My EDC has changed very little over the last couple of years. I carry a Streamlight ProTac 2L flashlight, a Leatherman wingman multi-tool, a CAT tourniquet, and my Glock 19.
This combination of tools gives me great functionality while remaining comfortable to carry and fully concealable. I only swap out any of these components when I go to restricted areas (bars, schools, government buildings, etc.) or when I travel to states where my carry permit does not have reciprocity.
In the past, I would swap my Glock for a fixed-blade knife when I was unable to carry a firearm but I was never fully satisfied with this solution. By switching to the knife I lose all my stand-off distance. Any assailant would have to be within arms reach before I would have any defense against them. Because of this, I began my search for the best non-firearm tool to create distance between me and a threat. One of the devices I found was the Taser Pulse.
The Pulse is a compact self-defense tool that incapacitates assailants by inducing nervous system override via electrical shock. This is the same less-lethal technology that law enforcement has depended on for decades.
Taser markets a few models to the general public but the Pulse, with its pistol-like ergonomics, is the most appealing to me. With my interest peaked, I reached out to taser and they agreed to send me one for review. They also sent an IWB Blade-Tech holster which is made specifically for the Pulse.
Weighing only 8.1 ounces the Pulse is exceptionally lightweight and therefore easy to carry. After a short time, I barely notice that I have it on me. This is a little surprising given that it is relatively thick. It measures 1.2 inches at the widest point near the muzzle but tapers back to .95 inches near the grip. The slim/short grip makes it very easy to conceal.
Operating this unit is quite simple. With the battery and cartridge installed all you have to do is push the yellow safety selector up into the “fire” position. At this point, the back of the unit will illuminate different colors to indicate battery status. If it lights up green, you are good to go. Turning it to fire also turns the light and aiming laser on. The light is not blindingly bright but it is more than enough to identify your target at the range that this device is useful.
The maximum range is advertised as 15 feet so I set up the provided target and marked a firing line at 15 feet. I placed the red aiming laser in the center of the target’s chest and pulled the trigger. With a loud pop, the Taser sent two barbed prongs flying toward the target. One prong hit about eight inches low of where the laser was aimed and the second hit two feet below the first. The instructions stated that there would be a 24-inch separation between the electrodes at 15 feet but it did not mention that the top electrode would drop eight inches from the point of aim. After seeing this I determined that 15 feet was the absolute max range because the thin wires that electrify the barbs only reach that far. Thankfully Taser provides the materials needed for a practice shot so you can learn the holds and limitations for yourself.
Once fired the Pulse will send an electrical charge to the prongs for thirty seconds. This allows you to drop the Taser and run to safety while the assailant is unable to move. If you wish to stop the flow of electricity before the entire thirty seconds have elapsed, Just place the taser back on safe.
The Pulse comes with two cartridges and a paper practice target. Taser recommends using one of the cartridges to practice with before you carry it for self-defense. I wanted to test the cartridge’s reliability after carrying it for a while so I didn’t shoot mine until the end of the five-month review period.
Each cartridge is marked with an expiration date. Mine doesn’t expire for five years but I am not sure I would trust it for that long if it is being carried on a regular basis. I swap out the ammunition in my carry gun every year and I will likely do the same with this Taser cartridge.
There are multiple scenarios in which this device would be ineffective on an assailant. They may have thick clothing which prevents the barbs from making contact with the skin, the device could misfire, or you could miss. In any of these scenarios, you do have a backup option. The Pulse can also act as a stun gun. You just have to remove the cartridge, move the selector to fire, and pull the trigger. You will have to make direct contact with your target for it to work but it is better than nothing. To that point, you should practice removing the cartridge so you can do it quickly if needed.
Overall I think this is a viable option for someone who is either unable or unwilling to carry a firearm. For $400 it is a bit pricy but that is still much cheaper than the professional units carried by police which are often over $1000. Check out the Taser website for more information on the Pulse or any of their many self-defense tools.
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