Up Close Review - M18L Advanced Taser

The Taser M18L Advanced Taser is a popularare much less than with firearms. Effects are
consumer model produced by Taser International.temporary. The device is not without its detractors
This model sports a laser sight to help with aim. (Youbut studies show it to be relatively safe when used
can buy this model without the laser sight in the M18in a responsible manner. It is virtually impossible for
Advanced Taser.) The M18L package includes foureven an out-of-control perpetrator to over-ride the
cartridges, a battery pack (4 x 1.5 volt AA), anphysical effects.
operating manual, a practice target poster and CitizenThe Taser M18, unlike most stun guns, actually looks
Training CD. It comes housed in a hard black polylike gun. The high impact black polycarbonate gun is
case with integrated handle. It is made in the US.set off with a mid gun yellow accent. The safety
There is a 30 day money back guarantee, 90 dayswitch has a lock and armed position. The dimensions
product warranty, and a lifetime replacementwith cartridge are 8.30" long, 6" high and 1.75" wide. It
warranty if it is left activated next to an assailant.weighs 19.2 ounces without the cartridge. It has a
First, let's clear some misconceptions. A stun gun is abattery LED indicator. There is a molded mechanical
"contact" device meaning the contacts must besight it addition to the laser sight. The M18L has a
applied directly to the perpetrator to be effective.range of fifteen feet.
This model can function as a contact stun gun withDepressing and releasing the trigger will result in a
or without a cartridge. But that is only a backupfive-second discharge unless the safety switch is
feature. A Taser is a device that when activatedmoved to the down (SAFE) position. Holding the
propels two small probes attached to thin insulatedtrigger switch for more than 5 seconds will result in a
electrical wires. These attach to an attacker's clothingcontinuous discharge until the trigger switch is
or skin. The device sends electrical pulses through thereleased, or until the batteries are depleted. Normally,
wires that disrupt the motor and sensory systems.aim the laser of the device at one of the large
This incapacitates the subject allowing time to flee.muscle groups (center of mass) such as the torso or
The Taser has gained wide law enforcementthigh areas.
acceptance throughout the world. Predictably, injuries