Stun Guns come in many sizes, shapes and voltages. Categorizing these attributes will help you choose an appropriate self defense product.

Shapes

The prototypical stun gun is rectangular in shape and perhaps 3/4 to one inch thick. Sizes generally increase with voltage power as more space is needed for more nine volt batteries.

The second common shape is one of a cell phone or Blackberry. This is the so-called 'covert' self defense item where the intent of the device is hidden behind an innocuous shape. These are small enough to fit in a purse or glove compartment.

A third shape has recently arrived where the handle is molded into the device. Think of brass knuckles where the administration is straight on. This shape offers a more secure grip which could be crucial in a high stress situation. The Knuckle Blaster is a 950,000 volt stun gun that actually resembles brass knuckles (although this one is molded plastic with an outer soft rubber skin.)

Stun batons are also members of the stun gun family. Consider these high-tech versions of the night stick. They are a natural for a walking patrolman and the night watchman.

Sizes

One of the tallest of the rectangle style stun guns is the Streetwise SW1000. This 1000K volt stunner measures 8.25 inches x 2 inches x 1 inch. It also features a built-in alarm. It requires three 9 volt batteries to power.

At the other spectrum, the Small Fry 1,000,000 volt mini stun gun may be the smallest battery powered zapper with the biggest wallop. This model measures an amazing 3 1/4 inches x 2 inches x 3/4 inch. This is made possible by the development of lithium batteries. This stun gun takes three button size lithium-ion batteries.

Stun batons come in either fixed or expandable models. You can keep your attacker at bay with the expandable type which can extend to 21'. With your arm out-stretched you can keep an assailant a safer distance away than with a traditional hand held. Common fixed stun baton sizes are 16, 18 and 20 inches. Some models feature an alarm to hopefully scare a would-be intruder.

Voltages

Stun gun voltages run the gamut from 80,000 volts to 1.2 million volts. Many fall in the 300K to 500K range. At 80K, the Talon MINI stun gun is one of the smallest and most affordable models. It measures just 4' tall and has enough power to keep a would-be attacker dazed and confused for several minutes. At the other extreme, the Double Trouble stun gun delivers an ultra powerful 1.2 million volts. It's one of the new grip style devices with contacts on either end. This design is responsible for the unit's high power.

It must be mentioned that although these defensive products deliver high voltages, the amperage is very low, perhaps only 2-4 milliamps. They're considered reasonable force in resisting attack and are non-lethal. In fact, if you stand around too long watching your handy-work, you could regret it. Recovery time depends upon voltage and the length or series of administrations. But most people will recover in only 4-8 minutes. So run to safety first, not last.