A consumer stun gun was launched in the US last week. The compressed-air gun
made by Taser International can hit targets nearly 5 metres away with two barbed
electrodes delivering 18 watts, compared to a 6.4-metre range for the 26-watt
version used by American police forces. The probes can fire barbs through
clothing, delivering a shock that temporarily disables the victim. The guns can
fire between one and four shots and cost between $120 and $600.
They can be used without a firearms licence. Look out for new kinds of criminal
behaviour, such as drive-by shockings and electric muggings.
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