The word “taser” has a scary connotation. To most, tasers scream a weapon police officers use in dangerous situations. However, tasers are available to the public and are an excellent way to defend yourself. If you are unfamiliar with the use of tasers, or are just interested in learning some more, read on below for some frequently asked questions regarding the self-defense accessory.
CAN ORDINARY CITIZENS BUY A TASER?
Absolutely. According to the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, tasers are not classified as firearms. However, when purchasing a taser, they must be delivered to one of the 45 states that have deemed them legal. Citizens in New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Hawaii are unable to purchase tasers as they are illegal.
IS THERE A TEST OR ANY OTHER REQUIREMENTS NEEDED BEFORE PURCHASING A TASER?
Background checks are not required before purchasing a taser. However, many states require that the purchaser be over the age of 18, or accompanied by someone that is. All states require that those carrying a taser, as with any other weapon, carry a form of identification. Despite tasers not being considered a firearm by the ATF, Illinois, Wisconsin and Michigan require taser carriers to possess a hand gun license.
Although most states do not require anything more than a driver’s license before purchase a taser, if you have committed a felony or are on parole, it is recommended to consult your parole officer or local law enforcement beforehand.
CAN A TASER ACTUALLY KILL SOMEONE?
While the use of a taser will definitely incapacitate someone, it is not in fact lethal. Tasers utilize an extremely powerful 50,000 volt electrical charge that effectively overrides the central nervous system. By doing this, it controls all muscles and as a result debilitates the assailant. Severe muscle spasms in even the strongest, most aggressive targets will result in them falling on the floor.
Despite this, the use of a taser is not lethal. High voltage itself is not dangerous. Tasers are designed to supply power for a few minutes without permanently harming the victim.
HOW DO I USE A TASER?
Most people who refrain from carrying a taser as a self-defense accessory does so out of not knowing how to use them. However, this is nothing to be worried about. Tasers are designed to be simple to use so that anyone can utilize one.
It is not necessary to actually touch the target with the taser. In fact, in order for it to be effective, the device can be up to fifteen feet away from the target. That being said, the most accurate range is about three to five feet away. If the taser misses its intended target, it can be used instead in a touch-stun mode. This means that after the initial ejection, the unit can be touched directly to the target as a stun-gun.
The electric probes do not need to penetrate the skin in order to be effective. As long as the probes have reached the clothing or skin of the assailant, the taser will work properly.
Temperature is irrelevant, as compressed air capsules have effective held their charges in temperatures as cold as minus 20F and as warm as 160F.
Tasers are excellent accessories to carry for self-defense. Check out our extensive selection at defensewarehouse.com to purchase yours today. Remember: the best way to prevent yourself from being a victim is to be prepared.
