Stun guns are an excellent method of self defense. First, they can serve as a deterrent. Just test firing this unit into the air is often enough to stop an attack or aggressive activity. As the bright electric current pulsates between the test prongs it creates an intimidating electrical sight and sound. An attacker with any sense at all will stop in his tracks. If the sight and sound doesn't stop him a jolt from this unit certainly will! Simply touching him with the device will deliver a high voltage shock causing loss of balance and muscle control, confusion, and disorientation- bringing him to his knees and making him incapable of further aggressive activity. Full recovery takes about five to ten minutes. There is no permanent harm.