We were well used to doing this with batteries when children, for fun (you had to make your own amusement back then). One of my mates decided to try it with the output of the 12V transformer we used to run my Triang train set (TT gauge for the anoraks). When he was able to describe the experience, some minutes later, he said it was akin to being hit by two torpedoes, simultaneously, one on each temple. I was disinclined to try it.
That takes me back, too... my chum had a similar trainset, and I can remember him playing with the transformer making pretty sparks by touching the +/- terminals together. Hmm, he says, I wonder what would happen if we did it with a mains cable?
IIRC the only belt he got was from his dad who hotfooted it upstairs (in the dark, of course) to investigate the almighty bang which ensued. Happy days...
David
Of course an open circuit transformer is very likely to give considerably more voltage than its rating.
My step-brother was persuaded (not by me, he hadn't yet joined our part of the family) to test the scalextric track with his tongue. The only reason he wasn't run over by a small plastic racing car (which was the objective) was that he leapt 4' straight up, as the trigger was pulled. (by #2 step-brother)
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