I had a test to do some test fires when I received this and it seems like with the proper handling and maintenance it could be a real worker and last quite a while.

The instructions make mention of the fact that you will have to replace the glow plug element fairly frequently (20 - 30 fires). Doesn't seem like it will be that big of a deal, not that many parts.

The construction is fairly solid, I do wish that the soldering connections weren't so exposed.

I think if you are going to get this you need to be prepared to familiarize yourself with the operating instructions before jumping into using it. Know that you're going to need to pick up at least one AA battery, some flash cotton, and flash paper to use with the gun (not included).

But you can't beat it for the price, a lot of these guns are a lot more expensive and they basically do the same thing.

Bought it to build a flame-thrower for a costume. Works very well, super easy to figure out. Was supposed to work 20-30 times before I need to replace the "glow plug," but mine has outlasted that estimate.

this flash gun works real well in a small area for big effect I roll up flash cotton and sparkle powder into a
piece of flash paper. It's very easy to use and gets a
great reaction