Fireworks are fun and all, but they're only easily available during special occasions a few times a year. But if you think that stops Oklahoma's rowdy folks from having some explosive fun - literally - think again.

Tannerite is a binary explosive package, which requires "usually an oxidizer like ammonium nitrate and a fuel such as aluminum or another metal" in order for it to actually become explosive, according to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

Typically, tannerite is used for long-range firearms practice most commonly. Even Forbes magazine admitted that "that makes it more obvious—and more exciting—when you hit the target than, say, shooting a piece of paper." Nowadays, people use tannerite for good ol' fun and special occasions, like for gender reveals.

@brycestill 300 yards 30 pounds of tannerite listen for the delay between the shot and the explosion #yeeyeeapparel #genderreveal #LIKEABOMBSHELL ♬ original sound - Bryce Still

These "explosion kits" are sold as components, which by themselves are not explosive, which actually make them legal in nearly every state of the United States. However, not everyone is allowed to join in on the fun, even in legal, nonregulated states. According to Enjuris.com, prohibited persons permitted to have or use explosive components including tannerite are:

  • Is under indictment or has been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for more than 1 year
  • Is a fugitive from justice
  • Is an unlawful user of, or addicted to, any controlled substance
  • Has been adjudicated as a “mental defective” or has been committed to a mental institution
  • Is a non-citizen, or “alien” (with some exceptions)
  • Has been discharged from the armed forces under dishonorable conditions
  • Has renounced their United States citizenship

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 If everyone is good to go, keep in mind that not everywhere is good to go. It is perfectly legal to shoot tannerite on private property without a permit and with the owner's permission. Doing so on public land, however, does require a permit from the Oklahoma Department of Mines.

If you are unsure about the area you're wanting to shoot, always contact property owners first before shooting. If it is a public area and you set off explosions without the town's knowledge, well let's just say you won't be having as much fun as the rest of us.  

@gloriallamas8 Our Baby Boy #tannerite#genderreveal#genderrevealparty#genderrevealideas#tanneritegenderreveal♬ Over the Rainbow - christmastiktoksss

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Gallery Credit: Kelso

The Real Wild West Outlaws of Oklahoma

In the years before Oklahoma gained statehood, there was a major shift happening trying to convert the wilds of Indian Territory into a mild-mannered turn-of-the-century metropolitan place. It's amazing how many of America's famed outlaws made headlines in our state.

Gallery Credit: Kelso

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