SF-DI-2
Options have been limited when it comes to NFDD/FSDD training. Standard flash bangs are expensive and impose restrictions on the training environment. Training devices that realistically simulate the characteristics of traditional flash bangs are available. Still, the per-use cost remains an issue with many of them.
Royal Arms SF-DI and SF-DF flash-bang simulators are low-output devices designed to provide safe, realistic training at the lowest possible cost per use. SF-DF shown.
ROYAL ARMS IMPACT-INITIATED TRAINING FLASH-BANGS
Now located in Tennessee, Royal Arms International, Inc. was established in Southern California in 1984 as a manufacturer of specialized tactical breaching, hostage rescue, CQC, and EOD/IED bomb disposal equipment for law enforcement, military, and government agencies worldwide. Royal Arms manufactures all of its products in the USA at its Tennessee facility. Royal Arms is owned and operated by former LEO and veteran.
Royal Arms kinetic impact trigger system flash-bangs were developed as training devices to overcome the problems associated with traditional M201 fuse-type flash-bangs. Designed to “blow” where you throw, these are hand deployed in the same manner as a standard flash-bang. They’re the only non-fuzed pyrotechnic flash-bangs that I’m aware of that employ both a pull ring and safety spoon. They’re cool to the touch immediately after firing. They are user-serviceable and reloadable, with a low per-use cost.
There have been four generations of Royal Arms flash-bangs. The 4th gen models represent a significant overhaul. All aspects have been re-designed and re-engineered based on the input of many top-level users. Royal Arms listened to them and realized what improvements could be made.
The improvements aren’t just superficial. They’re significant and greatly enhance the capability and performance. I say this having tested all of the generations.
Features of the 4th gen models include:
• CNC machined stainless steel body and firing mechanism
• Polycarbonate low-cost replaceable hi-viz safety spoons
• Quick-Lock Stub Acme Threads
• O-ring sealed chamber for positive lockup
• New chamber port design for optimal pressure output
• Enhanced / enlarged critical areas
• Reliable impact mechanical actuation w/ enhanced firing mechanism (multi-surface initiation)
• Multi-point safety system w/ enhanced safety features
• Heat treatment to exacting tolerance
• Black Melonite® nitride finish for durability.
• Increased impact strength
• Increased abrasion resistance
The 4th gen models may be used in conjunction with a modified ACS Industries Flashbang Grenade Tactical Holster Trigger Pouch® (available from Royal Arms), designed for fast and safe one-handed deployment. They also fit in most 40mm munitions pouches.
Royal Arms SF-DI and SF-DF may be used in conjunction with modified A.C.S. Industries Flashbang Grenade Tactical Holster Trigger Pouch® available from Royal Arms.
Royal Arms currently offers three 4th gen models: FBG-Mk4 (law enforcement, military, and government sales only) and the new Royal Arms SF-DI and SF-DF (both available without restriction). They’re all excellent LE training tools. This article will take a look at the SF-DI and SF-DF.
ROYAL ARMS SF-DI & SF-DF CIVILIAN LEGAL FLASH-BANG SIMULATORS
The SF-DI and SF-DF share many of the features of their big brother, the FBG-Mk4. They are identical in size and similar in weight to the FBG-Mk4, which measures 4.5 inches (36.83 cm) in length and weighs 10.58 ounces (300 g).
The civilian legal SF-DI and SF-DF are low-output devices designed to provide safe, realistic training at the lowest possible cost per use. The SF-DI employs a #209 shotshell primer. The SF-DF employs a .22 Caliber Power Load / Powder Load (rimfire blanks for powder-actuated tools, AKA nail driver blanks).
#209 primers produce approximately 110-118 dB. They’re loud enough for effective training but still hearing-safe. This makes them ideal for role-playing scenario-based / force-on-force training.
Royal Arms SF-DI employs standard #209 shotshell primers. They’re available anywhere reloading supplies are sold.
.22 Power Loads are a bit louder. Available in different power levels, the SPL of the .22 Power Loads can go up to 140dB.
Royal Arms SF-DF employs .22 caliber Power Loads AKA nail driver blanks. They’re available at most building supply stores.
#209 primers and .22 Power Loads are a cost-effective way to conduct flash bang training. #209 primers run only around 5 cents each. .22 Power Loads run around 9 cents each. #209 primers are available anywhere reloading supplies are sold. .22 Power Loads are available at building supply stores.
You won’t find any flash-bang training system that can even come close to that in per-use costs, save for inert flash-bangs.
Loading and reloading takes only seconds. No tool is necessary for the SF-DI. The SF-DF requires a cocking rod that’s included. There is also an extraction tool to remove the spent casing.
Loading and reloading the SF-DI and SF-DF takes only seconds. No tool is necessary for the SF-DI. The SF-DF requires a cocking rod that’s included. There is also an extraction tool to remove the spent casing.
The SF-DI features an inertia-driven firing mechanism that’s identical to that employed in the FBG-Mk4. The SF-DF features a spring-loaded striker system. The latter was necessary for .22 Power Loads, which require a heavier strike for reliable ignition.
Although I haven’t had the opportunity to test either the SF-DI or SF-DF, I have tried the FBG-Mk4. The FBG-Mk4 proved 100% reliable when deployed within its intended design parameters. Tumbling the device when deploying it will ensure actuation on most surfaces.
Engineering, materials, and workmanship on all Royal Arms products I have used or evaluated have been outstanding.
SF-DI & SF-DF BASIC AND ADVANCED KIT
The SF-DI and SF-DF each come in two versions: Basic Kit and Advanced Kit. They’re available directly from Royal Arms. For pricing and details, visit the Royal Arms website.
