A firearm designed to fire blank cartridgescartridges containing gunpowder but no projectileserves specific purposes. These cartridges produce a muzzle flash and a loud report, simulating the firing of a live round. A common example is its use in starting races or dog training.
These devices play a significant role in various fields. Their ability to create realistic sound effects without the danger of live ammunition makes them invaluable for theatrical productions, film making, historical reenactments, and training exercises. This capability allows for immersive experiences and safe simulations of real-world scenarios. Historically, such firearms have also been used in starting pistols for sporting events and in some forms of animal training.