Loading a TASER cartridge into a TASER Pulse or TASER Bolt seems simple enough, but proper technique is important to ensure safety to you and bystanders. Check out the steps below and a training video from TASER Instructor Sara Morrell.
We've covered the importance of safely carrying your device in a holster or a bag in the last few weeks, but how should you draw your TASER device from the holster should you need it? TASER Instructor Sara Morrell shows us in today's #TrainingTuesday post.
In the video below, TASER Instructor Sara Morrell demonstrates how to safely draw a TASER Pulse from a holster, keeping the device pointed in a safe direction at all times. While this video uses a TASER Pulse and a Blade-Tech outside the waistband (OWB) holster, the principles remain the same for any other holster products. This demonstration is the recommended approach, but may not be practical for all situations and may need to be modified in the heat of the moment. We emphasize practice so that when you are under the stress of a real-world situation, there is a higher likelihood that you will be able to remove the device from its holster properly and comfortably.
As we've learned from previous #TrainingTuesday posts, there are many advantages to carrying a TASER device in a holster, fixed to your waistband. However, this is not always feasible. Today, we explore other options for carrying your TASER device.
Why would I skip the holster?Carrying a TASER device on your person, in a holster, is a preferred method of carrying given the easy access and safety that holsters provide. However, there are situations that may make it difficult. Perhaps you are on a hike, out on the town, walking to your car—it might not make sense to strap a TASER device to your hip. It might make more sense to pack your device in a purse, running belt, or backpack. In addition, carrying in a bag also allows easy transport of additional cartridges should you need them.
Keep the muzzle and trigger secure
It is extremely important to be sure that the trigger and muzzle of the device are covered and secure in order to minimize the risk of accidental discharge while carrying in a bag. For this reason, it is recommended that the device is kept in an easily accessible Sticky Holster or the protective soft cover that comes with the device. Each of these can help stop probes from traveling in an unsafe manner if an accidental discharge occurred. A Sticky Holster also allows for a quick draw of the device from your bag or running belt, whereas the protective soft cover can be a bit more cumbersome to manipulate in a hurry.
Kydex holsters are a great option for those seeking a sturdier way to discreetly carry a TASER Pulse in their daily life. Today, we learn about the Blade-Tech Kydex holster options for the TASER Pulse conducted electrical weapon (CEW).
Safety should always be a priority for those who exercise outdoors, which is why Triathlete named safety as a top trend for 2018. Today we explore how to safely carry your TASER device while getting in some exercise.
TASER holsters minimize the risk of an accidental discharge by securing the trigger mechanism.
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Consider adding a self-defense tool
When it comes to exercising safely outdoors, a handful of common tips may pervade: be more visible, run with a friend, bring ID, consider ditching headphones. These are all important items to consider, but what we often miss in discussing personal safety is considering the added protection from harm by carrying a less lethal weapon. A Runner's World survey of women found that 3% have been physically assaulted while 30% have been verbally harassed. To be clear, the risk of being a victim of violent crime is relatively low in the United States, but it is still important to be ready to fight back if needed. A big part of properly using a TASER device is knowing how to carry it when the device is not in use.Why a holster is important
TASER devices are self-defense tools, and it is extremely important to handle the device as such. That means keeping the trigger covered and pointing the device in a safe direction at all times. That includes when carrying it on your person, in a coat, or in a bag!TASER holsters minimize the risk of an accidental discharge by securing the trigger mechanism.
TASER Bolt holster for active people: Ambidextrous Tactical Holster
This lightweight yet durable holstering option, custom crafted for the TASER Bolt and C2, is the perfect choice for active lifestyles. It can be clipped to clothing, a belt, purse strap, backpack, or just about anywhere else. Keep your Bolt secured yet easily accessible with this Tactical Holster.
Firearms owners are aware of the importance of properly holstering their gun while carrying. It promotes safety for themselves and others. TASER devices can also be holstered to those same ends. Today, we explore some of the holster options available for the TASER Pulse.
There are a wide variety of holsters on the market for guns and CEWs (conducted electrical weapons). Here at TASER Self-Defense, we have a plethora of carrying options for our TASER devices, ranging from fabric sleeves to Kydex holsters. However, not all holsters share the same reliability - the key feature to look at when considering self-defense is how many points of contact a holster has. Let’s take a look at a brief breakdown of what that entails.
TASER devices utilize a process called “neuro muscular incapacitation”, or NMI, to immobilize potential threats. Today, we explore how TASER devices harness electricity to override the nervous system.
Is there more crime in the US than there was a year ago? It can be difficult to address the question without allowing outside sources to influence your answer.
Recently, The Brennan Center for Justice found that the overall crime rate, violent crime rate, and murder rate all dropped in 2017. According to their analysis, the nation's 5 largest cities reduced their murder rate by an average of 10.8%, while the top 30 cities averaged a 5.6% reduction. The FBI's preliminary analysis of crime in 2017 tells a similar story, noting that from January-June violent crime decreased by about 1%, and property crime dropped by about 3%.
These statistics fit into a larger trend: Violent crime in the United States has been steadily dropping since the early 1990s. Of note, the numbers began creeping up between 2014 and 2016, but that three year climb appears to have been stymied in 2017. Nonetheless, it is evident that the United States has made progress in cutting the once-soaring crime rate of the 90s.
But despite evidence that the country is becoming safer, many Americans believe that their community is at greater risk of crime and violence.
Gallup has been monitoring the public's perception on the nation's crime rate since 1989. In 2017, 68% of respondents to a national survey indicated a belief that crime had risen. 40% of respondents believed that their own community was more dangerous than the previous year. Furthermore, a 2016 Pew research study found that 57% of respondents believed that crime had gotten worse in the United States.
What is observed above is known as the “fear of crime” paradox; despite the relatively low risk of victimization, Americans feel the opposite. But what fuels this contradiction of logic?
Pew suggests that the limited availability of crime data may be an influencing factor. Government agencies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) are the most cited sources for crime statistics. However, the analysis and publication of their findings come far after the calendar year being studied had concluded. For instance, the 2015 FBI and BJS crime reports were released in November of 2016. By the time FBI and BJS issued their reports, actual and perceived crime may have changed for many American communities, impacting the opinion of the public at large and perhaps contributing to the disparity between statistical and perceived risk of victimization.
The influence of media consumption cannot be understated as well. In newsrooms across the country, crime is an important beat to cover. The adage “If it bleeds, it leads” still rings true in local news coverage. But beyond tragic headlines, long-form programs that take a deep dive in a particularly gruesome crime, alongside pervasive fictional crime dramas, appear to make a significant impact on a viewer's perception of crime in the United States.
A 2003 study in the Journal of Criminal Justice and Popular Culture by Kenneth Dowler from California State University Bakersfield found that, “Respondents who report that they are regular viewers of crime shows are more likely to be fearful of crime. This is true even when we control for age, gender, race, income, education, marital status, perceived police effectiveness and perceived neighborhood problems.”
Interestingly, though, Dowler's analysis downplays the impact of local news coverage, instead explaining that television shows related to crime are mostly responsible for shifting perception of crime. Dowler notes, “...hours of television and newspaper as the primary source of crime news are not significantly related to fear of crime.” Though it seems counterintuitive, it appears that the fiction pieces produced by Hollywood may shape our perception of safety more severely than the media's coverage of true crime.
Further, Pew suggests that coverage of elections may stoke the fear of crime paradox. In 2016, crime was a major rhetorical theme of candidates' campaigns, which may have played an important role in increasing fear of victimization. Hillary Clinton's infamous “super predator” remarks were resurfaced, and then-candidate Donald Trump frequently tied immigration to crime.
But perhaps most telling, Pew notes that, “...the best context for understanding the conflict between voters’ perceptions of crime and the data is that voters are usually more likely to say crime is up than down, regardless of what official statistics show.” Pew adds, “Since 1989, Gallup has asked respondents whether they think there is more or less crime in the U.S., compared with the year before. In 21 of the 22 years Gallup asked this question, a larger share of respondents said there was more crime.”
So, it seems that Americans have always feared crime, and who can blame us? Crime is often unexpected and devastating, both emotionally and physically. Break-ins, for instance, rob people of more than just material goods, they shake the belief that their homes are safe spaces for their family. Street harassment steals the endorphin rush of a person who is simply trying to unwind from a hectic day; according to research by Runner's World, 43% of female runners reported that sexual harassment occurs nearly every time they lace up and hit the streets. Fear is often used as a weapon to exploit others and force an imbalance of power. What, then, can Americans do to bring back the confidence needed to relinquish fear?
Here are three easy-to-implement suggestions:
Bolt, Pulse, TASER Bolt, TASER Pulse, and TASER are trademarks of Axon Enterprise, Inc., registered in the US and other countries. For more information, visit www.axon.com/legal. All rights reserved © 2018 Axon Enterprise, Inc.
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Recently, The Brennan Center for Justice found that the overall crime rate, violent crime rate, and murder rate all dropped in 2017. According to their analysis, the nation's 5 largest cities reduced their murder rate by an average of 10.8%, while the top 30 cities averaged a 5.6% reduction. The FBI's preliminary analysis of crime in 2017 tells a similar story, noting that from January-June violent crime decreased by about 1%, and property crime dropped by about 3%.
These statistics fit into a larger trend: Violent crime in the United States has been steadily dropping since the early 1990s. Of note, the numbers began creeping up between 2014 and 2016, but that three year climb appears to have been stymied in 2017. Nonetheless, it is evident that the United States has made progress in cutting the once-soaring crime rate of the 90s.
But despite evidence that the country is becoming safer, many Americans believe that their community is at greater risk of crime and violence.
Gallup has been monitoring the public's perception on the nation's crime rate since 1989. In 2017, 68% of respondents to a national survey indicated a belief that crime had risen. 40% of respondents believed that their own community was more dangerous than the previous year. Furthermore, a 2016 Pew research study found that 57% of respondents believed that crime had gotten worse in the United States.
What is observed above is known as the “fear of crime” paradox; despite the relatively low risk of victimization, Americans feel the opposite. But what fuels this contradiction of logic?
Pew suggests that the limited availability of crime data may be an influencing factor. Government agencies like the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) are the most cited sources for crime statistics. However, the analysis and publication of their findings come far after the calendar year being studied had concluded. For instance, the 2015 FBI and BJS crime reports were released in November of 2016. By the time FBI and BJS issued their reports, actual and perceived crime may have changed for many American communities, impacting the opinion of the public at large and perhaps contributing to the disparity between statistical and perceived risk of victimization.
The influence of media consumption cannot be understated as well. In newsrooms across the country, crime is an important beat to cover. The adage “If it bleeds, it leads” still rings true in local news coverage. But beyond tragic headlines, long-form programs that take a deep dive in a particularly gruesome crime, alongside pervasive fictional crime dramas, appear to make a significant impact on a viewer's perception of crime in the United States.
A 2003 study in the Journal of Criminal Justice and Popular Culture by Kenneth Dowler from California State University Bakersfield found that, “Respondents who report that they are regular viewers of crime shows are more likely to be fearful of crime. This is true even when we control for age, gender, race, income, education, marital status, perceived police effectiveness and perceived neighborhood problems.”
Interestingly, though, Dowler's analysis downplays the impact of local news coverage, instead explaining that television shows related to crime are mostly responsible for shifting perception of crime. Dowler notes, “...hours of television and newspaper as the primary source of crime news are not significantly related to fear of crime.” Though it seems counterintuitive, it appears that the fiction pieces produced by Hollywood may shape our perception of safety more severely than the media's coverage of true crime.
Further, Pew suggests that coverage of elections may stoke the fear of crime paradox. In 2016, crime was a major rhetorical theme of candidates' campaigns, which may have played an important role in increasing fear of victimization. Hillary Clinton's infamous “super predator” remarks were resurfaced, and then-candidate Donald Trump frequently tied immigration to crime.
But perhaps most telling, Pew notes that, “...the best context for understanding the conflict between voters’ perceptions of crime and the data is that voters are usually more likely to say crime is up than down, regardless of what official statistics show.” Pew adds, “Since 1989, Gallup has asked respondents whether they think there is more or less crime in the U.S., compared with the year before. In 21 of the 22 years Gallup asked this question, a larger share of respondents said there was more crime.”
So, it seems that Americans have always feared crime, and who can blame us? Crime is often unexpected and devastating, both emotionally and physically. Break-ins, for instance, rob people of more than just material goods, they shake the belief that their homes are safe spaces for their family. Street harassment steals the endorphin rush of a person who is simply trying to unwind from a hectic day; according to research by Runner's World, 43% of female runners reported that sexual harassment occurs nearly every time they lace up and hit the streets. Fear is often used as a weapon to exploit others and force an imbalance of power. What, then, can Americans do to bring back the confidence needed to relinquish fear?
Here are three easy-to-implement suggestions:
- Understand your risk, and maintain good security habits: Do some research on your community. A simple Internet search can bring a ton of insight on your risk of encountering crime. In addition, lock your front door, maintain awareness in public and set up an alarm system. These commonsense practices are too often ignored. They are simple to implement and do not require upkeep, but they are essential to ensuring you feel safe at home and on the town.
- Explore self-defense classes in your area: Learning what you can do with your own body is incredibly empowering. Though it is unlikely that you'll encounter a situation necessitating hand-to-hand skills, self-defense and martial arts classes help you find the power hidden within you. If you're competitive and want a sporting aspect, check out your local boxing, mixed-martial arts or Brazilian jiu-jitsu gyms.
- Invest in a self-defense tool that fits your lifestyle: Ideally, you'll purchase something that puts a healthy distance between you and a threat. Explore items like the TASER Pulse and TASER Bolt. Carrying a self-defense tool can bring the confidence to address and deescalate a threatening situation.
Bolt, Pulse, TASER Bolt, TASER Pulse, and TASER are trademarks of Axon Enterprise, Inc., registered in the US and other countries. For more information, visit www.axon.com/legal. All rights reserved © 2018 Axon Enterprise, Inc.
A Guest Post by Axon's Brandy Shaffer, the Product Manager for Axon Signal Sidearm and UAS. She also leads our Diversity & Inclusion committee.
Today is International Women's Day, a celebration of the achievements of women all over the globe. We are in a unique spot this year because there is strong global momentum towards gender equality. Yet, we're still too far from where we need to be. The World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap 2017 report showed that gender parity across the world continues to widen and will now take over two centuries to achieve. Two centuries.
In August, we conducted a survey of 479 randomly selected TASER Self-Defense customers and found that 25% of TASER product owners have never practiced firing their device. Over 40% have only practiced dry-firing their device. Most staggeringly, 22% of users said they were not confident in their ability to use their device. We consider that to be 22% too many!
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(Survey of randomly selected customers conducted via email in August 2017, n= 479)
