Practice Improves TASER Safety Levels
Taser International’s incredible array of stun guns makes it possible for beginners to operate their products with an extremely high level of safety. Just as in becoming familiar with any new piece of equipment, from pocket knives to stun guns, it is important to set aside time to practice and develop an acceptable degree of proficiency. Start by doing the research and budgeting the necessary funds.
• There are many different products on the market which may serve your purposes. Internet websites are chock full of information about both the technical and aesthetic attributes of every make and model of stun gun, TASER and pepper spray.
• One important concern when choosing a TASER or stun gun is the level of power the weapon can deliver. While most send a powerful enough shock to incapacitate a would-be assailant, it is critical that the user know exactly how much power he or she is holding. For example, TASER’s product descriptions clearly describe the capabilities of each product.
Looking at pictures is only a beginning point when choosing non-lethal self-protection. Until you actually hold a weapon, get the heft and bulk of it, making the choice is a bit tricky.
• Find a friendly law enforcement officer or security guard who will allow you to handle the actual stun gun. If you don’t know anyone on the police force, get in touch with the main office and ask about self-defense information.
In a recent case it took a Nebraska woman only two phone calls, plus a transfer or two, to speak with a community safety officer whose duties include teaching citizens how to improve their levels of security. After a bit of scheduling, she was able to handle several models of both TASERs and stun guns. The experience was invaluable when deciding which she would carry for her own peace of mind.
• After handling the stun guns, continue researching by size, shape, voltage, and price considerations. While the array can be mind-boggling, your experience will help in narrowing the field, especially by eliminating the ones unlikely to fit your hand.
• Figure out how you plan to carry the device: purse, pocket, holster, etc. Stun guns come in so many sizes and shapes that it will be easy to narrow the search.
For many women, the TASER stun guns (they fire barbs on wires up to 15 feet) carried by police officers are too bulky for their smaller hands. However, a stun gun the size and shape of a cell phone could fit the bill nicely.
• Once you decide on the model that works best and you make the purchase online or from a local merchant, spend time familiarizing yourself with the weapon. The fact that it is a stun gun, not a firearm, does not mean you are ready to face a life-threatening situation.
• Practice. Practice. Practice.
Practice how to remove the stun gun from its carrier.
Practice how to hold it in preparation for use.
Practice reloading (if you choose a TASER).
Contact the deputy or safety officer again and ask for support in working out the kinks.
Your life and the lives of loved ones may well depend on your competency. Ownership of a stun gun does not guarantee competency any more than owning a car makes one a good driver. However, in the hands of a well-informed user, the odds are definitely in your favor.
By: Kevin Salmon
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