Have you ever thought you might like to get a Taser, but didn’t know where to even start when looking for one? Let’s start with the basics. Many people think that a Taser and a stun gun are the same thing. A Taser allows you to stun the target from up to 15 feet away, while a stun gun requires direct contact. A Taser also works via direct contact, but the option to keep distance between you and the target is the main difference between a TASER and a stun gun.

Next, the name “Taser” is a trademark owned by Taser International, so only stun devices made by this company can be called a Taser. Powered by battery, a Taser works by delivering a harmless electric shock to the target via conductive wires shot (using air cartridges) from the handheld unit. This shock temporarily disrupts the nervous system and results in the target’s inability to react. Tasers vary in the duration of the shock they deliver but once the electric pulse ceases, the target may resume function. Once you’ve fired the wires, a new air cartridge must be loaded before the next use, unless you want to use it in direct contact with the target.

That said, there are only five models of Tasers available to civilians. They are the X26C, M18L, M18, C2 with laser, and C2 without laser. There are three main features to pay attention to when choosing a Taser: the presence of a laser sight, the shape of the unit, and length of the stun or shock.

Having a laser sight (X26C, M18L, and C2 with laser) will only help improve your aim, and some users have reported that in some cases when the attacker sees the red dot it scares them off.

The shape of the unit plays no part in the effectiveness of the Taser; it is simply a matter of personal preference. Those familiar with handling a firearm may find the Tasers shaped like a gun (models X26C, M18L, and M18) more comfortable, while others will prefer the compact and discreet style of the C2 series.

Lastly, decide how long of a stun pulse you want to be able to deliver. The C2 series gives a series of pulses for thirty seconds, while the M18L and M18 stun pulses last only five seconds. You can trigger another set of pulses immediately after the first round stops. The X26C allows more control on the pulse duration; pull the trigger once for a 10-second pulse, twice quickly for a 20-second pulse, or three times quickly for a 30-second pulse.

Cost may well factor into your choice. Each Taser model comes with the main unit, at least one air cartridge, and batteries (either AA or Lithium), but as previously mentioned, some are equipped with a laser sight and some even have a LED light to help visibility in the dark. The least expensive Taser C2 without laser retails for $299.95, and the prices increase from there with the X26C being the most expensive at an MSRP of $999.

The Taser C2 is a good choice for those people wanting a Taser for protection without having to spend a lot of money. It offers the longest duration of stun pulse, and when purchased with the laser option it provides an excellent chance at accurate aim for maximum utility.

Author Bio: Joseph Pressley is a certified TASER instructor and a Tae Kwon Do black belt and a father of two. He is the co-founder of BestStunGun.com which provides a good variety of TASER and Spy Gear for personal protection. To learn more on how these products can save your life, please visit http://www.beststungun.com

Category: Advice
Keywords: TASER