VTS-989 Stun Gun

Stun gun laws vary significantly by state, county, and city. Some states ban them entirely, some restrict them to permit holders, and some allow open carry with no restrictions. Major cities often have their own rules regardless of state law. You MUST research your local laws before purchasing. We cannot provide legal advice. Start with your state's penal code and check local ordinances. When in doubt, contact local law enforcement non-emergency line for clarification. Carrying an illegal weapon can result in criminal charges.

Stun guns require direct contact with the attacker—you can't use them from a distance like pepper spray or firearms. They cause immediate pain and temporary muscle disruption (usually 5-15 seconds of disorientation), giving you time to escape. They're more effective than pepper spray on intoxicated or enraged attackers who might fight through pain, but less effective than firearms for stopping determined threats. Think of them as a middle-ground option: more force than spray, less lethal than guns. They work best when you have an escape route ready.

Stun guns work best on bare skin but can penetrate thin clothing (t-shirts, light fabrics). Thick winter coats, leather jackets, or multiple layers significantly reduce effectiveness. For reliable contact, aim for exposed skin areas: neck, face, hands, or bare arms. The prongs need to make solid contact to deliver the electrical charge. This limitation is why stun guns aren't ideal for all situations—environmental factors matter.

Yes. Buying a stun gun without training is like buying a gun without learning to shoot. At minimum: practice drawing it quickly, learn target areas (major muscle groups, avoiding the chest), understand the safety mechanism, and train escape scenarios. Many self-defense courses include stun gun training. The device is simple to operate, but effective use under stress requires practice. Also understand the legal implications—using force, even non-lethal, must be legally justified as self-defense in your jurisdiction.

This is a real risk with any handheld self-defense tool. The wrist strap provides some retention, but nothing is foolproof. This is why training matters: you must be decisive and create distance immediately after deploying it. Stun guns work best in ambush/surprise scenarios where the attacker doesn't see it coming. In a prolonged struggle, any weapon can be turned against you. Consider this tool as part of a broader self-defense strategy that includes awareness, avoidance, de-escalation, and escape—not as your only or final defense option.