How Does a Squirrel Nut Cracker Work?
You might be wondering: how does a squirrel nut cracker actually work. The fact is, a squirrel is an amazing animal that can crack any nut with ease. If you have an antique squirrel nut cracker, or a homemade Whirligig plan, you may be interested in learning how it works. If you want to build a squirrel nut cracker, however, you should first understand how a squirrel nutcracker works.
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Antique squirrel nutcracker
There’s something charming about an antique squirrel nut cracker. This cast-iron nutcracker has a moving jaw and tail that cracks nuts. Unlike most figural squirrels, which crack nuts with their arms, this nutcracker uses its teeth. It weighs two pounds, 10 ounces, and is approximately 5 and 1/2 inches tall, 1 & 7/8 inches wide, and 7 1/4 inches deep.
The nut cracker features a rusty hilt with a beautiful patina. It is marked “Tyler, Texas and Chicago, 1913.” It is in excellent condition and shipped via USPS Priority Mail. The price is $99.00. If you are interested in purchasing this antique squirrel nut cracker, contact me today. We ship worldwide! You can expect to receive your item within a few days.
Whirligig plan for a squirrel nutcracker
If you are in the mood for a woodworking project that’s not too complex, try the Squirrel Nutcracker Whirligig Plan. This full-size woodworking pattern will walk you through the process from start to finish. This plan is easy to follow and will take only a few hours to complete. The plan comes with step-by-step assembly instructions and a parts list.
The Squirrel Nutcracker Whirligig Plan has been crafted from woodcraft and is inspired by the covered bridges that can be found along the country’s roadsides. The finished project is 8″ wide and features four slats, eight inch wings, and thin plywood propellers. A squirrel nut cracker can be made from pine and sealed using an exclusive color exterior marine paints.
Another type of Whirligig is the P-51. A P-51 is a classic version, which comes with free plans and a metal garden stake. The free P-51 whirligig plan comes with a nut cracker kit that contains a 1/4-inch diameter metal garden stake. Depending on your needs, you can create your own whirligig by modifying the plans.
Mechanism of a squirrel nut cracker
A squirrel nut cracker’s mechanism is the key to a successful nut-cracking session. It works by lifting the tail, creating a clamp between the squirrel’s legs. The tail is then pressed down, cracking the nut. The mechanism of a squirrel nut cracker is a classic American invention. It was invented by two Chicago machinists, Bradley and Hubbard, in the early 1900s.
The traditional nutcracker uses a leaver on the back of the nut and a lever in the mouth. The Nutty Squirrel Nutcracker makes use of its tail as a lever. This lever moves up and down to produce the same motion as the squirrel’s mouth. The nutcracker’s tail is made of lightweight aluminum. It is recommended to hold the base to prevent it from moving when using it.
When making your own squirrel nut cracker, it is important to look for various markings on the parts. For example, the handle will have the names of Alex Woldert Co, Tyler Tex, Chicago, and L200 on it. Other parts, like the mounting bar, will bear various marks and patent dates. The best way to determine whether yours has an appropriate marking is to compare it with a commercially available one.
Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.