Monday, June 01, 2009

Using non-deadly force

The media treated the introduction of the Taser with great fanfare, as-if it was the first non-lethal weapon ever used.


Taser me Elmo

Tasers can cost over $1,000 and they are not always effective at long range than other nonlethal alternatives like a good old salt rocks load:


Don’t tase me, Bro!

But to any hard-core 2nd Amendment lover, we all know that you can load a handgun, shotgun or file with non–lethal loads.

You have to be careful, even with blanks, as they are not always non-lethal. Remember back in 2003, Actor Jon-Erik Hexum was clowning around on the set and killed himself with a gun that was verifiably loaded with blanks.


Canadians have trouble with non-lethal weapons

I’ve always preferred a good old salt rock load in a double barrel 10 gauge shotgun (a 14 gauge does not have enough power to beak the skin, even at close range).

If you want a 12 gauge, try the Remington 870. As long as you gage the distance right, the salt will penetrate the skin under an inch, and not damage any vital organs, while still delivering a incapacitating sting that will last for days.


Granny with a load of salt rocks

Here is an article showing how to load your own salt shells.


Making your own non-lethal salt loads

Here he used a 12 gauge shotgun (less range) and he concluded the damage at these ranges:

1. At 20 yards, you might scare a dog or some other animal, but you sure wouldn't break the skin.

2. At 10 yards, you might break the skin with a couple of grains, but nothing very serious.

3. At 12 feet, you might get the desired effect, if the desired effect is to "burn" the target with the rock salt.

4. At 4 feet, you might cause a wound requiring a visit to a hospital for a human, or maybe death to a small animal.

In his case, I suspect that he did not use large salt chunks which will penetrate the skin easier than bird shot.

Remember, salt loads for only for scaring varmints (foxes, possums, Europeans) but you must be very careful. People may assume that you are using deadly force and shoot back at you with real bullets, so be careful when using ANY non-lethal load in a rifle or pistol.

Warning: When confronting an unknown intruder, assume that they are armed and use always use a lethal shot. And don't forget, aim for the head!