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Last Updated on August 22, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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Stun Guns vs Tasers and How to Tell the Difference
Stun guns and Tasers are two types of electroshock weapons that are often confused due to their similar functionality. However, understanding the fundamental differences between stun guns and tasers is crucial for choosing the most suitable self-defense tool.
- Range: Stun guns need proximity, and Tasers can reach 15 feet.
- Effect on the Target: Tasers cause immediate neuromuscular incapacitation.
- Ease of Use: Stun guns are more straightforward, while tasers require accuracy.
- Legal Restrictions: Tasers may need permits or be banned.
- Price: Tasers cost more due to advanced tech.
Regardless of where you live or your daily routine, self-defense is something we should all be considering. Preparing for an attack is essential, but which weapon will keep you safest? We’ll dive into all things stun guns and tasers so you can easily choose.
How Do Stun Guns Work?
Stun guns are a common self-defense tool for people on the go. They’re very small devices to be carried along in your bag, purse, or pocket. Some small stun guns are disguised to look like lipstick, a flashlight, a phone, and more.
These devices work with several small prongs that are activated inside the device. When you hit an oncoming attacker, the prongs send electricity through their body, temporarily knocking them out with pain.
Though it’s pure electricity pumping through the bad guy, it’s not powerful enough to permanently injure or scar someone.
How Do Tasers Work?
Tasers work similarly to stun guns, though they look a lot more like actual firearms. When you hit an attacker or target, electricity is sent through two prongs to stun or disorientate them.
The only major difference is that instead of jabbing the two prongs into a person, you shoot them.
Every Taser contains a compressed gas cartridge. When you shoot it, the gas cartridge explodes and fires two wires with prongs at the ends.
As soon as the prongs latch onto your target’s clothes or skin, electricity passes through the wires and into the prongs, electrifying them.
The current is so strong it will temporarily freeze the attacker, freezing their nervous system. This will provide you with ample time to escape and get to safety.
Now that we know how they both work, let’s decipher the critical differences between stun guns and taser guns.
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to CrazyIrishMedic
Range Differences
When it comes to range, stun guns and tasers differ significantly. Stun guns are proximity devices that require you to be next to the attacker. On the other hand, tasers use projectile prongs that attach to a target from up to 15 feet away.
Differences in Reusability
While we hope never to use self-defense tools, what happens if you must use them more than once? You never want to be in a situation where your weapon isn’t ready for use. Stun guns use batteries, while a taser for sale requires cartridges.
The projectile nature of a taser renders its wires and propellant unusable after one or two shots, depending on the model. Swapping out cartridges is easy but will give you less opportunity to deter an attack.
Most stun guns use a rechargeable battery that can be used if there’s still some juice.
Stun Gun and Taser Prices
As important as it is to stay safe, it’s ideal to do so within your budget. Prices of stun guns and tasers will vary greatly depending on the brand, quality, effects, etc. Let’s cover the general pricing for both so you can get a better idea.
It’s easy to find reliable stun gun prices for around $20 – $60, while a Taser can range from $300 – $1000, plus the cost of replacement cartridges.
Pros of Stun Guns
Stun guns are the perfect self-defense item for those seeking something disguisable. If you encounter an attacker, they likely won’t expect to get stunned by your lipstick or cell phone, making them the best stun gun for women.
This lets you get your weapon out as you’re being approached more easily.
Since they can catch the aggressor off guard, you can stop them much quicker than pepper spray and large weapons.
Remember that your takedown time will depend on the enemy’s pain tolerance, whether they’re intoxicated, etc. Though stun guns are small, you’ll feel better with one in your handbag or back pocket.
This type of weapon is also one of the easiest to obtain. It doesn’t cause any significant damage to attackers, so unlike guns, you don’t need a license for them. They also tend to be affordable, though you still want to find the best high-quality stun gun.
Stun guns will be ideal for those often alone in parking garages or walking in a city. You can even find one with brass knuckles to pack an extra punch. Those on nightly walks should consider flashlight stun guns instead.
You can find stun guns online or in-store without worrying about permits. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t practice safely. Do thorough research before picking a brand or committing to the cheapest device.
Advantages of Tasers
While stun guns are small but mighty, tasers still pack a more significant punch. They don’t just hurt the enemy but temporarily immobilize their muscles. Instead of pumping electricity into the assailant, they make the muscle contract on itself, causing it to fall over forcefully.
Tasers also help when someone comes to you with a weapon like a knife or a bat. You can shoot them far away, preventing them from being close enough to grab or injure you. After tasing from a long-range, you can run away and get a head start toward safety.
If you want your weapon to look a bit menacing, tasers often give off an intimidating appearance. After seeing you take it out, the attacker may not even want to attempt approaching. Tasers also provide a laser sight, so it will always be accurate once you take that shot.
This weapon is ideal for home security, as you can intimidate intruders and shoot them from a safe distance. Keep one near your bed just in case, and you’ll feel better going to sleep at night.
You can also obtain smaller teasers to keep in your bag if you prefer tasers vs stun guns.
When discovering where to buy a taser, you may have to consider your state’s permit laws. Plenty of online stores allow you to get the self-defense tool delivered right to your doorstep.
Head to local sports and weapon stores for an in-person feel and research brands and reviews on the best taser before shopping.
Hopefully, choosing the best safety tool is now a bit simpler. Both stun guns and tasers can be great, depending on your needs and lifestyle. Before you head to a self-defense class, don’t forget to check out more advice from Crow Survival.
Stun Guns vs Tasers: Which One Should You Buy?
Purpose and Usage:
Stun guns are typically used for close-quarters self-defense, as they require direct contact with the attacker to be effective.
Conversely, Tasers can be used from a distance (up to 15 feet), providing a safer gap between you and the potential attacker. This gives Tasers an advantage if you anticipate a threat from a distance.
For example, if you often walk home alone late at night through potentially dangerous areas, a Taser might be a better option because it can be used from a distance.
Safety and Control
Both stun guns and Tasers come with safety mechanisms to prevent accidental discharge, but Tasers offer a higher level of control. They are designed to incapacitate an attacker longer, allowing you more time to escape or seek help.
A Taser can incapacitate an attacker for up to 30 seconds, compared to the few seconds of a stun gun.
Legal Restrictions
It’s essential to check the legal restrictions in your area before purchasing either a stun gun or a Taser. Some jurisdictions may have strict regulations or completely ban one or both types of devices.
Price and Maintenance
Generally, stun guns are cheaper than Tasers and require less maintenance. Conversely, Tasers require cartridge replacements after each use, which adds to their overall cost.
Training and Ease of Use
Stun guns are relatively simple to use, with less training required. However, Tasers require some practice to aim and fire correctly. Some models also have a learning curve for reloading cartridges and maintaining the device.
For instance, you might need to take a training course to learn how to use a Taser effectively, while a stun gun typically only requires a basic understanding of its operation.
This video has been included to clarify the topic. Credit goes to Situational Awareness Institute
Final Words
Several factors come into play in the debate about stun guns vs tasers. Stun guns require proximity to be effective, whereas tasers can function at distances up to 15 feet.
This gives the user of a taser a distinct advantage, as they can immobilize a threat from a safer distance. In terms of the effect on the target, tasers cause immediate neuromuscular incapacitation, providing a higher level of control over the individual.
However, stun guns are generally more straightforward to operate, as they do not require the same level of accuracy as tasers. From a legal standpoint, tasers often have more restrictions and may require permits or be banned in certain jurisdictions.
Finally, when it comes to price, tasers tend to be more expensive due to their advanced technology. Thus, while tasers offer more range and immediate incapacitation, they also require more skill and come with higher legal and financial costs compared to stun guns.
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