FAQs About Advanced Taser Devices

TASER stun guns are among the best-selling self-defense products sold on the open market today. Before you make the decision to purchase and carry this device for your self-defense, you might want to know the following:

What is a hand TASER?

A TASER is a hand-held electroshock weapon intended to immobilize an attacker by delivering an electric shock. It gives out high-power, low amp electric charges that travel through clothing and skin, enters the body and temporarily debilitates an assailant from a distance.

How did the TASER get its name?

Taser is an acronym for "Thomas A. Swift's Electric Rifle," (T.A.S.E.R.) a device from an early 20th century children's book, capable of firing bolts of electricity. The TASER name was first used for self defense devices by Jack Cover, a NASA researcher. In 1974, he developed the first device that would become known as a TASER. Today the device is manufactured by TASER International in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Is it legal to carry a TASER?

TASERS are legal everywhere in the U.S. except in Hawaii, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. Additional cities, counties, and countries might have other restrictions on the use or possession of the TASER device so make sure to check all applicable laws and regulations carefully before you buy. In addition, Federal law prohibits the possession of Tasers on commercial airlines in carry-on luggage or on your person, but they may be included in checked baggage if you are traveling to a state that allows possession

Are TASERS non-lethal?

TASER technology has been around since the 1970s and has been the subject of over 150 studies by scores of universities, hospitals, physicians, law enforcement agencies, military panels as well as independently through years of testing by many government entities in Canada, the United States and throughout the world. To date, all the studies have found the patented TASER technology to be generally safe and effective.

What happens when you fire a TASER?

At the moment that the device is fired, two darts are propelled through the air by small compressed nitrogen charges. When they come in contact with the assailant's clothing or skin an electric shock travels through the body immobilizing the neuromuscular system. In a span of five seconds the assailant loses all control and coordination of his or her muscles.

What are it's effects on the human body?

All targets of the TASER device become immediately immobilized and fall to the ground. Some experience a tingling sensation or dizziness. After the electrical current is applied via barbs attached to the weapon by two wires, the target feels dazed for several minutes. The physical effects of being hit with a jolt from this weapon can last for up to an hour, however it causes no long-term or permanent injury.

What is a TASER gun's range?

A TASER's range can be up to 35 feet away. Ideally when the probes hit the target's body they should be about four to six inches apart. The greater distance they have to travel to the target the further apart the probes will become from each other. For best results, TASER devices should be fired at the target from  seven to ten feet away.