Effects of a Stun Gun and Are They Really Legal?

Originally posted June 23rd, 2009.

What effects can I expect when using a stun gun on an assailant?

The most effective areas on the human body to target are between the neck and the hips. Where the neck and shoulder meets. Below the rib cage and The upper hip area. Not everyone reacts the same way. Some people may have some immunity to the shock, however most people will be strongly affected by the stun guns that output higher voltages.

Touching an assailant for less than one second will cause minor muscle contractions and have a repelling effect.Touching an assailant for one to two seconds will cause muscle spasms and a dazed mental state.Touching an assailant for three to five seconds will cause loss of balance and muscle control, total mental confusion, and disorientation leaving them dazed.All effects to the assailant are temporary; the stun gun can cause no permanent harm.Under no conditions can you ever suffer a charge back to your own body so you can feel safe using one even if the assailant is holding you.
Never leave your stun gun in the car or exposed to the elements for long periods of time. Extreme heat or cold will diminish the output of your batteries and may degrade the electronic components of your stun gun.If you have a rechargeable stun gun, do not keep it plugged in all the time, this will cause the battery to become weak and not keep it’s charge.  For battery operated stun guns, we recomment checking “your spark” often, and change the battery when the spark seems to be getting weak.

It is best to carry your stun gun with you and keep it at roughly room temperature to maximize its output, and for protection.


The use of stun guns for any purpose other than self-defense or law enforcement may constitute a crime under the law. The stun gun is not a firearm. Do not attempt to defend yourself against an armed attacker.

ALWAYS CHECK YOUR STATE AND LOCAL LAWS FOR ANY  SPECIFIC RESTRICTIONS:

STATES WHERE STUN GUNS ARE RESTRICTED:

CONNECTICUT
ILLINOIS
HAWAII
MASSACHUSETTS
MICHIGAN
NEW JERSEY
NEW YORK
RHODE ISLAND
WISCONSIN

CITIES WHERE STUN GUNS ARE RESTRICTED:

ANNAPOLIS, MD
BALTIMORE, MD
BALTIMORE COUNTY, MD
CHICAGO, IL
DENSION / CRAWFORD COUNTY, IA (*According to Sheriff Tom Hogan*)
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
PHILADELPHIA

For more information on Stun Gun laws and  restrictions visit this page at Mythril Security.