cash on a toy when heatingh bills are shooring up this winter.

John Davies

About what I expected for a reply about the Blizzard. I must say it did make decent snow. And when Ive seen used snowmaking equipment, it sure aint cheap. But with the info you posted earlier, I think snow can be had for a fair price.  If I see a snow drought someday, I will be out with the pressure washer and other toys.

BTW, Long term forcasts point to a cold and snowy winter here in New england.

I'd like to do so but wife hates winter :)) anyway no one will stop me from using my snowblower :)

Have a nice one !

Den