Types of Less-Lethal Devices

There are seven types of less-lethal device technologies:

• Conducted Energy Devices. Some CEDs, such as the Taser, can induce involuntary muscle contractions that temporarily incapacitate people. Others deter an individual from a course of action. These include stun guns and stun belts.
  Learn about research on the safety of CEDs.
  Learn about an evaluation of two CED models.
  Learn how CEDs work.
• Directed energy devices. This new technology uses radiated energy to achieve the same effect as blunt force, but has a lower probability of injury. Learn more about the Active Denial System.
• Chemicals. These chemicals include pepper spray (also known as OC — oleoresin capsicum), tear gas and stink bombs.
  Read an NIJ report on the safety and effectiveness of pepper spray.
  Read a summary of a panel discussion of calmatives as riot control agents.
• Distraction.  This equipment temporarily incapacitates people while causing little harm. Examples include the laser dazzler, bright lights and noise. Learn about research in this area.
• Vehicle-stopping technology. This equipment can stop cars during high-speed chases. Learn more from NIJ's Pursuit Management Web page.
• Barriers. These include nets, foams and physical barriers.
• Blunt force. Projectiles used in crowd-control deter people from a course of action.

Some manufacturers integrate multiple effects into one device. For example, a multisensory stun grenade combines noise, light, chemicals and blunt force. Stun grenades disorient people, giving police officers the opportunity to arrest a suspect without harming them unnecessarily.