Upgraded!: Caldwell Flash Bang PRO

Caldwell’s Flash Bang target hit indicators have completely transformed our long range shooting experiences and ability to call hits. We used a number of the original model during the Rock Chuck Olympics, and the batteries are still holding on Harold at 1,390 three years later! In this video, I’ll explore the new features Caldwell has added to the new Flash Bang PRO.

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About the Caldwell Flash Bang PRO

Caldwell’s new Flash Bang PRO offers several upgrades designed for competitive shooters over the original model and comes with printed instructions, a hex key, two velcro patches (one extra), and three batteries.

A new multi-position switch allows the user to toggle between a one and six second flash.

The single-second flash is designed to confirm multiple, subsequent hits whereas the longer flash is ideal for use at longer ranges or when more time is needed to acknowledge a hit.

Low-impact energy detection works well for long-range shots, providing visual feedback even when a target is just barely hit.

From Caldwell:

Few things are more satisfying than hearing the ring of a successful hit on a steel target, but at longer ranges or with multiple shooters knowing you hit the target can be nearly impossible. Get instant feedback and reassuring hit confirmation with the Flash Bang Pro. Featuring 10 ultra-bright LED lights that flash each time the target is impacted sending a visual hit confirmation back to the shooter at distances over 1 mile away. The Flash Bang Pro version features a multi position switch, allowing the user to select a 1 second flash for competition where shooters may be engaging a target multiple times, or a 6 second flash for longer-range uses where the long strobe is more desirable. Includes 3 AA batteries, lasting over 30,000 impacts, and hook and loop material to attach the Flash Bang Pro to the back of almost any AR500 target 5” and larger. See what you have been hitting with the Caldwell Flash Bang Pro hit indicator.

Installation and Use

I was glad to see that Caldwell includes two velcro patches with each Flash Bang PRO. This means that you have an extra in case one gets damaged, or you could prep two different targets for mounting and swap the indicator between them.

Be sure to clean the back of your target before applying the velcro sticker to promote better adhesion. Isopropyl alcohol or acetone work well to prep the surface. Pushing down hard and kneading the velcro also helps to secure it to the back of the target. Position the velcro near the edge of your desired target so that only the indicator lights of the Flash Bang PRO will be exposed.

Still take care not to accidentally shoot the indicator lights. A competitor accidentally shot a Flash Bang during the Rock Chuck Olympics, but to our surprise, the unit stayed working!

I decided to shoot some Berry’s bullets through Gavin’s Smith & Wesson 357 Revolver at close-range steel with the six-second flash.

I manually swapped the Flash Bang PRO to the one-second “S” mode before moving to the Ruger 10/22 in WOOX Exactus stock.

I could shoot this rifle much more quickly and accurately than the revolver! The quicker flash made a huge difference. I could hear the steel at this short range, but it would be near impossible to distinguish between quick follow-up shots at further distances with only the six-second flash setting for feedback.

While the shape of the Flash Bang PRO is best suited for rectangular or IPSC targets, they can be positioned to accommodate a variety of target shapes and sizes.

Conclusion

The simplicity of this system combined with the longevity of our original Caldwell Flash Bang at 1,390 yards made me an early fan. It has survived three years in harsh winters and hot summers.