Tasers are the relatively new kid on the block when it comes to self-defense products.

Although created in 1969 by Arizona inventor Jack Cover, their usage has only increased dramatically in recent years. The name 'taser' results from Thomas A. Swift's Electric Rifle. Its name comes from the fictional character Tom Swift of adventure novels fame.

There are police, military and civilian versions of tasers. They entered into law enforcement protocol because of the need for less-lethal forms of subduing a suspect. Some models are available for the average citizen to use in their own self-defense strategy. Correctional facilities have implemented them into their programs as well.

A taser is a conductive energy device. Compressed nitrogen projects two small probes from the taser. These probes come in contact with the suspect's body or clothing. A taser shot can work its way in up to five centimeters of clothing. These probes can incapacitate the person who's deemed a threat.

The jolts of electricity last about five seconds and cause interference with the superficial muscle structure of a person. The electricity from a taser hit over-stimulates the nervous system. Muscle contractions occur which immobilizes the assailant. A taser is a self-defense product that causes immediate immobilization for a short period.
 
An aggressive suspect will also experience disorientation when hit by the electroshock from a taser. The resulting loss of coordination allows police to take the person under their control. For a civilian, it allows time for escape from an assailant. When it comes to self-defense, that time is precious.

Many self-defense products, like tasers, are attractive to consumers because of their portability. Today's technology allows these products to be lightweight, small and concealable. There are even versions that do not resemble guns.

As a self-defense product, it eliminates the need for escalating a situation with guns and bullets. From a consumer standpoint, they are not playing with fire (arms) so-to-speak. This reduces the risk of a person who's threatened having his own gun used on him. Of course, law enforcement will use firearms when taser use puts them at a disadvantage.

Tasers allow a person to resist an attacker from a distance. Consumer models allow for distances of up to fifteen feet. Law enforcement models allow for distances of up to thirty-five feet. As a mode of self-defense, they give the opportunity to avoid a face-to-face confrontation with an attacker. Consumer versions of the taser entered the marketplace in 1994.

The main benefit of the use of tasers is the decrease in deaths from lethal force. In a self-defense situation, private citizens' concerns are protecting themselves, not hurting others. The ability to thwart an attacker without taking a life is of prime importance to most people.

Concerning law-enforcement, it gives them an alternative in apprehending suspects. They do not have to use excessive or extreme force if something less lethal will work. A taser eliminates the need for police batons, firearms and canine use. A result of this is less risk to innocent bystanders who happen upon a situation. The potential of a stray bullet hitting a civilian becomes moot.

With self-defense a primary concern, many consumers are taking matters into their own hands. They now feel that they have to be proactive and responsible for their own safety. They know police cannot always be where they are. They know that help may come too late.

That is why personal self-defense products, like tasers, are their security options of choice.

Stay Safe,
Steve Lane
Self Defense & Surveillance Shop
http://www.laneselfdefense.com
http://www.lanesurveillance.com