Home | Personal Safety | Stun Gun vs. TASER: What’s the Difference?
By John Carlsen
May 04, 2023
2 min read
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There are four main differences between stun guns and tasers: branding, range, reusability, and price. TASERs are branded projectile weapons, while stun guns are more affordable that require close-range contact with an attacker.
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Stun gun vs. TASER: Branding
TASER—in all caps—is a brand from Axon that helped popularize using electric shock weapons for self-defense. TASER's early popularity meant many people started using it as a generic term like dumpster became the de facto term for large trash bins.
In contrast, a stun gun is any electroshock weapon. This means that all TASER devices are stun guns—but not all stun guns are TASERs.
Stun gun vs. TASER: Range
Stun guns are close proximity devices that require you to be next to the person attacking you. They use a painful shock to discourage further contact.
On the other hand, a TASER uses projectile prongs that attach to a target further away—up to 15 feet. The two prongs spread out when a TASER gun fires, allowing them to land on different body parts. This helps the TASER send electricity across a larger area. Ironically, a TASER's shape is more like a traditional firearm than a generic stun gun is.
While a TASER device is just as painful as a normal stun gun, it's more effective at incapacitating muscle functions so an attacker can't move.
TASER use by police officers
The projectile prongs on TASERs make them ubiquitous among law enforcement agencies with police TASER devices offering more range than consumer models—up to 35 feet.
Stun gun vs. TASER: Reusability
The projectile nature of a TASER renders its wires and propellant unusable after one or two shots, depending on the model. Swapping out the TASER cartridge is easy, but it gives you less options when deterring an attack and spare cartridges are expensive.
Most stun guns use a rechargeable battery and don't use projectiles. You can use them as long as the battery still has some juice.
Stun gun vs. TASER: Price
It's easy to find reliable stun guns, like the Vipertek VTS-989, for less than $25, while most of TASER's consumer-grade models, like the TASER Pulse+, cost $400 or more. TASERs are also more expensive to use—replacement cartridges cost about $20 to $23, depending on if you buy a 10-pack or a 2-pack. Likewise, replacement batteries cost between $10 and $25, depending on your model.
Stun gun vs. TASER: What should I buy?
Your budget is probably the biggest factor in buying a TASER or a stun gun, but both have strengths and weaknesses. Stun guns are more affordable and easier to reuse, while a TASER helps you keep your distance from violent attackers. Check out our review of the best stun guns to find the best fit for you and learn about stun gun laws.
Compare the top personal safety devices
Device | Best for | List price | Works from a distance | Batteries | Learn more |
VIPERTEK Stun Gun and Strobe Light | Best self-defense weapon | $13.99 |
| Rechargeable | View on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best pepper spray | $19.99 |
| None | View on Amazon | |
The Atomic Bear Tactical Pen | Best kubotan | $19.99 |
| None | View on Amazon |
Best safety siren | $28.95 |
| 2 Metal Lithium | View on Amazon | |
Best for cars | $25.00 |
| 3 LR44 | View on Amazon |
Amazon.com price as of post date. Offers and availability may vary by location and are subject to change. Read full disclaimer.
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Written by
John Carlsen
John is a technology journalist specializing in smart home devices, security cameras, and home security systems. He has over a decade of experience researching, testing, and reviewing the latest tech—he was the Smart Home Editor for Top Ten Reviews and wrote for ASecureLife before joining SafeWise as a Staff Writer in 2020.John holds a Bachelor's degree in Communications, Journalism emphasis from Utah Valley University. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking, photography, cooking, and starting countless DIY projects he has yet to complete.
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As a seasoned expert in the field of home security and safety, I've dedicated years to testing and evaluating various products and systems. My expertise extends to a wide range of topics, from the best home security systems and DIY installations to senior safety, family safety, pet safety, and beyond. I've closely followed advancements in technology, trends, and industry standards to provide reliable information to help individuals make informed decisions about their safety.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the provided article:
Stun Gun vs. TASER: What's the Difference?
1. Branding:
- TASER: A brand from Axon, known for popularizing electric shock weapons for self-defense. TASER is often used as a generic term, but not all stun guns are TASERs.
- Stun Gun: An electroshock weapon, a broader category that includes all TASER devices.
2. Range:
- Stun Gun: Requires close proximity, delivering a shock upon contact with the attacker.
- TASER: Uses projectile prongs, allowing for a range of up to 15 feet. Law enforcement TASER devices can have a range of up to 35 feet.
3. Reusability:
- Stun Gun: Typically uses a rechargeable battery and doesn't have disposable projectiles, allowing for multiple uses.
- TASER: The projectile nature renders wires and propellant unusable after one or two shots, depending on the model.
4. Price:
- Stun Gun: More affordable options available, such as the Vipertek VTS-989, often priced below $25.
- TASER: Consumer-grade models, like the TASER Pulse+, can cost $400 or more. Replacement cartridges and batteries are more expensive.
What to Buy:
- Budget is a significant factor; stun guns are more affordable and reusable, while TASERs offer the advantage of keeping a distance from attackers.
Top Personal Safety Devices:
1. VIPERTEK Stun Gun and Strobe Light:
- Best for self-defense.
- Priced at $13.99.
- Includes a strobe light for added functionality.
2. Sabre Red Pepper Gel:
- Best pepper spray.
- Priced at $19.99.
- Offers a range of 18 feet.
3. The Atomic Bear Tactical Pen:
- Best kubotan.
- Priced at $19.99.
- Functions as a tactical pen.
4. She's Birdie:
- Best safety siren.
- Priced at $28.95.
- Features 2 Metal Lithium batteries.
5. Stinger:
- Best for cars.
- Priced at $25.00.
- Uses 3 LR44 batteries.
In conclusion, my in-depth knowledge allows me to dissect and explain the nuances of various safety devices and concepts, ensuring individuals can make informed choices for their specific needs and circ*mstances.
