Looking for a non-lethal gun for self-defense? Byrna guns are among the most talked-about "guns" that are not real guns!
Designed to look and feel like a firearm, these launchers fire kinetic and chemical projectiles to deter threats without lethal consequences.
They're also legal in all 50 states! No background checks required.
But how well do they actually work?
Here’s an in-depth, hands-on review of the Byrna SD Self-Defense Kinetic Launcher vs Byrna LE Launcher.
In this guide I'll answer:
The 2 best Byrna Guns on Amazon
Are Byrna guns legal?
Do you need a license to carry a byrna gun?
Let's get started.
Quick Comparison: Which Byrna Gun Do You Choose?
Feature | ||
Best For | Home defense & training | Maximum stopping power & outdoor defense |
Projectile Speed | 300 FPS | 400 FPS (max) |
Range | 60 feet | 80 feet |
CO2 Size | 8g | 12g |
Shots per CO2 Cartridge | 20 | 35 |
Kinetic Energy | ~16 joules | 22.3 joules |
Trigger Pull | Heavier | Lighter, smoother |
Recoil | None | Slight kick due to increased power |
What Is A Byrna Gun?
Otherwise known as the "Un-Gun", a Byrna gun is a non-lethal self-defense weapon that looks and performs like a firearm but fires kinetic and chemical irritant projectiles instead of bullets.
It operates using CO2 cartridges to propel .68 caliber rounds at speeds up to 400 feet per second (FPS). Unlike traditional firearms, Byrna guns require no background check or firearm permit in most areas. With an effective range of up to 80 feet, they provide a safer, legal alternative to conventional weapons for home and personal defense.
Best Byrna Gun On Amazon: A Review
My First Impressions
Right out of the box, it works flawlessly—no jams, no CO2 leaks, and no misfires.
The holster options are limited, but Byrna does offer a Level 2 holster for safer carrying.
Reload time could be faster, especially in high-stress situations.
There are occasional dry-fire issues (a trigger pull without a shot), but pulling again typically fires the next round.
What Comes in the Box?
Byrna SD Launcher – The core of the system, a CO2-powered self-defense launcher.
5-count Eco-Kinetic Training Ammunition – Biodegradable practice rounds.
2 tubes (10 rounds) of Kinetic Training/Self-Defense Ammunition – Hard projectiles designed to stop threats.
7 CO2 cartridges – Each cartridge provides enough power for several shots.
50-count bag of Kinetic Training/Self-Defense Ammunition – Additional ammunition for extended practice.
Byrna Carrying Case – Keeps everything organized and portable.
2 five-round magazines – Easy reloading for multiple shots.
Design & Usability
The Byrna SD Launcher has a solid, well-balanced feel, making it comfortable to hold and aim. Unlike toy-like alternatives, this launcher is built with grip textures that ensure a firm hold even under stress.
One of the biggest advantages is the ambidextrous safety switch, allowing both left- and right-handed users to operate it easily. The 6.5 lb. trigger pull has a crisp feel, requiring deliberate pressure to fire—a good feature for avoiding accidental discharges.
Unlike traditional firearms, the Byrna SD has no recoil, making it ideal for beginners or those unfamiliar with guns. This also means more precise shot placement, even under pressure.
Performance & Stopping Power
So, how effective is it in a real-world scenario?
The .68 caliber projectiles fire at 300 feet per second, which is strong enough to dent plywood and penetrate thick cardboard.
It’s quiet enough for backyard or indoor practice without alarming the neighbors.
The range extends up to 60 feet, giving it more reach than most pepper spray or stun guns.
Unlike pepper spray, it won’t blow back into your face on a windy day.
The kinetic rounds alone are powerful enough to make someone reconsider attacking, especially when hit in sensitive areas like the ribs or face.
Now, let's check out the Byrna LE.
For those who want more power and range, the Byrna LE is the top-tier option in Byrna’s lineup. It is designed to be 60% more powerful than the SD model, making it one of the strongest non-lethal launchers available.
With increased kinetic energy and greater shot capacity, the Byrna LE is ideal for those who want the most effective self-defense launcher possible.
What Comes in the Box?
Byrna LE Launcher – The most powerful Byrna model.
5-count Eco-Kinetic Training Ammunition – Biodegradable training rounds.
2 tubes (10 rounds) of Kinetic Training/Self-Defense Ammunition – Hard-hitting projectiles.
7 CO2 cartridges (12g) – Increased shot capacity.
50-count bag of Kinetic Training/Self-Defense Ammunition – Extra rounds for long-term use.
Byrna Carrying Case – Compact and protective storage case.
2 five-round magazines – Reload and keep firing.
Power & Speed
60% more power than the Byrna SD.
Fires projectiles at 400 FPS max (average 340 FPS)—significantly stronger than the SD’s 300 FPS.
Maximum kinetic energy of 22.3 joules—packs more stopping power than the SD.
Uses 12g CO2 cartridges, allowing for up to 35 shots per cylinder (compared to the SD’s 20 shots per 8g CO2).
Range & Accuracy
80-foot effective range—20 feet farther than the SD.
Upgraded white-dot sights for better target acquisition in high-stress situations.
Ergonomic honeycomb grip ensures a steady hold during rapid firing.
More consistent shot placement due to smoother trigger mechanism.
Real-World Impressions
Noticeably stronger impact—kinetic rounds hit harder, creating larger dents and leaving marks on solid surfaces.
Quicker trigger response—smoother and lighter pull compared to the SD.
Pepper rounds take longer to take full effect, but when they do, they completely disable vision and breathing.
More suitable for outdoor use due to its extended range and higher power.
Are Byrna Guns Legal?
Yes, byrna guns are legal in all 50 states, but some states have stricter laws around whether you can have pepper spray or tear gas rounds.
Here’s what you need to know:
United States Laws
Federal Law: Byrna guns are not classified as firearms by the ATF, meaning they do not require federal registration or background checks.
State Laws: Some states, like California, New York, and New Jersey, have stricter regulations, especially on certain types of ammunition like pepper or tear gas rounds.
International Considerations
Canada: Byrna guns are legal to own but cannot be carried in public. Pepper rounds are prohibited.
Europe: Laws vary by country—some classify Byrna guns similarly to airguns, while others ban them entirely.
Australia: Non-lethal weapons like Byrna guns are heavily restricted and require special permits.
Key Takeaways
Byrna guns are legal in all 50 U.S. states, but some states have restrictions on specific projectiles.
They are not classified as firearms, so no federal background check is needed.
Do You Need a License to Carry a Byrna Gun?
Byrna guns generally do not require a license to own or carry, but there are exceptions depending on your location.
Where No License Is Required
Most U.S. states do not require a license to carry a Byrna gun, since it is classified as a non-lethal weapon.
No federal restrictions exist on transporting a Byrna gun across state lines.
You can own and carry a Byrna gun without a background check or firearm permit in many areas.
Final Thoughts: Is a Byrna Gun Worth It?
For those looking for a non-lethal alternative to firearms, Byrna launchers provide a powerful deterrent without deadly force. Whether you choose the Byrna SD for home defense or the Byrna LE for maximum stopping power, both offer solid self-defense options that are easy to use and legally accessible.
If you’re looking for the most powerful option, the Byrna LE wins with its higher FPS, greater shot capacity, and longer range. However, if you need something more affordable, reliable, and practical for home use, the Byrna SD is still a great choice.
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