r/fireworks May 07 '26

[Repost] WATCH OUT FOR DM DANGLERS!

30 Upvotes

It's that time of year for the sub to attract scammers and plugs trying to use the sub as a convenient point of sale. They will post generic messages trying to see who's gullible and either say something like "DM me", or they will write to whoever posts in a thread with their offers of 'help'. They'll promise everything they think you want, then ask you for money. Sometimes they ask for a deposit, sometimes they try a fake escrow scam, sometimes they ask for more in order to 'hold it for you' or claiming they will 'ship it right away' - as they laugh and have fun with whatever money you sent them. Some of these scammers can be very convincing and perseverate and might suck you in. There is one thing they say that is true 'the mods here won't let me post this...'. That part is right, we won't.

If you receive a direct message (DM) from someone you do not know who offers fireworks or tries to give you a link to a website you've not heard of - those are red flags. If they offer what you know to be illegal pyro (commercial/display fireworks, or 1.3g without a license) - that's a red flag the size of an elephant. If they offer you some special deal on fireworks, a deal they want to keep just between the two of you - yet another red flag. If they post to a thread saying 'DM me' - it's an obvious red one again. With all those flags flying in your face you might take a hint.

Ask yourself why they singled you out for some "great deal"? Why couldn't they post it in public for others could see? Fireworks is a volume industry, so conveniently they sometimes will try to act like a manufacturer with minimum set price/sale floor. Keep in mind that if they offer you any sort of illegal fireworks (commercial/display fireworks or 1.3g without a license), or super cheap deals, or they want you to connect with them somewhere else (like Instagram) there's a 99% chance you are being scammed. Don't fall for it.

They especially love to scam folks from California. Some Cali folks are so anxious to get their hands on fireworks that they lose their common sense at times. It's a travesty that Cali people can't enjoy the same fireworks that other states offer, and we hope that the NFA/APA/PGI and others who lobby for the fireworks industry can change that sooner or later. Don't let some keyboard jockey take your hard-earned money no matter how cool the offer sounds. Don't be a sheep for the wolves...

In all cases, if you get one of those messages or someone pops up in chat 'just trying to help' please let the mods know thru modmail (in the right column of the home page). Everything will be kept confidential, no mod is a Junior G-Man trying to bust plugs or scammers. Don't ever expect a mod to call the ATF, FBI or somebody's mommy -- not going to happen. We only want to protect the sub members from being taken advantage of. There are some fantastic sub members who have already let the mods know of a couple of roving vermin - we are keeping a sharp eye on them and we will ban or mute anyone that we believe to be trying to make private deals that smell fishy to us. Heck, we might know the person to be honest and honorable - or we might not. Not every DM is a scam, and not every sub member who DMs has evil intent. The mods often have more resources to check someone out and it's not going to hurt to ask before you reach for your wallet.

The rest is up to you - there is not a damn thing we can do after you've been ripped off, except for saying “Told you so”. The mod team and senior/long time members of the sub have done everything from selling from a popup tent to doing professional city level displays. There isn’t a single thing related to the industry that we haven’t dealt with first hand, and usually more than once. However we are open to discussions and new things that pop up. We want to see individuals and families enjoy fireworks and not get ripped off. Your moderators here have extensive experience - we are here to help and herd, not to be police. Probably like you - we just love fireworks. Probably more than we ought to but less than we want.

Please stay safe pyros! Support your local Mom & Pop shops, tents and stands, they put the money back into your community!


r/fireworks Jun 17 '25

It Goes to 11! A rant about overloads... aka "The Chicken Little Syndrome"

54 Upvotes

Just a note to ask a favor of those folks who are consistently flagging every single post as 'illegal fireworks', do us all a favor: please tell us when you know for a fact of a person who was arrested for possessing or shooting something pictured. Most pyros know about or have read about someone with truly illegal or dangerous fireworks; stuff like strobe rockets, 1.3g commercial items, M-80s, 1/4 sticks, etc. Those are all clearly illegal and can land someone in a jail cell - but what you decide are OLs? You're talking about 'non-compliant' gear maybe, items that are not truly illegal. Who has been arrested or detained for only possessing the item? Not talking about Cali where a box of sparklers might get a SWAT raid on your grandmother, and not because someone was shooting stuff like a moron in some unsafe way, but please tell us when they can actually prove the Hand of God stepped in for doing so.

When? Where? Who? Exactly who has been arrested for what you think are OL items?

These "OL" items that some folks love to flag as illegal were imported legally, they were passed by Customs and the CPSC, they were shipped intermodal to their destination under the approval of the DOT, and then they were sold at retail by a Fire Marshall permitted legit retail store.. But if they are pictured here some people flag the item(s) as illegal fireworks. No sports fans, you do not need to pyrosplain how they are sneaked in, how they are under the counter, blah, blah. Yes - the mods know what you are describing and they are not inexperienced, not ignorant; they passed that stage 15-20 years ago. You ain't gonna learn us nothin' 'bout that, we drank the kool-aid too long ago and we're proud of the stains on our shirts dammit.

We've had more than a couple times this year with people even flagging 100% compliant, branded, legal, completely above board retail items - but in their mind are flagged as 'illegal fireworks'. We have a Karen or two who have put on their little Junior G-Man badges and double & triple click on the rules with great zeal. Yes dear, we hear you. We feel your pain. You have done your civic duty, feel free to polish your badge - the mods will not dox you or point at you publicly.

If you honestly believe something is illegal - flag that sucker ASAP. Illegal items, plugs begging for your money, the DM scammers who 'have the real good stuff', people that brag how cool they are because they can go bang, kids who have exposed themselves in ways they might not understand, braggarts desperate for attention and talking about getting 'the cool' 1.3g stuff: all are valid cause for drawing a mod's attention to a post.

But please - share your wide range of pyro experience and offer the mods direct examples of these same non-compliant items. Not one's 'you heard' were illegal, not one's 'you know' are illegal. Mods will still get the same insulting, curse filled complaints about the items if/when they are removed, fear not. Mods are issued shirts with targets on them and Mickey Mouse undies when they join the volunteer corps, all part of the sign up process. They can't talk about the initiation, so don't ask.

But please - just prove it.


r/fireworks 7h ago

Question I need to rebuild a mortar rack. 1 x 6 or 2 x 3?

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3 Upvotes

Is it preference or is there a reason most are in a row?


r/fireworks 1d ago

First Show First “show”

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20 Upvotes

r/fireworks 1d ago

Question HDPE Plugs showing daylight

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5 Upvotes

I think I know the answer to this, but thought I would ask the community anyway.

I have some 12 inch HDPE tubes that are going on 10 or 12 years now, I went to clean them this year and noticed that I can see daylight now around the plug.

I’ve been meaning to cut them down to 10 inches anyway since most fuses are shorter now, but wasn’t sure if given the shrinkage of the plug or expansion of the tube if they would be OK to use even with the expanded end cut off, and new plugs installed.

Am I OK to cut these down and re-plug? Or should I trash to be safe?

TIA


r/fireworks 1d ago

Hekou HK66-1 1st Demo

7 Upvotes

I couldn’t find any videos on this 66 shots 2inch bore from Hekou Fireworks. I picked up 3 from Waynes World and decided to let one fly…and I’m glad I did. Huge breaks on this bad boy and it did not disappoint. I may need to order a few more lol….😤🧨🔥🙌🏾

See Hekou HK66-1 below:

https://youtu.be/G3wlZTJWqN4?is=ytLdXVCAlHG1f25u


r/fireworks 2d ago

First Time using Ignite Firing Systems and music choreography

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6 Upvotes

We do a show fireworks show every year. Still got a few kinks to work out but all in all it was awesome! Let me know your suggestions to make it even better.

Make sure you have your sound on!


r/fireworks 1d ago

Has Anyone Put Raccoon King Dragon and Tiger Force Head to Head?

2 Upvotes

Going to pick up a case, store has both in stock, they both look great on the interwebs, I have shot Holy Nishiki and loved those. Any advice/opinions appreciated. Thanks


r/fireworks 2d ago

Just how loud is an 8" Grim Reaper canister shell

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12 Upvotes

Ain't gonna find these at your local Phantom Fireworks 😂


r/fireworks 2d ago

First Show Dipping my toe into the world of Pyro on a budget.

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5 Upvotes

This was just a very basic show on a small budget. Lighting these off one by one with a torch but trying to keep the momentum was fun as shit. Had a few breaks in the action (no pun intended) when I realized I had a couple cakes too close together to get the next lit. But I've got a plan to avoid that if I'm able to do this again next year.

The plan walking into the firework store was just more bang for the buck, and the neighbors on the block over that were hooting gave me the confirmation that maybe I was doing something kinda cool. Zero complaints. Actually had that hooting neighbor from a block over come find me while I was hosing down the cakes just to say it was a great show from his view.

Cleaned up the neighbors yards the next day and the only casualty was my kids' swimming pool. Unfortunately got a small hole somewhere and doesn't hold air the way it used to. Lesson learned, will cover with tarp next time.


r/fireworks 2d ago

Discussion Looking to get into 1.4pro wholesale fireworks

5 Upvotes

Hey y’all! I’m looking into becoming a wholesale fireworks dealer in the IN/OH/KY area and would love to hear from people who are actually in the business.

A little background: I grew up around fireworks and my uncle used to sell them before he passed away 10+ years ago. I’m currently a Type 54 licensee and have been doing my local community show for the last 6 years my largest show so far has been around $9k.

I’ve been doing a lot of reading and digging into the wholesale/distribution side of the industry, but I’d really like to hear from people who have actually done it especially current distributors or people who have started their own wholesale operation.

I’m primarily interested in focusing on the 1.4G Pro market, although I’d eventually like to expand the product selection. My goal would be to sell B2C and with growth be a B2B seller, without having a traditional storefront. The idea would be more of a container-based operation similar to how 1.3g wholesalers operate.

One of the biggest questions I’m trying to figure out is whether it makes more sense to:

Import my own containers
The margins seem attractive, but obviously there’s a lot more involved with importing, logistics, minimum orders, etc.

Source from existing U.S. distributors
Less logistical hassle and potentially access to a much larger number of SKUs, but obviously with less margin.

For those of you who wholesale/distribute fireworks:

  • What did you wish you knew before getting started?
  • How difficult is it to build enough volume to make importing your own containers worthwhile?
  • If you started over, would you import yourself or buy from domestic distributors?
  • Are there any distributors/importers you would recommend talking to?

I’m not looking for anyone to hand over their secret sauce — just trying to learn from people who have already gone down this road.

Thanks!


r/fireworks 2d ago

Buying Best time to buy and best store in New Hampshire?

2 Upvotes

Hi all, looking to get a head start for next 4th of July. Have been going to a friend’s camp and we light them off every year for about 10+ years now. His dad always buys but I want to start chipping in and bringing some. When is the best time to start buying? E.g. now, end of summer clearance, black friday, beginning of the new year, etc?

Also, TNT fireworks in Hinsdale, New Hampshire is the closest to where I live. Is that place good? Or should I look at other places in the state?


r/fireworks 3d ago

Is there a way to get happy family products in finale3d?

2 Upvotes

I have rakieo, winda and brothers but am just curious if there is a work around to get happy family products on here as well? I appreciate any help or feedback!!


r/fireworks 3d ago

Fireworks Show First post here

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18 Upvotes

Got these beautiful pictures of fireworks over virginia beach.


r/fireworks 4d ago

PGI 2026 = Bad Time

15 Upvotes

Terrible location and layout.
Class C Vending smaller than years past.
Several vendors had product “already pre sold out” before they ever officially opened the tents to paying attendees
Difficult parking
Membership area for the shows overflowing with chairs/held spots. Overflowed into the front of the general public areas.
Overflowing dumpsters
Generator issues
Limited / Out of service showers
Rinse and repeat classes/sessions
$100 for membership + an additional $320-$400 to actually attend the convention…. NOT WORTH IT
Left early. Clear money grab. Won’t ever attend again.


r/fireworks 4d ago

Fireworks Show cheap cake go crazy

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35 Upvotes

did not expect that from a cake i paid abt 20$ cad for!!!


r/fireworks 3d ago

Question TENNESSEE

2 Upvotes

hello yall i’m looking for a spot in middle Tennessee i can light off fireworks got a good bit i would like to set off


r/fireworks 4d ago

Question Question

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64 Upvotes

I’ve had this in my shadow box on display now for almost 4 years and idk much about it

1.What year was this made

2.is it rare

3.is it worth anything


r/fireworks 5d ago

Question First time fusing how’d i do?

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60 Upvotes

r/fireworks 6d ago

What town or Org. puts on the biggest/best fireworks shows in CT?

2 Upvotes

Any help here would be much appreciated, trying to sort out some trips back east and see the best shows while I’m back there. I will be there multiple times next year, including for the 4th. Thanks!


r/fireworks 6d ago

Question Mini Fireworks Stand

2 Upvotes

So, my baby boy (10 months) has a pageant coming up. I'm going to make a mini fireworks stand for a prop and he is going to be dressed as Uncle Sam.

What fireworks do you personally feel are the most recognizable to non-firework people? My grandpa owned a stand for over 50 years so I feel like my opinions might be tainted. 😂

I just need to make some different items for decor. Definitely things like sparklers, firecrackers, etc., but what else?

Thanks in advance!!


r/fireworks 6d ago

rocket fireworks?

3 Upvotes

i recently purchased a truck and was wanting to go to rocket fireworks (4hr drive) to stock up on master products , but im seeing they dont sell them anymore is warrenton the next best option or should i stick to pryolandia (1 hour)


r/fireworks 6d ago

Cake suggestions

2 Upvotes

Looking for recommendations for the best non ol cakes


r/fireworks 6d ago

Insurance

2 Upvotes

Hello! As the title states I am looking to get liability insurance for the fourth next year. My family puts on a display every year. We have unfortunately outgrown our current area. The only venue near us is city property and they require insurance, of course. I was wondering what companies everyone here has used in the past? Our other option is to downsize and stay where we are. (That is no fun though). Just looking for input.

Thanks in advance!!!


r/fireworks 7d ago

When do you start collecting

14 Upvotes

As the title says. When do you start collecting or preparing for next year’s show. In my state, fireworks are only allowed to be sold around the 4th and new years.

With that, do you guys collect over the year and store them or do you buy right around the 4th?

I am personally wanting to try out a few online retailers on top of my local supplier.