Are stun guns and Taser guns legal in Arizona law? (2024)

Posted on

Are stun guns and Taser guns legal in Arizona law? (1)

Both stun guns and Tasers (“remote stun guns”) are legal to buy and possess in Arizona. But Taser dealers must abide by certain restrictions or face petty offense charges. And using a Taser against a law enforcement officer is a class 4 felony.

What is the difference between stun guns and tasers?

Both stun guns and Tasers emit electrical currents and are used to temporarily immobilize assailants. But stun guns work only by coming into direct contact with the assailant. Meanwhile, Tasers can be deployed from a distance through shooting probes to deliver the shock.

Tasers fit into Arizona’s definition of remote stun guns:

Remote stun gun means an electronic device that emits an electrical charge and that is designed and primarily employed to incapacitate a person or animal either through contact with electrodes on the device itself or remotely through wired probes that are attached to the device or through a spark, plasma, ionization or other conductive means emitting from the device.1

What are the requirements for selling Tasers in Arizona?

Arizona permits the sale of authorized remote stun guns (Tasers) only if the following five conditions are met:

  1. The Taser’s electrical discharge is less than 100,000 volts and less than nine joules of energy per pulse;
  2. All the projectiles discharged from the Taser have a serial or identification number;
  3. The manufacturer offers a training program;
  4. The buyer shows a government-issued ID to verify his/her identity; and
  5. The Taser has an identification and tracking system that, on deployment of remote electrodes, disperses coded material that is traceable to the purchaser through records that are kept by the manufacturer on all Tasers and all individual cartridges sold.

It is a petty offense in Arizona for commercial dealers (with the exception of secondary sellers) to sell a Taser without keeping an accurate sales record as to the identity of the purchaser with the Taser’s manufacturer. This crime carries no jail. Instead, the court can impose fines of up to $300 for a person and up to $1,000 for an enterprise/business.2

Do I need a permit to carry a stun gun or Taser in Arizona?

No. Permits, registration, and licenses are not necessary in order to buy, own, or carry a stun gun or Taser in Arizona.

Is using a stun gun or Taser a crime in Arizona?

Using a stun gun or Taser in lawful self-defense is legal. Otherwise, electrically shocking someone without justification may result in misdemeanor assault (ARS 13-1203) charges. And if the defendant employed the weapon in a way that could cause serious bodily harm or death, then the D.A. may instead press felony aggravated assault (ARS 13-1204) charges.

It is always a class 4 felony to knowingly use – or threaten to use – a Taser against a law enforcement officer who is engaged in the performance of the officer’s official duties. The presumptive sentence is 2 years and 6 months in Arizona State Prison, but it may be longer depending on the facts of the case and defendant’s criminal history.3

Are stun guns and Taser guns legal in Arizona law? (2)

Call our law firm for legal advice. We offer free consultations.

Legal References

  1. Arizona Revised Statutes 13-3117.
  2. Same.
  3. ARS 13-3117; ARS 13-701; ARS 13-704.

About the Author

Are stun guns and Taser guns legal in Arizona law? (3)

Neil Shouse

A former Los Angeles prosecutor, attorney Neil Shouse graduated with honors from UC Berkeley and Harvard Law School (and completed additional graduate studies at MIT). He has been featured on CNN, Good Morning America, Dr Phil, The Today Show and Court TV. Mr Shouse has been recognized by the National Trial Lawyers as one of the Top 100 Criminal and Top 100 Civil Attorneys.

    Are stun guns and Taser guns legal in Arizona law? (2024)

    FAQs

    Can you legally carry a stun gun in Arizona? ›

    Anyone in Arizona can buy or possess a stun gun without a permit.

    Can I bring a stun gun in my carry-on? ›

    You can fly with a taser or stun gun, but it must be in a checked bag. You can't bring it on the plane in your carry-on. You may forget your taser or stun gun is in your carry-on bag and remember it while waiting in line. If this is the case, you should get out of the security line and check in your carry-on.

    How old do you have to be to own a stun gun in Arizona? ›

    Most states restrict the purchase of Tasers to those less than 18 years of age, except for Minnesota and Arizona, which require purchasers to be more than 19 years old for them to purchase Tasers.

    What's the difference between a Taser and a stun gun? ›

    Stun guns are close proximity devices that require you to be next to the person attacking you. They use a painful shock to discourage further contact. On the other hand, a TASER uses projectile prongs that attach to a target further away—up to 15 feet.

    What weapons are illegal in Arizona? ›

    Box Cutters, Butterfly Knives, Firearms, Daggers, Knives, Pen Guns, Razors, Razor Blades, Straight Razors, Swords.

    Is it legal to carry pepper spray in Arizona? ›

    Yes, pepper spray in AZ is legal.

    Can you bring a stun gun in your checked bag? ›

    While the TSA states that tasers are allowed in checked baggage as long as it is transported in a way that renders it inoperable from accidental discharge, and the taser's lithium-ion battery is no greater than 100 watts, airlines may have their own restrictions.

    What weapon can I travel with? ›

    Within the U.S., you can only travel with firearms and ammunition, including pellet and BB guns, in your checked bags if you're over 18 years old. You must check them with an agent at check-in and declare that you're traveling with firearms and ammunition. Firearms must be: Unloaded.

    What self-defense can you bring on a plane? ›

    Checked Bags: Yes

    One 4 fl. oz. (118 ml) container of mace or pepper spray is permitted in checked baggage provided it is equipped with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge. Self-defense sprays containing more than 2 percent by mass of tear gas (CS or CN) are prohibited in checked baggage.

    Can you pepper spray someone if you feel threatened? ›

    However, California is actually a “stand your ground” state. This means that you do not have the legal duty to retreat from your attacker before using force to defend yourself. If there is an immediate threat to your life, you may act in whatever way is required to protect yourself or another person.

    What are the self defense laws in Arizona? ›

    Under both the Castle Doctrine laws and the Stand Your Ground principles in Arizona, you are allowed to use reasonable force in proportion to the threat against you when it is immediately necessary to protect yourself or others from possible deadly force.

    How much do Tasers cost? ›

    How much is a TASER gun? Stun guns usually cost between $10 and $30. TASER devices have a lot more power and are a lot pricier because of that. Expect to shell out anywhere between $450 to $1,100.

    How far away will a stun gun work? ›

    Some stun guns, like many made by TASER, fire barbed electrodes connected to the gun by wires. The barbs stick to clothing or skin so the charge can be delivered from a distance of 15–20 feet.

    How far does a stun gun reach? ›

    Cartridges available to non-law enforcement consumers are limited to 15 feet (4.6 m). Practically speaking, police officers must generally be within 15 to 25 feet (4.6 to 7.6 m) in order to use a Taser, though the X26's probes can travel as far as 35 feet.

    What is the best stun gun for a woman? ›

    Best Tasers for Women
    1. VIPERTEK VTS-881. Offering a rechargeable battery that boasts longevity, the VIPERTEK VTS-881 is a great taser for women. ...
    2. Taser Pulse+ Self-Defense Tool. ...
    3. VIPERTEK VTS-195 Flashlight Taser. ...
    4. VIPERTEK VTS-989. ...
    5. FIGHTSENSE Mini Stun Gun & Pepper Spray Combo.

    Can you carry a loaded gun in your car in Arizona without a permit? ›

    For example, Arizona's “Constitutional Carry” law (est. July 29, 2010) allows any citizen who can legally own/purchase a firearm and is 21 years or older to carry it loaded and concealed on their person without any type of permit or license anywhere inside the vehicle.

    Is it illegal to refuse someone a glass of water in Arizona? ›

    Introduction. In Arizona, there is no statute that states it is illegal to refuse water to someone else in the state.

    Can you open carry in Walmart in Arizona? ›

    Walmart announced on Tuesday morning that it will ask customers not to openly carry firearms into its stores, potentially affecting locations in Arizona, where people are allowed to carry firearms both openly and concealed without requiring permits.

    What self defense weapons are legal in AZ? ›

    Both stun guns and Tasers (“remote stun guns”) are legal to buy and possess in Arizona.
    ...
    Legal References
    • Arizona Revised Statutes 13-3117.
    • Same.
    • ARS 13-3117; ARS 13-701; ARS 13-704.
    29 Apr 2021

    Are brass knuckles illegal in AZ? ›

    Arizona. In Arizona, individuals over 21 can legally carry a concealed firearm or deadly weapon without a permit. Brass knuckles are typically considered to be a deadly weapon. The use of brass knuckles can still result in a felony charge.

    Can a felon own a Taser in Arizona? ›

    The felon in possession of a weapon charge means that anyone convicted of a felony cannot own or possess a switch-blade, a butterfly knife, a clubbing instrument, a Taser or a stun gun.

    Can you take a knife on a plane? ›

    In general, you are prohibited from traveling with sharp objects in your carry-on baggage; please pack these items in your checked baggage. For more prohibited items, please go to the 'What Can I Bring?' page.

    Can I take a self-defense keychain on a plane? ›

    Other items not allowed are kubaton pens, a self-defense keychain weapon, according to Ross Faase, a TSA worker at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. Another item not allowed are replica weapons.

    What does a stun gun do? ›

    Stun guns administer an electric shock on direct contact. When a stun gun is activated (usually by pulling a trigger), electricity passes between two metal prongs at the end of the weapon. A painful shock is delivered when these electrified prongs touch the target.

    Can you bring a taser and pepper spray on a plane? ›

    Checked Bags: Yes

    One 4 fl. oz. (118 ml) container of mace or pepper spray is permitted in checked baggage provided it is equipped with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge. Self-defense sprays containing more than 2 percent by mass of tear gas (CS or CN) are prohibited in checked baggage.

    How many locks do you need on a gun case for TSA? ›

    4 Padlock holes provide the security that the TSA requires.

    Can I bring a knife in a checked bag? ›

    Checked Bags: Yes

    Except for plastic or round bladed butter knives. Any sharp objects in checked bags should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors.

    What is a tactical whip? ›

    Does A Tactical Whip Really Work? - YouTube

    Does TSA allow tactical pens? ›

    The TSA Specifically Forbids Tactical Pens

    The TSA can confiscate any weapon and since a tactical pen might look like one… You can read stories about all sort of weapons and tactical pens being confiscated here.

    What are the self defense laws in Arizona? ›

    Under both the Castle Doctrine laws and the Stand Your Ground principles in Arizona, you are allowed to use reasonable force in proportion to the threat against you when it is immediately necessary to protect yourself or others from possible deadly force.

    Why can't I buy a stun gun on Amazon? ›

    The possession and sale of stun guns is prohibited in Hawaii, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia and may also be illegal in other locations within the United States.

    Are brass knuckles illegal in Arizona? ›

    Arizona. In Arizona, individuals over 21 can legally carry a concealed firearm or deadly weapon without a permit. Brass knuckles are typically considered to be a deadly weapon. The use of brass knuckles can still result in a felony charge.

    Is a gravity knife illegal in Arizona? ›

    What is Legal/Illegal in Arizona. Switchblades, gravity knives, Bowie knives, and stilettos are legal. It is legal for anyone over 21 to carry knives concealed.

    What kind of self defense weapons are legal in Arizona? ›

    Both stun guns and Tasers (“remote stun guns”) are legal to buy and possess in Arizona. But Taser dealers must abide by certain restrictions or face petty offense charges. And using a Taser against a law enforcement officer is a class 4 felony.

    Is Arizona a stand your ground? ›

    Arizona does not have an explicitly titled “stand your ground” law. However, Arizona laws do allow people to defend themselves. Arizona laws do not require individuals to retreat before defending themselves when they are in a threatening situation.

    Is there a make my day law in Arizona? ›

    Most states have some kind of legislation that protects people who are defending themselves and their property from being liable for an assault or murder charge, and Arizona is no exception.

    What is the best stun gun for a woman? ›

    Best Tasers for Women
    1. VIPERTEK VTS-881. Offering a rechargeable battery that boasts longevity, the VIPERTEK VTS-881 is a great taser for women. ...
    2. Taser Pulse+ Self-Defense Tool. ...
    3. VIPERTEK VTS-195 Flashlight Taser. ...
    4. VIPERTEK VTS-989. ...
    5. FIGHTSENSE Mini Stun Gun & Pepper Spray Combo.

    How much is a stun gun cost? ›

    Compare the best stun guns
    ProductBest forPrice
    Vipertek VTS-989Best overall$21.99
    Vipertek VTS-880Budget pick$9.99
    Vipertek VTS-195Best tactical flashlight$21.99
    Sabre Self-Defense KitBest combo pack$24.99
    1 more row

    Can you buy police Taser? ›

    Are Stun Guns and TASERs Legal in California? Under Penal Code 22610 PC, California law allows you to purchase, possess or carry a stun gun (or taser) for lawful self-defense.

    How big of a knife can you carry in Arizona? ›

    A pocket knife is a folding knife with a blade less than 4 inches in length. It is not considered a deadly weapon under ARS 13-3102 and a citizen of any age may lawfully carry a pocket knife concealed on his or her person, within his or her immediate control in or on a means of transportation.

    Can you defend yourself with a knife in Arizona? ›

    If a knife serves as a tool used in the act of committing a crime, that crime's charges will then rise to the level in which you would want a seasoned criminal defense attorney. You may use a knife in Arizona in any manner, provided you do not engage in an activity that would be considered a crime.

    Is it legal to carry hollow points in Arizona? ›

    Thanks! hollow points are perfectly legal lol its Arizona. automatics and suppressors are legal.

    Can I own a switchblade in AZ? ›

    It is legal for anyone over the age of 21 to possess any of the following knives in any city in Arizona: Pocket/Folding Knife. Butterfly Knife. Switchblade.

    Can I have a knife in my car AZ? ›

    The issue of what is concealed is not problematic in Arizona. Those who have reached the age of 21 may carry any knife concealed or openly. Those under 21 may carry a pocket knife concealed or within immediate access when occupying a vehicle.

    What type of knives are illegal in Arizona? ›

    Technically, Arizona has no limits, restrictions, or prohibitions on the length of knives or knife blades for lawful ownership and carry. The only exception would be the possible one for persons under 21 years of age, who are allowed to legally carry only pocket knives.

    Top Articles
    Latest Posts
    Article information

    Author: Edwin Metz

    Last Updated:

    Views: 5757

    Rating: 4.8 / 5 (78 voted)

    Reviews: 85% of readers found this page helpful

    Author information

    Name: Edwin Metz

    Birthday: 1997-04-16

    Address: 51593 Leanne Light, Kuphalmouth, DE 50012-5183

    Phone: +639107620957

    Job: Corporate Banking Technician

    Hobby: Reading, scrapbook, role-playing games, Fishing, Fishing, Scuba diving, Beekeeping

    Introduction: My name is Edwin Metz, I am a fair, energetic, helpful, brave, outstanding, nice, helpful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.