Flashbangs, or stun grenades, are non-lethal weapons designed to disorient targets with a powerful burst of light and sound. Developed initially for military and law enforcement use, these devices are now commonly used in situations requiring a fast, non-lethal way to incapacitate individuals without lasting harm. The way flashbangs work is to create sensory overload in the target’s body and temporarily disorient them. Upon detonation, the flashbang simultaneously releases intense light (over 6 million candela) and sound (around 175 decibels) within milliseconds. It also releases a shock wave.
The flash/ The light
The flash from a flashbang is very powerful. Upon detonation, it emits a blinding flash of more than 6 million candela. The flash released from the flashbang overwhelms the target’s photoreceptors in their retinas, temporarily blinding them for several seconds. The flash effect also distorts depth perception, making the environment hard to perceive.
The bang/ The sound
The bang from a flashbang is also very powerful. Upon detonation, it releases a sound of about 175 decibels, causing severe, temporary hearing loss and overwhelming the inner ear’s vestibular system, which controls balance (further immobilizing the target). The sheer volume can also cause tinnitus, a ringing in the ears. The sound can also cause severe psychological damage, including anxiety, confusion, dizziness, fuzziness, and an overall unawareness of one’s environment.
A flashbang would be useful in different tactical operations and is somewhat more potent than their alternatives (like pepper spray). Even though flashbangs are considered non-lethal, they could be deadly to people with specific health problems and also can be deadly to people if they stand too close to it when it explodes.
