Stun guns are a popular option for self-defense and they promise to keep you safe with a quick press of a button. But it can feel overwhelming when it comes time to pick out a stun gun. It's good to be careful and do your research before buying something you'll trust for your personal safety.

There are a lot of decisions out there for you to think about, too. From the typical handheld models to things like stun flashlights or stun knuckles, there's a lot of different options and varieties out there.

If you're looking into self-defense options, the features and different types of stun guns can be pretty helpful to know before you buy. I'll compare stun guns to other self defense options, too.

Let's do this!

What Are the Basic Types of Stun Guns?

Let's go over the different types available so you can choose what's best for your lifestyle.

First off, let's talk about the usual handheld stun guns, and they're compact and easy to carry. You can slip one into your pocket or handbag without any issues. Their small size doesn't lessen their effectiveness! But, some people might find their short range limiting - especially in some of the more stressful situations.

Have you ever thought about a stun baton? With a longer reach, these can help you keep an attacker at a safer distance. Their bulkier nature might seem like a downside, but it also means they're less easy to hide and harder to carry, and they are perfect if you need a bigger weapon at home without giving up effectiveness. Safety first!

Now, let's talk about stun flashlights - they mix utility with self-defense and work as both a bright flashlight and a stun gun. I believe they are helpful for use in emergencies. Anyone might find this dual-job tool helpful but, if you want a purely defensive weapon, the extra functions can make it heavier and bigger.

Let's take a bit to look at some other less common types. Lipstick stun guns are discreet and designed to look just like a tube of lipstick, and they are perfect if you want maximum concealment. But remember, they usually have reduced voltage compared to bigger stun guns. You can only fit so big a battery into those small things.

There's also pen stun guns that blend with item while also giving a good self-defense tool. Some are made to look like rings and fit around your finger. But they're usually not as helpful as full-size models, either.

Next, there's cell phone stun guns. Designed to look like a regular smartphone, they have a hidden surprise. But be mindful of legal regulations around carrying these devices - because they might be restricted in some areas.

These get prettty creative - there are even cane or umbrella stun guns. These are perfect for people who naturally carry these items, like when walking or commuting, and they give you a longer reach and can blend with your attire. On the flip side, their size might draw unwanted attention.

For those interested in close-quarters tools, knuckle stun guns, similar to brass knuckles, might be your pick. Their design lets you deliver both a physical punch and an electric charge. But they might be less user-friendly if you're not comfortable with direct contact situations.

Let's talk about voltage and power next.

How Much Voltage and Amperage is Enough?

When you are picking a stun gun - you should think about the size, power, safety features, and price. So, where do you start with all these details?

One of the main things to think about is voltage and amperage. A stun gun with 50% more voltage doesn't necessarily have 50% more stopping power, but it does tell you a bit about its ability to work through thicker clothing. Let's break these down.

Stun guns come in a lot of kinds of voltage levels. Low Voltage models usually range from 50,000 to 100,000 volts and are good for causing pain and muscle contractions. You might find these helpful if you need a basic deterrent. They might have somewhere between 1-2 mA (milliamps).

Medium Voltage units, ranging from 100,000 to 300,000 volts, are better at going through clothing and causing disorientation. That's helpful when heavier clothing is a problem. High-voltage models span from 300,000 volts to more, and they give a powerful shock through thick clothing. These cause extreme pain and muscle spasms. If you expect confrontations that need the utmost stopping power, these are a good choice! They're probably around 2-3 mA, sometimes as high as 4.

You also need to think about the charge delivered. That's measured in microcoulombs (µC), usually between 0.5-4.5. This is basically a metric that considers both amps and time - how much electricity flows and how long it flows. This is a popular industry metric that is a common industry comparison of how strong stun guns are.

Now, let's talk about size. A lot of people like small models that are easy to carry and hide. You should know that smaller stun guns might have less features or less power compared to bigger ones - think about what you need more: portability or extra power and features.

Safety features are another thing to think about. Look for stun guns that come with disable pins, built-in flashlights, and safety switches. These features add layers of security by stopping accidental discharges. So, the device is ready when you need it. We'll talk about safety more in a bit.

Also, let's not forget about the price. High-end stun guns sometimes come with advanced features and higher voltage, but they can be expensive. Budget models may not have a lot of advanced features, but they can still be helpful deterrents!

Choose your budget and then weigh the pros and cons. Finally, when you make the right choice, you have to balance these factors according to what you need. Safety first!

Are Stun Guns Legal to Own or Carry?

With the legality of owning or carrying a stun gun, you know the rules can be quite complicated. It sometimes depends on where you live, too. I've seen that, for the most part, stun guns are legal in a lot of states across the U.S., but specific rules can create some issues. Did you know that Hawaii and Rhode Island - just to give you an example! - completely prohibit the ownership of stun guns? Are there age needs, you might ask? Usually, yes. Most states demand that you be 18 years or older to make a buy.

Permits are another area where laws can change quite a bit. In a lot of states, you don't need a permit to own or carry a stun gun. But local rules can sometimes add extra obstacles. Just think about it, a few cities might have specific bans or regulations that you'll need to follow. It's a good idea to check your local laws to stay away from accidentally breaking any rules too.

Concealed carry is yet another layer of legal factors you should know about. Some states need you to have a concealed carry permit if you plan to carry a stun gun in a hidden way.

Also, background checks can be used to enter the picture. Although most states don't need these checks to buy a stun gun, some do. That means you might have to go through one, depending on where you live. These differences can catch you off guard.

And what about carrying stun guns when traveling? When flying, remember that the TSA doesn't allow stun guns in carry-on luggage. But you can pack them in checked baggage if they are unloaded and the right way secured. Always a good tip to keep in mind.

Need some advice on staying updated with legal changes? It's always smart to frequently check local and state laws, because they can change. You should subscribe to legal updates or newsletters that attention to self-defense weapon regulations too. Websites of local law enforcement agencies also sometimes give you the latest information on this topic. Ignoring these updates can get you in legal trouble after years of compliant ownership - don't skip this.

Remember, staying proactive and in tune with legalities helps you stay within the law, to make sure that you can carry a stun gun without unexpected legal issues.

How to Use a Stun Gun Safely?

When you're ready to use a stun gun, you have to think about safety for both you and other people around you! But, how do you make sure you're it the right way? I give you a guide on safe usage that breaks it down step-by-step. That guide covers different types and styles.

First, try to aim for large muscle groups like the shoulders, back, and chest. Especially the area between the neck and waist - these areas are hard for an attacker to push away. That increases your chances of stopping them. How long should you keep it in contact? Use the stun gun for at least 3 to 5 seconds to stop the attacker - if the threat continues, keep the contact for more time if needed.

Stun guns can work through clothing, and how well they work can vary on the strength of the device. We talked about how devices with higher voltage/amps can penetrate clothing better, so think about the strength you need. And what about handling and storage? Practice drawing and handling your stun gun sometimes to make sure you can get to it quickly if there's an emergency.

You should also think about legal factors. Make sure you know the local laws about stun guns to stay away from legal trouble. Use the device only in cases of immediate danger and never for intimidation or misuse.

Let's talk about battery maintenance, too - keep your stun gun's batteries completely charged and working well before you carry it. Who wants their stun gun to fail because of a dead battery? Always be aware of your surroundings so you can note potential threats early. A stun gun comes with great responsibility, so stay vigilant and ready.

Less-Lethal Alternatives from Byrna

Let's talk about the less-lethal options we give you at Byrna. Have you ever worried about the legal or ethical side of owning a gun for self-defense? Well, these 50 state legal CO2-powered options might be a good non-lethal option for you.

At Byrna, we have a number of CO2-powered products that shoot kinetic and chemical irritant projectiles, and these tools help you in different situations. Now, let's check out one of my favorite handheld options! The Byrna SD, a compact pistol, shoots 68-caliber rounds up to 60 feet, and they are easy to use and reliable. That makes it a good choice for anyone needing an easy self-defense tool. Priced around $379.99, it's an easy entry point into the less-lethal defense world.

People who need more power and performance should look at the Byrna LE. You get a better experience because this version has higher energy output and muzzle velocity. That gives you greater stopping power. At $479.99, it costs more than the SD model, but it might be worth it if you need something higher-powered.

Need even more range and power?

Byrna also has rifles like the Mission 4 and TCR. These shoulder-fired weapons deliver more power and longer range. Mission 4 and TCR are good for times when you need to handle threats from a distance, and they are both reliable and accurate. We price these between $599.99 and $699.99, depending on the model and what kind of features you pick.

What makes our products stand out is their design - directed at stopping attackers without causing deadly harm - that makes them a great option for people who want strong self-defense decisions without the serious downsides of firearms. CO2-powered projectiles make sure you have the stopping power you need, with less danger of permanent harm.

So, why wait? Check out our products at Byrna and build your self-defense plan!

Less-Lethal Self Defense

When you're looking into the voltage levels of stun guns - handling the legal things - or checking into safe usage and maintenance, every little detail matters in building your confidence and feeling ready. Isn't it kind of interesting how something like a compact stun gun can make a difference in how we feel about our safety?

Now, try to think past stun guns for a bit. What do you think is the most factor when you're picking a self-defense tool?

Is it how easy it is to use, or maybe the surprise ingredient of hidden designs? Everyone has their own priorities and habits that make picking the right tool a very personal choice. Let's face it! Peace of mind is something we all value. Reliable and less-lethal options for self-defense can help with that. There's a reason police have different tools at their disposal - when words fail, and lethal force is not a good option either, less-lethal force can be a great way to get out of harm's way and dispel a threat. That's where pepper guns and non-lethal items come in helpful.

Byrna Technologies is leading the way in giving helpful and innovative self-defense tools that are also easy to get. Our pull-pierce CO2 cartridge system makes sure that Byrna products are ready when you need them most. It's comforting to know that these tools are legal in all 50 states, and they don't need any background checks and give you peace of mind without the trouble of traditional firearms.

Our products include pistols, rifles, different projectiles, pepper sprays, personal sirens, and even Ballistipac backpacks. There's something for everyone's needs and preferences. It's also great to know that Byrna products can be packed in your checked luggage when you travel! Just leave out the CO2 cartridges.

Why not visit Byrna.com to check out our catalog? With more than 20,000 five-star reviews from happy users around the country, you're sure to find something that meets your needs and improves your personal security.