Stun guns and Tasers are legal in a majority of American states however, they are still considered as illegal in states like Hawaii and Rhode Island. Different states have different laws governing the use of these items. However, a majority of states have laid down laws deeming these weapons as dangerous. These devices are also widely used by people for self-defense.
The purchase, possession, and use of stun guns and Tasers are all subject to certain regulations. It is important for people to know whether or not the use of these items is illegal and what are the steps that can be taken against them if they use them. This article covers the major judicial decisions, and whether or not you should use them for self-defense. As stated above, the rules vary from state to state and often from city to city and thus we have covered the broader aspects that apply to almost all states and cities.
A Brief Explanation of Stun Guns and Taser Devices
People can choose between two main categories of handheld electrical devices designed to temporarily stun or incapacitate their target:
Stun Guns
Upon contact, the stun guns will give you an electric shock. Activating a stun gun causes electricity to flow between the weapon’s two prongs. When the two prongs come into contact, the target receives a painful shock. The recipient may be temporarily rendered unconscious or stunned by the shock.
Additionally a person above the age of 18 years is also allowed to carry a stun gun in Columbia however on the condition that it should only be used to protect their property and lives. Moreover, no person except a law enforcement officer is allowed to carry a stun gun in an office or building, a penal institution, halfway house, preschool, secondary or elementary school, secure juvenile residential facility, a building occupied by the children’s facility, etc.
Stun guns and tasers are not considered firearms therefore they are allowed to be owned in several states in the US. However there are proper guidelines as to when and how they are to be used. However there are a few states where stun guns are considered as illegal such as Hawaii, Rhode Island and US Virgin Island. However it is always best to inquire about the laws with the local government before carrying any self defence arms. If you are looking for self defense items for women, check out the ones available at divasfordefense.com.
Tasers
These firearms make use of thin, bendable wires. Electromagnetic current is transmitted through the wires. The target is disrupted by electric pulses that are transmitted between the probes, which affect the person’s neuromuscular system. Once the Taser is activated, the user has the ability to administer multiple electrical shocks. Consumer models of Tasers have a range of up to 15 feet.
In a majority of states such as Iowa, Michigan, South Carolina etc., the users may be required to get permission before using these weapons. In other states, the possession and use of these items may be limited. Even in states, where it is legal to carry these weapons for self defense, using them for a purpose other than self defense can lead to numerous charges and even charges might be pressed.
Is It Allowed To Use Stun Guns and Tasers For Self Defense?
In the United States, these items are allowed for use by law enforcement officers.
However if we talk about consumer use, there are many states in the US where they are not allowed for consumers such as New York, Hawaii, Rhode Island etc. In several other states acquiring and using them could be limited.
For instance, in Connecticut consumers are allowed to own them however there is prohibition in carrying them in cars or in person. While other states have restricted the possession of these items to the person’s home only.
Is It Legal To Possess Self Defense Sprays In The United States?
Rules on carrying self defense sprays are different in different states and districts in the US. for instance in the district of Columbia, only those types of self defense sprays are permitted that is a mix of lacrimator like phenyl chloromethyl ketone, oleoresin capsicum chloroacetophenone or ortho chlorobenzoic-malononitrile.
Also, in some states you may need to provide age proof that you are of legal age to possess such things. Moreover self defense sprays are labeled clearly as to why they are used. A person is only permitted to use self defense sprays to defend their property or their lives. If it is proved that the sprays have been used for any other purposes, then charges can be pressed against that person.
The Use Of Pepper Sprays
Pepper sprays are allowed to be carried in all fifty states of the United States of America as long as the age of the person carrying the spray is above 18. Moreover the person carrying the pepper spray should not have been convicted of assault or felony.
An important point to note is that pepper sprays should be carried in limited quantities only. Restrictions vary from one state to another. For instance, in Alaska and Arkansas pepper sprays are only permitted in less than 5 oz whereas in California the legal restriction is upto 2.5 oz only and in Florida it is less than 2 oz. It is best to check the requirements and guidelines with the local guideline before carrying pepper sprays or any other kind of self defense equipment.
Final Words
A majority of the states allow the possession and use of Stun guns. Overall it can be noticed that most of the states in the US permit the use of self defense equipment with some restrictions and directions to use and carry. These equipment are strictly not to be used for any other reason other than self defense or else it will be a criminal offense. If you are found guilty of using them for any other reason then charges might get pressed against you.
