Less-lethal launchers, designed to fire projectiles like rubber bullets, are typically categorized as either firearms or as a separate class of less-lethal weapons, depending on local jurisdiction. These devices are utilized by law enforcement and security personnel for crowd control and self-defense. Civilians may also purchase certain types of less-lethal launchers, subject to specific regulations and licensing requirements, often for personal protection or animal control. Examples include paintball markers modified for rubber projectiles, and dedicated rubber ball launchers designed for self-defense.
The potential for these devices to cause serious injury or even death necessitates responsible use and a thorough understanding of their capabilities and limitations. Effective deployment can provide a crucial intermediate force option between verbal commands and lethal force, potentially de-escalating volatile situations. Historically, less-lethal alternatives have been sought to manage unrest and minimize fatalities in law enforcement and security operations, driving the development and refinement of such tools.
