File:Improvised flamethrower of a San Francisco motorized gang.jpg

English: In 1977 connection with a traffic stop by a California Highway Patrol officer, an unusual device was observed in the vehicle. This device was determined to be an improvised flamethrower.

Basically, the device consists of a 2.5-oz. aerosol can of hair spray inserted in a tin can and rigged with a makeshift nozzle and a pull cable for releasing the spray into the nozzle. The nozzle is made of clear plastic with a small piece of copper tubing attached at the ignition end.

The device was designed to be attached to the forearm. A inetal ring at the end of the pull cable can be manipulated by the thumb or tinger. Upon ignition, the user could then presumably direct the spray.

Whether this device would actually function as described is uncertain. Quite possibly, it could pose potential hazards to the user, both in igniting the spray and directing any resultant flame.

This small device was not readily visible to the approaching officer, and conceivably, an attempt could have been made to use it against him. Police officers in the performance of their duties should be aware of the potential dangers such devices may present.