BYRNA (Kinetic Projectile Launchers)

Kinetic projectile launchers are weapons that fire kinetic impact projectiles (KIPs), which are blunt-force projectiles used to control crowds or incapacitate individuals. KIPs are also known as rubber bullets or plastic bullets. 

How they work 

• KIPs are fired from launchers or guns

• They are designed to cause pain or sublethal injury

• Some KIPs release multiple projectiles at once

• KIPs can be made of rubber, plastic, fabric bags, metal, wood, or rock salt

How they are used

• Law enforcement uses KIPs to control crowds 

• KIPs are meant to be used as a last resort and only when there is no less harmful alternative 

• KIPs should be used to target less vulnerable parts of the body, such as the lower torso and limbs 

Risks 

• KIPs can cause serious injuries, including brain injury, spinal cord injury, and amputations

• KIPs can cause bruising, contusions, and lacerations

• KIPs can cause total blindness in the eye if they directly hit the eye

Regulation 

• There is limited regulation of the development of KIPs

• There is limited public information provided by manufacturers on their design and guidelines for use