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A Taser gun is a weapon that uses an electrical current to disrupt a person's muscle movement. Tasers are used by police departments to subdue suspects and by people who are attempting to fend off an attacker.
History
The first Taser gun was developed by NASA researcher Jack Cover in 1969. Since then, different models have been produced. Taser International is the largest American manufacturer of electroshock guns.
Function
A Taser gun fires two small electrodes that remain connected to the Taser by wires. Once the electrodes connect with a target, the Taser incapacitates by interrupting brain control of muscles.
Types
Police Tasers are able to strike a person from as far away as 35 feet. Some models used by police departments also have a stun component that is used in direct contact with a suspect. Tasers sold to the general public are capable of hitting a target from 15 feet away.
Misconceptions
The United States does not consider Tasers to be firearms. In 43 of the 50 states, Tasers can be legally carried without a permit.
Warning
Although not intended to be lethal-force weapons, Tasers can cause death. Amnesty International has documented more than 300 deaths as a result of Taser use.
Source:
The Dark Lure of 'Pain Compliance'
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