Let’s keep the record straight once and for all: Flashbangs are produced for military and law enforcement purposes, and civilians are therefore not allowed to own one in the United States without a special license. Too bad because they’re pretty cool with their disorienting effects on enemies— temporary blindness and deafness. What if I tell you that you could still get yourself an alternative? And yes, it’s 100% legal (we don’t do sketchy stuff here.)
Flashbangs
Also known as a flash grenade, stun grenade, or sound bomb. The Flashbang is a less-lethal explosive device designed to produce a blinding flash of light (the flash) accompanied by a loud explosion (the bang). This explosive could cause injuries and even start a fire due to the heat it can produce when placed in the wrong hands.
Who sells them?
I.W.A. International, a company based in Miami, Florida, is an expert in importing and exporting tactical gear worldwide. They sell ammunition, tactical flashlights, body armors, etc. but more importantly, they sell flashbangs.
Flashbangs are cool but getting arrested for illegal possession is not.
I.W.A. International knows that for sure, so you don’t have to worry about the flashbangs they sell. As reported by Military Times, “These grenades are imported from UK-based manufacturer TLSFx Pyrotechnics, which builds and sells simulated munitions to a variety of customers including military simulation (MilSim) enthusiasts, as well as movie/television special effects crews.”
These grenades are different from the real ones, of course. They are made up of small charges inside a cardboard tube and are classified as pyrotechnics (like fireworks). The explosions are, of course, weaker too. At the moment, there are three models available: the M11 Multibang Device, the M12 Distraction Device, and the M13 Thermobaric Canister. Following are the specs based on their website:
M11 Multibang Device
- The M11 Has a Military style fly-off lever assembly with a triple safety twist, pull and release system.
- It is designed with a 2.5-second delay incorporated within the base ejecting sound unit, constructed from tough, recyclable plastic. The delay/sound unit within the device is fully waterproofed as an additional benefit for the end-user.
- There are four rapid sequential bangs with bright flashes.
 M12 Distraction Device
The specs are the same with M11, except it only produces a single bang.
M13 Thermobaric Canister
It produces a weaker bang than the first two, but it makes a very bright flash of light.
Few things to remember if you’re considering buying:
These flashbangs can only be shipped via ground transport. Also, they don’t ship to Alaska or Hawaii. You also have to be of legal age to purchase one, and lastly, they sell fast like hotcakes!
So, if you are having a hard time getting everyone to go home after a 4th of July or New Year’s party, you can always use this to clear a room quickly and you won’t go to jail for it.