By Marcus McClain - NEA Town Courier
The numerous explosions heard around Mississippi County and surrounding areas have been linked to the use of Tannerite.
Tannerite is a brand of binary explosive targets used for target practice. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives states that binary explosives consist of two separate components, usually an oxidizer like ammonium nitrate and a fuel such as aluminum or another metal. Sold as two separate elements within a kit, Tannerite targets evade the ATF’s regulations. Only when combined, following a purchase, is the product labeled as explosive material.
When shot, the combination produces the sound of an explosion along with a vapor to resemble smoke.
Mississippi County chief deputy Robb Rounsavall told the Courier that individuals in Half Moon were identified using these products. He stated the last occurrence of these reported explosions came Friday night. The department informed those individuals that if continued, they would be taken into custody.
The ATF states that mixing binary components together constitutes as manufacturing explosives. However, it also states that, “Persons manufacturing explosives for their own personal, non-business use only (e.g., personal target practice) are not required to have a federal explosives license or permit under 27 CFR, Part 555.”
Only individuals and/or companies who intended to engage in the sale, distribution or transportation of these products are required to obtain a federal license.
Still, compliance with the ATF regulations does not override any other federal, state or local laws that may regulate the use, transportation or possession of binary explosives.