Less-than-lethal weapons
Created | Updated Nov 25, 2003
After the Cold War ended the most likely form of armed combat the US Army would be engaged in became the "brushfire war" or "asymmetrical conflict". In response to the changing political situation a range of weapons are being developed known as "less-than-lethal weapons". Originally they were dubbed "non-lethal weapons" but it became apparent all the options carried a small but measurable fatality rate. Many of these weapons are potentially suitable for law enforcement use eg Taser, beanbag round so YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!
Less-than-lethal weapons can be classified as anti-personnel and anti-materiel. Further they can be classified by mode of effect.
Anti-personnel
Kinetic
The most well known form is the baton round. The earliest form was wooden batons used by the Hong Kong Police known as "tommyknockers" as they were fired at the legs
Less-than-lethal weapons can be classified as anti-personnel and anti-materiel. Further they can be classified by mode of effect.
Anti-personnel
Kinetic
The most well known form is the baton round. The earliest form was wooden batons used by the Hong Kong Police known as "tommyknockers" as they were fired at the legs
