I broke out the laser tag prototype that I started building in Alaska and I go over the process of focusing a cheap IR led through a cheap lens to send IR 100+ meters with nearly perfect accuracy. I've tested to 150+ meters outside in Alaska and that was about the max distance that I could actually see the target.

This could be a solid platform for a DIY IR blaster or Laser Tag system. Maybe we can even build something as a community.

The magical lens:
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/17133...

LEDs
https://amzn.to/3ckm5Ef
or
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/40008...
and
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32996...

Transistors
https://amzn.to/3kqYMva or this kit https://amzn.to/33HfeRp
or
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/32814...