Less Lethal Self-Defense Tools: Pepper Guns and Launchers Explained

According to a recent Gallup poll, personal safety fears are at a three-decade high in the United States, with forty percent of respondents responding that they are afraid to walk alone at night. Fear of crime deterred many respondents from engaging in certain routine activities. 

 

Not everyone wants – or is legally permitted – to carry a lethal weapon, and not every situation calls for or justifies the use of a lethal weapon. There are many less lethal gun and pistol options, such as a pepper gun and pepper projectile launcher, which offer protection while minimizing accidental harm.

 

Are “less lethal” and “non-lethal” the same thing?

The phrases “less lethal” and “non-lethal” are often used interchangeably. They are designed to incapacitate someone without causing permanent injury or death. However, while the term “non-lethal” is commonly used, it can be misleading. All weapons, regardless of intended level of force, have the potential to be lethal under certain circumstances. This is why SABRE most frequently uses the more accurate, “less lethal,” which emphasizes tools that are designed to minimize the likelihood of causing lethal harm but still offer significant protection.

 

What are “less lethal” weapons?

Less lethal weapons are a form of self-defense designed for prevention and protection and used by millions, including police forces and individuals across the country. They are designed to cause pain, disorientation, or injury against an attacker, for you to get away.

 

Are non-lethal weapons legal?

The legal terrain of personal protection and self-defense varies by state and municipality. Even items legal at the federal level might be prohibited in your city or state, making it critical to do your own research before purchasing even less lethal forms of weapons. In most states, purchasers must be at least 18 years of age.

 

What weapons are considered “less lethal?” 

There are many non-lethal forms of self-defense, including commonly carried pepper spray. However, in this context, we are specifically talking about pepper guns and pepper projectile launches, like SABRE’s home defense pepper projectile launcher.

 

SABRE’s Pepper Projectile Launcher is the only 0.68 caliber launcher with a 7-projectile magazine capacity. Because of the magazine capacity, this pepper gun gives users 40% more stopping power than competitors. When the pepper projectiles make contact, the maximum strength pepper powder saturates the area with a 6-foot pepper cloud, increasing the opportunity for you and your family to escape a dangerous situation.

 

Most pepper guns and pepper launchers are designed for control, aim, and accuracy. In the case of SABRE, their pepper gun also has no recoil, is lightweight to make it easier to handle, and features a safety grip for quick decision moments. 

 

How do less lethal weapons work?

Less lethal weaponry works by using compressed air or CO₂ to launch either pepper projectiles or rubber-like projectiles. If you want to see the different types of less lethal projections, browse SABRE’s launcher accessories.

 

When should I use a less lethal weapon? 

Less and non-lethal weapons are excellent home defense options, and many come with a holster so you can bring it with you. (Always check local and state laws before carrying any weapons device – lethal or less lethal.) 

 

What are the right self-defense options for me?

When selecting a non-lethal or less-lethal weapon, consider factors like legal restrictions, personal comfort, and training requirements. 

 

For instance, traditional pepper spray is compact, inexpensive, and comes in a variety of carrying options. It is traditionally ideal for walkers, runners, hikers, and others who are on the go. Homeowners might prefer something more powerful, which is why we suggest a pepper gun or pepper projectile launcher. SABRE also offers a mid-tier pepper gun, the Aim & Fire Pepper Gel gun, which offers you protection from a safe distance with a 15-foot (4.5-meter) range and provides protection against multiple threats with 3X longer spray time.

 

For comparison, consider the SABRE 0.68 caliber home defense pepper projectile launcher and the company’s pepper gel. The pepper project launcher – sometimes referred to as a pepper gun – has a range of up to 60 feet and weighs approximately 1.3 pounds, while the pepper gel spray has a range of up to 14 feet and weighs only 0.20 pounds. 

 

Both offer industry-best performance and strength, but pepper gel and spray are often better suited for on-the-go use, while a pepper projectile launcher is frequently the choice for home protection.  

 

How to safely use and store a pepper gun

First, always check local ordinances and state laws regarding the purchase and use of less lethal devices like pepper launchers. Next, read the manual thoroughly before practicing with or using the device. Do not assume it works like traditional pepper spray or lethal weapons, like guns. 

 

Less lethal weapons can still cause injury, so be sure they are stored away from where children and other unauthorized users can access them. 

 

Practice, practice, practice. Accuracy is equally important for both lethal and non-lethal weapon use. Prepare for using the pepper projectile launcher on a practice target sheet and watch one of the many training videos available on YouTube, especially the SABRE video, “Less-Lethal Home Defense Pepper Projectile Launchers – What You Need to Know Launcher Tutorial.”

 

"One of the most important things, whether it’s a firearm or less lethal [weapon] is ACCURACY! You have to be able to hit what you’re aiming at! The SABRE Launcher is the most accurate and reliable launcher that I’ve ever shot. Period." – Doug Koenig, Professional Sharp Shooter with 70+ National and International Titles

 

Less lethal defense products are a responsible, powerful option for many people. Find the device that most closely matches your level of comfort, legality, and lifestyle.