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A designer called Lorenzo Maggiore has developed a pump-action "insect eradication" device called Bug-a-Salt that fires salt at unsuspecting creepy-crawlies.

The device has a range of between 0.9 and 1.5 metres and has a holding chamber for enough granulated table salt for 50 shots. In order to shoot, the user must first of all pump the handgrip. This triggers a pop-up sight and an automatic safety catch, which has to be manually removed before shooting. Then it's a question of taking aim at a fly or slug and pulling the trigger.


Maggiore is looking for investment through crowdfunding site Indiegogo in order to cover manufacturing costs for Bug-a-Salt. With 48 days left to go, the project has smashed its $15,000 (£9,700) goal to raise almost $100,000 (£65,000).

The site explains: "Bug-a-Salt miniaturised shotgun effect is generated through this ingenious design. Ordinary table salt is utilised as a lethal projectile with accuracy range within 3 feet (one metre). Bugs will remain whole for easy clean up."

Maggiore's company Skell warns that the salt gun can be dangerous if aimed at someone's face, particularly their eyes, although it "won't penetrate skin of damage furniture".

Next time a spider takes your living room hostage, reach for the Bug-a-Salt and say: "Go ahead, make my day".