Orion 12 Gauge Flare Gun
Orion Safety Products · Pistol · In Production · 1981
Also known as: Orion Signal Launcher, Orion 12 Gauge Safety Launcher, Orion Flare Pistol
Overview
The Orion 12 Gauge Flare Gun is a single-shot, break-action signal pistol chambered for 12-gauge pyrotechnic aerial signal flares. Built from corrosion-resistant high-visibility orange polymer for the marine environment, it fires red aerial flares to altitudes of roughly 150 metres (500 feet) with a burn time of up to 7 seconds. It is a USCG-approved emergency signalling device rather than a weapon, used for distress signalling by boaters, mariners, and survival and rescue applications. The launcher opens at the breech to load a single signal cartridge and incorporates a hammer safety lock.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 280 g (9.9 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 320 g (11.3 oz) |
| Overall Length | 180 mm (7.09") |
| Barrel Length | 95 mm (3.74") |
| Height | 140 mm (5.51") |
| Width | 35 mm (1.38") |
| Action Type | Break Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 1 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Single Shot |
| Effective Range | 150 m (164 yd) |
| Maximum Range | 150 m (164 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Smoothbore |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Barrel Material | Polymer |
| Finish | High Visibility Orange |
Calibers
- 12 Gauge · primary — also known as 12GA, 12 Bore
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Single Shot Break Action
- Safety mechanisms: Hammer Safety Lock
- Features: Break Open Breech, Corrosion Resistant, High Visibility Orange Body, Uscg Approved, Lifetime Warranty
Service history
Operators
- United States Coast Guard
Production
Production years: 1981-present
Continuously produced by Orion Safety Products as a standard marine distress signalling launcher
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
Sold as part of signal kits (such as the Alerter and HP Coastal kits) that include a bandolier, aerial flares, handheld flares, and floating waterproof storage cases. Orion replacement 12-gauge signal flares fit all Orion launchers manufactured since 1981. The launcher is intended only for pyrotechnic signal cartridges, not for shotshell ammunition.
Background
Orion Safety Products is one of the longest-running American manufacturers of maritime and roadside safety pyrotechnics, and its orange 12-gauge signal launcher has become a near-ubiquitous fixture of recreational boating safety kits across the United States.