Many people, including those in the media, often mistakenly equate Tasers with stun devices. While tasers are all stun devices, all stun devices are not tasers; the two are far from equal. Here we will explain the difference between the two so you can decide which one you want for your self-defense and personal safety.

A stun gun is a handheld, non-lethal self-defense weapon that is second only to pepper sprays in terms of popularity. A high voltage, low amperage electrical charge is conducted through two or more probes at one end of the device. The electrical charge short-circuits the body’s muscular system and depletes blood sugar levels, so there is no energy left to do damage.

A stun gun must be applied to an assailant for 3-5 seconds for the effects to occur. It is on average about 85% effective. The effects are not long-lasting and wear off after about five to 10 minutes, which is a long time for the victim to escape and seek help. Stun devices range in cost from just under $20 to just under $50 each.

Tasers, on the other hand, fire two electrified darts up to 15 feet away for civilian models. The darts are attached to wires that are electrified with low voltage and high amperage, giving it its staggering close to 100% knockdown rate. It has been rated to be more effective than a 9mm pistol.

It uses neural muscle incapacitation (NMI) which temporarily overrides the body’s command and control systems to affect muscle control.

They also use a “sophisticated pulse wave that uses a high voltage leading edge to penetrate barriers such as clothing around the body, followed by a lower voltage stimulation pulse to cause NMI.”

Tasers are so effective that they are used by 90% of the 18,000 law enforcement agencies in the United States and in at least 10 foreign countries. Next to pepper sprays, a Taser is the primary non-lethal self-defense weapon for any law enforcement officer. How’s that for a backup?

Civilian Tasers range in price from $400 to $1,000.00.

As you can see, the differences between a stun gun and a Taser are huge in almost every category, from price to effectiveness to size. The one you choose may save your life, but it will certainly be part of your personal security.