I reveal the PRO TIPS for making realistic muzzle flares!
For smoke and flares, you can spend money on:
Video Copilot's Action Essentials 2 Pack: http://www.videocopilot.net/products/action2/ - $100 for 720p
If you don't have that kind of cheddar, I recommend NCCinema's gun pack, which is only $20: http://www.nccinema.ch/webshop/gun_effects_hd_-_1990.html