Skip navigation

Taser Certification Lesson Plan V7

Download original document:
Brief thumbnail
This text is machine-read, and may contain errors. Check the original document to verify accuracy.
•

Certification Lesson Plan
VERSION 7.0

ADVANCED TASER® M26

7860 E. McClain Drive, Suite 2 * Scottsdale, Arizona 85260 * USA * 480-991-0797 * Fax 480-991-0791
www.TASER.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Course Outline

1

Detailed Lesson Plan

2

A detailed guide to conducting the certification course in conjunction with the PowerPoint presentations
supplied on CD-ROM.

Pre-Deployment Checklist

26

A checklist of preparations that should be completed prior to deploying the ADVANCED TASER in a law
enforcement agency.

User Certification Checklist

27

A checklist of procedures to certify end users in the use and care of the ADVANCED TASER.

Certification Test

29

This test must be completed by each end user prior to certification.

Certification Test Answers

34

Answer key for use by instructors in grading certification tests.

Use of Force Report

36

Example of a use of force report developed by the Chandler, AZ Police Department. This report is included
as an aid for new departments in developing reporting procedures.

Demo Report
Instructors in-training are strongly urged to take a hit with the M26 in order to clearly articulate how it works
and what it feels like. This report should be submitted with the instructor application. Any time you conduct
a demonstration, you should submit copies of this report to TASER International, Inc. for our database.

38

COURSE OUTLINE
A. OVERVIEW: This class will cover the techniques for proper deployment of and certification of
end users in the use of the ADVANCED TASER less-lethal weapon.
B. TERMINAL LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Given person(s) to be trained and a lesson plan,
instruct person(s) in the proper deployment and safety of the ADVANCED TASER.
C. ENABLING LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Without the aid of references, in accordance with the
detailed lesson plan and manual, a certified trained user will accomplish the following:
1. Pass the written test and demonstrate sufficient proficiency in the function and use of the
ADVANCED TASER.
2. Understand how the ADVANCED TASER overrides and controls the central nervous
systems of a combatant subject.
3. Know proper finger position for aiming and firing.
4. Be able to reload in a safe and proper manner.
5. Control unit adequately when commanded "Arm - Spark - Off" at random (understands
safety switch and trigger fully).
6. Know when the ADVANCED TASER is armed and ready to fire.
7. Know how to properly check battery power in the Power Handle, remove and reinstall
batteries correctly.
8. Know how to utilize the laser sight.
9. Understanding of probe placement.
10. For ADVANCED TASER certification.
a. Draw ADVANCED TASER and hit target at 12 foot distance.
nd
b. Draw ADVANCED TASER hit target at 8 feet, reload, hit 2 target at 12 feet with
laser sight (time limit 10 seconds).
11. Learn procedures to properly and safely remove probes from subject.
D. METHOD / MEDIA: This class will be taught by the lecture / demonstration method.
E. EVALUATION: Topics from this class will be evaluated via written tests, oral tests (instructors
only) and via performance checklist during the practical application conducted during the class.
F. COURSE TIME:
1. Instructor Certification Course: 8 Hours.
2. User Certification Course: 4 Hours.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 1

CD-ROM INSTRUCTIONS
•

The visual slides that accompany this lesson plan can be found on the TASER International CD-ROM
version 7.0. To access the presentation, insert the CD into the CD drive. The CD will automatically self
open. The M26 Certification PowerPoint program is the first bullet. Double click this file to open. You
may also find this certification by opening it up through the section entitled PowerPoint Presentations.
This training version runs through your Internet browser and does not require PowerPoint. Also, this
version requires less memory than the PowerPoint version – so it is more stable. To close down this
version you must use the back arrow in the upper left hand corner to get back to the self opening
directory.

•

If you are using a computer with Microsoft PowerPoint, select the course marked M26_Cert_v7.ppt
under the heading Certification PowerPoint Courses. Once the presentation comes up in a smaller
window on screen, point your mouse at the center of the image. Click the right button on your mouse
one time. This will bring up a menu. Select Full Screen and the presentation will grow to full screen
size for better visibility. You may now navigate through the certification course using the forward and
back arrows on your keyboard. Start videos by clicking on the image once.

•

There are also other versions of the M26 presentation available on the CD. A version designed
specifically for Canada and also versions in other languages. If you are using the AIR TASER 34000,
you will need to download the 34000 lesson plan and reprint it. The 34000 Lesson plan is available on
the Training Materials Page as well.

•

If you cannot locate the file for the certification course, or you have trouble opening it when accessing
through your browser, you can open the file directly from Microsoft PowerPoint or Windows Explorer.
Open the M26 folder on the CD – then open the sub folder Movies. The file is named
M26_Cert_v7.ppt.

DETAILED LESSON PLAN
•

Slide 1 Video (start all videos with a single mouse click to the middle of the screen)
• Attention gainer video – News Release by Los Angeles County Sheriffs -- Show during course setup.

ATTENTION GAINER: "The most important decision an officer can make is whether or not to engage
deadly force upon a person. With the new remarkable advances in technology we can now serve and
protect people and communities with less than lethal means. Now we have the technology to stop
that individual who is combat trained, mentally deranged, or under the influence of drugs and
alcohol.”
•

Slide 2
• Instructor introduction.

•

Slide 3 Video
• Video of actual uses and demonstration against motivated, combative subjects. Phoenix SAU taking
out man with a gun who was distracted by SAU team rolling a bottle of water at the suspect and then
shooting the suspect in the back with two 5-second cycles; Albuquerque SWAT takes on man on
meth who was unaffected by gas, impact weapons, and K-9 attack who was incapacitated by M26
for two 5-second cycles; Manteca Patrol uses M26 successfully against suspect on PCP and meth;
and Hans Marrero, former Hand-to-Hand Combat Chief of USMC in the first test of the M26.

•

Slide 4
• TASER technology was developed to reduce injuries to officers and suspects by stopping threats
from a safe distance. This is a key concept and should be emphasized throughout the course.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 2

•

Slide 5 Video 3,000+ Volunteers
• This shows a compilation of volunteer tests of over 3,000+ law enforcement officers who have tested
the M26. Notice both the effectiveness of the M26 and the speed of the subject’s recovery without
any injury.

TRANSITION: Having covered the learning objectives, let’s discuss the history and theory behind
TASER technology and why departments are deploying it.
•

Slide 6
• The ADVANCED TASER is not a substitute for lethal force. However, many situations that begin as
standoffs have the potential to escalate to lethal force. Early, aggressive use of a less-lethal
weapon like the M26 can prevent many of these situations from escalating to deadly force
levels.

•

Slide 7
• The ADVANCED TASER has the greatest impact on officer safety when deployed with patrol level
first responding officers.

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: Field results show that when the M26 is on scene with first responders, the ability
to have the M26 immediately available is having a large impact on the success rate of reducing escalation of
force as a result of immediate access to M26s. More departments are moving away from having the TASER
technology as a “boutique weapon” for supervisors only.
Slide 8 Video First Responder’s Tool
• Video of Nassau County deputy first responder encountering two occupants of a car with a gun
nearby. One subject is verbally resistive as there is a warrant for his arrest. The deputy fired upon
the subject successfully. Backup was at least 10 minutes away.
•

Slide 9 Definitions
®
®
• AIR TASER and ADVANCED TASER are less-lethal Conducted Energy Weapons that use
propelled wires to conduct energy to a remote target, thereby controlling and affecting the central
nervous system of the body.
• AIR TASER® and ADVANCED TASER® are brand names associated with specific Conducted
Energy Weapons manufactured by TASER® International, Inc.

•

Slide 10 System Overview

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: Point out how the probes are launched, connecting the wires to the target and
conducting the TASER wave energy through the wires into the subject through up to 2.25” of clothing. 1800
PSI = 1800 pounds per square inch from compressed and inert nitrogen capsules located inside the Air
Cartridge. Each Air Cartridge is disposable after firing. Note that the wires are easily breakable and that
arresting officers should not step them on.
•

Slide 11 Conducted Energy Weapon History
• Jack Cover was the inventor of the TASER during 1966-1974. As a chief scientist for the NASA
Apollo Moon Landing Program, Jack responded to President Johnson’s Blue Ribbon Commission’s
call for development of non-lethal weapons.
• During the development of the TASER non-lethal weapon (1966-1974), it was discovered that very
short duration (microseconds), high energy, predominately D.C. (Direct Current) pulses were nonlethal and non-injurious, but had a profound physiological and psychological effect upon both
humans and animals.
• Original Tasertron TASER is a 7-Watt “Stun” system with 86% effectiveness in field use.
• TASER Int’l introduced the ADVANCED TASER equipment in December 1999. Currently over 850
departments test or deploy the M26.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 3

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: In the 1971-74 period, tests on volunteers were done under the supervision of Dr.
Frank Summers with two cardiologists, a physiologist, EKG and other instrumentation at St. Joseph’s
Hospital in Orange County, CA. TASER Int’l developed the 7-Watt AIR TASER as a non-firearm version of
the TASER (the older TASER uses a black powder charge propellant) made of high impact sonic welded
polymer. It’s output and effects are based upon the continued research of TASER International. Their
combined efforts added immense technological changes and decreased the size and weight of the unit while
adding performance enhancements such as controlled cycle time and built-in battery indicators for maximum
effectiveness.
•

Slide 12 Why it Works
• The human nervous system communicates by means of simple electrical impulses in the body
via a neural network of nerves.
• Conducted Energy Weapons are effective because they override the central nervous system of the
human body.

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: The ADVANCED TASER sends out short duration, high voltage electrical waves or
TASER-Waves™ or T-Waves that overpower the normal electrical signals within the nerve fibers.
•

Slide 13 TASER-Wave Technology
• If you look at a scope reading of the wave signals used by nerves to communicate within the body,
the T-Wave is very similar to the signals used by the nerves. These T-Waves create extra “noise”
within the nervous system much like static on the “phone lines” of the human body. Discuss how the
body's communication is analogous to having a conversation on a telephone where signals are sent
from one phone to another via electrical signals. Should a third person pick up this phone line and
begin to scream (analogous to a T-Wave in the body), the other two persons can no longer hear
communication. Just as important, when the screaming stops, communications begins again without
damage to the phone line.

•

Slide 14 Stun vs. EMD
• STUN systems: The original TASERs jam the central nervous system with electrical noise. (The
AIR TASER 34000 is a stun system.) This only affects the sensory nervous system – i.e. stun
systems cause a tremendous amount of noise to be fed into the brain – sensations which can be
overwhelming to most people. But stun systems do not cause a direct physical effect.
Power: 5-15 Watts
• EMD (Electro-Muscular Disruption) systems: The M26 not only stuns, it overrides the central
nervous system causing uncontrollable contractions of the muscle tissue. The ADVANCED TASER
is an EMD system and affects the sensory AND motor nervous system.
Power: 16-26 Watts
• Watts are the key, not the Volts. The Watts are the “broadcast power” that the weapon transmits
into the nervous system of the target. Voltage only measures how far a spark can arc through the
air.

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: Stun systems act by “stunning” the target with a high level of electronic stimulation.
However, highly focused individuals may not be incapacitated by the stun effect. EMD systems use a more
intense electrical waveform to directly cause contraction of the muscles and override the central nervous
system. Hence, the EMD systems not only stun the target; they physically debilitate the target by contracting
the muscles. At a high level, stun systems effect the sensory nervous system (i.e., it creates very
intense sensations which will stun the target) whereas the EMD systems affect the motor nervous
system and muscles causing direct physical incapacitation.
•

Slide 15 Stun vs. EMD
• The human nervous system is the command, control, and communication system of the human
body. The nervous system is comprised of three elements:
• The central nervous system is the command center including the brain and spinal cord. All
information processing and decision making processes occur in the central nervous system.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 4

•

•

•

The sensory nervous system includes the nerves that carry information to the brain. These
are the “intelligence gathering” nerves which carry information about the environment (hot,
cold, wet, etc.) and the state of the body (pain, body positioning, etc.) to the brain. These
nerves tend to sit near the surface of the body in the skin, where they can interface with the
skin and the environment around the body to gather information. The location of these
nerves near the skin makes them easier to stimulate than deeper nerves. Hence, lower
power stun weapons affect only these nerves.
The motor nervous system includes the nerves that carry command signals from the brain to
the muscles controlling all movement. These nerves are located deeper in the body,
protected within and beneath the muscle tissue. It takes a greater amount of power (and a
different wave form) to penetrate deep enough to control these motor nerves. Hence the
higher power and deeper penetrating wave forms of an EMD weapon are required to affect
these nerves.

Slide 16 Video Stun vs. EMD

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: The test subjects in this video were given the goal to move toward the TASER
operator. The subjects who are stunned are only slightly impaired while the EMD effect is complete
incapacitation.
•

Slide 17 Medical Safety
• It’s not the Volts that are dangerous; it’s the amps.
• The electrical output of the ADVANCED TASER is 50,000 Volts. The voltage may seem high, but
the amperage on both systems is well below safe limits.
• The M26 emits 26-Watts of energy.
• ADVANCED TASER M26 is 162mA Irms = 0.162 Amps.
th
• The output of the M26 into a human body is 1/100 of the dangerous level.

•

Slide 18 Electrical Safety
• Underwriters’ Laboratories, Inc. (electrical fence safety guideline) proven safe for people between
2 - 75 years of age. IEC 479 is a safety standard commonly used in Europe. Studies have
shown there are no long-term effects from being shot by TASER. The key concept of this slide is
that students see the electrical output of the ADVANCED TASER is at about 1/100th of the danger
level on the chart – a 100 x safety margin.

•

Slide 19 Medical Safety
• Tests of ADVANCED TASER have found:
• No effect on heart rhythms (tested on animals).
• Tested on over 3,000+ human volunteers.
• Over 99% incapacitation in less than a second.
• No long-term effects.
• The electrical outputs are still well within the safe levels defined by International standards.
• Minor skin irritation similar to sun burns.

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: Out of the 3,000+ volunteers, there are less than five who have been able to
remain standing through a high degree of mental focus. However, the muscles of their upper body were
contracted severely and the subjects would not have been able to perform combative behavior. Subjects
were only able to remain standing with hits to the front of the upper torso or to the side of the body in the ribs
where there are no major muscles. Hits to the back which affected the major muscles of the back were
overwhelming and dropped most of these subjects with the exception of those that did not get hit with a
second shot to the back. This is one reason why hits to the back are preferred when viable.
•

Slide 20 Medical Findings Pacemakers
• Modern pacemakers withstand electrical defibrillators several hundred times stronger than TASER
pulses from the ADVANCED TASER.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 5

•
•

If placed in direct contact with a pacemaker, it could momentarily affect it without health
endangerment.

Slide 21 Medical Findings Heart Failure/Drugs
• Heart Failure: In tests performed at the Univ. of Missouri, the 26-Watt ADVANCED TASER M26 was
applied directly to the chest of test animals.
• Using “worst case” scenarios, two leading experts in cardiac safety found no interference by the M26
with the heart rhythms -- even when the animal subjects under test were given drugs (epinephrine
and drugs similar to PCP and cocaine) that make the heart more susceptible to electrical stimulation.

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: Dr. Paul Hendry, Co-Director of the Pacemaker Clinic at the University of Ottawa
Heart Institute concludes that, “With regard to it's (the M26's) medical safety, based on the information that
was provided to me I cannot see that it should provide any increased risks to patients with either pacemakers
or implantable defibrillators.”
•

Slide 22 Suspect’s Behavioral Influence
• ALCOHOL
42.86%
• EDP
34.15%
• METH
6.03%
• COCAINE
5.58%
• MISC. DRUGS 3.13%
• PCP
1.34%

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: This data is from the first 448 field uses of the M26. It shows the types of subjects
that are typically involved in M26 usages. There are a high percentage of subjects on alcohol and/or are
emotionally disturbed (EDP). This data also reinforces that the M26 is particularly effective against those on
alcohol and hardcore drugs.
•

Slide 23 Video PCP User
• Video of naked man on PCP who is pepper sprayed with no effect. The M26 is deployed and
successfully subdues this dangerous individual. The first 5-second cycle drops the subject on his
back. The deputies use a second 5-second cycle to gain compliance by the subject to roll onto his
stomach where he is cuffed without further incident.

•

Slide 24 Medical Summary
• Studies have shown there are no long-term effects from being shot by TASER technology.
• A Univ. of Southern Calif. Medical Center concluded the 7-Watt TASER leaves 0% long-term
injuries.
• ADVANCED TASER testing of over 3,000+ human volunteers also found 0% long-term injuries.
• Short-term injuries can result from falling and probes. Currently, the most significant have been cuts,
bruises, and abrasions.

•

Slide 25 Comparison of Injuries Graph

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: Please review actual injury data from original TASER TE-86 as deployed at LAPD.
This data is from the older model TASER (not manufactured by TASER International), and does not include
feature enhancements such as the battery indication and automatic timing in the AIR TASER and
ADVANCED TASER. The data for police officers injured or affected includes officer contaminations using
pepper sprays. While most of these uses did not result in officer injury, the fact that the officer was
contaminated with the spray placed him at increased risk.
•

Slide 26 Case Law

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: Case Law for TASERs manufactured by Tasertron.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 6

•

•

•

•

Mateyko v. Felix (1997, CA) awarded $19,680 for inadequate training. A small amount of money to
a man name Mateyko for emotional distress caused during a traffic stop and the subsequent use of a
Tasertron TASER. In this case the lower court's jury directed 96% of the fault upon the driver
Mateyko and 4% against the city for negligent infliction of emotional distress amounting to a total of
$19,680 out of $490,000. The case touches upon issues of training and mentions that the officers
didn't know the voltage and the precise effects upon a human body of a TASER. This case, in my
opinion, only reinforces that a city deploying a TASER weapon must provide adequate training. It
does not establish that 3-4 hours of training is inadequate as some legal summaries have incorrectly
cited on their web pages. A city’s training must be adequate. Inadequate training can form the basis
for municipal liability "only where the failure to train amounts to deliberate indifference to the rights of
person with whom the police come into contact." In other words, Oxnard must provide adequate
training in a nutshell (and when they take the stand, any trained officer should know the M26 is
50,000 Volts and that the M26 overrides the central nervous system through the electrical output of
the 26-Watts). Following our PowerPoint presentation when conducting training, should cover this in
totality.
ALFORD et al. vs. OSEI-KWASI et al (1992, GA). Female inmate Alford sued DeKalb County
Deputy Sheriff for deploying the TASER on her while pregnant. However, the appellate court
granted summary judgement in favor of the defendants, noting that “Osei-Kwasi (the corrections
officer) stated he used the TASER to minimize possible injuries to all concerned, including Alford and
her unborn child.” Case ruling is available on the CD-ROM in the legal section from the main menu.
Michenfelder vs. Sumner et al (1988, NV). Michenfelder sued for violation of his rights because the
Tasertron TASER was used to enforce strip searches (force presence only, not fired at him). Court
found the TASER was used to enforce compliance with a search that had a reasonable security
purpose, not as punishment. The legitimate intended result of a shooting is incapacitation of a
dangerous person, not the infliction of pain.
Hinton v. City of Elwood, (1993, KS) Federal appeals court holds that use of stun gun to subdue
man who was resisting arrest by kicking and biting was an appropriate use of force.

•

Slide 27 Legal Misc.
• TASER International has never been sued for product liability as of 8/30/01.
• No cases have been “settled” concerning the use of a TASER Int’l product.
• No deaths contributed solely to TASER.
• Other factors that could contribute to death:
• Drug overdoses.
• Bullet wounds.
• Flammable (gasoline).
• Falling from high buildings.

•

Slide 28
• Traditionally, less-lethal weapons have worked on pain compliance, which can be overcome by
drugs, alcohol, EDPs or by focus.
• The M26 does not rely on pain compliance; instead it overwhelms the central nervous system and
achieves incapacitation.

•

Slide 29 Video RCMP Testing of M26
• Side by side comparisons of Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RMCP) tactical officers involved in
survival training. The officers are hit with OC pepper and challenged to attack a practice pad with
batons strikes, then attack a second pad with knee strikes, then call on the radio for backup. Each
officer is shown taking the pepper spray hit on the left and the M26 hit on the right side. The
purpose here is not to depreciate a valuable tool such as pepper spray. OC spray has
contributed greatly to the field of law enforcement and will continue to be valuable tools in
the law enforcement “toolbox.” Instead, this video demonstrates the speed of which the M26
affects the subject and that a goal-oriented and focused individuals are unable to resist the
effects of the M26.

•

Slides 30 Use Of Force Continuum (Example only) Matrix
TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 7

•
•
•
•

Placing TASER technology (Conductive Energy Weapons) on the use of force continuum is the
responsibility of the police department management. The recommendations here are to assist
departments in developing a sound policy.
Highlight placement of the ADVANCED TASER on Continuum.
Explain why it is placed on par with chemical sprays (fewer injuries and no aftereffects).

Slide 31 Policy / Procedures
• Purpose.
• Policy.
• Procedures for treatment of the subject shot by the ADVANCED TASER.
• ADVANCED TASER use of force report review.

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: During this portion of the training, the instructor should hand out copies of
department SOP’s to the users and review the content. Also, it is strongly recommended that the
department create a policy for declaring a TASER deployment to prevent sympathetic shootings. Many
departments use either “Code Zebra” or “Code 100” or “Code TASER” as an all-band broadcast prior to
deployment to alert other officers arriving on scene that the TASER is being deployed to prevent
“sympathetic nerve shootings” (so that the “pop” from the TASER shot is not mistaken for a gun-shot).
Also, many departments train officers to shout “TASER, TASER” prior to, or during the firing of the weapon to
reinforce with all on-scene officers that a less-lethal weapon is being deployed.
•

Slide 32 Analysis of Field Reports
• Violent
44.42%
• Resisting Arrest
41.29%
• Suicidal
20.98%
• Barricaded
8.71%
• Civil Disturbance
6.70%
• Warrant Service
5.36%
• Officer Assault
3.35%

Note: There is more than 100% as each event reported may involve one or more types of incidents.
•

Slide 33 Case 1: Potential Use
• Prime example of an opportunity of using a M26 but unavailable.
• Chandler PD, AZ 9/98.
• 250-lbs. Male.
• Irate, out of control, unarmed.
• Claiming HIV positive.
• Small room, enclosed environment.
• Result: In swarm - officer bitten and suspect’s jaw was broken.
• Note: TASER Technology could have significantly reduced injuries to officer and suspect without
contamination in a close quarter battle scenario.

•

Slide 34 Case 2: Suicidal Girl
• Successful use against a child with deadly weapons.
• Westminster PD, CO 5/01.
• 13-yr-old girl barricaded in bathroom.
• 2 butcher knives in hand.
• Charges officers with knives raised overhead.
• M26 deployed with immediate effect.
• “All officers on scene agree that she would be dead today without the M26.”

•

Slide 35 Case 3: Correctional Use
• Successful Correctional or Jail use.
• Mecklenburg County Sheriff, NC 8/98.
TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 8

•
•
•
•
•
•

60 officers injured by inmates in previous year.
Rioting seriously damaged new jail.
AIR TASER successfully deployed in 6 cell extractions.
“We now have the most peaceful jail in North Carolina.”
Laser sights are commonly used now for deterrence without need to fire weapon.

Slide 36 Video Police Cell Extraction
• Chandler PD, AZ, cell extraction involving violent and combative man on methamphetamine for 3
days. This subject had already fought his father and officers – injuring one officer. Subject was
ready to fight officers attempting to extract him from his cell. The M26 was deployed with immediate
successful results and without injury to the suspect or officers.

TRANSITION: Function and Familiarization
•

Slide 37 ADVANCED TASER M26
• Nomenclature.

•

Slide 38 Secondary Cartridge Clip
• Optional secondary cartridge clip that replaces battery cover to allow for extra Air Cartridge on hand.

•

Slide 39 Safety/Trigger Demonstration
• Demonstrate Trigger and Safety Operation.

•

Slide 40 Touch Stun Back-up
• The ADVANCED TASER has a touch stun backup. The M26 can be used in a touch stun mode
without an Air Cartridge in place.

•

Slide 41 Touch Stun Back-up
• Point out that the ADVANCED TASER will always fire a live cartridge, if there is a live cartridge in
place. Both units can be used as a touch stun system with an expended cartridge in place, or
without a cartridge in place.

•

Slide 42 Touch Stun Back-up Only
• Demonstrate proper placement to use touch-stun – aim for sensitive areas with high nerve density
for maximum stimulation drive the M26 into:
• Carotid / brachial stun area.
• Groin.
• Common Peronial.

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: Per the Royal Canadian Mounted Police testing, people who are either in a mental
health crisis state, under the influence of a mind altering substance, or extremely goal oriented are often
prone to "mind-body disconnection.” When only the touch stun is used, the M26 technique has limited threat
reduction potential for individuals at the high end of the three "mind-body disconnect" categories in regard to
pain compliance.
•

Field use success of 69 touch stuns: 85.51%

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: The touch stun is a critical issue. The term “touch stun” implies a stun effect by
simply touching someone with a stun gun. This couldn’t be further from the truth. The touch stun is effective
if delivered to a nerve point and driven into the attacker. Note that stun guns do not provide the same
knockdown power of a TASER mode weapon. TASER weapons fire probes that stick to clothing or skin.
The probes also spread out. The spread of the probes greatly increases the effectiveness and the probes
ensure that the attacker cannot “get away” from the electrical current as someone can when touch stunned.
Subjects who are touch stunned will instinctually get away from pain and the touch stun effect discontinues.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 9

If the attacker is touching you, the T-Waves will not transmit to you from the attacker. The T-Waves travel
directly between the two probes.
•

Slide 43 Probe Trajectory
• Use foil target.
• Fire ADVANCED TASER with Laser.
• Rule of thumb: The probes will separate one foot for every 7 feet they travel.

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: For any department with older TASERs, the M26’s 8-degree spread provides
increased effective range relative to the older 12-degree spread in the original Tasertron model.
•

Slide 44 Air Cartridge Types
• Note that the color of the blast door determines if live, practice or inert.
• Yellow is live 15 foot Air Cartridge.
• Yellow and Black Stripe is live 21 foot Air Cartridge.

•

Slide 45 Expended Air Cartridge
• Black (empty) expended Air Cartridge is inert, but the stun function is still operational.

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: Pass out various types of Air Cartridges and have the students unwrap their Air
Cartridges and note the following:
• Pressure release buttons.
• Reversible design – cannot jam cartridges.
•

Slide 46 Air Cartridge Info
• Probes cannot penetrate more than a 1/4” into human body.
• Darts will not penetrate a hard surface.
• If cartridges break open, DISCARD for training use only or return to TASER Int’l.
• Accuracy in wind not an issue:
• 40-60 mph……… 1 inch drift.
• 60-80 mph……… 4-5 inches.
• 100-120 mph…… 6-7 inches.

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: a video of wind testing is available in the video section of the CD.
•

Slide 47 Battery Insertion
• Remove Air Cartridge (CRITICAL!).
• Place in “safe” mode (CRITICAL!).
• Depress battery cover pin.
• Remove and load battery tray.

•

Slide 48 Battery Tray Removal
• Prior to installing or removing the battery, ensure the Air Cartridge has been removed.
• Gently tap the base of the M26 handle against thigh and use palm of hand to catch tray.

•

Slide 49 M26 Battery Insertion
• Insert batteries using “V-shape”.
• Insert tray with contacts properly aligned and “spine” of magazine toward back.
• Push on tray and slide battery cover in place with the rough textured surface facing out.
• Handling battery tray outside of unit in a manner to prevent accidental arcing of contacts.

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: It is extremely important to use caution when carrying a loaded battery tray outside
the M26 unit. There have been reported cases of officers carrying them in their pockets and causing them to
short circuit by arcing the contacts points with keys or other metallic objects. The batteries can overheat and

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 10

rupture if they are short circuited. It should be the practice of officers to carry loaded battery trays in such a
manner to prevent any accidental arcing of the contact points of the tray.
•

Slide 50 Approved Batteries
• Batteries are run at their maximum capacity by the M26 and are critical to the success of the
stopping power.
• Energizer® ACCU Rechargeable AA Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) 1.2 Volt batteries. 1200 milli amp
hours (mAh) to 1600 mAh are acceptable.
• GP® NiMH rechargeables. The GPs are available in 1500 mAh to 1800 mAh ratings.

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: The higher the mAh number, the longer the charge will last. The milliamp hour
rating (mAh) will vary in availability and the higher the mAh, the higher the price.
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: In a perfect world, you will get a little more power out of the rechargeable NiMH
batteries. These batteries are available at Home Depot,® Wal-Mart,® Homebase®, and Lowes®. You can
observe the power output by simply observing the pulse rate of the unit when activated. Since each pulse is
identical, the more power, the faster the pulse rate will be. In general, the good aspect of the Duracell Ultra
is that they don’t require recharging and can be left in the unit for months at a time without problems and
have long expiration dates. If using NiMHs, check and charge every two weeks -- requiring much more
maintenance. If you do not ensure they are charged regularly, this will cause weapon failures in the field.
BATTERY FAILURES WITH RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES IN OLDER TASERs HAVE RESULTED IN
FATALITIES BECAUSE OFFICERS HAD TO USE LETHAL FORCE.
• Slide 51 Approved Batteries Alkalines
• Duracell Ultra® AA 1.5 Volt batteries. Do not use just plain “coppertop” alkaline batteries. Ultras
have a distinct blue band or blue swirl on the battery.
• Energizer E2® Titanium 1.5 Volt batteries.
•

Slide 52 NiMHs vs. Duracell Batteries: Hear the difference
• Cycle the Energizer ACCU NiMH. Note the 15-20 pulses per second.
• Cycle the Duracell Ultras. Note the 12-15 pulses per second on fresh set.

•

Slide 53 Battery Selection
• If non-approved NiMH batteries are use, problems could arise. Some NiMH batteries don’t have
complete exposure of their positive end. The battery springs may not complete contact and result in
malfunction.
• The battery on the left will not allow the springs to touch. Remove the cardboard layer with knife or
don’t use.
• The middle and right tops will work as the bases are exposed.

•

Slide 54 Battery Selection
• Rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries give the strongest output, and perform much
better in cold weather. These must be recharged every two weeks. Also, the battery indicator
will not work with NiMHs. Remove the Air Cartridge and check for rapid pulse rate. Uncharged
batteries will cause weapon failure.
• Alkaline batteries have a stronger shelf life and the selection of the battery is very important. There
are only two alkaline batteries recommended for optimal performance: the Duracell Ultra® and
Energizer® Titanium series. Each have clearly marked expiration dates. Be very careful that you
get the ULTRA, not the regular “coppertop” Duracell alkaline! You must check for the blue band
around the middle of the battery indicating it is the new ULTRA series.

•

Slide 55 Battery Indicator Light
• Review battery checker indicator. (Remove Air Cartridge when checking the battery).
• Pulse = Healthy battery.
• No pulse = change battery.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 11

•

Battery indicator light is calibrated for alkaline batteries and will not function properly
with rechargeables. Rechargeable batteries will always indicate “low” even when fully
charged. You must remove the Air Cartridge and check for a fast spark rate of 15-20
pulses per second. On alkaline batteries: the LED light is pulsing, the battery is okay. If the
LED light is flat-line, without a pulse, the battery is unhealthy and should be changed. The red
LED light stops pulsing when the charge drops below 70%. If there is no light at all or is barely
visible, the battery is dead.

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: The battery indicator is calibrated for standard alkaline batteries. The battery
indicator will not function properly with rechargeable batteries and requires the user to remove the
Air Cartridge and check for a fast pulse rate.
•

Slide 56 Review Automatic Timing
• Increases effectiveness and stops accidental trigger release.
• 5-second discharge.
• Can be reactivated by simply depressing the trigger after each 5-second discharge.
• Depressing the trigger during the activation will not change the cycle.
• To shut the unit off at anytime, slide the safety down.

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: Demonstrate the timing cycle.
•

Slide 57 5-Second Cycle Data
• 1 seconds
1
• 2 seconds
8
• 3 seconds
11
• 4 seconds
3
• 5 seconds
103
• More than 1 cycle
99
• The data is from the first 448 uses and includes data when probes were actually fired.

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: The students should anticipate using a second and third cycle to subdue suspects.
Although the data shows here that some officers were shutting off the unit before completion of the first five
second cycle, remind the students that they should let the ADVANCED TASER run the full five second cycle
in order to reduce the probability of a field failure. The purpose of this slide is to show that most officers are
following training and applying the full discharge – and that almost half of the deployments required a second
discharge to obtain compliance.
•

Slide 58 Loading Cartridge
• Demonstrate how to load Air Cartridge -- make sure safety is down in safe position.
• Keep fingers clear from blast doors.
• Point weapon in safe direction.
• Check the back for expiration date (5-year shelf life).
• Air Cartridge has reversible fit.
• No cleanup required (periodically wipe away dirt or dust from the firing bay of the M26).

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: Let students practice loading. Expired Air Cartridges may be used for training, but
should never be deployed. Officers must turn-in expired Air Cartridges to a supervisor for training use only
and not field use.
•

Slide 59 Aiming the M26 (use dummy cartridge)
• Aim like a standard firearm at center of mass.
• Use sight and/or laser. Note: The top probe will impact within 1 and 1/2 inch of laser dot.
• Observe standard sidearm safety guidelines

•

Slide 60 Distance vs. Spread

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 12

•

Review 8-degree downward spread of bottom probe.
• When fired, the top probe impacts at point of aim. The bottom dart travels at an 8-degree angle
downward. The spread between probes increases the further you get from your target with the
probes separating one foot for every 7 feet they travel.
• The wire is thin insulated wire (copper-clad steel) and can break easily. (Show how thin wire is).

Distance To Target (feet)
Spread (inches)
•

Spread / Distance Chart
2'
5'
7'
4"
9"
13"

10'
18"

15'
26"

21’
36”

Slide 61 Proper Marksmanship
• Optimum shot for effective shooting is 12 to 18 feet from target. Minimum shot should be at least 3
feet for officer safety and sufficient probe spread.
• Aim like standard sidearm.
• Hold level - No “Antonio Banderras” unless subject is in a prone position.
• Aim at center of mass.
• If possible, maneuver to fire M26 at suspect’s back.
• Clothing fits tighter.
• Surprise factor.
• Stronger muscles -- even more overwhelming.
• No face, throat, or groin exposure.
• Deploy from cover and with lethal cover.

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: If subject is shot while running, the officer must keep pace with the subject, as the
running momentum of the subject will break the TASER-Wires. (Officer's must run with the subject if they
are to utilize the unit against a running target similar to "walking a dog on a leash.") Also, subjects shot at
extreme range of 21 feet may fall and break the TASER-Wires. Therefore, shots should have ample "slack"
for the person to fall to the ground without breaking the wires. (If there are any Air Cartridges with wires,
pass the wire around the room and have the officers break the wires to demonstrate how thin the copper clad
insulated TASER-Wire is).
•

Slide 62 Field Results
• Success Rate 93.0% (first 448 M26 actual probe applications).
• Ranges.
• 1-7 feet
111
44.8%
• 7-15 feet 136
54.8%
• 16-21 feet
1
0.4%

•

Slide 63
• Do not tilt the M26 while firing, as this will cause the bottom probe to fire wide of target.

•

Slide 64 Video Penetration of over 2.25” of clothing
• Demonstration video of clothing penetration. The electric arc from the ADVANCED TASER can
penetrate up to 2.25” of clothing.

•

Slide 65 Tactical Considerations
• Primary Tactical Consideration is: loose or very thick clothing.
• Shoot where clothing fits more tightly.
• Clothing tends to fit tighter in rear.
• T-Wave can penetrate SOME soft body armor, but not all.
• Maximum clothing penetration is 2.25”.
• Skin penetration of the probes is not required because of the electrical T-Wave “jump” through
clothing.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 13

•

Slide 66 Video Toronto SWAT Use

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: Toronto SWAT deployed a M26 on a catatonic subject who had previously fired a
gun outside. The tactics are important. The M26 shot was from an armored vehicle and was aimed so that
the probes would not hit the thick jacket. The shooter was able to place the probes in the midsection of the
center of mass. The subject was apprehended without further incident and the gun was a starter’s pistol.
•

Slide 67 Tactical Considerations
• Use common sense.
• Good for enclosed environments / close quarters.
• Use to avert violent confrontation.
• The wires are lightly insulated and can break easily if stepped on or if a running target is hit without
allowing for extra slack.

•

Slide 68 Tactical Considerations
• A full 5-second cycle deployment should be given without interruption unless circumstances dictate
otherwise.
• Each 5-second cycle is a “window of opportunity” for the arrest team to apprehend the subject and
go “hands on" during the 5-second cycle.

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: This recommendation is based upon testing by the RCMP in Canada. In volunteer
tests, combative volunteers recovered almost immediately from short one or two second bursts. However,
combative volunteers exposed to the full 5-second burst took longer to recover, appeared fatigued, and were
less apt to regain combative behavior. This reorientation of behavior and extended recovery will enable
officers to bring the situation under control more safely for both the officer and the suspect.
•

Slide 69 Video Tactical: 5-second Cycle

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: Esquimalt Police (BC, Canada) encounter a subject on methadone with two knives
on a rooftop who took apart a chimney with his bare hands and threw them at officers. The man begins to
pass out and SWAT team members approach the subject with lethal cover, remove one of the knives and
deploy the M26. Have the students watch the 5-second cycle. The officers make sure the subject is
incapacitated and deliver a second 5-second cycle to flip the man onto his stomach into an arresting position.
The subject recovers without further incident.
•

Slide 70 Considerations
• Nothing is ever 100% effective.
• Use the 5-second “window of opportunity”.
• Always have lethal cover or another reasonable and appropriate force option available.
• Use cover and distance to ensure officer safety.
• Whenever possible have at least one back up officer present to cuff the suspect while the M26 is still
cycling.
• Consider environment surrounding suspect.

•

Slide 71 Tactical Considerations
• Yell, “TASER, TASER!” / “less-lethal on scene”.
• If appropriate, allow display of arc or laser to gain compliance.
• Use verbal commands if appropriate.
• Use command other than, “Shoot!!” Use, “Deploy!”.
• Use second 5-second cycle if suspect resists.

•

Slide 72 Tactical Considerations
• Deploy with 2nd Air Cartridge available or have a 2nd M26 nearby.
• Pockets are acceptable for temporary storage.
• If first shot fails/misses:

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 14

•
•
•
•

Obtain cover to reload or resort to another tactic.
If suspect charges, “C” step and use the touch stun mode aggressively.
If Air Cartridge is a “dud,” discard immediately, reload with new cartridge and reengage target.
Don’t attempt to reuse a dud. Immediately notify TASER Int’l of serial number and return it!

•

Slide 73 What Can Go Wrong?
• Clothing over 2.25” thick.
• Low Batteries.
• Low Nerve / Muscle Mass.
• Single Dart Hit.
• Cartridge Failure / Weapon Malfunction.
• Operator Error.
• Missed Shot.
• Suspect’s reaction / officer anticipation.
• Suspect “frozen” or propped up: appears unaffected.
• Wires break.
• Batteries put in wrong or undercharged.
• Aiming angle - suspect’s position.
• Zipper shot.

•

Slide 74 What Can Go Wrong?
• Low muscle mass hit:
• A hit to a region of the body where there is low muscle mass may not knock the subject down,
i.e., a hit to the side torso between the armpit and hip area will primarily stimulate the intercostal
muscles of the rib cage. These muscles may not be strong enough to cause the subject to loose
balance and fall down. However, it may immobilize or "freeze" the suspect.
• Hits from close range with limited spread may not effect enough muscle mass to drop suspect if
highly motivated, EDP, or on narcotics.
• If subject remains erect, recommend a shot with a second M26 to another location while
continuing current from the initial hit.

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: Testing using combative volunteers by the RCMP in Regina, Canada has found
that highly focused individuals were able to fight through the effects of the ADVANCED TASER if the probes
were applied in the zone between the arm pit and hip. While the stimulation from the TASER caused
significant discomfort that would be highly effective on most subjects, the low muscle mass in this area
prevented full physical incapacitation. For example, the muscles being directly stimulated were primarily the
small stabilizing muscles between the ribs. These muscles are small, and the contractions were not severe
enough to cause the subject to go to the ground. Accordingly, if possible, avoid shooting subjects in the side
torso area. If you hit a subject in this area and they do not immediately go down, they still may be
immobilized. Continue to apply the current if the subject has stopped moving. If possible, deploy a second
M26 on the subject to increase the affect. Aim at a different location on the body.

PREPARE FOR THE WORST: WHAT CAN GO WRONG?
CASE EXAMPLE:
M26 STOPS VIOLENT EDP FROM GRABBING KNIFE DESPITE NOT
KNOCKING WOMAN DOWN
USE OF THE M26 BY FRANKLIN COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPT., OH, 8/31/00:
A stout, 185-200 lb., 45-yr-old, female subject was served a warrant for transport to a mental health facility.
When deputies were in the apt. to put her in custody, she suddenly turned very violent and officers attempted
physical force to restrain her. She threw 2 officers against the wall. She broke away from 2 officers and ran
to the kitchen area. She then attempted to grab a kitchen knife. The officers backed off and sprayed the

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 15

women with pepper spray. She laughed. She continued to go for the knife. A officer fired a M26 from 3-7
feet away at her while she was turning to get the knife from a drawer. One probe hit near her left side and
the other near her left hip area. The spread was 6-8" apart and both probes had penetrated through clothing
and into skin. During the 1st 5-second cycle she did not go down and she said, "Turn that damn thing off”,
and she was not subdued.
When the cycle ended she tried to pull out one of the probes while reaching for a knife with her other hand.
A 2nd 5-second burst was applied at which time she went to her knees and she was handcuffed. The M26
shooter stated that the woman trembled with minor pulsings and clinched her hands during the cycles. The
woman was given verbal commands to get down. The 2nd cycle stopped her from getting to the knife. After
the 2nd cycle she then complied with the officers’ commands, but was not knocked to the ground by the
M26. Rick Smith & Steve Tuttle interviewed Sgt. Gene Wise (scene supervisor), the M26 shooter, and briefly
with the Chief.
The supervisor had concern that the woman didn't go down to the deck. Toward the end of the 2nd cycle,
the M26 shooter said the woman became more compliant. The supervisor inquired what might have
happened. Note the Duracell Ultras were new out of the package on Aug 30th w/ exp. of 2006. There were
trace amounts of blood on the probes upon inspection. The M26 shooter said the arcing "seemed kind of
loud." However, it still sounds like there was a good connection. The probes may have hit the area identified
by the RCMP’s testing as a weak point for muscle contraction -- the side torso area between hip and armpit.
RCMP testing on human volunteers has found that hits in this area are highly uncomfortable, but this area is
characterized by lack of major muscle groups. Hence there is insufficient muscle contraction to drop a
focused combatant hit in this area. The M26 shooter and supervisor confirmed that the probes were close to
that area.
Tactically, TASER Int’l and officers couldn't see any problems given the nature of a small room, chaos, a
potentially lethal situation, and officers who were doing all the right things. TASER Int’l could only suggest
shooting at the back (impossible at that time) and shooting to get more spread (impossible because of space
restrictions) and having a 2nd M26 used (impossible, as they didn't have a 2nd one).
Note: Results of this deployment included one deputy being disabled by pepper spray and the woman had
two small puncture wounds. Officer’s comment: At the mental facility the subject was asked if she had a
bad day. She told the doctor her day wasn't so bad and that she had been having fun all day. Overall, the
use was considered a success in that the M26 stopped her from getting to the knife and obtained compliance
without the need to escalate to the next level of force.
•

Slide 75 Video Planning for Contingencies
• When faced with thick clothing, or clothing which is bunching away from the body, shot placement is
more critical. Aim for areas where the clothing fits tighter.
• Low Muscle Mass: Although we train to aim at center of mass, this may not always be the most
effective target area if you are firing from very close range. When firing from the recommended
distance of 12-18 feet, the top probe would hit the center of the chest while the bottom probe would
hit below the belt line in the stabilizing muscles of the thigh, groin, and leg. However, when firing
from close range (as is simulated in this example where the probes are placed under the nipple and
above the belt line) the TASER may not directly stimulate the large muscles of the legs or back. As
shown in the video, a highly focused individual may be able to remain erect and even continue to
attack even under a direct hit to the center torso. While the TASER clearly causes a lock-up of his
abdominal muscles, the target here is able to advance forward. Here are several tactics to review
again with the class to maximize effectiveness of M26 deployments:
• Against high-risk subjects, simultaneously deploy 2 ADVANCED TASERs aimed at different
areas of the body. As shown in the video, a hit from two ADVANCED TASERs is safe. In cases
involving edged weapons and other high-risk subjects, the redundancy and increased
effectiveness of a dual hit is recommended. This will help reduce the risk of a failure that could
result in a lethal force escalation.
• When possible, aim at the back. As shown in the video, a hit in the larger back muscles is more
immobilizing. While the subject here was able to remain erect during a full abdominal

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 16

•

•

•

contraction, when hit in the back the larger muscles in his back overpowered his ability to remain
erect.
If deploying from very close ranges (closer than 8 feet), consider lowering your point of
aim to the lower abdomen. This would cause the lower dart to hit in the thigh, groin, or the
stabilizing muscles in the pelvic region to help ensure the target is dropped to the ground. (From
closer ranges a center mass hit may only affect the abdominal muscles – especially when
dealing with EDP’s or intoxicated persons where the sensory effects will be numbed and the
motor / muscular effects are more critical).
Be prepared that the subject may not drop to the ground immediately. Be prepared to
deliver more than one cycle from the TASER, and be prepared to use strikes, impact weapons,
and other uses of force in conjunction with the TASER to gain compliance. For example, in one
recent field use an officer deployed the ADVANCED TASER M26 from a distance of 6 feet at
center of the chest. The subject was debilitated, but was able to turn around and move away,
causing the wires to break. The officer reloaded the M26 and again deployed at the target from
6 feet away at the center of the chest. While the unit was cycling, a second officer fired over the
shoulder of the first officer, striking the subject in the center of the chest with a second M26 at
the same time. The subject bent over, but did not drop immediately. The officers deployed two
more five-second bursts from both M26’s, slowly forcing the subject to the ground and finally
gaining compliance. Don’t expect that every subject will immediately fall down. Many of the
subjects will, but be prepared for contingencies when they don’t.

Slide 76 MURPHY’S LAW: A case in what can go wrong, BE PREPARED FOR ANYTHING!
• September 2000: An adult male was arrested for impaired driving. This individual had an extensive
criminal record and had been involved in several violent physical encounters with the police in the
previous six months. While being transported back to the police detachment building for the
purposes of providing a breath sample, the suspect became increasingly agitated; he uttered several
death treats to the officer.
Shortly after arriving at the detachment, the suspect refused to provide an adequate breath sample
and once again became agitated. He turned to face the three officers that were present, raised his
fists, and challenged them “to go”. Given the suspect’s combative posture and his previous history
of violence, the one officer carrying the ADVANCED TASER drew the device and issued the TASER
Challenge.
When the suspect continued his combative behavior, the ADVANCED TASER was fired from
approximately 3.5 meters (12 feet). The suspect was wearing a sweatshirt along with a hooded
kangaroo jacket made of similar weight sweatshirt fabric. The upper probe struck the suspect in the
chest and embedded in this clothing (skin not pierced). The lower probe struck the tip of the
drawstring and embedded in the plastic tip.
Based on an interview with the suspect 12 hours after the incident, it appears that he received some
transient conducted energy current from the first cartridge. This is most likely attributable to the fact
that the distance between the lower probe and the subject’s body varied with his movements that
caused the drawstring to randomly swing. When the probe was in close proximity to the subject’s
body the current would arc across the air gap; when that distance increased, the current ceased to
flow. The suspect was able to rip the upper probe from his clothing and the probe embedded in the
drawstring and through them to the ground.
The TASER operator quickly loaded a second cartridge and fired without the issuance of the TASER
Challenge. This time the upper probe struck the subject in the left upper chest and penetrated both
layers of clothing and embedded in his skin. The lower probe struck the subject in the kangaroo
pocket. At this point the subject effectively had three layers of sweatshirt material. Inside this pocket
the subject was carrying a plastic wallet containing his insurance documents. The manner in which
the wallet was folded created another barrier of eight layers of plastic between the subject’s skin and
the probe.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 17

Two full cycles (10 seconds) of conducted energy were delivered with the second cartridge. The
suspect remained on his feet but did not advance toward the officers. The officers’ perception was
that the suspect maintained physical control and was able to move while the current was being
administered. In the post incident interview, the suspect stated that he was “frozen” by the current
and was unable to move or fall. It is unknown if the plastic folder created a barrier that may have
reduced the current flow.
The bottom probe eventually dislodged from the clothing and fell off at the end of the second cycle.
The suspect complied with the officer’s directions and entered into the assigned cell. The cover
officer at this point had brought out OC spray and was about to use it on the suspect; he believed
this had reoriented the subject’s behavior. The suspect later stated that he entered the cell willingly
because he did not want to undergo further exposure to the TASER current.
•

•

Teaching Points:
• Expect the unexpected. No device or technique will work 100% for all officers, 100% of the time,
on 100% of the people. What are the odds of hitting the drawstring? This highly unlikely event
did occur in this real life situation and essentially limited the effectiveness of the TASER. Be
prepared to transition to another cartridge quickly or another intervention option (i.e.: OC spray,
ASP®, knees/elbows, etc.).
• Consider alternative target selection (i.e.: legs) if you do not get the desired results. During
winter months you will encounter subjects with increased clothing barriers. Although the center
mass (frontal or dorsal) will remain the primary target. If this is not successful, consider other
options.
• Do not assume that because a subject does not immediately fall to the ground that he/she is not
being affected by the conducted energy current. If time and distance permit, and the threat level
has not increased, continue to apply the TASER current as necessary while providing verbal
direction to the suspect. For example, “Lay down or I will hit you with 50,000 volts again.”

Slide 77 The Decision to Deploy
• ONLY USE TO STOP A THREAT. The ADVANCED TASER should only be used to stop a threat.
This would include threats to the officer's safety, threats to others, or even if the suspect is posing a
threat of injuring himself. It should never be used for coercion of any type. The ADVANCED TASER
gives you a non-injurious way of averting dangerous situations.
• NEVER USE FOR PHYSICAL COERCIONS. The department should develop strong policies to
deter misuse.
th
• Warn suspect prior to M26 application when feasible in light of Deorie v Rutherford (9
Circuit, 2001).
• Attempts to subdue the suspect with lesser force options have been ineffective or will likely be
ineffective in the situation. Discussion.

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: The main point to realize when talking about the actual deployment and use of the
ADVANCED TASER is that it is not a substitute for common sense and good judgment. However, it can be
an excellent tool to augment other options already in place in your use of force continuum. The ADVANCED
TASER is not a cure all for all violent offenders nor should it be used in all circumstances.
It is absolutely imperative to understand that deployment of the ADVANCED TASER unit must be backed up
with the availability of lethal force. The ADVANCED TASER is not a substitute for lethal force. It is an
alternative to other less-lethal applications of force. It should be considered as an option in cases where
other less-lethal uses of force are being considered.
The ADVANCED TASER can be best utilized in situations where a hostile or potentially hostile individual is
threatening himself or another person. It is a great tool to use as an alternative to a hands on fight or
“wrestling match” that can result in injuries to officers as well as suspects. The ADVANCED TASER is likely
to have more of an incapacitating effect on most individuals compared to chemical agents. The ADVANCED
TASER is not a foolproof weapon. When used within the design parameters of the device, the ADVANCED
TASER is a very effective, less-lethal, control device. Admittedly, the window of operation of the

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 18

ADVANCED TASER is restricted to 3-21 feet, but on the other hand it could be very useful in an environment
in which deploying of a less-lethal munitions is impossible. The ADVANCED TASER can fill the gap
between less-lethal munitions and hands on control techniques.
INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: The Ninth Circuit 242 F3d 1119, ___ and n. 19 rule could arguably apply to any
use of projectiles, stun guns, OC spray, K-9, baton, choke holds, and even fists and feet, as well as any
tactical devices likely to cause serious injury. Because the rule applies where giving a warning is “feasible,”
reports on use of such force employed without a warning should document the reasons why it was not
feasible to do so. Force policies and training may need review and updating, in light of the Deorie ruling.
Per Manning & Marder, Attorneys of Law, in April 13, 2001, Law Enforcement Information Update.
•

Slide 78 Effects of M26
• Subject may fall immediately to the ground.
• Yell or scream.
• Experience involuntary muscle contractions.
• Subject may freeze in place with legs “locked”.
• Arrest team needs to close, subdue, and cuff as soon as the subject is incapacitated.
• Subject may feel dazed for several seconds to minutes.
• Temporary tingling sensation.
• May experience Critical Stress Amnesia.
• May not remember any pain.

•

Slide 79 Video Subject Reaction
• Longmont SWAT approached a very violent subject who had a cell phone in his hand. The subject is
shot by the M26. The students should closely watch the reaction of the subject shot. At first, it
appears to have little effect. Note, one of the SWAT officers touches him during the cycle and he
immediately falls to the ground. The video demonstrates that some people lock up or appear to be
fighting the effects of the M26. Instead, the officers on scene commented that the subject was
actually screaming and was completely incapacitated.

•

Slide 80 What ADVANCED TASER Might do
• Might cause slight surface burns and slight puncture wounds.
• If placed in direct contact with a pacemaker, could momentarily affect it without health
endangerment.
• Could ignite gasoline fumes, meth labs, and other flammable or combustible environments.
• Can cause eye injury if shot too high.
• Causes muscle contractions – avoid use on women known to be pregnant as muscle
contractions could cause complications of pregnancy.
• Can cause secondary injuries from falling.

•

Slide 81 What ADVANCED TASER Won’t Do
• Does not damage nervous tissue.
• No effect on cardiac pumping.
• Does not cause serious burns.
• No reports of a M26 causing death.
• Does not cause urination or defecation.
• Can work effectively in wet environment without fear of electrocution. (The M26 is splash resistant
– not waterproof).

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: Water does not affect the output of the TASERs or cause electrocution. The
amount of energy out of the weapon is determined inside the weapon, regardless of target conditions. The
batteries of the M26 are already operating at full output capacity. If the target is wet, there is no increase in
power output as the M26 is already at maximum power. The president of TASER Int’l was shot with the AIR
TASER while standing in a pool of water to prove this effect. The weapon is safe to use in light rain or wet

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 19

conditions as long as the ADVANCED TASER or the front of the Air Cartridge is not drenched in water and
the dataport plug is in place.
INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: As for the splash resistance, one of the weak points to the weapon is the dataport
plug. If the rubber stopper is removed, liquid spills could get into the M26 while holstered. Also, note that
there is a hole on the laser sight that water could get into. If the M26 is soaked, do not turn the M26 on -- let
it air dry completely before turning it on. If dataport plug is lost, please contact TASER Int'l and get it
replaced immediately (no charge).
•

Slide 82 Effects on Animals
• The ADVANCED TASER has not been fully tested for effectiveness on animals. However, it is an
option for dealing with aggressive animals. It has generally been very successful in field uses with
animals.
• Note: the animals hit thus far have been incapacitated and or stunned but recovered instantly. All
but one of the animals quickly left the scene and broke the wires.
• If the dogs are stunned, animal control should stand by to put dog collar on stunned dogs.

•

Slide 83 Animals
• Pit bull shot by M26. Animal control officer slipped the dog collar on the pit bull during 5-second
cycle.
• “Kicks, baton, and OC were ineffective. Pit bull was attacking police K-9, biting the throat. M26 was
deployed to prevent potential death of K-9.”

•

Slide 84 Sample Treatment Policy
• THIS A SAMPLE, REFER TO YOUR DEPARTMENT POLICY AS THESE WILL VARY.
• Once in custody, advise Paramedics or ER staff at hospital.
• Remove / break wire near probes – dispose of probes and wire properly.
• Point out puncture sites, as needed.
• Only ER staff to remove probes embedded in sensitive tissue areas, i.e., neck, face & groin.
• Removal from other areas discretion of on scene supervisor -- See dept. policy.

•

Slide 85 What to do following use
• Apprehend subject as quickly as possible while the threat is disabled.
• Shooter should anticipate second or third application of M26.
• Arrest team can touch and handcuff subject while the M26 is active.
• Do not touch probes, within 2 inches of probes, or between probes while unit is active.
• Do not step on wires.
• Take photos of any injuries and place into evidence.
• Collect expended cartridge and place into evidence.

•

Slide 86 Handling Used Cartridges
• Probes that have penetrated the body should be treated as contaminated needles (use gloves).
• Probes can be removed by grabbing the probe firmly while applying pressure to the skin surrounding
the probe and pulling out in a quick fashion. Follow with alcohol or iodine swipe.
• Carefully place probes sharp-tip first into either a sharps container or into the cartridge side wire
pocket container sharp end down, secure in place, and place in a secure location where no one will
accidentally touch probes (even after training exercises).

•

Slide 87 Probes
• Probes are sterile, straightened number eight (8) 1/4" inch fish hook.
• By design, penetration will not exceed 1/4” depth even at point blank range.
• Can cauterize puncture wounds when probes penetrate skin.
• Probes are aluminum
• Wire is insulated copper clad steel

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 20

•

Slide 88 Probes
• Sample of probe shot that penetrated skin through T-shirt. The probes were removed on scene by
grabbing firmly, applying pressure to the skin surrounding probe, and pulling straight out. The
probes left two slight burns and puncture marks.

•

Slide 89 Probes
• Sample of probe shot that penetrated bare skin. The probes were removed on scene by grabbing
firmly and pulling straight out. The probes left a slight burn and puncture mark.

•

Slide 90 Probes
• Sample photo of probe shot that penetrated skin and into a scalp.
• Moving target.
• Head and armpit hit.
• No serious injury.
• ER made small incision. Probe rotated until it lined up with incision. Closed it with one suture. No
legal action taken.
• Urination not caused by TASER.

INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: The subject was at the top of a stairwell and was scouting out a vacant home for a
“rave party.” Officer shot the subject who attempted to flee. The subject fell down a stairwell and then
urinated.
•

Slide 91 Video Single Probe Hits/Probe Removal
• Single probe hits may be effective, depending on the environment. The electric current is merely
attempting to complete the circuit from the positive probe to the negative probe. If the suspect is
standing on a conductive or grounded terrain, this may allow the current to pass through the ground,
through the suspect’s body to complete the circuit. This is especially true in wet environments – the
ADVANCED TASER should work great with a single probe hit in a wet area. However, note that the
single probe hit is not effective on insulated surface such as the asphalt shown here, or on carpet.

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: Notice during the outdoor application on grass, the charge transfers to one of the
spotters. Ask your class why this would occur. The answer: when one probe is in the subject and the other
one is on the ground, the energy must transfer through the suspect, through the ground to the other probe. If
you are standing on the ground and touch the suspect, you may become a part of the path of least
resistance. (i.e. the current may prefer to flow through your body to the ground, especially if you are standing
closer to the grounded probe than the subject is).
•

The preferred method to remove the probe from tissue is to stabilize the flesh with one hand, firmly
and quickly pull the probe free. Special medical procedures will be required for sensitive areas such
as the eyes, groin, breast, etc.

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: The person removing the probe should have placed the probe between his thumb
and forefinger and not his forefinger and middle finger. There is more of a gap between the thumb and
forefinger with less chance of the probe hook catching the skin of the hand removing the probe.
•

Slide 92 ADVANCED TASER Strengths
• Unlike chemical agents, the entire body is effective target zone. DO NOT AIM AT HEAD/THROAT.
• Easy to use and low maintenance.
• Can penetrate through 2.25 cumulative inches of clothing, including leather & SOME soft body armor
(mixed results with vests).
• High deterrence of spark and laser.
• Works against suspects on drugs and alcohol.

•

Slide 93 Weapon Management Technologies

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 21

•

Purpose: to prevent abuse and protect officers from unfounded allegations through solid
documentation of usage.
• AFID (Anti-Felon Identification): every time an Air Cartridge is fired, it disperses 20-30
identification tags called AFIDs. These tags are printed with the serial number of the cartridge
and can be used to determine who fired the cartridge. Officers should be aware this system will
allow the department to trace users who are not following department policy and are using the
ADVANCED TASER inappropriately.
• Dataport: the dataport connects the M26 to a computer. The M26 stores the time and date of
the last 585 times it was fired. By downloading this data, the department can monitor usage
patterns. Every officer who is issued a M26 must be able to account for every firing of the unit.
The concept is to protect officers from false allegations of misuse by proving exactly how many
times and when the unit was discharged. The rubber stopper should be kept in the M26 dataport
at all times to protect against water and dirt contamination. The dataport can also allow the unit
to be remotely fired by tactical robots.

•

Slide 94 Dataport Cables
• Photo of the actual cables for the dataport accessory. The tan cord connects to a computer 910
serial port. The blue cord connects to the dataport of the M26. The blue box is the RS234 interface
converting digital information to analog information. There is also a software package that comes on
a 3.5” floppy disc.

•

Slide 95 Dataport
• Separate hardware and software is required for downloading.
®
• Windows ‘95 & ‘98 compatible.
• Power source for dataport chip is separate from main battery pack.
• Records time and date of each “trigger pull” -- not the duration of activation.
• Default is Greenwich meantime until set to local date and time.

•

Slide 96 Dataport Download
• This is a sample of the first page of the downloaded info from a M26. The information shows Lines 1
– 18. To see further firing records scroll down. Remember that firing record number 586 will actually
be replacing firing record number 1. The firings are listed by date, hour and second. The M26 can
show up to 585 lines of information of firings. The M26’s internal clock can be checked or changed
to the local time here as well.

•

Slide 97 Maintenance/Care
• Avoid dropping - sensitive, electronic device -- similar care of a cell phone.
• Check batteries regularly.
• Check expiration of Air Cartridges.
• Keep rubber stopper in Dataport in field use.
• Use only authorized NiMH rechargeable or authorized alkaline AA batteries.
• Secure when not in use.
• Keep in protective holster, when not in use.
• DO NOT STORE IN POCKETS.
• Periodically wipe away dirt and dust from the firing bay.

•

Slide 98 Maintenance / Care
• Example of carbon build up in M26 firing bay.

INSTRUCTOR’S NOTE: The carbon comes from the primer in the Air Cartridge. It takes about 50 or more
actual firings to get carbon build-up. Carbon just needs to wiped out with a dry cloth – not wet cloth. The
carbon is conductive and should be removed.
•

Slide 99 Review
• Reduces officer AND suspect injuries.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 22

•
•
•
•
•
•

Deploy with First Responder Patrol Officers.
“Clean” solution (close quarters).
Selective Targeting.
Electricity (+ Laser) = Deterrence.
Reduces liability and legal costs.
Low cost per use.

•

Slide 100
• Answer any remaining questions.

•

Slide 101
• Conclusion and test.
• TASER is a publicly traded company on the Nasdaq Exchange under symbol: TASR. Made in
Scottsdale, AZ USA.

•

Slide 102 Video
• Instructor Development Video on tactics and drills.

SEGMENT CONCLUSION
The ADVANCED TASER can be effective in many circumstances we encounter. Like all other use of force
issues, it should not be totally relied upon with the exclusion of all other options. But it can be a powerful and
very effective tool to keep everyone safer.
INSTRUCTOR'S NOTE: Emphasize that Conducted Energy Weapons are not toys, and their use should not
be taken lightly. As with any weapon system, there can be unforeseen and severe consequences. They
should only be used in accordance with the use of force policies of the department. Although TASER
International agrees with the definition on non-lethal weapons from the Joint Concept for Non-lethal
Weapons, the Company has adopted the term less-lethal in conjunction with input from law enforcement in
order to clarify that there will always be risk involved in use of force.

CLOSING STATEMENT
"The most important decision an officer can make is whether or not to engage deadly force upon a
person. With the new remarkable advances in technology we can now serve and protect people and
communities with less than lethal means. Now we have the technology to stop that individual who is
combat trained, mentally deranged, or under the influence of drugs and alcohol.”

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 23

Outline Questions
These questions are intended primarily for use in the instructors’ course.

1. Should the ADVANCED TASER be used on a person threatening himself with a firearm?
The ADVANCED TASER can certainly be deployed in this circumstance; however, it is mandatory to have
lethal cover in place. Remember that the ideal range for deployment of the ADVANCED TASER is 12-18
feet with a maximum of 21 feet. This is too close to be relied on and it is poor tactical judgment to confront
an armed person at that range without lethal force being immediately present. It is not recommended that
officers place themselves in a position to use the ADVANCED TASER when confronting an armed person.
2. Should the ADVANCED TASER be used on a person threatening another person with a firearm?
As stated in the previous scenario, the ADVANCED TASER could be effective in this case -- perhaps even
more so. Remember that when the armed individual is present, lethal force must be present to counteract
that threat. In a “hostage” situation suggested here, the ADVANCED TASER could be used as a less-lethal
option. The suspect could be disarmed by the use of the ADVANCED TASER but not without certain officer
safety considerations. It is not recommended that the ADVANCED TASER be used in this circumstance.
3. Should the ADVANCED TASER be used on a person armed with an edged weapon?
This situation may be more suited to the deployment of the ADVANCED TASER. If an officer can discharge
the ADVANCED TASER from a position of cover, inside the effective range of the unit, this maybe a method
of diffusion with the minimum force necessary. Remember this situation demands that lethal force/lethal
cover is present before confronting a suspect. Remember the “21 foot” rule for confronting suspects armed
with edged weapons.
4. Should the ADVANCED TASER be used on a person armed with a broken bottle?
If we treat a suspect armed with a bottle in the same manner as one armed with a edged weapon, the
answer is yes, with the proper officer safety measures. This situation is likely to be less threatening than
confronting a person with a handgun, due caution needs to be applied.
5. Should the ADVANCED TASER be used on a person under the influence of alcohol or drugs?
The ADVANCED TASER can be used in this circumstance without fear of permanent injury to the suspect.
ADVANCED TASER will, in most cases, be more effective on an unruly or defiant suspect than more
traditional chemical agents and hands on control techniques.
6. Should the ADVANCED TASER be used on a person holding a hostage adult or child?
The ADVANCED TASER can be very useful in this circumstance. Remember that the electrical charge felt
by the suspect is not transferred to another person simply by body to body contact. It is important to note
however that if you place your hand or any other part of your body on the suspect’s body, in an area between
the two probes, while the unit is activated, you may receive a comparable charge.
7. Should the ADVANCED TASER be used on a person outdoors in a wet environment?
As demonstrated in the training video, the ADVANCED TASER can be safely deployed in a wet environment.
The manufacturer deployed the unit on a person who was standing in a one-foot deep swimming pool with
no adverse effects. Remember, if both probes do not come into contact with the suspect, performance of the
unit will be effected. If one probe lands directly in a wet environment surrounding the suspect, the charge
can also effect the immediate terrain around the suspect.
8. Should the ADVANCED TASER be used on a person that has been exposed to flammable liquids?

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 24

We have encountered individuals in the past that have been in enclosures that have been saturated with
gasoline and gasoline fumes. It is scientifically possible that the sparking action of the deployed
ADVANCED TASER unit could ignite gasoline fumes and other flammable or combustible environments like
meth labs. Therefore, the ADVANCED TASER will not be deployed in this circumstance.
9. Should the ADVANCED TASER be used on a person that has been exposed to Pepper Spray?
You must know whether you department uses pepper spray or chemical sprays that are alcohol based
versus non-alcohol based. If the spray is alcohol based, then the ADVANCED TASER should not be used.
If the spray is non-alcohol based, it is not a flammable substance. It is not combustible by electrical charges
generated by the ADVANCED TASER unit. The ADVANCED TASER can be safely used in this application
and maybe the next logical step in the use of force after chemical agents have failed. However, you must
make sure the chemical agent used is not alcohol based. A good safety check is to deploy the spray against
a paper grocery sack in a fire safe environment with fire extinguishers handy. Saturate the bag with the
spray. Fire an Air Cartridge from a safe distance away and determine if the bag catches fire. Also, request
the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) from the manufacturer of the spray and check for alcohol or
isopropyl alcohol as a carrier or ingredient to ensure non-flammability.
10. Should the ADVANCED TASER be used on a person that has been exposed to water i.e.: wet
clothing?
The unit can be used safely and wet clothing will not magnify the intensity of the current generated.
11. Should the ADVANCED TASER be used on a person that is fleeing from officers?
ADVANCED TASER is a less-lethal munition. It can be deployed in any circumstance that other uses of
force, such as hands on techniques, chemical agents, or less-lethal munitions (beanbag) can be used. The
answer to this question is yes, but the officer needs to run with the subject or the wires will be stretched
beyond 21 feet as the person flees or falls.
12. Should the ADVANCED TASER be used on a person where other munitions or technique have
failed?
This unit is intended to be another tool in your toolbox of means and methods to stop and control violent and
potentially violent persons. As in your prior training with other uses of force, we will use the force necessary
to counteract the threat. If this device hasn’t been deployed and it is available, it is within the scope of your
force continuum to deploy it.
13. Should the ADVANCED TASER be deployed on persons that have only refused to submit to
arrest and have not violently resisted arrest?
Again, common sense and evaluation of the scenario will dictate if the use of the device is advisable. The
suspect will sustain no permanent injury, if the unit is used properly. It is likely to be better to remove the
possibility of injury to both suspect and officers by deploying the ADVANCED TASER, as opposed to getting
involved in a physical melee with the offender.
14. Should the ADVANCED TASER be used on a pregnant female or elderly person?
It is not advisable to deploy the AIR TASER or ADVANCED TASER in these circumstances unless all other
means short of lethal force have been used. There are some increased medical ramifications for persons in
these conditions that should preclude the use of this device from a practical and liability perspective.
15. Should I carry the ADVANCED TASER or Air Cartridges in a pocket?
No. The ADVANCED TASER and Air Cartridges should only be carried in holsters or cases designed to
properly protect the units during transportation unless for temporary storage only.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 25

ADVANCED TASER® M26 Pre-Deployment Checklist
____

Develop Department Deployment Policy
An example policy is included on the TASER International CD-ROM. While this policy may be used
to form the basis of your department policy, department management should ratify and modify the
policy for your department's specific requirements.

____

Develop Use of Force Guidelines
An example policy is included on the TASER International CD-ROM. While this policy may be used
to form the basis of your department policy, department management should ratify and modify the
policy for your department's specific requirements.

____

Develop Supervisory ADVANCED TASER Use Report
An example report is included on the TASER International CD-ROM. While this report may be used
to form the basis of your department policy, department management should ratify and modify the
policy for your department's specific requirements.

____

Brief Relevant Community Services
It is recommended to notify relevant interest groups in the community prior to or concurrent with
ADVANCED TASER deployment. The following community groups should be considered:
•
•
•
•

Fire Battalion Chief
EMTs
Local Hospital Staff
Media

TASER International, Inc. personnel are available to assist in media relations. Media education prior
to deployment will serve the department best by ensuring more accurate understanding of the
ADVANCED TASER and the reasons for its deployment. Further, media education provides an
opportunity to educate the public about the steps the department has undertaken to reduce
liability and injuries to both officers and suspects.
____

Establish File for ADVANCED TASER Certifications
All officers must pass certification course prior to deployment of ADVANCED TASER. Signed
certification tests must be kept on file for all officers using the ADVANCED TASER. All certified
officers should receive printed copies of the following documents at time of certification:
•
•
•

____

Department Deployment Policy
Use of Force Guidelines
Supervisory ADVANCED TASER Use Report

Establish File for ADVANCED TASER Use Reports
Every use of the TASER technology should be documented using the department's established
report (as modeled in the training manual). Part of the filing procedure should be to go online to the
TASER Int'l website (www.TASER.com) and submit a use report. If you do not have access to the
Internet, please fax a copy of the report to TASER Int'l at 480-991-0791, Attn: Law Enforcement
Affairs. Information used to establish a national usage database that will be submitted to the
International Association of Chiefs of Police Use of Force Database. Please mark reports as
confidential and strike names as appropriate.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 26

ADVANCED TASER® M26 User Certification Checklist
The requirements set forth below are deemed to be the minimum requirements to obtain a manufacturer's
user certification. These requirements are considered to be the basis for a sound understanding of how and
when to use the ADVANCED TASER and should be completed prior to deployment. A copy of each user's
Certification Test should be kept in department records to validate certification.
____

Complete minimum 4 hours of instruction
The user shall have completed minimum of 4 hours of instruction under the guidance of a certified
instructor. Coursework shall include all topics in Instructor Lesson Plan, including all drills and
functional demonstrations.

____

Pass Written Examination
User must pass written examination with a score of 80% or greater.

____

Pass Functional Test
User must pass all functional tests listed at the end of the Certification Test.

____

Fire four (4) Air Cartridges
The user should fire four (4) Air Cartridges to both familiarize the user with the functions of the
system as well as to test aptitude. The user should fire one Air Cartridge during the instruction
course and three Air Cartridges during the final test. The user must be able to hit the target from 8
feet without the laser sight, and must be able to hit the target from 12 feet using a laser sight and
firing two Air Cartridges within 10 second time limit. Students who do not hit the target should be run
through aiming drills, and asked to fire again. Users should not be qualified until they have passed
both firing tests. It is up to the discretion of the issuing law enforcement agency to determine the
minimum number of shots fired for user qualification. However, at a minimum at least 2 shots must
be fired to receive this certification from TASER International.
Certification is valid for a period of one year. Users should re-qualify once each year.

Re-qualification Checklist
____

Pass Written Examination
User must pass written examination with a score of 80% or greater.

____

Pass Functional Test
User must pass all functional tests listed at the end of the Certification Test.

____

Fire a minimum of two (2) Air Cartridges
The user must fire a minimum of 2 Air Cartridges to both re-familiarize the user with the functions of
the system as well as to test aptitude. The user should fire one Air Cartridge during the instruction
course and three Air Cartridges during the final test. The user must be able to hit the target from 8
feet without the laser sight, and must be able to hit the target from 12 feet using a laser sight and
firing two Air Cartridges within 10-second time limit. Students who do not hit the target should be run
through aiming drills, and asked to fire again. Users should not be qualified until they have passed
both firing tests.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 27

PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 28

7860 E. McClain Dr., Suite 2 * Scottsdale, AZ 85260 * USA * 480-991-0797 * Fax 480-991-0791

www.TASER.com

ADVANCED TASER® M26 Certification Test
PRINT LEGIBLY AND CLEARLY PLEASE!
Name: ________________________

Dept. / Company: ________________________

Rank: ________________________

Email: ________________________________

Phone: ________________________

Fax: __________________________________

Address: ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Training Date: ____________ Location: ______________________________________
1.

The ADVANCED TASER should be aimed at:
A. Face
B. Center of body mass
C. The legs
D. The head and neck

2.

The red pulsing light on the ADVANCED TASER handle with Alkaline batteries indicates:
A. The battery should be replaced.
B. The battery is good and the ADVANCED TASER is ready to deploy.
C. There is a malfunction
D. The unit is off.

3.

The maximum range of the ADVANCED TASER is.
A. 8 feet.
B. 13 feet.
C. 21 feet.
D. 25 feet.

4.

After deploying the ADVANCED TASER upon the "threat”
A. Immediately turn the unit off.
B. Allow the firing cycle to continue until the threat is disabled.
C. Use the unit as a stun gun if the probes miss the threat.
D. Both B and C.

5.

The ADVANCED TASER’s dataport records the how many firing times/date of use?
A. 1,000
B. 130
C. 200
D. 585

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 29

6.

The ADVANCED TASER’s automatic timing cycle is for what duration?
A. 1 minute.
B. 30 seconds.
C. 15 seconds.
D. 5 seconds.

7.

True or False: The ADVANCED TASER may be used just as a stun gun with an unfired Air Cartridge in place?

8.

True or False: The ADVANCED TASER operates at 50,000 Volts and 26 Watts.

9.

True or False: The ADVANCED TASER may be used on threats under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

10. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER probes must break the skin to work.
11. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER automatic timing cycle cannot be stopped during operation.
12. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER’s recommended firing distance is 12-18 feet.
13. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER is designed to shoot similar to a firearm.
14. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER (26-Watt EMD) interferes with the sensory nervous system only.
15. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER’s live 15 foot cartridge has a yellow colored front.
16. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER can be manually shut off during the firing cycle.
17. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER uses 2 AA batteries.
18. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER fires its bottom probe at a 12-degree downward angle.
19. When using the ADVANCED TASER in conjunction with chemical sprays, the following must be considered:
A. Type of propellant and base of chemical or pepper spray.
B. If the threat has been sprayed in the eyes.
C. If the threat is not reacting to the chemical spray.
D. The body weight of the target.
20. If the threat is standing in water when the ADVANCED TASER is deployed:
A. The ADVANCED TASER will not function.
B. Only the threat will be electrocuted to potential death.
C. Both the officer and threat will be electrocuted to potential death.
D. The ADVANCED TASER will work properly.
21. The ADVANCED TASER is constructed of what material?
A. Recycled plastic grocery bags.
B. Sonic welded, molded, high impact polymer.
C. Machined alloy.
D. Lightweight metal.
22. The ADVANCED TASER’s T-Wave output simulates.
A. The electronic waves used by communicating dolphins.
B. The electronic signals used by the human nerves to communicate.
C. The microwave signals used by police radar detectors to communicate information.
D. The electronic output of a 110-Volt electrical socket.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 30

23. The ADVANCED TASER’s long-term effect on the threat is:
A. Possible intermittent seizures.
B. Temporary, unexpected blindness.
C. None.
D. Nervous twitches.
24. The "TASER-Wave" electronic signals of the ADVANCED TASER are effective:
A. Through up to two inches of clothing.
B. Through some types soft body amour.
C. Through lightweight clothing.
D. All of the above.
25. The ADVANCED TASER's spread between the two probes at 21 feet is:
A. 10 inches
B. 2 inches
C. 36 inches
D. 60 inches
26. The ADVANCED TASER affects the:
A. Urinary tract
B. Sensory nervous system
C. Sensory and motor nervous systems
D. Cardiac system
Explain the proper way of deploying ADVANCED TASER at a threat (150 words or less or by bullet-points)
from deployment through arrest:

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 31

ADVANCED TASER® M26 NOMENCLATURE
Identify the parts of the ADVANCED TASER

,

A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.

Trigger
Battery Cover
Air Cartridge
Dataport
Safety
Battery Cover Pin
Front Sight & Rear Post Sights
Built-in Laser
Battery Indicator

______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______

When you have completed this test, please deliver it to your instructor.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 32

ADVANCED TASER® M26 User Application
PRINT LEGIBLY AND CLEARLY PLEASE!
Rank: _______________________ Name: __________________________________
Dept. / Company: _______________________________________________________
Phone: ________________________ Fax: _________________________________
Email: ________________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Number of answers correct: _______ out of 35. (80% minimum = 28 correct answers)
Instructor to initial that student has successfully completed the following functional tests:
_____

Demonstration of proper finger position for aiming and firing.

_____

Reload ADVANCED TASER 5 times in 15 seconds (watch finger position, disqualify for fingers in front of blast
doors).

_____

Officer can control unit adequately when commanded "Arm - Spark - Off" at random.

_____

Officer can remove and reinstall battery correctly.

_____

Draw ADVANCED TASER and hit target at 8 foot distance (time limit 5 seconds).

_____

Draw ADVANCED TASER (select the unit most likely to be used in the field) hit target at 8 feet, reload, hit 2
target at 12 feet with laser sight (time limit 10 seconds).

nd

I hereby Certify that ____________________________________________ has successfully completed a minimum of
four hours training, has passed the written test with a score of 80% or better, has passed the above functional tests, has
demonstrated sufficient proficiency in the function, and use of the ADVANCED TASER and is hereby certified as a
trained user of this system.
Attested: ________________________________ Dated: _______________________________
Certified Instructor

Please list the serial numbers of the Air Cartridges fired:
___________; ___________; ___________; ___________; ___________

Maintain a file copy of this certification in department records.
TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 33

ADVANCED TASER® M26 Certification Answer Sheet
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.

B
B
C
D
D
D
FALSE
TRUE
TRUE
FALSE
FALSE
TRUE
TRUE
FALSE
TRUE
TRUE
FALSE
FALSE
A
D
B
B
C
D
C
C

Depending on department policy, answers should correspond to the general answers below:
•
Identify threat if acceptable for use of an ADVANCED TASER (child, pregnant, elderly, etc.).
•
Call for backup, “Code Zebra” or “TASER, TASER”.
•
Pull ADVANCED TASER from holster with live yellow Air Cartridge.
•
If Air Cartridge is black and yellow, range is 21 feet. If Air Cartridge is yellow, range is 15 feet.
•
Give strong verbal instructions to threat to stop actions.
•
If not cooperating, slide safety back.
•
Check battery level – blinking red LED.
•
Aim ADVANCED TASER at upper back or chest.
•
Watch for loose clothing or clothing that is too thick.
•
Give instructions again for threat to stop action (laser sight may cause capitulation).
•
If not cooperating and still a threat, press actuator.
•
Ensure target falls to ground or is incapacitated.
•
Closer can apprehend threat or if by oneself, the ADVANCED TASER can be place on the ground and apprehended by the
shooting officer (careful not touch threat with hands between the probes).
•
Put the safety back on when use of force is complete or suspect has cooperated.
•
Reload ADVANCED TASER with new Air Cartridge and return to holster.

NOMENCLATURE ANSWERS FOR ADVANCED TASER:
A. 3. Trigger
B. 7. Battery Cover
C. 2. Air Cartridge
D. 6. Dataport
E. 9. Safety
F. 8. Battery Cover Pin
G. 1. Fin & Blade Sight

H. 4. Built-in Laser
I. 5. Battery Indicator

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 34

PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 35

SUPERVISORY TASER® International USE REPORT
Date/Time: _________________ TASER Officer’s Name: _____________________________________
E-mail: ____________________________ Department: _______________________________________
Department Address: ________________________________________ Phone: ____________________
On Scene Supervisor: ___________________Officer(s) Involved: _______________________________
TASER Serial #: _____________ Medical Facility: _________________ Doctor: _________________
ER#: ________________________________ Fire DR#: _______________________________________
Nature of the Call or Incident: ___________________ Charges: __________________ Booked: Y / N
Location of Incident: ( ) Indoor ( ) Outdoor ( ) Jail ( ) Hospital ________________________________
Type of Force Used (Check all that apply): ( ) Physical ( ) Less-lethal ( ) Firearm
Nature of the Injuries and Medical Treatment Required: ______________________________________
Admitted to Hospital for Injuries: Y / N
Medical Exam: Y / N

Admitted to Hospital for Psychiatric: Y / N

Suspect Under the influence: Alcohol / Drugs (specify): __________________

Was an Officer, Police Employee, Volunteer or Citizen Injured? Y / N
Incident Type {Circle appropriate response(s) below}:
Civil Disturbance

Suicidal

Suicide by Cop

Violent Suspect

Barricade

Warrant Service

Other

Age: _____ Sex: _____ Height: _____ Race: _____ Weight: _______
TASER use (circle one): Success / Failure

Suspect wearing heaving clothes: Y / N

Number of Air Cartridges fired: _________
Usage (check one): ( ) Arc Display Only

Number of cycles applied: ___________

( ) Laser Display Only

TASER: Is this a dart probe contact: Y / N

( ) TASER Application

Is this a stun gun contact: Y / N

TASER® weapon used: ( ) AIR TASER 34000-series

( ) ADVANCED TASER M-series

Approximate target distance at the time of the dart launch: __________________________________
Distance between the two probes: ________________ Need for an additional shot? Y / N
Did dart contacts penetrate the subject’s skin? Y / N
TASER: Did the application cause injury: Y / N

Probes removed on scene: Y / N

If yes, was the subject treated for the injury: Y / N
TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 36

DESCRIPTION OF INJURY:
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
APPLICATION AREAS - Points of contact (place “X’s” where probes hit suspect)

SYNOPSIS:
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Need for additional applications? Y / N

Did the device respond satisfactorily? Y / N

Describe the subject’s demeanor after the device was used or displayed?
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________

Chemical Spray: Y / N

Baton or Blunt Instrument: Y /N

Authorized control holds: Y / N

If yes, what types: ________________________________________

Describe other means attempted to control the subject: ______________________________________
Photographs Taken: Y / N

Report Completed by: _____________________________________

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 37

ADVANCED TASER® M26 Demo Report
Date: _____________ Officer’s Name with rank: _____________________________
Department: ____________________________________________________________
Age: _____ Sex: _____ Height: ______

Weight: ______

Did dart contacts penetrate the subject’s skin? Y / N
Did the application cause injury: Y / N
If yes, was the subject treated for the injury: Y / N

APPLICATION AREAS
Please place “X’s” on the points of contact

Please list effects, comments and or how it felt. (Note, could you fight back?):
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
This information is requested for the International Association of Chiefs of Police Use of
Force National Database Project and published in our medical research.
May we quote your comments? Y / N
Signature: ________________________________________

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 38

7860 E. McClain Dr., Suite 2 * Scottsdale, AZ 85260 * USA * 480-991-0797 * Fax 480-991-0791

www.TASER.com

ADVANCED TASER® M26 Certification Test
PRINT LEGIBLY AND CLEARLY PLEASE!
Name: ________________________

Dept. / Company: ________________________

Rank: ________________________

Email: __________________________________

Phone: ________________________

Fax: ___________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
Training Date: ____________ Location: _______________________________________
1.

The ADVANCED TASER should be aimed at:
A. Face
B. Center of body mass
C. The legs
D. The head and neck

2.

The red pulsing light on the ADVANCED TASER handle with Alkaline batteries indicates:
A. The battery should be replaced.
B. The battery is good and the ADVANCED TASER is ready to deploy.
C. There is a malfunction
D. The unit is off.

3.

The maximum range of the ADVANCED TASER is.
A. 8 feet.
B. 13 feet.
C. 21 feet.
D. 25 feet.

4.

After deploying the ADVANCED TASER upon the "threat”
A. Immediately turn the unit off.
B. Allow the firing cycle to continue until the threat is disabled.
C. Use the unit as a stun gun if the probes miss the threat.
D. Both B and C.

5.

The ADVANCED TASER’s dataport records the how many firing times/date of use?
A. 1,000
B. 130
C. 200
D. 585

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 1

6.

The ADVANCED TASER’s automatic timing cycle is for what duration?
A. 1 minute.
B. 30 seconds.
C. 15 seconds.
D. 5 seconds.

7.

True or False: The ADVANCED TASER may be used just as a stun gun with an unfired Air Cartridge in place?

8.

True or False: The ADVANCED TASER operates at 50,000 Volts and 26 Watts.

9.

True or False: The ADVANCED TASER may be used on threats under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

10. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER probes must break the skin to work.
11. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER automatic timing cycle cannot be stopped during operation.
12. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER’s recommended firing distance is 12-18 feet.
13. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER is designed to shoot similar to a firearm.
14. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER (26-Watt EMD) interferes with the sensory nervous system only.
15. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER’s live 15 foot cartridge has a yellow colored front.
16. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER can be manually shut off during the firing cycle.
17. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER uses 2 AA batteries.
18. True or False: The ADVANCED TASER fires its bottom probe at a 12-degree downward angle.
19. When using the ADVANCED TASER in conjunction with chemical sprays, the following must be considered:
A. Type of propellant and base of chemical or pepper spray.
B. If the threat has been sprayed in the eyes.
C. If the threat is not reacting to the chemical spray.
D. The body weight of the target.
20. If the threat is standing in water when the ADVANCED TASER is deployed:
A. The ADVANCED TASER will not function.
B. Only the threat will be electrocuted to potential death.
C. Both the officer and threat will be electrocuted to potential death.
D. The ADVANCED TASER will work properly.
21. The ADVANCED TASER is constructed of what material?
A. Recycled plastic grocery bags.
B. Sonic welded, molded, high impact polymer.
C. Machined alloy.
D. Lightweight metal.
22. The ADVANCED TASER’s T-Wave output simulates.
A. The electronic waves used by communicating dolphins.
B. The electronic signals used by the human nerves to communicate.
C. The microwave signals used by police radar detectors to communicate information.
D. The electronic output of a 110-Volt electrical socket.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 2

23. The ADVANCED TASER’s long-term effect on the threat is:
A. Possible intermittent seizures.
B. Temporary, unexpected blindness.
C. None.
D. Nervous twitches.
24. The "TASER-Wave" electronic signals of the ADVANCED TASER are effective:
A. Through up to two inches of clothing.
B. Through some types soft body amour.
C. Through lightweight clothing.
D. All of the above.
25. The ADVANCED TASER's spread between the two probes at 21 feet is:
A. 10 inches
B. 2 inches
C. 36 inches
D. 60 inches
26. The ADVANCED TASER affects the:
A. Urinary tract
B. Sensory nervous system
C. Sensory and motor nervous systems
D. Cardiac system
Explain the proper way of deploying ADVANCED TASER at a threat (150 words or less or by bullet-points)
from deployment through arrest:

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 3

ADVANCED TASER® M26 NOMENCLATURE
Identify the parts of the ADVANCED TASER

,

A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.

Trigger
Battery Cover
Air Cartridge
Dataport
Safety
Battery Cover Pin
Front Sight & Rear Post Sights
Built-in Laser
Battery Indicator

______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______
______

When you have completed this test, please deliver it to your instructor.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 4

ADVANCED TASER® M26 User Application
PRINT LEGIBLY AND CLEARLY PLEASE!
Rank: _______________________ Name: __________________________________
Dept. / Company: _______________________________________________________
Phone: ________________________ Fax: _________________________________
Email: ________________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Number of answers correct: _______ out of 35. (80% minimum = 28 correct answers)
Instructor to initial that student has successfully completed the following functional tests:
_____

Demonstration of proper finger position for aiming and firing.

_____

Reload ADVANCED TASER 5 times in 15 seconds (watch finger position, disqualify for fingers in front of blast
doors).

_____

Officer can control unit adequately when commanded "Arm - Spark - Off" at random.

_____

Officer can remove and reinstall battery correctly.

_____

Draw ADVANCED TASER and hit target at 8 foot distance (time limit 5 seconds).

_____

Draw ADVANCED TASER (select the unit most likely to be used in the field) hit target at 8 feet, reload, hit 2
target at 12 feet with laser sight (time limit 10 seconds).

nd

I hereby Certify that ____________________________________________ has successfully completed a minimum of
four hours training, has passed the written test with a score of 80% or better, has passed the above functional tests, has
demonstrated sufficient proficiency in the function, and use of the ADVANCED TASER and is hereby certified as a
trained user of this system.
Attested: ________________________________ Dated: _______________________________
Certified Instructor

Please list the serial numbers of the Air Cartridges fired:
___________; ___________; ___________; ___________; ___________

Maintain a file copy of this certification in department records.
TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 5

ADVANCED TASER® M26 Instructor Application
PRINT LEGIBLY AND CLEARLY PLEASE!

Rank: _______________________ Name: __________________________________
Dept. / Company: _______________________________________________________
Phone: ________________________ Fax: _________________________________
Email: ________________________
Address: ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Written certification test score: _______________ out of 35. (90% minimum required = 32 correct answers).
Further, the individual has been asked to instruct the class in one of the topics listed in the attached KEY COURSE
CONCEPTS in detail in front of the class. If there are more than 14 students, topics will be repeated such that every
instructor applicant presents. Was the instructor’s performance acceptable? (circle one): Yes / No
I hereby certify that __________________________________ has passed the ADVANCED TASER Certification Test
with a minimum score of 90% and has met the above criteria for sufficient knowledge and presentation skills to safely
and comprehensively instruct others in the use of the ADVANCED TASER less-lethal weapon.
Attested by Certifying Master Instructor: ________________________ _________________________
(Signature)
(Print Name)
Date: ___________________ Certifying Master Instructor ID: _____________________________________

Please list the serial numbers of the Air Cartridges fired:
___________; ___________; ___________; ___________; ___________

Certification Instructions:
•
Mail a copy of this completed form along with copy of completed Certification Test to:
Instructor Certification
TASER International
7860 E. McClain Dr., Suite 2
Scottsdale, AZ 85260, USA
•

Upon approval, Instructor Applicant will be issued a TASER International Instructor ID Code, which will be returned
via fax, email, or mail. The Instructor Certificate will be mailed.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 6

ORAL PRESENTATION TEST QUESTIONS
(Student to address class with two (2) minute answers)
1. Name the parts of the ADVANCED TASER (nomenclature) and describe their functions.
2. How does the ADAVNCED TASER immobilize a health adult and what are the effects? How is the
immobilization caused by the ADVANCED TASER (a 26 Watt EMD system) different from stun systems?
3. Discuss the power output of the ADVANCED TASER, battery checker, battery replacement, and types of
batteries to be used.
4. Discuss the proper method of loading an ADVANCED TASER power handle, firing it, aiming point
(mention areas that might cause a problem for the M26 to function), and the timing cycle.
5. Discuss the various Air Cartridges, probe flight paths and the wire that comes out.
6. Show the proper aiming techniques for an ADVANCED TASER shooter against various targets. Discuss
cover, range, flight paths, and the ranges of the various types of Air Cartridge.
7. How does the ADVANCED TASER stop and individual? Discuss the TASER Wave. What is different
about the ADVANCED TASER compared to older TASER stun systems?
8. What can an officer reasonably expect when firing an ADVANCED TASER at a subject. Discuss target
reactions, possible tactics and how to handle a subject that is attached to probes.
9. Discuss when the ADVANCED TASER should be deployed under your department's expected guidelines
(cover use of force, types of subjects that can be shot by an AIR TASER, and the situations where it may
be used).
10. Discuss situations where you can and cannot use the ADVANCED TASER.
11. Discuss the Pre-Deployment checklist, what procedures should be in place, who should be contacted
and why.
12. Discuss the medical considerations of the ADVANCED TASER. Why is it healthy, what are the shortterm effects and its safety issues. Mention cardiac and pacemaker areas and the removal of the probes.
13. Discuss improper techniques that an instructor must watch for during testing and firing. Hand position,
aiming technique, improper safety considerations, improper Air Cartridge removal, and improper battery
removal.
14. Discuss the differences between a stun system and an Electro-Muscular Disruption (EMD) system.
15. Discuss the dataport. What does it do, the number of firings recorded, other applications and care for
the system.

16. Discuss the differences of the NiMH versus alkaline batteries and how they affect the M26.

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 7

ADVANCED TASER® M26 Demo Report
Date: _____________ Officer’s Name with rank: _____________________________
Department: ____________________________________________________________
Age: _____ Sex: _____ Height: ______

Weight: ______

Did dart contacts penetrate the subject’s skin? Y / N
Did the application cause injury: Y / N
If yes, was the subject treated for the injury: Y / N

APPLICATION AREAS
Please place “X’s” on the points of contact

Please list effects, comments and or how it felt. (Note, could you fight back?):
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
This information is requested for the International Association of Chiefs of Police Use of
Force National Database Project and published in our medical research.
May we quote your comments? Y / N
Signature: ________________________________________

TASER INTERNATIONAL LESSON PLAN p. 8