Byrna Less-Lethal Personal Defense

"Less lethal" (also known as non-lethal, less-than-lethal, non-deadly, or compliance weapons) is a critical term used by defensive and tactical equipment manufacturers - describing weapons designed to minimize fatality risk while still providing significant incapacitation capability. 

In other words, less-lethal weapons are weapons designed to slow down or stop an aggressor without causing death.

While some people use the term "non-lethal" interchangeably with "less-lethal..." technically they are different terminology. Less lethal acknowledges the potential for serious injury.

True "non-lethal" weapons don’t exist, but less lethal weapons are specifically designed to provide maximum defense with minimal risk.

Less lethal weapons are an essential option for anyone looking to protect themselves or their loved ones. The reality is that dangerous situations can arise unexpectedly, forcing people to defend themselves, their property, their family, their friends, and their neighbors.

Key Characteristics

Intentional Design

Focused on preventing life-threatening outcomes

Engineered to temporarily disable rather than kill

Provides a graduated force response

Creates physical disruption without permanent damage

Physiological Impact

Causes significant pain or physical dysfunction leading to what's called pain compliance

Interrupts attacker's ability to continue aggressive action

Creates temporary incapacitation

Allows defender time to escape

Technical Considerations

Projectile velocity typically between 300-500 fps

Lower kinetic energy compared to firearms

Specialized ammunition designed for maximum effect

Calibers usually smaller (.68 or less)

Deployment Scenarios

Personal protection

Law enforcement crowd control

Security and defensive applications

Training and simulation scenarios

Wildlife management

Comparative Risk Levels

Higher injury potential than pepper spray

Lower fatality risk than traditional firearms

Provides intermediate force option

Requires responsible, trained usage

Primary Projected Outcomes

Defensive deterrence

Temporary incapacitation

Creating escape opportunities

Psychological interruption of threat

Important Legal Considerations

Regulated differently across jurisdictions

Requires understanding local weapon laws

While rare, does have the potential licensing or permit requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age or older to purchase, possess and use

Technological Evolution

The term "less lethal" fundamentally acknowledges that while these weapons are designed to minimize fatality, they still carry inherent risks and must be used with extreme caution and proper training.

Since they are not classified as firearms, most less lethal weapons can be legally carried on your person, in your vehicle, or in a bag without a permit. They are easy to use and effective at stopping threats before they get too close.