Blank Ammunition Explained – For Movies, Ceremonial Salutes, and Launchers

Blanks Are Built for Specific Roles

Blanks aren’t just “noise-makers.” Each type is carefully loaded to deliver the right amount of gas, flash, and sound for its role—whether it’s a 21-gun salute, training exercise, movie production, or launching projectiles.

Choosing the correct blank ensures safety, reliability, and proper performance every time.

The Three Main Types of Blanks

1. Full Flash Blanks – Maximum Flash, Power, and Movie Use

Full flash blanks are designed for visual and auditory impact, commonly used in film, TV, and live demonstrations. They produce:

• Daylight-visible muzzle flash
• Loud, realistic report for on-screen and public use
• Strong gas pressure to cycle or power launchers (where applicable)

For film and theatrical use, these blanks can be loaded to specific power levels:

• ¾ load – Large flash and loud report
• ½ load – Moderate flash and sound, safer for close scenes
• ¼ load – Minimal flash and report, for confined spaces or tight shots

This allows productions to match the visual and safety requirements of each scene while still achieving realism.

Best For:

• Movie and TV productions (under strict safety protocols)
• GI 22mm launchers
• Live demos or events where spectacle is key

Note: These can run hotter than other blanks at full load—only use in firearms or launchers rated for high-output blanks.

2. Training & Ceremonial GI Blanks – M200 (5.56 NATO), M68 (7.62x39mm), and M82 (7.62x51mm)

Commonly called GI blanks, these are the standard service blanks for both training and ceremonial purposes, including 21-gun salutes:

• M200 (5.56 NATO):
• Star-crimped, widely used for AR-platform training (with Blank Firing Adapter) and ceremonial volleys.
• M68 (7.62x39mm):
• Primarily for AK-pattern rifles in training and ceremonial roles, including foreign-service honor guards.
• M82 (7.62x51mm):
• Used in M14s and other 7.62 NATO rifles by honor guards and for field training requiring a heavier, deeper report.

All GI blanks feature:

• Star-crimped, no projectile for safety
• Moderate power loads to balance realism and shooter comfort
• A consistent, sharp report with controlled flash

Best For:

• Funerals and 21-gun salutes
• Military and veteran memorial ceremonies
• Field training with AR, AK, and M14-pattern rifles

Tip: Check your platform before ordering. M82 blanks (7.62x51) for M14s are most common for honor guards, while AR-based teams use M200 (5.56) and AK units use M68 (7.62x39).

3. Launcher Blanks – For Can and Golf Ball Launchers

Launcher blanks for cans and golf balls are the same cartridge, with the only difference being that some are made with a shorter overall length (COAL) to fit launchers with chamber bar safety systems (which prevent live rounds from chambering).

These blanks are moderately loaded, built for safe, repeatable launches rather than extreme pressures. When paired with the right launcher:

• Cans and T-shirts (with sabots) can reach ~100 yards
• Golf balls can launch impressive distances without overstressing the device

Best For:

• Soda can launchers
• Golf ball launchers (threaded or slip-on)
• Recreational and event use

Tip: If your launcher uses a chamber bar restriction, always use the short COAL version for proper function and safety.

Why the Right Blank Matters

Using the wrong blank can lead to:

• Weak cycling or failed launches
• Damage or excessive wear on firearms or launchers
• Unsafe muzzle blast conditions

Always choose the correct blank for your platform and purpose—whether it’s training, a ceremonial salute, a film shoot, or launching projectiles.

Safety Always Comes First

Even without bullets, blanks can injure or kill due to blast, wads, or debris. Always:

• Wear eye and ear protection
• Never aim a blank-loaded firearm at a person
• Use proper blank adapters or launcher systems
• Follow all range, event, and set safety protocols

Stock Up with Confidence

Detroit Ammo Co offers American-made blanks for every use, including:

• Full Flash Blanks – For movies, demos, and live events, with options for ¾, ½, or ¼ power loads
• GI Blanks (M200 5.56, M68 7.62x39, M82 7.62x51) – The standard for training and ceremonial salutes
• Launcher Blanks (Can & Golf Ball) – Available in standard and short COAL for chamber-restricted launchers

Whether you’re honoring veterans, training, filming, or hosting a launch day, our blanks are safe, consistent, and reliable.

👉 Shop Blanks Now