TASERs and Stun Guns - Know the Differences

We often read headlines in the news about a police officer using a stun gun on someone. Very often, in fact most of the time, the headline is wrong. The officer probably used a TASER device on a suspect and not a stun gun. The terms "stun gun" and "TASER" have almost become interchangeable.

There are many differences between stun guns and a TASER™ that you should be aware of if you are looking for personal protection devices for self defense. Most people think that a TASER and stun guns are the same thing, but they are not. Knowing the differences will help you make a wise decision on which device is right for your personal protection.

Stun guns are effective approximately 85% of the time when they are used against attackers. When there are people who are high on drugs or just very aggressive the effect may not be as good at all. Especially if the stun gun is of a lower voltage. A TASER has an effectiveness of almost 100% and you will never have to worry if you will be able to put the attacker to the ground or not. The incapacitation rate of a TASER is higher than even a 9mm handgun and you aren't even hurting the person permanently as you would with the 9mm bullet.

When you use a stun gun it can transmit from 200,000 to over 1,000,000 volts of energy into the body. It works by using from 7-14 watts also. When a TASER is used it can transmit 50,000 volts but with up to 18 watts of electricity. The wattage makes the biggest difference with the effectiveness of the TASER. Stun guns are designed to send the electrical signals into the body and affect the nervous system. The difference with a TASER is that it is designed to affect both the nervous system and the muscular skeletal system, which is more effective.

One thing to keep in mind is that when you use a stun gun you must hold it directly to the attacker's body. This forces you to get that close to the person and risk harm. When a TASER is used it can be used while you are standing up to 15 to 21 feet away from the attacker.

Stun guns are relatively inexpensive and can usually be purchased for under $100. They can be found in many different sizes and models. TASERs cost at least several hundred dollars and come in several different styles. You can purchase TASER with laser sights, flashlights, and more. They are the most effective way to disable a person without causing them permanent damage or killing them.

Size is another difference with TASERs and stun guns. Stun guns can be tiny and as small as 3 inches so it fits in your hand and is easily hidden. Other stun guns may be up to 9 inches tall. Some models of TASERs are the size of normal handguns and you will hold them as a handgun and even pull a trigger as a handgun. The newer C2 TASERs fit more easily into your hand and do not look like a gun at all.

There are many differences between TASERs and stun guns. One thing to keep in mind is how effective the personal protection device is that you want to use for self defense. A TASER is almost 100% effective and you don't even have to be standing up close and personal next to the person for it to work well. You can disable a person with both devices and have time to get away.

When you buy either a stun gun or a TASER you will surely reduce your chances of becoming a victim.