Lethal vs. Non-Lethal Weapons, You Decide
Articles - Lifestyle
The world we live in is an unsafe place and rising violent crime rates confirm that fact. For this reason, it is imperative for citizens to be cautious about their personal safety. One way this can be accomplished is with self-defense weapons. Self-defense weapons can be either lethal or non-lethal. Let's examine the differences of each.
by TeresaBernard


The world we live in is an unsafe place and rising violent crime rates confirm that fact. For this reason, it is imperative for citizens to be cautious about their personal safety. One way this can be accomplished is with self-defense weapons. Self-defense weapons can be either lethal or non-lethal. Let's examine the differences of each.

Lethal Self Defense Weapons

Firearms such as rifles, shotguns and handguns are examples of lethal weapons. Knives can be consider lethal too. This type of weaponry is deadly in nature and the effects of their use can be permanent. Most require special instruction and a license or permit to carry. Practice is also needed to become proficient in their use. Sometimes the line between self-protection and assault can become vague when these devices are used to defend yourself, as it could be considered "excessive force" especially if your attacker isn't carrying a weapon. Consider also that your own deadly weapon can and probably will be used against you if an assailant is successful in disarming you. They can also injure innocent bystanders if the user isn't being cautious enough. It can be expensive to own and maintain a lethal weapon and the liability is much greater. If you are determined to use lethal force as a means of self defense then you will have to live with the aftermath and guilt for the rest of your life. And that is not always easy.

Non-Lethal

A non-lethal weapon is one, which is specifically designed and primarily used to incapacitate an individual, while minimizing fatalities and permanent injury. Unlike lethal armaments, non-lethal weapons employ a technique other than deadly force to attain the objective. Defensive sprays, like pepper spray and mace, and energy devices, like stun guns and tasers, are prime examples of non-lethal weapons. When properly used, non-lethal weapons will not result in serious injuries or fatalities. Nor will there be an long lasting repercussions. Yet they are powerful enough to halt an assailants attack giving you enough time to escape. You do not need a license or permit to carry these types of weapons. Anybody can operate them with little or no special instruction. Many have built-in safety features, which will deactivate the device if an attacker takes it away from you. There is also lower risk of innocent bystanders being severely harmed by them because the effects are not long lasting. They are less expensive than most lethal-weapons.

The Choice is Yours

Your choice to carry self-defense weapons, whether lethal or non-lethal, is a personal decision. Keep in mind, being armed and prepared to use a weapon in self-defense won't stop every crime, however, it can drastically reduce your chances for an attack and greatly increase your survival if you are attacked.

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice.