(NewsNation) — It’s called “Thermonator,” and it can be yours for under ten grand. Thermonator is a robotic dog, with a torchy twist: a flame thrower mounted on its back.
The four-legged, 40-pound robot can shoot a flame nearly 30 feet. But the company that makes Thermonator says it’s all about anything but violence.
Ohio-based Throwflame says the robot’s uses include wildfire management, prescribed burns, snow and ice removal or entertainment special effects. But is that all?
“I can think of nothing but negative and malice for this “dog” in the criminal world,” said NewsNation law and justice contributor Jennifer Coffindaffer.
“My concern is this can be used as a weapon against any person, a house … it’s dangerous.”
But, for now, flamethrowers are not regulated by federal authorities since the devices are not considered firearms. Maryland does require a special license, and California mandates a smaller nozzle, but 48 states do not ban flamethrowers.
Throwflame’s website says “It’s the purchaser’s responsibility to ascertain that ownership and or use does not violate any state or local laws or regulations.”
The Thermonator has a one-hour battery life and a laser sight, and can be connected to a smartphone using Bluetooth. The retail price is $9,420.