Stun Gun Vs Taser – How Do These Self Defense Devices Compare?

Stun guns are close proximity self defense devices that use high-voltage electricity to stop an attacker by momentarily disabling muscle control. To use, disarm the safety, simply pull the trigger, and touch the aggressor with the metal prongs. You must hold it against the attacker for several seconds depending on the stun guns voltage.

TASER devices are electroshock weapons that use an electrical current to disrupt muscle control; this will stop an attacker dead in their tracks. Tasers can be used both close and far range. Upon firing, the device shoots two metal probe darts a distance of 15 feet to reach an attacker before he reaches you. It can also be used as a direct contact stun gun, allowing for close proximity self defense. This feature increases the versatility of Taser devices.

The pros and cons of owning and using each self defense device depend on which features are most important to you, and are most effective for the situation in which you could be using it.

TASER PROS:

TASER CONS:

• Both electrode barbs must hit their target for the device to be effective, typically both do.
• To own one, you are required to pass felony background check for registration and activation of the unit.
• Ranging from $350 and up, the taser price is more expensive, and they require the purchase of replacement firing cartridges and may also require power magazine replacement (depending on the model).

STUN GUN PROS:

• Units come in all shapes, sizes, and voltage! Voltage varying from 100,000 volts to 4.5 million volts.
• For close range self defense, nothing brings an attacker down more quickly and efficiently.
• If you touch the person while stunning them, the electrical current will not pass back to you.
• Avoid an attacker by firing a warning shot in the air; the electrical crackling can deter an attack before it happens.
• More cost effective than taser devices, stun guns cost less, do not require replacement firing cartridges, they are powered by batteries or they recharge.
• No felony background check required for ownership.

STUN GUN CONS:

• No far range capabilities, they are meant for close range self defense. To drop an attacker to the ground, you must touch the person with the unit.
• Stun batons allow for extended reach if you are interested in direct contact stun gun devices with an extended range.
• Voltage is important! When using a low voltage unit (under 500,000 volts), you may have to hold the device to the attacker longer than 3-5 seconds, especially if the person is large, so opt for more power when it comes to voltage.