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Remaining safe while out in public requires preparation. While carrying a self-defense weapon can keep you safe, you’ll need to know how to properly use it to effectively protect yourself.
Tasers are one of the most trusted non-lethal self-defense weapons available to both professionals and citizens, providing premier protection while allowing you to maintain distance from an assailant. But what makes a Taser work? And how do you properly use one?
Let’s take a closer look together.
What’s the difference between a Taser and a stun gun?
People tend to use the term Taser and stun gun interchangeably; however, while they have similarities, there is a key difference between the two of them. Both devices emit high-voltage, low-amperage charges that immobilize assailants without serious harm, by causing temporary paralysis due to the hindrance of neuromuscular function, but they differ in how their electric shock is emitted.
Whereas stun guns require physical contact with electrodes, so the device must be physically thrust into a person, Tasers shoot electrodes in a series of prongs that will pierce the skin of an assailant.
But how does a Taser necessarily work? What happens when the device is engaged and it is fired by the user?
What happens when you fire a Taser?
Tasers garner their power from their ability to fire electric probes at an assailant. The device works by inserting a one-time cartridge that contains two electrical probes that can be shot up to 15 feet away. These probes remain attached to the device by wire.
After striking a target and attaching, an electric arc will be created that allows the transference of electricity. Millions of volts will be sent into the skin of an assailant, incapacitating them by disrupting the electric working of their nervous system. Reactions in those targeted and struck will include dizziness, vertigo, physical paralysis, involuntary muscle contractions, and inability to stand, and there could be more deadly consequences.
Once fired, the user should either take the time to safely escape or they should call for help. The latter could include getting the attention of bystanders to create a safe crowd for yourself or simply calling the police to receive armed backup, who can then arrest the assailant.
But, beyond this, it’s not as simple as just firing and being done with it. You also need to remain safe when using a Taser.
Take safety precautions when handling a Taser.
When using a Taser, there are some guidelines that should be followed at all costs. These will ensure that you remain safe while using them, while not causing unnecessary harm to anyone else. Keep the following in mind while using a Taser:
- Do not engage the device unless you plan on using it against someone else for self-defense.
- Ensure that you are the only person who has access to the weapon, especially if you have children in your home.
- Familiarize yourself with your Taser and understand the numerous elements contained within the weapon, as well as how to load, engage, and fire the weapon with the utmost consideration for safety.
Considering the above, you should always treat the weapon as if it were a regular firearm.
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Understand the laws.
Similar to firearms, Tasers are not legal for use in every state. So, how does it work from state to state?
Tasers are legal to own in 48 states, but each state has its own form of regulations. For instance, some states may bar ownership from those with a criminal background while others may require a background check.
However, the following states have no Taser restrictions, allowing complete ownership: Alabama, Colorado, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wyoming.
Keep your Taser where you can get to it.
Remaining protected involves remaining prepared. Owning a Taser means nothing if you can’t readily access it in the event of an emergency. To keep yourself prepared, you should make sure that your Taser is always charged and that you carry it with you wherever you go, whether it’s stored on your hip, in your vehicle, or in a bag.
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Pick the right Taser for you.
Buying the right Taser gun requires some research. Before you settle on just any stun gun, take the time to look at the available Tasers at The Home Security Superstore. You’re sure to find one that fits your budget and safety needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
A taser works by firing two electrically charged darts connected by copper wires that pass an electric current from the taser itself to the target. This sends 50,000 volts of electricity, for 5 to 30 seconds depending on the model, to the target causing them to experience intense pain and become disoriented making them easier to detain without causing additional harm to them or yourself.
You do not always need to get tased to be a cop, this requirement differs between departments. These differences can even occur in the same county as one precinct might require you to be tased but another 10 miles away does not. While it is good practice to understand how a self defense tool works and to experience the effects first hand it is not always required to become a police officer.