Abstract: A ball projecting device, preferably pneumatically operated, is provided wherein the projected ball has "spin". The device comprises a projection tube including a curved portion, wherein the area of maximum curve radius of the curved portion, preferably is provided with a material having a high coefficient of friction; the ball is caused to roll along this high friction area, thereby imparting spin. The tube is preferably pivotable, such that the elevation of the tube end can be adjusted.

Abstract: A pneumatically-operated ball projecting device is provided wherein the muzzle velocity of the projected ball is determined by a pneumatically-operated detent in the barrel of the device. The detent holds the ball within the barrel until a predetermined air pressure is built up behind the ball, causing the detent to collapse, permitting the ball to be projected out of the barrel. Varying the pressure required to collapse the detent directly varies the muzzle velocity.

Abstract: A ball projecting device is provided for propelling a ball pneumatically, wherein the speed of the ball projected is, at least in part, determined by utilizing a pneumatically operated, preferably variable, detent in the barrel of the device. The detent holds the ball within the barrel until a predetermined air pressure is built up behind the ball, which then causes the detent to quickly, almost immediately, collapse, permitting the ball to be projected out of the barrel.The invention further comprises a ball feeding mechanism, for feeding projectile balls to the barrel, the feeding mechanism comprising a rotating multi-apertured disk, rotating about an axis transverse to the horizontal and an overhanging ball guard device to prevent the blocking of the feed mechanism with a plurality of balls.