The TASER – in capital letters – is a product made by self-defence company Axon, formerly known as Taser International.

The stun gun product’s name has become synonymous with the law enforcement gear.

TASER energy weapons work by firing two pronged darts, which are propelled by compressed nitrogen, the company says.

“The darts are tethered to insulated copper wire which conduct the electricity from the TASER energy weapon into the attacker’s body. When both darts hit, if the electrical circuit is completed and maintained, it may cause the attackers’ muscles to contract and they may lose voluntary muscle control.”