A long range impact weapon has a place however I’m a little concerned about how and under what circumstances this would be employed, he looked at me cross eyed? Articulable facts are important and necessary. A Tazer or pepper spray as in intermediate range less than lethal weapon by it’s design would only be used effectively at a distance where an assailants intent is much clearer and easy to articulate. Either can still be used even when the assailant has hands on.
My experience is hit somebody with a bean bag round out of a 12 gauge, the only guy who gives up with one is a guy who didn’t want to fight anyway. Hit them with a baton and it normally takes more than one strike to the hand, elbow knee or foot and they are still pissed off hours latter in booking. Spray is pretty effective, takes a few seconds but generally works pretty well. You’ll get some on you but as long as you know how to fight through the effects it’s pretty good stuff.
Tazer was very effective at stopping fights right now. The difference is you beat somebody into submission with sticks or bean bags, they are still very pissed off an hour later in booking and very likely to start fighting again given the opportunity. Light them up, let them ride the buffalo for a full five seconds it does two important things, first you’ve got time to disengage and gain distance gain the attention of others who will help you. In almost every case I saw or reviewed the Tazer results in a complete attitude adjustment. The bad guys routinely were apologizing for being an asshole.
My perspective is this; I was a Division 1 wrestler, I spent 20 years as defensive tactics instructor along with my other duties, I retired 15 years ago but still practice aikido. At 70 plus I’m not going to a ground fight I will cross the street, take a wide path if necessary but I’m not worried about articulating an escalation of force. I carry a gun and a knife as I’m fully aware of the disadvantage a 70 year old man has against a 20 year old assailant. The best tool is the one on top of your shoulders, the best path is the one of least resistance. Nobody wins a ground fight.
