Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. It is legal in the United States except in Hawaii, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. Additional cities, counties, and countries might have other restrictions on the use or possession of the TASER C2 device so check all applicable laws and regulations carefully. Federal law prohibits carrying or shipping TASER devices out of the U.S.

Yes. Your TASER C2 is inactive at the time of purchase. You need to register it with TASER International, either online or by phone, and pass a felony background check before receiving the activation code. Some states and cities might have additional requirements so check your local laws carefully.

No. TASER devices are not classified as firearms by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (BATF) because TASER cartridges use compressed, inert nitrogen gas to launch the probes instead of gun powder.

Different people have different reactions, but it’s definitely uncomfortable. Some people compare it to touching a live electrical outlet except that it’s not localized to the point of contact; it has more of a full body effect where muscular control is limited for the duration of the charge cycle. We describe it as muscle “lock up” because you are generally unable to move. The NMI effect is not about pain compliance but incapacitation in order to keep someone down and away from you. That said, it is generally mildly to moderately painful.

There really is no effect because unlike with firearms, there is no recoil or “kick” when you shoot your C2.

Think of the NMI effect as a light switch – it’s either completely on or completely off. During the 30-second cycle, the sensory and motor function signals are confused, which inhibits muscular control and causes incapacitation. Once the charge cycle ends, sensory and motor functions resume normally and allow signals to be transmitted to the muscles - the NMI effect is “off.”

TASER ECDs are not risk-free, however, as injuries can result from falls, drug/alcohol-related complications, or other external circumstances. More detailed safety and health information concerning the use of ECDs can be found here.

The C2 was designed to balance accessibility with safety. You need to be able to reach and fire it quickly if necessary but also feel confident that it won’t be accidentally discharged. For this reason, the push button trigger is located beneath a safety cover that must be slid all the way open before the C2 can be fired.

The C2 is a self-defense device, and like other options, should be kept out of reach of children at all times. It is equipped with a safety cover that hides the push-button trigger, and the device cannot be fired until the safety is slid all the way back. Lastly TASER ECDs use medically tested, field-proven technology that when adopted by law enforcement agencies, has significantly reduced injury and fatality rates of suspects, police officers, and innocent citizens. TASER ECDs are designed to save lives by resolving dangerous situations without escalating to lethal means.

No. TASER devices are not permitted in carry-on luggage for domestic U.S. flights. They can be packed in checked baggage if you are traveling to a state that allows possession, however. Federal law prohibits carrying or shipping TASER devices out of the U.S. so international flight restrictions apply.

The TASER C2 uses the same exact technology and offers the same stopping power as the police version. The only difference is the cycle time - TASER C2 relays the charge for 30 seconds compared to 5 seconds with the police version. This is so you can keep your attacker down and get yourself to safety. TASER C2 is also designed to fit your lifestyle - lightweight, compact, and easy to carry.

As with any self-defense option, it’s a good idea to understand how it work and how to operate it safely and effectively. Training materials are included with your ECD and cover everything you need to know about it. Other training resources might be available in your local area if you need them. It’s also beneficial to practice shooting your ECD in order to get comfortable with how it feels, sounds, and aims. Extra cartridges and practice targets are available for purchase.

You must be 18 years old or over in order to buy a C2.

A C2 only weighs about seven ounces and measures about 6 inches long.

In the event that you shoot and miss, you can use your C2 as a direct contact stun device.

Each cartridge fires once so it’s a good idea to keep extra cartridges on hand.

The Lithium Power Magazine can supply over fifty 30-second applications. As with all power sources, environmental conditions, such as extreme heat or cold, can impact battery life differently.

No. The Lithium Power Magazine (LPM) is designed specifically for the C2 and is not rechargeable. Replacement LPMs are available for purchase. The C2 will not accept or operate on other battery types.

No. How you carry your C2 is entirely up to you. It can be carried safely and discreetly in a pocket, handbag, brief case, holster, or just about anywhere. What’s important is that you’re comfortable carrying it and that it’s readily accessible should you need it.

We at TASER International live and work to “Protect Life.” One of the ways we do live is by doing all we can to keep our life-saving devices out of the hands of criminals. We will not activate any TASER ECD without a clear felony background check. It’s the right thing to do because it protects all of us.

TASER C2 has a Lifetime Replacement Guarantee.* If you ever have to use your C2 to defend yourself and must leave it behind, TASER International will replace it free of charge once you’ve sent us a police report of the incident. No question - your life is worth more to us than the cost of a C2!