TASER® And The Models

The TASER® is a type of stun gun that rapidly takes down an assailant with almost 100% effectiveness. It does this by sending two darts to the target. These probes are attached to the gun by two thin electrical wires. When the user presses the trigger, the probes rapidly fire and send an electrical charge through the wires. The perpetrator goes down quickly with almost 100% effectiveness. The product works by overwhelming a person's sensory and motor functions. When used responsibly, the product is safe with a low incidence of injury.

Note: TASER International prefers the term Electronic Control Device (ECD) to describe the TASER. Many people, including members of the media, often confuse the terms "stun gun" and "TASER").

TASER® began as a company in 1993 and focused on citizen models to deter personal assaults. In 1999, the company brought to the market the M series TASER models which fine tuned the electrical pulse to more effectively incapacitate the target's neuromuscular system. The Advanced TASER M26 (26 watt) model became the first successful ergonomically shaped device to find favor with law enforcement personnel. These and others involved with security found that an aggressive and uncooperative individual could often be subdued and apprehended without the incident escalating to a lethal force situation. Cartridge ranges are available up to 35 feet.

Citizens concerned with personal safety were offered their own M version, the M18 (18 watts). Although not quite as sophisticated or powerful as the police model, the TASER M18 was a successful product. The M-18 was sold without a laser sight, the M-18L included the aiming aid. The device was powered by eight AA batteries with a maximum firing range of 15 feet.

In 2003, the company released the X-26 model. This police model is 60% smaller in size and weight than the M-26. To accomplish this, TASER engineers managed to re-shape the pulse wave so the gun required less power to operate. While the M-26 needed 26 watts of power, the X-26 needs only 5 watts. This "shaped pulse" technology is 25% more effective than the M-26 and better penetrates clothing. The unit requires a lithium power pack. Police departments laud the seven ounce weight that make carrying the unit in its holster much more comfortable than the previous model. Among the advanced features are a Central Information Display (CID) which indicates countdown timer during an activation, battery level and warranty information. A strong night time light has been integrated into the unit.

TASER International claims that 11,000 law enforcement agencies worldwide use TASER devices. But the company hasn't forgotten the individual consumer. The TASER® C2™ is a newer model designed specifically with the female user in mind. The model is stylishly ergonomic making it easier to hold by even small hands. The C2 shoots up to 15 feet and uses a lithium power pack that the company claims is good for 50 firings. The TASER C2 is available in five colors at a lower price than any previous model.

What's new for TASER International? The company is concentrating on audio-video surveillance products. It has been marketing the TASER® CAM™ as an attachment to the TASER X-26. It can record audio and video as the officer sees it. The new TASER®™ Axion™ is a stand-alone audio video system that an officer can wear while discharging his duties. It fits around the head and records the officers view of his surroundings. The company says that law enforcement officers constantly face false allegations and complaints that question their integrity and honor. TASER says that the officer will now have the ability to show administrators and even jurors exactly what he or she saw.

As TASER International fazes out its M-18 consumer line, the newest citizen model X26C takes its place.* Designed around the X-26 police model, the X-26C shares many of its design features. The consumer model comes in choices of yellow, black and clear body parts. The model uses cartridges that shoot up to 15 feet and uses the X-26 long life powering system. It also borrows the Central Information Display and the night light from the police model. This model is as much an advance from the M-18 as the X-28 from the M-26.

TASER devices are not considered firearms by the US Government. They can be legally carried (concealed or open) without a permit required in 43 states. Prohibited citizen use in DC, HI, MA, MI, NJ, NY, RI, WI, IL certain cities and counties. CT require a valid firearm license. Make sure you check local laws before purchasing or carrying electronic control devices including stun guns.

*X-26C TASER® should be in stock shortly.