A chemical-based self defense weapon, pepper sprays are typically available in aerosol cans filled with a compound designed to be sprayed into the eyes of the attacker. The chemical compound utilized in pepper spray causes intense pain in the subject, disorienting him and incapacitating any intended assault. Some types of pepper spray can also cause temporary blindness and intense coughing, further decreasing the effectiveness of the attacker.
Due to the small size and ease of use offered, pepper sprays are favored as effective self defense weapons. However, the chemical effects may take up to 30 seconds to be fully effective and are often lessened when used on individuals under the influence of controlled substances, making pepper spray impractical in certain applications.
A stun gun is a handheld device pressed against the body of an attacker and used to send an electrical current through his body. Typically operating in a 7- to 14-watt range, the electrical current interferes with the nervous system of the assailant, causing temporary paralysis and stressing the muscles to the point that he is too weak to move upon recovering. Stun guns employ a high enough voltage in the charge to pass through an attacker's clothing, while maintaining low enough amperage to prevent permanent damage.
Stun guns are highly effective when employed correctly, instantly incapacitating an attacker regardless of the point of attack. However, they are best utilized when employing the element of surprise and require close distance to the attacker.
Air tasers utilize electro-muscular disruption (EMD) technology to incapacitate an attacker. EMD technology operates with an 18- to 25-watt range, offering a more powerful self defense weapon than a standard stun gun. Designed in a handgun-like shape, an air taser is fired directly at the chest of an attacker, sending a pair of probes into his body and sending a high powered electrical current through the attached wires. The current causes instant incapacitation, completely overtaking the assailant's muscular system as uncontrollable convulsions surge through his body. Air tasers also include the ability to use the device as a contact stun gun, keeping the weapon effective in the event of a missed shot.
Air tasers are extremely effective self defense weapons, offering instant effectiveness at a range. Anyone interested in using an air taser should complete proper training to increase skill and comfort in using the device.