Mission specializes in a wide assortment of less-lethal solutions. However, I want to focus on two select offerings that really stand out due to their inherent ability to always be at the ready. These two launchers are designed around a small CO2 canister that remains sealed until the first trigger pull, when the canister is punctured and made active.
The semi-auto TCR-LE and TPR (next photo) from Mission Less Lethal Technologies are both ideal for being left in stasis for extended periods of time. Both launchers are chambered for .68-caliber projectiles and can launch a variety of munitions, including rounds for pain compliance, pepper-based munitions, glass breakers, marking rounds and even inert trainers.
The new AutoLock X3 HG is a compelling option for the rise in demand for smaller batons while offering a larger grip with a Super Grip coating to provide a more substantial feel than traditional expandable batons. The X3 HG also features an updated cam and stainless steel ball-bearing design that offers a reliably consistent locking action and a more solid feel in the hand when performing control techniques. Finally, the baton features a corrosion-resistant electroless finish and an integrated nose cap for smoother reholstering and grip protection.
The Pocket Thumper is handcrafted from Tennessee hickory and is 9 inches of old-school persuasion. The tool also features a historically important decorative motif. In the 18th and early 19th centuries, pewter was often used as a decorative element on tomahawks, knives and even flintlock rifles. The craftsman would carve a design into the wood using a through hole and undercuts to help keep the future inlay in place. The wood was then wrapped with leather and molten pewter was poured in, filling the holes and designs. This allowed the maker to secure pieces without any adhesives. Other variants, including the Angry Steve (next photo), are available from RMJ Tactical.
The VKS-SF is a select-fire electronic firing system that can fire 10 to 12 rounds per second. It fires both round and VXR-shaped projectiles accurately out to 65 and 150 feet, respectively. The VKS-SF also comes with an EL-2 electronic hopper, a 180-round feeding system with anti-jamming technology. It feeds about 20 projectiles per second. The VKS-SF also comes with an adjustable stock, and several accessories are available.
The Taser brand now has various models for military and police personnel, but in recent years the company has developed some impressive civilian models, including the new Pulse. The Taser Pulse immobilizes attackers for 30 seconds, from as far out as 15 feet. The Pulse provides single-fire and multi-cycle capabilities so you have enough time to make a safe escape. In fact, Taser offers a “Safe Escape” promise; should you have to deploy a Taser product, the company wants you to be able to activate it, drop it and run to safety without having to worry over the cost of the unit. After the incident, Taser will replace the unit at no cost to the consumer (with a police report). Each Pulse kit includes two live cartridges, a non-rechargeable lithium battery, a protective soft cover and a conductive target to practice and gain confidence with the self-defense tool.
Sometimes you can’t legally carry a firearm, or don’t have the justification to use one in self-defense. Police officers also need reliable devices to turn to if deadly force isn’t fully justified. In those situations, a less-lethal option like pepper spray or a Taser makes sense, as you can at least slow an attacker down and buy yourself some time to escape. Like firearms manufacturers, companies that specialize in making less lethal gear are constantly innovating and evolving, and we’ve done our best here to gather some of the best pieces of less lethal gear out there to help you protect yourself and your loved ones.
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For the less lethal gear featured in the gallery above, please visit the following sites.
Booby Trap Bras
boobytrapbras.com
Mission Less Lethal TCR-LE
missionlesslethal.com
Mission Less Lethal TPR
missionlesslethal.com
Monadnock AutoLock X3 HG
safariland.com
RMJ Tactical Pewter Thumpers
rmjtactical.com
RMJ Tactical Angry Steve Hickory Thumpers
rmjtactical.com
PepperBall VKS-SF
pepperball.com
PepperBall TCP
pepperball.com
PepperBall FTC-SF
pepperball.com
Taser Pulse
axon.com