how do tasers work?

The acronym Taser stands for Thomas A. Swift Electric Rifle, a character that appeared in children’s books written in the early 20th century.

Tasers are pistol weapons that fire two darts, each connected to a thin wire. When the darts make contact an electrical current is sent through the wires and into the suspect. The electrical current is designed to override the nerves that control the muscle system, causing the suspect to fall to ground and be briefly incapable of voluntary action.

Tasers have several significant features. First, contacting the target anywhere on the body generally leads to full incapacitation. This makes the device safer for officers: Unlike bullets, even contact with a foot or a wrist will lead to complete restraint.

Second, unlike bullets, Taser restraint is immediate. This prevents the suspect from returning fire after he is hit. Third, the darts need not contact skin for the weapon to work properly. The electrical impulse of certain Tasers can penetrate up to two inches of material, depending on type of cloth.

Finally, while Tasers are high voltage, they are low wattage. This distinction is key to understanding the injury patterns seen with these weapons.