Not to be confused with its cousin, the taser, the stun gun is its own animal. A stun gun works by disrupting the body's electrical system. Using household batteries, stun guns supply electricity to a system of transformers which boost the voltage to high levels while reducing the dangerous amperage. The electricity heads to the oscillator, which creates a specific pulse pattern which, in turn, charges the capacitor that supplies the electrodes with a charge.



In layman's terms, that means that a simple nine-volt battery becomes a 500,000 volt zap out the other end. The electrodes, which are basically two pieces of metal, have a gap between them. This causes the circuit to be open, meaning that the electricity is waiting to travel completely through them. In order for the charge to go through, the circuit must be closed. This is where the assailant comes in; his body creates a closed circuit, allowing the charge to pass into his body, rendering him immobile.

The electrical charge from a stun gun confuses the body's nervous system. There is always electricity running from top to bottom in a person's body, carrying bits of communication from the brain and back again. When a high amount of outside voltage is introduced, the body's signals get mixed up. The muscles aren't receiving the proper information from the brain and vice versa. Since they aren't getting any input, they don't know what to do. They're confused. They freeze, and your attacker is temporarily paralyzed.

Another way that a stun gun immobilizes an attacker is by sending a pulse frequency into the body. This imitates the body's natural signals, and for a very short length of time, causes the muscles to work extraordinarily hard. By not giving any specific information on what the muscles are supposed to do, the body tires itself out immediately. This leaves any would-be assailant completely drained of energy, allowing time for you to get away and seek help.

A stun gun also often has another pair of electrodes, an inner pair, which are designed to emit sparks and noise. These electrodes serve as a display of power, a frightening sight for any attacker. They are physically harmless, but can often prevent an assailant from coming too close.

One of the major advantages of a stun gun is its compact nature. From pen-sized devices to stun guns the size of household flashlights, there are options for everyone's taste. Some may prefer the element of surprise while others like their stun gun to be large and in charge. Some say that the disadvantage of the stun gun is that the attacker must be within arms reach in order for it to discharge its electrical shock. Of course, if an attack were to take place in a confined area such as a stairwell, there is no other option but close proximity.

An important thing to check before purchasing a stun gun is the laws of your particular state and county. Many areas have certain restrictions on the carrying of a stun gun by a civilian. Some cities and states completely prohibit the use of stun guns by civilians or law enforcement. Others will allow possession only if the carrier is licensed in the use of firearms. Check the information available thoroughly to avoid any legal trouble.

If they are legal in your area, consider purchasing one. For those without self-defense training, a stun gun is a great tool to possess. They are inexpensive and are guaranteed to bring any attacker to their knees.