A force multiplier is most often associated with military tactics. In short, a force multiplier is a factor or combination of factors that gives you an advantage. For instance, having a radio comms system is a force multiplier compared to message runners. It allows for the communication of tactical information at a much faster rate. Another exaample might be night vision, which would give you a clearer picture in darkness. I haven’t seen a lot about this topic in the preparedness community, and I have to wonder why not. Fireworks and related products can be an excellent force multiplier. Here is a look at a few ideas.
Smoke Grenades
Like anything else, these are not all created equal and you get what you pay for. Depending on the intended use, wind can be a major factor in their use. The smoke emitted from these handy gadgets can be easily dispursed by wind, but on a calm day, they can provide cover to obscure aproaching maurauders, allow for personel movement, or effect a retreat. Smaller grenades can be used to mark object locations, or provide a visual warning to allies. Here are a few examples…
EG25 – small output smoke grenade with wire pull ignition. Great for position markers. Usually cost about $7.50.
Burst (Twin Output) – Better output than the EG25. Emits smoke from both ends. Wire pull ignition. Great for creating cover for a small area. Usually costs about $15.00
CM75 (Nicknamed the cloud maker) – Provides a large amount of smoke to obscure views. Long lasting. Fuse ignition which is great for remote firing. Usually costs around $50.00
Sound Shells
Most sound shells are made to be fired off into the air and make a lot of noise when the go off. This can be usefull for creating confusion, but there is a ground level option…the shotgun shell. Keep in mind that although these little bangers are shaped like shotgun shells, they are fireworks and not for use in shotguns! Fuse ignition. Usually costs around $15.00/4 pack.
Whistle bombs do exactly what the name implies. When fired, they create a whistle sound until the explode with a loud bang at around 20 meters. Fuse lit. Usually cost around $12.00/4 pack.
Air bombs are designed to fly about 20 meters into the air and explode with a loud bang. Fuse lit. Usually cost around $8.00/4 pack.
Other Fireworks (Roman Candles, Mortars, Cakes, Etc.)
These other types of fireworks usually comprise of burning balls of fire that explode into spectacular displays at around the 20 meter height (all together now…ooooooh…..aaaaaah….wooooooooow). While there are certainly uses for these types, the risk of setting your retreat or homestead on fire is greatly increased. Use with extreme caution only.
Remote Firing Devices
Let’s face it, other than wire full type smoke grenades, lighting fireworks when you need them most is a tricky thing to accomplish. Imagine trying to distract the golden hoard in your driveway by running around with a lighter or a flare. Thankfully, there are remote firing systems for fuse type fireworks.
Wired – The Launch Control Pulse system uses a 4 output controler that sends voltage through a wire to a clip with a heating element. You clip the fuse in and set it all in motion up to 75 feet away. The system is expandable, giving you control of more fireworks. I have been unable to find any information as to how many can be linked together, so it seems this option would expand without limits. The disadvantage is that you can’t fire while on the run. These kits usually cost about $40.00 each, but extension cables to give you that 75 foot range are extra.
Wireless – Although a more expensive option, about $375.00 per starter kit and more cash out for useful add ons, this system has the advantage of being mobile. A WIFI connection to an Apple or Android device can control the unit up to 150 meters away. 15 sets of fireworks can be controled from the one unit. You can control multiple units from one device. This is my personal favorite for firing systems!
As I mentioned at the beginning, there is little chatter about fireworks in the prepper community. There is even less chatter about pointing them at specific targets instead of straight into the air…and for very good reasons. That being said, I do not see a problem with mounting them horozontally instead of vertically, functionality wise that is. Keep in mind that fireworks can easily set fire to your surroundings, not to mention getting hit by one could cause severe injury or death. So, to summarize, smoke grenades for signaling, marking, or cover for retreat and other fireworks for confusion and distraction. Any other use of fireworks is completely at your discretion and responsibility!
All price estimates and videos were taken from Rocket Fireworks. Please be responsible.