Taser X26 - Manual (Page 16)

16 Chapter 4 Cartridges & ECD Operation
All TASER ECD deployments should be in accordance with department training, policies, and procedures.
Normally, aim the LASER at the preferred target areas of the body, which are the lower torso (when the subject
is facing you), legs, and the subject’s back.
WARNING
Avoid head, face, throat, or groin exposure unless officer safety or the situation dictates otherwise.
The top probe impacts the target near the LASER beam; however, the probe impact distance from the LASER
will vary depending on the distance between the ECD and the target, type of cartridge, etc.
The bottom probe impacts at an 8-degree angle from the top probe (except with the XP35 cartridge). This
results in a spread of approximately 1' (0.3 m) for every 7' (2.1 m) of distance from the ECD. Greater probe spread
increases effectiveness.
“Silence Is Golden”
The TASER ECD’s electrical current is relatively quiet when both probes make direct contact with a human or an
animal. In contrast, some practice conductive targets are loud because the energy is arcing in the air.
If electrical current is loud during field deployment and the subject is not reacting as expected, the electrical
circuit may not be completed or the current may be shorting out and may not be effective. Deploy a second
cartridge or consider other options.
Potential Causes of Reduced or No Effectiveness
• Loose or Thick Clothing. If the probes lodge in clothing and are too far away from the subject, ECD
effectiveness is reduced or prevented.
• Miss or Single Probe Hit. The current must pass between the probes. If one probe misses, a second cartridge
may be deployed if practical and legally justifiable. Using the X26 ECD in the drive-stun mode as described
below may also complete the circuit between the single probe and the ECD electrode.
• Low Nerve or Muscle Mass. If the probes impact in an area where there is very little muscle mass (e.g., the
side of the rib cage), the effectiveness can be significantly diminished.
• Limited Probe Spread. Small probe spreads (including drive-stun) result in little or no effect from NMI and
become primarily a pain compliance option.
• Wires Break. If a wire breaks (e.g., during a struggle), the current will not flow to the probes. Drive-stun is still
available.