Coilgun Question?

Question

I'm building a small coilgun (launches steel paper clips about a meter or two). Anyway, what I want to do is make it more powerful but with the same charging time (about 1 minute). I have four 1.5v batteries as the power supply and use the flash circuit of a used disposable camera to charge a 330v 120uF capacitor (originally belonging to the camera). I know that I should use larger capacitors to get more electricity into the coil. I tried using a 16v 10000uF capacitor which didn't work (I think this is because it takes too long too charge and didn't charge it long enough) and a 16v 4700uF capacitor that did sent a screw at a hammer about 3 cm away and bounced back (though I had to charge it for about 5 minutes, which is pretty long compared to the relatively short 1 minute for the camera flash capacitor).
So, any ideas on how to make the coilgun more powerful in less time (1 minute of charge should do)?

P.S.: Not sure if this is the category this question should be in.

To anybody worrying about these high voltages: it's a camera flash circuit, therefore may have high voltages but has extremely low amperage, so if it shocks you, it only produces pain, no serious damage.

I understand the dangers of using larger capacitors, which is why I use insulating gloves. So please answer my question, no more caution notes, because I take every bit of caution I need.

OK, I've extended the expiration date of my question. If I don't get an answer telling me something besides that I might die if I'm a complete idiot and don't consider the danger (which I have so many times) I will delete this question.
So just answer my ----ing question!

Answer 1

You want more power delivered to the coilgun in the least amount of time so voltage times capacitance to get the largest value. is the voltage below the max of the capacitor? Should not exceed 80-90% of the rating.
On the other side are you keeping the coil internal resistance as low as possible? You want to develop the max power here as fast as possible. Larger diameter wire for lower resistance. Square cross section wire packs tighter for lower resistance/turn. More turns increases inductance to increase voltage developed.
good luck and a safety rule about high voltages "Always keep one hand in your pocket."

Answer 2

Hi

If you are using 16 v capacitors with a 300v power supply you are working way beyond your knowledge. High voltage, high current circuits kill.

If you must build things like this learn more about the dangers before something goes seriously wrong.

Answer 3

42,
The whole point of the capacitor is to store energy.
As you go to larger capacitors you can have a considerable dangerous jolt waiting in there.
Learn a bit more before you get in too deep.