Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

I've been seeing quite a bit about the Byrna "un-guns". I couldn't turn down the opportunity to get one for review. This kit is quite robust. You get the kinetic launcher, 3 tubes of balls, another packet of more balls, 2 CO2 cartridges with a box of more CO2, 2 magazines, and a really nice carrying case. It really is a complete set. First thing. It takes .68 caliber balls. That means you can use paint balls, which is good for practice or for training. Nylon balls are available. These will hurt and are one possibility for less lethal rounds (keep in mind that if you hit someone in the throat with it, it can still be deadly, remember, less lethal doesn't mean non-lethal). There are actually an assortment of ammo types. You can get pepper balls which I hear are really nasty. A friend of mine in armed security is actually going to try that out. He's a glutton for punishment. This thing is quite accurate. That seems to be a consistent report. All standard control applies (i.e. grip, line of sight, trigger control, etc.). It's well made and I have no doubt it'll last quite awhile. Now on to legalities (as a self-defense instructor, I need to say a few things here). This thing includes a card to keep in your wallet about the fact that it's not a firearm and it's perfectly legal. Keep in mind that this is in relation to federal law. Your state or local laws may differ. The federal definition of a firearm requires that the projectile be propelled via an explosive. This one is propelled by gas. As such, it does not meet the federal definition of a firearm (yet). They did ship it to my door so there isn't any federal requirement for a background check or anything. Your state or local laws may differ (I saw a complaint that these couldn't be shipped to California, which comes as absolutely no surprise). Some jurisdictions do classify air guns as firearms. Make sure you check on this. The included card is not a "get out of jail free" card. Where I live, this is considered a firearm in a situation where you discharge it in public or carry it concealed. Very likely, you will need a CCW to carry this unless you have constitutional carry where you live (even then, double check). You may also find that laws change depending on the ammunition you use (nylon vs. pepper balls). When using this as a tool of self defense, you also need to consider practicality. Will it accomplish what you're looking to accomplish vs. other tools of self defense. Pepper balls and pepper spray don't work on everyone. Are you going to use this on an assailant who is carrying something that meets the federal definition of a projectile being propelled by an explosive? Very important - get training. This is a tool. You should be the weapon.