1903 HOWCROFT TUBE SHOOTER

When someone first suggested that I build a Tube Shooter, my first reaction was, what on earth is a Tube Shooter? It sounded interesting so I tracked down what is believed to be the only original built one still travelling. It was a bit different to a normal living wagon because of all the paraphernalia that turned it into a shooting gallery using live ammunition. In addition to the folding panels that opened up to form the show front, there were the tubes and target boxes at the rear of the wagon (see animation - left).

I decided that I wanted the model to pack away like the real thing so that it could be displayed either as a living wagon or a fully operational shooting gallery. Like a lot of best-laid plans, I had to compromise. I have ended up with a front that folds as per the original but each of the tubes have been made in one piece, as I did not have the technical ability to make them in three sections, with a gradual taper that slotted together to make a 24ft long tube. I am reasonably happy with the end result.

The front entrance to the tubes is made from a plastic funnel (from Halfords) with the unwanted portions removed (see photo). The folding panels have been made in a similar fashion to the walls in the Techniques section. You will get the best idea of the construction of the outside walls from the photos. I used individual planks both inside and outside. I have made the model with large wooden wheels as the full size wagon had originally see (Techniques section). At night the outside was originally lit by Naphtha Flares but this is not practical with a model, so I have used Arc Lamps, which it had fitted later on during its working life. The target boxes had candles for illumination at night with chimneys to disperse the smoke and heat. I have used 12 v bulbs to represent the candles.

I was unable to detect any signs on the interior of the living van, as to where any oil lamps may have been fitted. After a chat with John Pockett, he concluded that it was probably lit by candles, so that is what I've used in the model, two candlesticks on the over mantle and one on the end cupboard. I have tried to build the interior the same, as the real wagon except for the glass panel in one of the cupboards, which I am pretty sure is not original, the same applies to part of the ceiling decoration. The stove and the enamel surrounds are missing and I have installed a black Mellors Hostess 24 stove and blue decorated surrounds, which have been copied from an early Mellors brochure.

Top panel of the tube shooter.

Tubes and rifle rack on the tube shooter.

Rear of the tube shooter.

Looking through the door of the tube shooter.

Partly painted top panel of tube shooter.

Top right panel of tube shooter with template for the scroll surround.