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Information on Stun and TASER® Device
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We believe that information is the BEST defense. This page is devoted to information on stun devices - their use, their effects, their restrictions and comparison with hand guns. Scroll down or jump by clicking on either
Stun Device Restrictions by State or Territory
This section contains information on stun device restrictions in various cities, states and countries. The information is quite extensive. Continue scrolling until you reach the name of your state (alphabetically arranged).
STATES WHERE STUNNING DEVICES ARE RESTRICTED:
* DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
* HAWAII
* MASSACHUSETTS
* MICHIGAN
* NEW JERSEY
* NEW YORK
* RHODE ISLAND
* WISCONSIN
CITIES WHERE STUNNING DEVICES ARE RESTRICTED:
* ANNAPOLIS, MD
* BALTIMORE, MD
* BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD
* CHICAGO, IL
* DENSION / CRAWFORD COUNTY, IA (*According to Sheriff Tom Hogan*)
* DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
* PHILADELPHIA
COUNTRIES THAT STUNNING DEVICES CAN BE SHIPPED FROM THE U.S. AND DELIVERED TO:
(PLEASE NOTE THERE MAY BE LOCAL LAWS PROHIBITING THE PURCHASE, USE OR CARRYING OF SUCH DEVICES)
* France
* Germany
* Greece
* Iceland
* Luxembourg
* Netherlands
* Portugal
* Spain
* Turkey
* United States
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STATE RESTRICTIONS:
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA: Illegal District of Columbia Law. DC Code Ann. Title 6, Chapter 23. Firearms Control. Subchapter I. General Provisions 6-2302. (7) "Destructive device" means: (B) "Any device by whatever name known which will, or is designed, or may be readily converted or restored, to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant through a smooth bore barrel, except a shotgun." (D) Any device designed or redesigned, made or remade, or readily converted or restored, and intended to stun or disable a person by means of electric shock. Subchapter II. Firearms and Destructive Devices. General Provision 6-2311. Registration requirements: (a) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, no person or organization in the District of Columbia ("District") shall receive, possess, control, transfer, offer for sale, sell, give, or deliver any destructive device, and no person or organization in the District shall possess or control any firearm, unless that person or organization holds a valid registration certificate for the firearm. Subchapter V. Sales and Transfer of Firearms, Destructive Devices, and Ammunition. General Provision 6-2351. Sales and transfers prohibited. No person or organization shall sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of any firearm, destructive device or ammunition in the District except as provided in *** 6-2352, or 6-2375. SUMMARY: Possession and sales of Stunning Devices are banned in Washington, DC.
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HAWAII: Illegal Hawaii State Law. Rev. Stats. Title 10, Chapter 134. Firearms, Ammunition and Dangerous Weapons. Part 1. General Regulations. Chapter 134-1 Definitions. "Electric gun" means any portable device that is electrically operated to project a missile or electromotive force. Chapter 134-16 Restriction on possession, sale, gift or delivery of electric guns. (a) It shall be unlawful for any person, including a licensed manufacturer, licensed importer or licensed dealer, to possess, offer for sale, hold for sale, sell, give, lend or deliver any electric gun. (b) Any electric gun in violation of subsection (a) shall be confiscated and disposed of by the chief of police. SUMMARY: Possession and sales of Stunning Devices are banned in Hawaii.
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MASSACHUSETTS: Illegal Massachusetts State Law. Ann. Laws of Massachusetts. Chapter 140. Sale of Firearms. Section 131J: Sale or possession of electrical weapons; penalties. Section 131J. No person shall sell, offer for sale or possess a portable device or weapon from which an electric current, impulse, wave or beam may be directed, which current, impulse, wave or beam is designed to incapacitate temporarily, injure or kill. Whoever violates this provision of this section shall be punished by a fine of not less than five hundred nor more than one thousand dollars or by imprisonment for not less than six months nor more than two years in a jail or house of correction, or both. SUMMARY: Possession and sales of Stunning Devices are banned in Massachusetts.
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MICHIGAN: Illegal The Michigan Penal Code Act 328 of 1931. Chapter 750.224a Portable device or weapon directing electrical current, impulse, wave, or beam; sale or possession prohibited; testing. (1) A person shall not sell, offer for sale, or possess in this state a portable device or weapon from which an electric current, impulse, wave or beam is designed to incapacitate temporarily, injure, or kill. (3) A person who violates this section is guilty of a felony. SUMMARY: Possession and sales of Stunning Devices are banned in Michigan.
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NEW JERSEY: Illegal New Jersey State Law. New Jersey Stat. Ann. Title 2C. New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice. Chapter 39-1. Prohibited weapons and devices. (Section "r" summarized from Chapter 2C:39-1) "Weapon" means anything readily capable of lethal use or of inflicting serious bodily injury. The term includes, but is not limited to all (4) stun guns; and any weapon or (this section refers to tear gas and has been updated in 1995) other device which projects, releases, or emits tear gas or any other substance intended to produce temporary physical discomfort or permanent injury through being vaporized or otherwise dispensed in the air. (t) "Stun gun" means any weapon or other device which emits an electrical charge or current intended to temporarily or permanently disable a person. Senate, No. 2871 -- L.1985, c. 360 Senate Bill No. 2781, as amended by the Senate Law, Public Safety and Defense Committee, prohibits as a crime of the fourth degree the possession of a stun gun by any person, including a law enforcement officer. A crime of the fourth degree carries a penalty of imprisonment for up to 18 months, a fine of up to $7,500, or both. Prior to being amended the bill classified possession of a crime in the third degree. {Editor?s Note: According to Len Lawson of NJ Legislative Council, (609) 292-4625) NJ does not classify crimes in felonies versus misdemeanors. The highest crimes are in first degree on down to fourth degree. A fourth degree penalty is a serious charge and is generally considered a misdemeanor in common terms. It is however an indictable offense. A fourth degree crime does contain "a presumption of non-custodial sentencing," meaning that there is not imprisonment if there are no prior convictions. In some cases the sentencing is obviated from one?s record if there is a period of good behavior following the charge.} The committee amended the bill to include a provision authorizing the Attorney General, at his discretion, to exempt law enforcement officers from the prohibition against possession stun guns. The bill also was amended by the committee to include stun guns in the definition of "weapon" in paragraph r. N.J.S. 2C:39-1. (Chapter 2C:39-1) (h) Stun guns. Any person who knowingly has in his possession any stun gun is guilty of a crime in the fourth degree. SUMMARY: Possession is banned of Stunning Devices in New Jersey.
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NEW YORK: Illegal New York Consolidated Law (McKinney?s) Book 39. Penal Law. Article 265. Firearms and Other Dangerous Weapons 265.00 15-a. "Electronic dart gun" means any device designed primarily as a weapon, the purpose of which is to momentarily stun, knock out or paralyze a person by passing an electrical shock to such person by means of a dart or projectile. 15-c. "Electronic stun gun" means any device designed primarily as a weapon, the purpose of which is to momentarily stun, cause mental disorientation, knock out or paralyze a person by passing a high voltage electrical shock to such person. Article 265.01 Criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree. A person is guilty of criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree when: (1) He possesses any firearm, electronic dart gun, electronic stun gun ***; or *** SUMMARY: Possession is banned of Stunning Devices in New York.
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NORTH CAROLINA: Stun guns are legal but may not be concealed.
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RHODE ISLAND: Illegal General Laws of Rhode Island. Title 11, Chapter 47. Statute Subsection 11-47-42. Weapons other than firearms prohibited. - (A) No person shall carry or possess or attempt to use against another, any instrument or weapon of the kind commonly known as a *** stun gun ***. Any person violating the provisions of this subsection, shall be punished by a fine of not more than five hundred dollars ($500), or by imprisonment for not more than one (1) year, or both such fine and imprisonment, and the weapon so found shall be confiscated. SUMMARY: Possession and use of Stunning Devices are banned.
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WISCONSIN: Illegal Wisconsin Sta. Ann. Chapter 939. Crimes - General Provisions. Chapter 939.22 Words and phrases defined. (10) Dangerous weapon" means any firearm, whether loaded or unloaded ***; any device designed as a weapon and capable of producing great harm ***; any electric weapon, as defined in s. 941.295(4); or any other device or instrumentality which, in the manner it is used or intended to be used, is calculated or likely to produce death or great bodily harm. Chapter 941.295 Possession of electric weapon. Subsection (1) On or after July 1, 1982, whoever sells, transports, manufactures, possesses or goes armed with any electric weapon is guilty of a Class E felony. Subsection (4) In this section, "electric weapon" means any device which is designed, redesigned, used or intended to be used, offensively or defensively, to immobilize or incapacitate persons by the use electric current. SUMMARY: Possession and sales of Stunning Devices are banned.
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CITY/COUNTY RESTRICTIONS: CHICAGO: Illegal Publisher?s Note: The following jurisdictions require waiting periods or notifications to law enforcement officials before weapons may be delivered to purchasers: Chicago - application approval/denial for: (1) Registration : 120 days (2) Re-registration: e.g., by an heir, 365 days) SUMMARY: Possession and sales of Stunning Devices are banned in Chicago. (More information required on City of Chicago Ordinance)
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ANNAPOLIS: Illegal
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BALTIMORE: Illegal (Including Baltimore County) Baltimore City Code 115. Stun guns and similar devices. (e) It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to sell, give away, lend, rent or transfer to any individual, firm or corporation a stun gun or other electronic device by whatever name or description which discharges a non-projectile electric current within the limits of the City of Baltimore. It further shall be unlawful for any person to possess, fire or discharge any such stun gun or electronic device within the City. Nothing in this subsection shall be held to apply to any member of the Baltimore City Police Department or any other law enforcement officer while in the performance of his or her official duty (Ord. 385. 1985).
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HOWARD COUNTY, MD: Illegal Sec. 8.404. Sale or possession of electronic weapons prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to sell, give away, lend, rent or transfer to any individual, firm or corporation an electronic weapon within the limits of Howard County. It further shall be unlawful for any person to possess, fire, discharge or activate any electronic weapon within the limits of Howard County. (C.B. 38 1985).
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PHILADELPHIA: Illegal Philadelphia City Ordinance. Statute 10-825 Stun Guns. (1) Definitions. (a) Stun Gun. Any device which expels or projects a projectile which, upon coming in contact with a person, is capable of inflicting injury or an electric shock to such person. (2) Prohibited conduct. Nor person shall own, use, possess, sell or otherwise transfer any "stun gun." (3) Penalty. Any person violating any provision of this section shall be subject to a fine or not more than three hundred (300) dollars and /or imprisonment for not more than ninety (90 days.)
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NEW YORK CITY: Illegal Administrative Code of the City of New York 10-135 Prohibition on sale and possession of electronic stun guns. a. As used in this section, "electronic stun gun" shall mean any device designed primarily as a weapon, the purpose of which is to stun, render unconscious or paralyze a person by passing an electronic shock to such person, but shall not include an "electronic dart gun" as such term is defined in section 265.00 of the penal law. b. It shall be unlawful for any person to sell or offer for sale or to have in his or her possession within the jurisdiction of the city any electronic gun. c. Violation of this section shall be a class A misdemeanor. [Exemptions under this section are provided for police officers operating under regular department procedures or guidelines and for manufacturers of electronic stun guns scheduled for bulk shipment. NOTE: The electronic stun gun is not a "firearm" under the Federal Gun Control Act of 1968 because it does not "...expel a projectile by the action of an explosive..."] SUMMARY: Possession and sales of Stunning Devices are banned in New York City
Montgomery County, MD - no stunners
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LEGAL BUT WITH SOME RESTRICTION: (we can legally sell to you, but please read the limitations)
STATE RESTRICTIONS:
CONNECTICUT: Legal w/ restrictions Connecticut Criminal Law Title 53 ? Crimes, Title 53a ? Penal Code, title 54 Criminal Procedure, Chapter 950 Section 53a-3 Definitions: (20) "Electronic defense weapon" means a weapon which by electronic impulse or current is capable of immobilizing a person temporarily, but is not capable of inflicting death or serious injury. §53-206. Carrying and sale of dangerous weapons Any person who carries upon his person? an electronic defense weapon, as defined in 53a-3, or any other dangerous or deadly weapon or instrument, unless such person has been granted a written permit issued and signed by the first selectman of a town, the mayor or chief of police of a city or the warden of a borough, authoring such person to carry such weapon or instrument within such city or borough, shall be fined not more than five hundred dollars or imprisoned not more than three years or both. No permit shall be issued to any applicant who has ever been convicted of a felony. The issuing authority may request the applicant?s finger prints and full information concerning his criminal record and make an investigation concerning his criminal record and make an investigation concerning the suitability of the applicant to carry any such weapon. Refusal of fingerprinting by the applicant shall be sufficient cause to refuse issuance of a permit. Whenever any person is found guilty of a violation of this subsection, any weapon or other implement within the provisions hereof, found upon the body of such person, shall be forfeited to the municipality wherein such person was apprehended, not withstanding any failure of the judgment of conviction to expressly impose such forfeiture. Any person who has been granted a permit to carry any martial arts weapon pursuant to this section may carry such weapon anywhere within the state. The provisions of this subsection shall not apply to any officer charged with the preservation of the public peace nor to any person who is found with any such weapon or implement concealed upon his person while lawfully removing his household goods or effects from one place to another, or from one residence to another, nor to any person while actually and peaceably engaged in carrying any such weapon or implement from his place of abode or business to a place or person where or by whom such weapon or implements is to be repaired, or while actually and peaceable returning to his place of abode or business with such weapon or implement after the same has been repaired. (b) any person who sells to another? electronic defense weapon, as defined in section 53a-3, shall, within 24 hours after the deliver of such weapon or implement to the person to whom sold, give written notice of such sale or delivery, specifying the article sold and the name and address of the person to whom sold or delivered, to the chief of police of the city, the warden of the borough or the first selectman of the town, within which such weapon or implement is sold or delivered, as the case may be. Any person who violates any provision of this subsection shall be fined not more than one hundred dollars. SUMMARY: Section 53-206(a) prohibits the carrying of a Stunning Device on the person unless that person has obtained a dangerous weapons permit. However, there are no state-wide permits, only local permits ? the permit is only good in that particular town and would be illegal elsewhere. Anyone selling such a weapon must notify the chief of police with that information within 24 hours of the delivery. Therefore Stunning Devices can be sold and it can be kept in your place of business or home, but you cannot carry it on your person without a permit which is only good within the limits of the city in which it was issued.
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FLORIDA: Legal w/ caveats: 790.001 (15) Definitions: "Remote stun gun" means any nonlethal device with a tethered range not to exceed 16 feet and which shall utilize an identification and tracking system which, upon use, disperses coded material traceable to the purchaser through records kept by the manufacturer on all remote stun guns and all individual cartridges sold, which information shall be made available to any law enforcement agency upon request. 790.01 Carrying concealed weapons: (4) It is not a violation of this section for a person to carry for purposes of lawful self-defense, in a concealed manner: (b) a nonlethal stun gun or remote stun gun or other nonlethal electric weapon or device which does not fire a dart or projectile and is designed solely for defensive purposes. (TASER International, Inc.: section b allows the concealed carrying of a TASER® Device since it is tethered and disperses coded material.) Section 790.053 Open carrying of weapons ? (2) a person may openly carry, for purposes of lawful self-defense: (b) a nonlethal stun gun or remote stun gun or other nonlethal electric weapon or device which does not fire a dart or projectile and is designed solely for defensive purposes. (Editor's note: Section b allows the open carry of a TASER® device since it is tethered and disperses coded material as defined in Section 790.001.) 790.22 Use of BB guns, air- or gas-operated guns, electric weapons or devices or firearms under sixteen; limitation-- (1) The use for any purpose whatsoever of BB guns, air- or gas-operated guns, electric weapons or devices or firearms as defined in 790.001 by any child under the age of 16 is prohibited unless such use is under the supervision and in the presence of an adult. (2) Any adult responsible for the welfare of any child under the age of 16 years who knowingly permits such child to use or have in his possession any BB gun, air- or gas-operated gun, electric weapon or device or any firearm in violation of the provision of subsection (1) of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in 775.082 or 775.083. NOTE: Any person convicted of a felony in this, or any other state, or in a federal court, of a imprisonment cannot possess, own, or have in his care or custody any firearm or electric weapon, without first having his right to own and possess such, being restored by executive clemency, or by a proceeding to remove the disability under federal law. A convicted felon is also forbidden from carrying any concealed weapon whatsoever, including any size chemical spray. Violation is a second-degree felony OVERVIEW OF NEW STATUTES AFFECTING TASER® DEVICES IN FLORIDA In May 1997, the Florida legislature passed HB 379 and became law. HB 379 allows certain remote stun guns and pepper sprays to be carried in the "open" and "concealed." A TASER® device falls under this open/concealed carry law as it meets specific parameters set by this new statute. The remote stun must fire no more than 16 feet (a TASER® device fires only 15 feet) The remote stun gun must utilize an identification and tracking system that upon use, disperses coded material traceable to the purchaser through records kept by the manufacturer (TASER International, Inc.) on all remote stun guns and all individual cartridges sold (Air Cartridges). The Anti-Felon Identification system meets this parameter. NOTE: The statute affects dealers and owners of Stunning Devices - to carry a remote stun gun in the open or concealed, the remote stun gun must be registered with our company. In regards to a TASER® device, that means that the Anti-Felon Identification cards on the TASER® device's box must be on file with TASER International, Inc. If the remote TASER® device is not registered it cannot be carried. +{ }+ represents underlined; words underlined are additions -{ }- represents stricken; words stricken are deletions 1997 Legislature, CS/CS/HB 379, Second Engrossed An act relating to carrying of self-defense weapons or devices; amending s. 790.001, F.S.; providing an exception for certain self-defense chemical sprays from the definition of "tear gas gun" or "chemical weapon or device"; providing a definition of "self-defense chemical spray" and "remote stun gun"; amending s. 790.01, Florida Statute (F.S.), relating to carrying concealed weapons; providing that self-defense chemical sprays and nonlethal stun guns and other nonlethal electric weapons or devices may be lawfully carried in a concealed manner in certain circumstances; clarifying language; providing for construction not to preclude criminal prosecutions; amending s. 790.053, F.S., relating to open carrying of weapons; providing that self-defense chemical sprays and nonlethal stun guns and other nonlethal electric weapons or devices may be lawfully carried in an open manner in certain circumstances; clarifying language; creating s. 790.054, F.S.; defining the offense of knowingly and willfully using self-defense chemical sprays and nonlethal stun guns and other nonlethal electric weapons or devices against a law enforcement officer engaged in official duties, and providing penalties therefore; providing effective dates. Be It Enacted by the Legislature of the State of Florida: Section 1. The introductory paragraph and paragraph (b) of subsection (3) of section 790.001, Florida Statutes, are amended, subsections (15) through (17) of said section are renumbered as subsections (16) through (18), respectively, and a new subsection (15) is added to said section, to read: 790.001 Definitions.--+{As used in this chapter}+ -{The following words and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall, for the purposes of this chapter, have the meanings respectively ascribed to them in this chapter}-, except where the context otherwise requires: (3)(a) "Concealed weapon" means any dirk, metallic knuckles, slingshot, Billie, tear gas gun, chemical weapon or device, or other deadly weapon carried on or about a person in such a manner as to conceal the weapon from the ordinary sight of another person. (b) +{"Tear gas gun" or "chemical weapon or device" means any weapon of such nature, except a device known as a "self-defense chemical spray." "Self-defense chemical spray" means a device carried solely for purposes of lawful self-defense that is compact in size, designed to be carried on or about the person, and contains not more than two ounces of chemical}+ -{"Tear gas gun," "chemical weapon," or "device" shall apply to all weapons of such nature except those designed to be carried in a woman's handbag or a man's pants or coat pocket or designed as a pocket pencil or pen and containing not more than one-half ounce of chemical}-. +{(15) "Remote stun gun" means any nonlethal device with a tethered range not to exceed 16 feet and which shall utilize an identification and tracking system which, upon use, disperses coded material traceable to the purchaser through records kept by the manufacturer on all remote stun guns and all individual cartridges sold, which information shall be made available to any law enforcement agency upon request.} + Section 2. Section 790.01, Florida Statutes, is amended to read: 790.01 Carrying concealed weapons.-- (1) +{Except as provided in subsection (4), a person who carries}+ -{Whoever shall carry}- a concealed weapon or electric weapon or device on or about his +{or her}+ person +{commits}+ -{shall be guilty of}- a misdemeanor of the first degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083. (2) +{A person who carries}+ -{Whoever shall carry}- a concealed firearm on or about his +{or her}+ person +{commits}+ -{shall be guilty of}- a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084. (3) +{This section does not apply to a person}+-{Nothing in this section shall relate to persons}- licensed +{to carry a concealed weapon or a concealed firearm pursuant to the provisions of s.}+ -{as set forth in ss. 790.053 and}- 790.06. +{(4) It is not a violation of this section for a person to carry for purposes of lawful self-defense, in a concealed manner:}+ +{(a) A self-defense chemical spray.}+ +{(b) A nonlethal stun gun or remote stun gun or other nonlethal electric weapon or device which does not fire a dart or projectile and is designed solely for defensive purposes. (5) This section does not preclude any prosecution for the use of an electric weapon or device or remote stun gun or self-defense chemical spray during the commission of any criminal offense under s. 790.07, s. 790.10, s. 790.23, or s. 790.235, or for any other criminal offense.}+ Section 3. Section 790.053, Florida Statutes, is amended to read: 790.053 Open carrying of weapons.-- +{(1)}+ Except as otherwise provided by law +{and in subsection (2)}+, it +{is}+ -{shall be}- unlawful for any person to openly carry on or about his +{or her}+ person any firearm or electric weapon or device+{.}+ +{(2) A person may openly carry, for purposes of lawful self-defense:}+ +{(a) A self-defense chemical spray.}+ +{(b) A nonlethal stun gun or remote stun gun or other nonlethal electric weapon or device which does not fire a dart or projectile and is designed solely for defensive purposes}+-{; provided, however, that a person may openly carry a stun gun or nonlethal electric weapon or device designed solely for defensive purposes, which weapon does not fire a dart or projectile}-. +{(3)}+ Any person violating this section +{commits}+ -{shall be guilty of}- a misdemeanor of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or s. 775.083. Section 4. Effective October 1, 1997, and applicable to offenses committed on or after that date, section 790.054, Florida Statutes, is created to read: +{790.054 Prohibited use of self-defense weapon or device against law enforcement officer; penalties.--A person who knowingly and willfully uses a self-defense chemical spray or a nonlethal stun gun or other nonlethal electric weapon or device or remote stun gun against a law enforcement officer engaged in the performance of his or her duties commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s.775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.}+ Section 5. Except as otherwise provided herein, this act shall take effect upon becoming a law. 5/16/97: HB 379er became law without Governor's Signature, Chapter No. 97-72. Any comments or questions about legislative bill information should be directed to: leg.info@leg.state.fl.us or please call the Legislative Information Division at (904) 488-4371, or toll free at 1-800-342-1827.
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ILLINOIS: Legal with conditions (Illegal in Chicago) Illinois State Law. Compiled Stat. Ann. Chapter 430. Public Safety ACT 65. Firearms Owners Identification Card Act. Chapter 720. Criminal Law and Procedure, Article 24. Deadly Weapons. 5/24-1 Unlawful use of Weapons. (A) A person commits the offense of unlawful use of weapons when he knowingly: **** (8) Carries or possesses a firearm, stun gun or TASER® device or other deadly weapon in any place which is licensed to sell intoxicating beverages, or at any public gathering held pursuant to a license issued by any governmental body or any public gathering at which an admission is charged, excluding a place where a showing, demonstration or lecture involving the exhibition of unloaded firearms is conducted; or (9) Carries or possesses in a vehicle or on or about his person any pistol, revolver, stun gun or TASER® device, or firearm or ballistic knife, when he is hooded, robed or masked in such a manner as to conceal his identity; or (10) Carries or possesses on or about his person, upon any public street, alley, or other public lands within the corporate limits of a city, village or incorporated town, except when an invitee thereon or therein, for the purpose of the display of such weapon or the lawful commerce in weapons, except when on his land or in his own abode or fixed place of business, any pistol, revolver, stun or TASER® device or other firearm. A "stun gun or TASER® device," as used in this paragraph (a) means (i) any device which is powered by electrical charging units, such as batteries, and which fires one or several barbs attached to a length of wire and which, upon hitting a human, can send out a current capable of disrupting person?s nervous system in such a manner as to render him incapable of normal functioning or (ii) any device which is powered by electrical charging units, such as batteries, and which, upon contact with a human or clothing worn by a human, can send out a current capable of disrupting the person?s nervous system in such a manner as to render him incapable of normal functioning. (b) Sentence. A person convicted of a violation of Subsection 24-1(a)(8) and Subsection 24-1(a)(10) commits a Class A misdemeanor; a person convicted of a violation of Subsection 24(a)(9) commits a Class 4 felony. (c)(2) A person who violates Subsection 24-1(a)(9) in any school, regardless of the time of day or the time of year or residential property owned, operated and managed by a public housing agency or on the real property comprising any school, regardless of the time of day or the time of year or residential property owned, operated and managed by a public housing agency or any conveyance owned, leased or contracted by a school to transport students to or from school or a school-related activity commits a Class 3 felony. School is defined as any public or private elementary or secondary school, community college, college or university. Article 24 5/24-1.1 Unlawful Use of Possession of Weapons by Felons or Persons in the Custody of the Department of Corrections Facilities. Section 24-1.1. Unlawful Use of Possession of Weapons by Felons or Persons in the Custody of the Department of Corrections Facilities. (a) It is unlawful for a person to knowingly possess on or about his person or on his land or in his abode or fixed place of business any weapons prohibited under Section 24-1 of this Act or any firearm ammunition if the person has been convicted of a felony under the law of the State or any other jurisdiction. This section does not apply if the person has been granted relief by the Director of the Department of State Police pursuant to Section 10 ***. Article 24 5/24-2 Exemptions (i) Nothing in this Article shall prohibit, apply to, or affect the transportation, carrying or possession, of any pistol or revolver, stun gun, TASER® device, or other firearm consigned to a Common Carrier operating under license of the State of Illinois or the Federal Government, where such transportation, carrying, or possession is incident to the lawful transportation in which such Common Carrier is engaged; and nothing in this Article shall prohibit, apply to or affect the transportation, carrying or possession of any pistol, revolver, stun gun, TASER® device, or other firearm, not the subject of and regulated by subsection 24-1(a)(7) or subsection 24-2(c) of this Article, which is unloaded and enclosed in a case, firearm carrying box, shipping box, or other container, by the possessor of a valid Firearm Owners Identification Card. SUMMARY: Possession of a Stunning Device is unlawful when in corporate limits of a city or incorporated town, school, in any place licensed to sell intoxicating beverages, at any public gathering held pursuant to a license issued by any governmental body or any public gathering at which an admission is charged, or when a person?s identity is concealed. Possession is legal when on a person?s land or in his own abode or fixed place of business in Illinois.
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CITY RESTRICTIONS: OHIO: LYNN COUNTY/CEDAR RAPIDS: Any stun gun in public requires the user to have a concealed weapons permit. By literal translation, Capt. Schwartz (ph: 319-398-3911) states that technically, this includes even "snowballs" and "Stunning Devices" NOTE: Stunning Devices can be used, however, in the place of business or at home.
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Stun Device FAQ
WHAT IS A STUN GUN? A stun gun is a hand held, electrical self defense device that uses high voltage to stop an attacker. Touching a person with the prongs on the gun quickly immobilizes the attacker by causing intense pain and loss of muscle control. However, because the amperage is very low, no serious or permanent injury is inflicted. They are used by police departments, security agencies, and individuals desiring protection against attack. They have been proven to be an excellent defensive device as they have incredible stopping power and yet remain non-lethal. Typically they operate on one or two 9-volt batteries and range from 65,000 volts to 500,000 volts.
WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF A STUN GUN?
The stun gun is designed to key into the nervous system. It dumps its energy into the muscles at a high pulse frequency that makes the muscles work very rapidly, but not very efficiently. This rapid work cycle depletes blood sugar by converting it into lactic acid all in just seconds. The resulting energy loss makes it difficult to move and function. At the same time, the tiny neurological impulses that travel throughout the body to direct muscle movement are interrupted. This causes disorientation and loss of balance, leaving the attacker in a passive and confused condition for several minutes. Still there is no significant effect on the heart and other organs. As a general rule, a 1/4 second contact will repel and startle the attacker, giving intense pain and muscle contraction. One to two seconds will cause intense pain, muscle spasms and a dazed mental state, this may drop the attacker to the ground. Over three seconds will cause intense pain, loss of balance, loss of muscle control, mental confusion and disorientation. Generally any charge over three seconds will cause the aggressor to fall to the ground. The aggressor will be unable to recover for several minutes and effects may last for up to fifteen minutes.
IF THE AGGRESSOR IS TOUCHING ME, WILL I BE ZAPPED?
No! Even if the aggressor is physically touching you when you fire the stun gun into them you can not suffer from a charge back!
HOW IS A STUN BATON DIFFERENT FROM A STUN GUN?
Stun Batons use the same technology as stun guns to immobilize an aggressor. The electrical discharge that they deliver is non-lethal, however if you strike the attacker with the stun baton it may cause serious injury or death in the same manner a blow with a standard baton might. The extended reach of stun batons make them ideal for police officers and security personnel. However, due to their size they may be undesirable for some individuals as they do not fit in a pocket or purse, with the exception of our 500,000 volt mini baton.
WILL A STUN GUN WORK THROUGH CLOTHING?
Yes. Stun guns are designed to be effective even through up to two inches of typical clothing.
ARE STUN GUNS LEGAL TO CARRY WHERE I LIVE?
United States customers should view our TASER® device, Stun Guns and the Law information Jump to Stun Device Restrictions before purchasing a stun device as they are restricted in some areas.
WILL A STUN GUN WORK ON THOSE UNDER THE INFLUENCE?
Yes! Stun guns do indeed work even on those under the influence of alcohol or narcotics.
WHAT DOES THE NUMBER OF VOLTS MEAN TO ME?
The voltage that a stun gun delivers is not necessarily the most important variable in whether or not a stun gun is effective. Although higher voltage can translate into a more effective stun gun, equally important is the delivery and the amperage of the charge. A lower voltage stun gun with a better method of delivery may be more effective than the stun gun with higher voltage.
CAN A STUN GUN BE FIRED MULTIPLE TIMES?
Yes. With a new set of batteries a stun gun can be fired many, many times. This makes a stun gun an excellent choice for defending yourself against multiple assailants.
ARE STUN GUNS SAFE TO USE?
Both medical and scientific communities have determined that stun guns are completely safe because they cause no permanent damage to the attacker. In fact, they have no effect on involuntary muscles such as the heart and lungs. Stun Guns will not permanently harm someone with a pace maker.
DOES THE DEVICE HAVE A SAFETY SWITCH TO PREVENT ACCIDENTAL ACTIVATION OF THE UNIT?
Most models include a safety switch separate from the On/Off switch. The unit cannot produce a shock unless the safety switch is activated AND the On/Off switch is turned ON.
CAN I TRAVEL: WITH A S STUN GUN?
There are no Federal statutes governing stun devices other than air carrier travel, public forums, sporting events, court houses, and other government buildings which are restricted. When traveling you should place your Stun Gun in checked luggage only.
WHAT IF A CHILD GETS THEIR HANDS ON IT?
A Stun Gun is much safer to have in your home than a gun. If the device is touched to the body and the button depressed, the muscles go limp in one millisecond (1/1000ths of a second), so that the button is instantly released. Nevertheless, we highly recommend that you take all necessary precautions to insure that it does not get into the hands of a child. Stun Guns are NOT TOYS, they are highly effective self defense devices that should be taken seriously.
WHAT IS THE POWER SOURCE?
The stun devices that we carry require 9-volt alkaline batteries. Not all brands of 9-volt batteries will work in a stun gun due to the amount of power they require. For this reason, we recommend that you use ONLY fully charged Energizer alkaline batteries.
HOW CAN I CARRY THE STUN GUN?
Most models are small enough to fit easily inside a pocket or purse. Most models also include a belt clip attachment so the unit can be conveniently worn on the waist while walking, jogging, etc. Stun gun holsters are also available for purchase. The holsters include a belt attachments for convenient carrying and can be easily concealed under a suit or jacket.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A 100,00 VOLT STUN GUN AND A 500,00 VOLT STUN GUN?
Depending on the length of direct contact, a 100,000 volt stun gun will cause pain, muscle contractions, disorientation and loss of balance. They work well enough to repel the attacker and escape, which is the goal. A 100,000 volt stun gun may not necessarily take an attacker down and leave him immobilized. The higher powered stun guns (300,000 volts and higher) have more effective take-down power. A direct contact of 3-5 seconds can immobilize an attacker for 5-15 minutes without causing any permanent harm.
WOULDN'T IT BE MORE PRUDENT TO JUST CARRY A HANDGUN?
In some rare situations, yes it would be. However, there is only one state in the nation that allows citizens to carry a concealed firearm and that is Vermont. Others require applying for a concealed carry permit from local authorities that usually require training as well. Some states say they issue concealed carry permits but only in rare instances. Some do not issue concealed carry permits at all. If you are caught carrying a firearm without a permit, the legal consequences can be severe including fines, incarceration and a ban on owning firearms, possibly for life, in some states.
BUT IF A FIREARM IS A SURE-FIRE SELF-DEFENSE DEVICE THAT MAY SCARE OFF AN ASSAILANT, WHY DO I NEED ANYTHING OTHER THAN A PERMIT AND MY HANDGUN?
Indeed, simply flashing a firearm can break off an attack. But that can be a problem as well. 'Concealed carry' permit holders are well aware of the consequences of their actions. Using a firearm for self-defense on an unarmed assailant can bring very severe legal consequences. One of the most important elements of concealed carry training is understanding that when a victim pulls the firearm, they must be prepared to take the ultimate step. The key is to know when and under what circumstances a firearm should be pulled from concealment. Pulling a firearm on an unarmed assailant may not necessarily cause the assailant to break off the attack. This is particularly so if the assailant perceives they can physically over-power the victim. At that point the victim may face a physical confrontation and fight over the firearm itself. This is not a good situation. The vast majority of assaults do not warrant the use of a firearm because the assailant is generally unarmed. This is where non-lethal protection is most critical. Police officers carry pepper spray and/or stun devices knowing that in a significant number of situations they encounter, the use of a firearm is not necessary. With a firearm, it's generally all or nothing. A non-lethal alternative offers an interim step that can save a concealed carry permit an enormous amount of legal problems.
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Stun Gun versus Hand Gun
WOULDN'T IT BE MORE PRUDENT TO JUST CARRY A HANDGUN?
In some rare situations, yes it would be. However, there is only one state in the nation that allows citizens to carry a concealed firearm and that is Vermont. Others require applying for a concealed carry permit from local authorities that usually require training as well. Some states say they issue concealed carry permits but only in rare instances. Some do not issue concealed carry permits at all. If you are caught carrying a firearm without a permit, the legal consequences can be severe including fines, incarceration and a ban on owning firearms, possibly for life, in some states.
BUT IF A FIREARM IS A SURE-FIRE SELF-DEFENSE DEVICE THAT MAY SCARE OFF AN ASSAILANT, WHY DO I NEED ANYTHING OTHER THAN A PERMIT AND MY HANDGUN?
Indeed, simply flashing a firearm can break off an attack. But that can be a problem as well. Concealed carry permit holders are well aware of the consequences of their actions. Using a firearm for self-defense on an unarmed assailant can bring very severe legal consequences. One of the most important elements of concealed carry training is understanding that when a victim pulls the firearm, they must be prepared to take the ultimate step. The key is to know when and under what circumstances a firearm should be pulled from concealment. Pulling a firearm on an unarmed assailant may not necessarily cause the assailant to break off the attack. This is particularly so if the assailant perceives they can physically over-power the victim. At that point the victim may face a physical confrontation and fight over the firearm itself. This is not a good situation. The vast majority of assaults do not warrant the use of a firearm because the assailant is generally unarmed. This is where non-lethal protection is most critical. Police officers carry pepper spray and/or stun devices knowing that in a significant number of situations they encounter, the use of a firearm is not necessary. With a firearm, it's generally all or nothing. A non-lethal alternative offers an interim step that can save a concealed carry permit an enormous amount of legal problems.
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TASER® device Battery Information
If non-approved NiMH batteries are used, TASER® device function could be adversely affected. Some NiMH batteries don't have complete exposure of the positive end. The springs on these batteries may not make complete contact and result in malfunction of your TASER® device weapon.

The battery on the left will not allow the springs to touch. Remove the cardboard layer with a knife or do not use. The middle and right tops will work as the bases are exposed. The far right is the preferred battery exposure.
FAQ about AA Batteries and Battery Chargers
Is battery selection really important? Yes. A TASER® device is a powerful device requiring high drain batteries. Batteries are run at their maximum capacity by the TASER® device and are critical to the success of the stopping power. After extensive testing, we recommend Energizer ACCU®, GP®, & TASER® brand Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) rechargeable batteries as the single most powerful types of batteries available. Alkaline batteries are the second recommended types of battery. Duracell Ultra® and Energizer Titanium E2® are the approved alkaline batteries for our products and each has expiration dates. If non-approved alkaline or NiMH batteries are used, problems could arise. Some NiMH batteries don't have complete exposure of their positive end. The battery springs may not completely contact and could result in malfunction.
Shouldn't Heavy-Duty or Super Heavy-Duty batteries work? No. Unfortunately many terms used by the battery industry can be very misleading. "Heavy Duty" batteries are often the least powerful batteries you can buy and are a step down in quality. At one time, the term referred to zinc chloride batteries containing 50% more capacity than traditional carbon zinc batteries -- but that was 50 years ago! Calling zinc chloride batteries 'heavy duty' became misleading once alkaline batteries with 300% more capacity than zinc chloride batteries became available. Your best bet is to stick with factory recommended batteries.
Will installing the batteries incorrectly do any damage to the TASER® device? Yes. If all batteries are installed in reverse you can actually reverse polarity of the unit and short it out. Even if only one battery is installed incorrectly you will experience weapon failure and rapidly drain the power of these batteries. Instruction diagrams are on the inside of each battery tray. It is very important to carefully follow these diagrams. Insert the batteries using the "V-shape" technique as noted in the manual.
How many AA batteries do I need? 8 AA alkaline or NiMH rechargeable batteries are required to operate your TASER® device weapon. It is also recommended that you keep a spare set of Duracell Ultra® or Energizer Titanium E2® available.
What is the real world difference between alkaline and NiMH batteries in the TASER® device? Fresh Duracell Ultra® or Energizer Titanium E2® batteries will provide a rate of 12-15 electrical pulses per second. Fully charged NiMH batteries provide a rate of 15-20 pulses per second. NiMH batteries give the strongest output, and perform much better in cold weather. However, undercharged batteries will cause weapon failure. Battery failures with rechargeable batteries in older TASER® devices have resulted in escalation of force because officers had to move up the use of force continuum. The recommended alkaline batteries have a stronger shelf life (4-6 years). Again, the selection of the battery is very important.
Alkaline batteries are 1.5 Volts and the NiMH batteries are rated at 1.2 Volts, why the difference? NiMH batteries are ideal substitutes for most high drain electronics. There is no need to worry about the apparent voltage differences. Even though alkaline batteries are rated at nominal 1.5 Volts, they only deliver 1.5 Volts when they are fresh. In fact, over the course of their discharge, alkaline batteries actually average about 1.2 Volts. The main difference is that an alkaline battery starts at 1.5 Volts and gradually drops to less than 1.0 Volts. NiMH batteries stay at about 1.2 Volts for most of their discharge cycle.
Should I be concerned about the mAh (milli Amp hours) rating? Yes, but only when considering NiMH batteries. Alkaline batteries typically have a capacity rating of over 2,500 mAh and NiMH have rated capacities of only 1,200 to 1,800 mAh. But, when actually powering a TASER® device, the NiMH batteries will run the device for two to three times longer. Alkaline batteries were not designed to meet the very high power demands of today's electronic devices. Alkaline batteries have a high rated capacity, but they can only deliver their full capacity if the power is used slowly. With NiMH batteries, the higher the mAh number, the longer the charge will last. Also, the higher the mAh number, the higher the price! A rating of 1200 mAh is more than sufficient and ratings of 1400, 1600 and 1800 just increase the length of the recharge.
What is the self-discharge rate of alkaline and NiMH batteries? Alkaline batteries stored at "room temperature" (70 degrees F) self-discharge at a rate of less than two percent per year. However, if they are stored at 85 degrees F they lose about 5% per year and at 100 degrees F they lose 25% per year. NiMH batteries self-discharge at a much faster rate than alkaline batteries. In fact, at "room temperature" NiMH batteries will self-discharge approximately one percent per day. This is the primary reason behind our recommended two-week check and charge schedule.
Because the voltage of an alkaline battery drops at a very predictable rate it's possible to estimate the amount of capacity left in an alkaline battery based solely on its voltage. (1.5 Volts - fully charged, 1.25 Volts - 50% charged, 1.0 Volts - almost fully discharged). But a NiMH battery stays at about 1.2 Volts until it is nearly completely discharged. This makes it almost impossible to know the amount of capacity left based on its voltage alone. It also leaves you very little warning when it's time to change your batteries! Moreover, the NiMH will provide little audible warning when they are near their end of capacity. Alkaline batteries will begin to slowly fade out causing the pulse rate to diminish. The NiMH's will provide a rapid pulse and then rapidly plummet in pulse rate.
What is "memory effect" and should I be concerned? "Memory effect" is a term used when rechargeable batteries experience voltage depletion (reduced capacity) over their life. In other words, the battery is not able to hold the same capacity as it did the first time it was charged. This is true with all rechargeable batteries, but some have a very high rate loss. NiMH batteries are virtually memory free and do not need to be fully discharged before recharging. Keep in mind that this is the amount of charge the batteries will hold not the quality. NiMH batteries can be damaged from heat by overcharging, but this easily avoided by using a high quality, microprocessor-controlled battery charger such as our factory recommended battery brands.
How many times can rechargeable batteries be recharged? The quick and easy answer is hundreds of times. The reason we can't be more precise is because this is a more complex question to answer than it might seem. The number of times a battery can be recharged depends on how the battery was used. Every time a rechargeable battery goes through a charge and discharge cycle it loses a tiny bit of capacity. Not to mention if you accidentally overcharge the batteries or if you repeatedly completely discharge them. Therefore, it would be impossible to give you an exact number. Today's NiMH will generally last 300 -1,000 charge / discharge cycles.
Does rapid charging reduce the life of batteries? No. So long as it is done using properly designed, "smart" chargers, most NiMH batteries can be recharged in about an hour without any damage or reduction in their life. However, NiMH batteries must be rapid charged with a charger specifically designed for charging NiMH batteries. Chargers designed to charge only Nickel cadmium (NiCad) batteries can overcharge NiMH batteries. Even a standard or slow NiCad charger can damage NiMH batteries. Many inexpensive NiMH battery chargers are simply NiCad chargers that have been modified slightly. We do not recommend this type of charger. While it is less expensive to manufacture than a smart charger, it can lead to overcharging and battery damage. Most NiMH "smart" chargers have actually been designed to detect when a NiMH battery is fully charged and then shut off or go into a trickle charge mode. Because of the more complex circuitry, this type of charger costs more to manufacture, but should lead to greater battery life.
Do I have to purchase a brand specific charger for my NiMH batteries? Any good NiMH charger should be able to recharge any good quality NiMH battery without any problem. Just keep in mind that a "smart" charger is better than a "dum" charger. The TASER® device NiMH "smart" charger charges through the use of the dataport plug. This feature allows you to charge the NiMH batteries without having to remove both the battery tray and each battery. In addition, there is also a place for a battery tray to charge in the base of the charger.
Can a battery charger damage a battery? Yes. The most common cause of premature battery failure is overcharging. The chargers most likely to cause overcharging are the 5, 8, or 15-hour chargers. The problem with these chargers is that they really don't have a charge control mechanism. Most of them are simple designs that charge at their full charge rate for a fixed period of time through a timer, and then shut off or switch to a trickle charge rate. Each time the unit is either unplugged or batteries are removed, the timer begins at zero and recharges the batteries for another lengthy recharge.
If improperly used they can shorten a battery's useful life. Suppose that fully charged or partially charged batteries are put into the charger. The charger has no way to sense this, so it will give the batteries a full charge it was designed to deliver. Do this enough times with one of those battery chargers and the capacity of the battery will start to drop.
Why does my indicator light on the TASER® device have a steady light when I use NiMH batteries? The battery indicator light is calibrated for alkaline batteries (1.5 Volts per battery) and will not function properly with rechargeables. Rechargeable NiMH batteries (1.2 Volts per battery) will always indicate 'low" even when full charged. The battery indicator cannot distinguish between the 1.5 Volts and the 1.2 Volts. Since the unit was designed originally with off-the-shelf batteries, the indicator measures for 12 Volts (8 X 1.5 = 12 Volts) as the maximum and indicates low battery based upon a decrease from the 12 Volts. Freshly charged NiMH batteries start at 9.6 Volts (8 X 1.2 = 9.6 Volts) and immediately register as low on the battery indicator, even though they are not low. To check the NiMH battery strength, remove the Air Cartridge and check for a fast spark rate of 15-20 pulses per second. On alkaline batteries, if the LED light is blinking, the batteries are good. If the LED is solid red, the batteries are low and should be changed. The red light stops blinking when the charge drops below 70%. If there is no light at all or is barely visible, the batteries are dead or have been installed improperly. Recheck that the batteries are installed properly.
About how many 5-second cycles can I get out of each type of battery (alkaline vs. NiMH)? Testing indicates approximately 15-20 cycles out of a fresh set of approved alkaline batteries before a dramatic drop in battery performance. The batteries may still fire the unit beyond that number, but at a reduced pulse rate. A fully charged set of NiMH batteries provides approximately 100 cycles. But, it is important to keep in mind that you will not be given the same type of pulse decline warning given by alkaline batteries.
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