Stun guns and tasers are both self-defense devices that use an electric shock to immobilize an attacker temporarily. Nevertheless, it is essential to understand the differences between these two when choosing which one will provide better personal safety. This article explores the advantages and disadvantages of stun guns versus tasers to help you make a sound choice. Therefore, let us find out which is better, a stun gun or a Taser.
How They Work
To better understand which tool is better for you regarding self-defense, let’s first learn about their working principle.
Stun Guns:
The function of a stun gun requires that it should be in direct contact with the assailant. For example, stun guns generally have two electrodes on their ends, which must be put against the body of the attacker directly. When someone presses the trigger, a high voltage with low amperage goes through the attacker’s nervous system, making him lose control over his body muscles and feel pain all over his body. The effects wear off after removing the stun gun from the attacker’s skin.
Tasers:
A taser works differently by shooting two small probes up to 25 feet. These probes are connected to the taser by thin wires. When the taser’s trigger is pulled, it delivers electric pulses through the wires and probes that override the attacker’s central nervous system, causing temporary paralysis and significant pain. The taser’s effects last as long as the trigger is held.
Effectiveness
Effectiveness is yet another important factor to consider when deciding whether a stun gun or taser is better.
Stun Guns:
Since a stun gun requires direct contact with the attacker, its effectiveness depends on your ability to get very close to the attacker. This may be difficult or even dangerous in some situations. However, if you can press the stun gun against an attacker’s body, it will deliver an excruciating shock that can provide time to get away. The effects wear off as soon as the stun gun is removed.
Tasers:
The main advantage of a Taser is its ability to incapacitate an attacker from a distance between 8′ to 30′ feet so that you can maintain a safer distance. The taser’s dart probes penetrate through thick clothing to deliver the shock. Tasers also cause full-body muscle paralysis and pain while the trigger is held, giving you more time to escape. However, thick clothing, distance, or probe placement can influence a taser’s effectiveness.
Ease of Use:
Both stun guns and teasers are generally easy to use. But let’s examine how they may differ.
Stun Guns:
Stun guns are straightforward to use. Press the button or trigger when the electrodes touch the attacker’s body. Good contact is required, 3 to 5 seconds in direct contact, which may be difficult in some circumstances. Stun guns come in various sizes and styles, many disguised as everyday objects for discreet carry.
Tasers
While tasers do not require close proximity to an attacker, a higher level of skill is needed to aim and shoot the probes under stress accurately. Proper training on taser use is highly recommended. Tasers also require more maintenance and care than a stun gun. However, many find the ability to incapacitate threats from a safer distance makes them easier to use for some people.
Legal Considerations
Laws regarding stun gun and taser possession and use vary greatly, so it is essential to understand your local laws. Tasers are more heavily restricted in some areas, may require a permit, or could be considered a prohibited weapon. Always research state and local laws before obtaining a stun gun or taser for self-defense.
Conclusion
Although tasers can be practical tools for self-defense, they are usually more powerful and have a more extended range. Stun guns are often cheaper, accessible, and more straightforward to handle.
When trying to decide which is better for your personal safety, take into account your needs, skills, and legal landscape. It is advisable that one gets trained on how to use each of them. Knowing which is better will help you make a choice that will satisfy your individual case.
