Honestly, it’s hard to tell if this is a joke or if they’re actually serious about it. Obviously, if you use a flamethrower on mosquitoes (or any other bug, really), they’re not going to bother you again. But really…a flamethrower? Isn’t that just a touch excessive? On the other hand, I can’t stop giggling the more scenarios that run through my head, so even if it would make things go horribly awry, it’s good for some fun.

This is actually a concept piece by Johannes Vogl, which means you can’t really buy one (sorry to dash your hopes). It works exactly as you’d think: when you see or hear a bug, you pick up your flamethrower and trigger it in the general direction of the pest. Being fire, you don’t have to hit it dead on, as bugs are not well-known for withstanding close proximity to open flame.

I have to admit, this isn’t very high-tech. Basically, all he’s done is make a triggering device that incorporates an aerosol can and a lighter, with what appears to be the hand grip and brake mechanism from a ten-speed bike. But what that means is you can easily refill it yourself! It also leaves one hand free, as opposed to the more traditional method of the DIY flamethrower which requires you to hold both the can and your lighter, and risks burning you severely. In addition, it’s more humane for the bugs, as it will instantly incinerate them rather than leaving them to die a slow, painful death from poisoning.

I’m still giggling.

Source: Oh Gizmo!