REVIEW: Nextorch ND20 Irritation Body

About a year ago, NEXTORCH introduced the electronic irritant body Nextorch ND20 as an electronic alternative to the pyrotechnic flashbang - we reported on it HERE. Our friends from CriseConsult have extensively tested the device in practice in the meantime.

Flashbangs were developed in the early 1970s by the British Special Air Service Regiment (SAS). Today, flashbangs, also known as sound & flash grenades or stun grenades, are standard operational tools for special forces. Flashbangs are pyrotechnic tools designed to trigger a Startle Response, a startle reaction.

Despite the undisputed advantages, conventional flashbangs also have some disadvantages: Handling errors can lead to injuries to the user through side vent openings. However, there are models with a Bottom-Top-Venting design (BTV), which have vent openings located at the top and bottom, providing a safety gain. Additionally, the use of conventional flashbangs is not possible in every environment, for example, where flammable substances have leaked. Moreover, training with them is relatively expensive and requires proper qualifications for users due to the built-in pyrotechnics.

For these reasons, Nextorch has introduced an electronic irritant body, the "ND20," as an alternative to pyrotechnic flashbangs.

The cylindrical body produces a shrill sound, which according to the manufacturer's specifications should be at a sound pressure level of 100 decibels (dB), below the pain threshold that begins at around 120 dB. For comparison: The BTV-Flashbang MK13 by Rheinmetall triggers at around 180 decibels. The 36 high-performance LEDs installed in the ND20 produce stroboscopic flashes with 8,000 lumens.

In this video we found, the effect can be seen and heard.

Technical Data (Manufacturer Information)

• Weight: approximately 390 grams
• Dimensions: 147 mm x 72 mm
• Light output: 8,000 lumens from 36 high-performance LEDs
• Sound level: 100 dB
• Housing: Aluminum, Polycarbonate, Rubber (Anti-Roll)
• Impact resistant up to 2 meters drop height
• Protection class: IPX4 (splash-proof)
• Activation delay: 1, 2, and 3 seconds
• Trigger duration: 3, 6, and 12 seconds

Electronic Irritant Body

The device's built-in battery is charged via a USB-C input. Activation is done through a push-release button, which can still be easily operated with gloves: releasing the button triggers the device for a runtime of up to twelve seconds, depending on the set delay time. The switch is surrounded by the housing, so accidental activation should be largely prevented.

NEXTORCH sees the irritant body as a training tool on one hand. On the other hand, the company promotes its product as "an addition to the flashbang in fire-prone environments like gas stations, on ships, in chemical warehouses, or in threat scenarios where the perpetrator has released flammable liquids, for example." This sounds plausible at first glance: the described problem does not arise or is solved differently in the majority of operational scenarios. The electronic solution is also touted for its reusability and safety for users.

Scope of Delivery

The device comes with a nylon pouch with a belt clip. However, the Velcro closure contradicts the noise discipline of a real operational situation: If simply opening the readiness pocket ruins the element of surprise, it is not conducive to the purpose of the irritant device.

The irritant device gives a high-quality impression. The device is robustly constructed and has survived countless training throws. However, there are clear and sharp usage marks at both ends of the device, which are made of aluminum.

CONCLUSION: In our opinion, the ND20 is not suitable as an operational tool. The effects do not come anywhere close to the impact of pyrotechnic means - especially with perpetrators whose perception is impaired by stress, drugs, or alcohol. It is also doubtful that users from the official or military sector would carry the thrown objects in addition to conventional flashbangs to fill a presumed capability gap. It does not seem that the Nextorch irritant device could seriously establish itself among official users in Germany. Eckhard Niebergall, chairman of "Polizeitrainer in Deutschland" (PiD), puts it this way: "The demanders decide on the operational value."

Opinions may also differ on the usefulness as a training device. However, when it comes to creating stress-inducing stimuli, for example in shooting training and especially in the "low-light environment", the ND20 is very useful and quickly available besides fixed sound systems and strobe lights.

Many thanks to Torsten from CriseConsult for this review!

The NEXTORCH ND20 Irritant Device is available exclusively for authorities for 349.00 EURO.

NEXTORCH Germany online