Hawaii has some of the strictest laws in the country when it comes to stun guns or TASERs. In fact, until 2022, it was illegal for anyone to possess one of these weapons. However, a new law that went into effect on January 1, 2022, now allows law-abiding citizens to purchase and carry stun guns and TASERs for self-defense.

What is a stun gun?

A stun gun is a non-lethal weapon that uses an electric current to temporarily incapacitate an attacker. Stun guns work by sending a high-voltage current through the attacker's body, which causes muscle contractions and pain. The current is not strong enough to kill, but it can be enough to stop an attacker long enough for you to escape.

What is a TASER?

A TASER is a type of stun gun that fires two darts into the attacker's body. The darts are connected to the TASER by wires, and when the TASER is activated, it sends an electric current through the wires and into the attacker's body. TASERs are more effective than stun guns at incapacitating attackers, but they are also more expensive.

The following are the requirements to own a stun gun and a TASER device in Hawaii:

• Age: You must be at least 21 years old to purchase or possess a stun gun or TASER in Hawaii.
• Background check: The dealer must conduct a background check on you before selling you a stun gun or TASER. This check will look for any criminal history or other factors that would make you ineligible to own a stun gun or TASER.
• Training: You must complete a training course from a licensed instructor before you can purchase a stun gun or TASER. The training course will teach you how to use the stun gun or TASER safely and effectively.
• Purchase: You can only purchase a stun gun or TASER from a licensed dealer. This is to ensure that you are getting a quality product and that the dealer is following all of the necessary laws and regulations.
• Use: You can only use a stun gun or TASER for self-defense, defense of another, or protection of property. If you use a stun gun or TASER for any other reason, you could be charged with a crime.

Due to these requirements, online retailers such as Stunster.com are not able to sell and ship stun guns or TASERs to Hawaii.

The new law is a significant step forward for gun rights in Hawaii. However, it is important to note that the law is still relatively new, and it is possible that there could be some legal challenges in the future. If you are considering purchasing or carrying a stun gun or TASER in Hawaii, it is important to consult with an attorney to make sure that you comply with the law.

What are the penalties for violating the law?

The penalties for violating the law are relatively minor. If you are caught possessing a stun gun or TASER without a certificate of completion, you will be charged with a misdemeanor. The maximum penalty for a misdemeanor is one year in jail and a fine of $2,000.

If you are caught using a stun gun or TASER for any purpose other than self-defense, you will also be charged with a misdemeanor. The maximum penalty for this offense is one year in jail and a fine of $2,000.

Conclusion

The new law that went into effect on January 1, 2022, is a significant step forward for gun rights in Hawaii. However, it is important to note that the law is still relatively new, and it is possible that there could be some legal challenges in the future. If you are considering purchasing or carrying a stun gun or TASER in Hawaii, it is important to consult with an attorney to make sure that you are in compliance with the law.

See the cost of Stun Guns and TASERS.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The laws and regulations regarding stun guns, TASER devices, and other electronic defense weapons can vary widely by jurisdiction and can change over time. Therefore, it's important to consult with legal professionals or relevant authorities to obtain accurate and up-to-date information that applies to your specific circumstances.