They Shot Themselves with the Byrna Compact — Here's What Happened

How do you know if a less-lethal launcher really works? A group of YouTubers set out to answer that the hard way — by shooting themselves with the Byrna Compact Launcher.

Using kinetic rounds at distances ranging from 30 feet to point-blank, they tested the Compact’s power, accuracy, and real-world stopping potential. The reactions were immediate — bruises, swelling, and more than a few regrets.

Point-Blank Reactions

Some shots hit square in the legs, ribs, or stomach. Others landed a bit... lower. There were accidental groin shots, double taps to the same bruised spots, and one unlucky tester who got nailed twice in the exact same spot.

Even through clothing, the kinetic rounds left visible bruising and damage — with some shots punching holes through shirts and leaving sizable welts. In close-range scenarios, especially under 15 feet, the launcher showed just how much force it can deliver.

Not Just Kinetics

They didn’t stop at impact rounds. The testers also braved Byrna’s chemical irritants. The pepper rounds immediately delivered intense burning sensations, especially to the face — even when the wind wasn’t cooperating. Vision blurred, breathing tightened, and recovery was far from quick.

Tested and Proven

Despite the pain and occasional chaos, the verdict was clear: the Byrna Compact Launcher delivers serious stopping power — without being lethal. It left experienced testers visibly stunned, bruised, and convinced.

As one of them summed it up: “It’s going to stop people. It stopped me.”