Summer is a time for fun in the sun, and what could be more fun than getting drenched with a water gun? You can go outside the house and play with your friends and family while enjoying the summer heat. You can also bring your water gun to a pool party. Whichever water activity you wish to participate in, playing with your water gun is a sure way to add fun and excitement with your peers.
Interestingly, water guns have been around for many years, and they have evolved quite a bit over that time. Playing with your water gun is one thing, but have you wondered how this fun and simple toy was invented? How does water guns work back then?
In this blog post, we’ll explore the history of water guns and take a look at some of the most popular models over the years.
The History of Water Guns
Water guns have been around for many years, and their popularity has only grown in recent years. It also has an interesting history, wherein it was accidentally created by an inventor named Lonnie Johnson.
Johnson was a nuclear engineer for the Air Force in the 1980s, and he was working on a heat pump that used compressed air to cool homes. He was testing his invention by shooting water out of a nozzle when he realized that he could turn his device into a toy. He assembled the tubing, grabbed the nozzle, and started shooting water.
This accidental invention made him interested in creating a simpler and more efficient version. He created a prototype water gun and let his daughter play with it. For days his daughter enjoyed the water gun, and the toy became famous in the neighborhood. Because of this, Johnson started to create a more practical version of the water gun.
After creating the improved version of the water gun, Johnson patented his work to make sure he’s credited for his invention. Once everything was set, Johnson started to market his work.
When it comes to marketing the water gun, Johnson first thought of producing and selling the toys himself. But this method proves inefficient since manufacturing cost is too expensive. This led him to a more practical method – which is to introduce his works to toy companies.
One of the major breakthroughs in Johnson’s journey was in 1989 when he met with the representatives of the Larami Corporation during the American International Toy Fair. Larami already had experience manufacturing battery-operated water guns, which made the deal more interesting.
After discussing the features of his water gun design, Johnson brought a prototype model to Larami’s headquarters. After demonstrating the capabilities of the water gun, the company’s president and executives were amazed, which led to an agreement.
The company named the product: Super Soaker, which was introduced to the public in 1990. The water gun became an instant success; both adults and children are interested in buying one, especially during summer. In its early years in the industry, the company had already sold more than ten million Super Soakers.
Today, water guns are still popular among people of all ages. It became one of the essential summer toys, and it will likely remain so for many years to come. With its long and interesting history, there’s no doubt that water guns will continue to bring fun and excitement to everyone who plays with them.
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Over the years, toy companies have continued to develop better versions of the water gun. That is why you’d see different types of water guns if you go to the toy store today. Here are some of the most popular types:
- Pressurized Water Guns – this type of water gun uses a pump to pressurize the water inside the reservoir. The more you pump, the more pressure builds up, and the farther the water will shoot.
- Battery-Operated Water Guns – as the name suggests, this type of water gun is powered by batteries. This makes it easier to use since you don’t have to pump it manually. Just point and shoot!
- Syringe Water Guns – this is one of the simplest types of water guns. It uses a syringe to draw water from the reservoir and shoot it through the nozzle.
- Squeeze Bulbs – this type of water gun is similar to the syringe water gun. The only difference is that it uses a squeeze bulb instead of a syringe.
- Springs – this is the most basic type of water gun. It uses a spring-loaded plunger to draw water from the reservoir and shoot it out through the nozzle.
These are only some of the most popular types of water guns available today. So, if you’re planning to buy one, make sure to choose the type that best suits your needs.
Fun Ways To Use a Water Gun
After buying a water gun, there are various ways you can do to enjoy it with the family. Here are some fun ideas:
- Have a water gun fight with the family. This is a great way to bond with your loved ones and have some fun at the same time.
- If you have a pool in your backyard, you can use your water gun to shoot water at people who are swimming. Just make sure not to aim for the face!
- Use it to water your plants. This is a great way to save on water bills and have some fun while watering your garden.
- Fill it up with Soapy Water and use it as a car wash tool. You’ll be surprised at how much dirt and grime comes off when you use a water gun!
These are only some of the ways you can use a water gun. So, get creative and have fun!
Final Thoughts
Water guns are a great way to have some fun in the summer. With its long and interesting history, there’s no doubt that water guns will continue to bring fun and excitement to everyone who plays with them. So, if you’re looking for a way to beat the heat this summer, make sure to get yourself a water gun!