Abstract
The original, first generation TASER was introduced to law enforcement in 1974. It is a conducted energy weapon that fires a cartridge with two small probes connected to the weapon by thin, insulated high-voltage wire. The intent is to overwhelm the sensory nervous system and stun the target/suspect. However, since the cartridges use gunpowder as a propellant, the original 1974 TASER was classified as a firearm by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (BATF). The second generation TASER was the AUR TASER 34000 series and introduced in 1994. Due to a number of improvements it was not classified as a firearm by BATF. In 1999, a third generation of TASER was released, the ADVANCED TASER M26 less-lethal EMD weapon. The M26 differed from other TASER designs in both output and in physical design, and made to function a lot like a standard duty pistol. It has become one of the most popular less lethal weapons in law enforcement, proven safe, effective, and easy-to-use. Yet, to improve in size and weight, the fourth generation TASER, the X26, was introduced as a smaller, lighter, and more effective taser device. It is also viewed as more efficient, incorporating numerous new features. The TASER International X26 is considered the new state-of-the art in conducted energy weapons, reducing injuries to offices and suspects.
