Original size image here.

1. Okay, you already got your gun, now get some colors together for the muzzle flash. Feel free to use the same colors I'm using here.
2. Mark the end of the barrel. This isn't too important, but it helps with visualizing the flash.
3. Block out the muzzle flash with a single color, just a simple tree shape if you won't want any fancy muzzle brakes on your gun.
4. Place a slightly darker color around the edges.
5. Add lighter area inside the flash from where the barrel is.
6. Add an even lighter color as highlight.
7. For the final touch, add a slightly colder color as a semi-complete outline around it.

Just made a simple tut because muzzle flahes really add a lot to the feeling of a gun.
Also, make 5 or so for each size/gun, it's very boring with automatic weapons that have just two or three frames.

So there you have it, muzzle flash tutorial by Lizard.

That's brilliant! Incredibly helpful, even for making other sorts of fire. GJ

Very simple, helpful tutorial.
Well done

Also can be easily modified for jet-pack flashes by just adding a few shot off little bits of color off the main trail.