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Is Non-Lethal Really Less-Lethal?

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Author: Sheri Gray

There has been an ongoing debate as to what constitutes a lethal or a non-lethal weapon.

There is a moral and social need to define the lines separating the two because non-lethal weapons are subject to being abused if they fall into the wrong hands.

First, take a look at the basic definition of a lethal and non-lethal weapon.

A lethal weapon is an instrument which aims to kill a person or cause permanent damage to persons or property. During the ancient times, a rock or even a pointed stick could be considered a lethal weapon, as long as it aims to injure, maim or kill a person.

There has been an ongoing debate as to what constitutes a lethal or a non-lethal weapon.

There is a moral and social need to define the lines separating the two because non-lethal weapons are subject to being abused if they fall into the wrong hands.

First, take a look at the basic definition of a lethal and non-lethal weapon.

Later on more lethal weapons were developed – ranging from small firearms or handguns, to more powerful police, military and nuclear weapons which all aim to protect when there is a threat to peace and attack or defend, when there is war.

On the other hand, a non-lethal weapon is an instrument used to “subdue” an individual, without causing death or inflicting permanent bodily harm.

These are the “lesser evil” weapons which minimize the risks of injury and avoid death.

However, non-lethal weapons if used with brute force or if applied incorrectly, may still lead to death which is why the phrase "less lethal" has replaced non-lethal in terms of weaponry.

Non-lethal weapons are mainly used by the police to temporarily immobilize a criminal or a suspect. However the use of non-lethal weapons by civilians for personal and property protection has been on the rise.

Take a look at some examples of non-lethal weapons their applications:

1. Pepper Spray

Pepper spray is a handy tool that is used by men and women to protect themselves. This non-lethal weapon is primarily for self-defense purposes.

Pepper sprays can also be used to prevent animal attacks.

Pepper Spray affects the mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth and lungs). Common reactions are tearing of the eyes, temporary blindness, and restricted breathing. The effects are temporary, certainly enough time for you to escape your attacker and notify the authorities. Pepper spray has been the preferred non-lethal weapon for police for quite some time.

Pepper spray rarely causes death, which is why they are the most common non-lethal weapon used all over the world.

2. Mace spray or tear gas

Mace is a brand of tear gas which is also mainly used for self-defense and riot control.

Once a tear gas is dispersed into a riotous crowd, the chemicals released will cause irritation to the eyes and lungs, thereby subduing the people.

Tear gas may be in a grenade or spray form. Once the gas is released from its container, the individuals who will get to inhale the gas will find it hard to open their eyes and may cause difficulty in breathing, or even vomiting.

Aside from crowd control and personal defense, tear gas can also be used by the military in warfare.

3. Batons and nightsticks

A nightstick is a wooden or metal stick which can be wielded to protect a person from an attacker. Just like a baton, nightsticks are mostly used by law enforcers, security personnel and officers in correctional facilities.

4. Stun Guns

Stun guns are hand held protection devices that when activated and put in contact with the attacker will immobilize the attacker allowing you to escape. Most stun devices use 9 volt alkaline batteries for optimum performance. Stun Guns range in power from 50,000 to 750,000 volts.

5. Taser Defense Systems

Taser International has been providing private citizens with superior personal protection products since 1994 when it introduced the “Air Taser” Series, then in 1998 Taser brought out the “M18 Advance Taser” Series and then in 2004 unveiled the smaller and more powerful “Taser X26c Citizen Defense System"

Taser energy weapons are not considered firearms — they're legal to carry in most states without permits (including California). Restricted from citizen use in MA, RI, NY, NJ, WI, MI, HI and certain cities and counties. Check with your local law enforcement and local laws before purchasing any self defense products.

Sheri Gray's Last Articles :

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