Taser - SHOCKING!

We didn't expect Taser to be at CES, but their booth was easy to find-we just followed the sounds of electrical zapping. Taser officials showed off their X26c model, which is available to civilians for $999. It has an integrated laser sight and flashlight. Taser also sells a cheaper version without the laser sight and flashlight.

The X26c is about the size of a large cell phone and comes with a holster. It works by firing out two wires at 180 feet per second. The wires are tipped with for a lack of a better term, fishing hooks, which will penetrate a decent amount of clothing.

Two electrical jolts are given. The first ionizes the air in the clothing and opens up a better electrical path to the skin. The second jolt arcs from one hook into the other, disrupting muscles in the path of the arc. In most cases, the power is enough to drop an adult man or woman.

In the process of firing, the gun shoots out dozens of very small identifier dots that have the serial code of the gun. This allows law enforcement to track down the shooter, if the Taser is used unlawfully.