C2 Taser: Review

Taser International's C2 Taser is an outstanding addition to the current offering of personal protection devices. By bringing this outstanding family of products to the civilian market, Taser International is going to help a lot of people protect themselves.

Having experienced the effects of a Taser first hand during law enforcement training, I can personally attest to the effectiveness of this device.

The design of this product moves away from the classic firearm based image to a softer, more flashlight inspired appearance. The integrated l.e.d. flashlight further enhances this appearance. It also encourages users to keep the device in-hand while traversing dark or otherwise "scary" areas.

The C2 is offered with or without an integrated laser sight. It is important to remember you only get one shot with your C2 before you have to reload, and then, only if you had the foresight to purchase a second cartridge. For these reasons, I highly recommend spending the extra money for the laser sight.

Also, the standard cartridge for the C2 has a maximum range of 15 feet. This is a vast improvement over other devices that require you be close enough to touch your attacker. However, it is imperative that the user know what 15 feet looks like. If you discharge your Taser too soon, it will have no effect.

A law enforcement Taser is configured to deliver a 5 second discharge cycle. When properly deployed, this 5 second "ride" is sufficient to allow an officer time to gain control of a resisting suspect. The C2 is configured to deliver a 30 second "ride." This is to allow the user to effect an escape while the subject is incapacitated. Since the Taser must be attached to the cartridge during the entire discharge cycle, the user must put the device on the ground before leaving the area. Of course, this means the Taser will likely be lost. Taser International has dealt with this issue by offering a replacement C2 with a police report describing the incident.

To prevent Taser technology from being used "by the forces of evil," Taser International requires every C2 owner submit to a background check (there is a small fee) to activate the device. In addition, every cartridge contains numerous small paper dots. Each dot is marked with the unique serial number of the cartridge. Anytime a Taser is discharged, Taser International can, and will, release the cartridge purchaser's information to law enforcement.

The C2 Taser is an outstanding device with a fair price tag. It is simple to use; extremely effective; and, at about the size of a dollar bill, easy and discreet to carry. I highly recommend the C2 for anyone who is looking for a personal protection device.