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VLe Provides Non-Lethal Response

The VLe, a variable-lethality weapon with no moving parts (except for the projectiles) has been introduced by Metal Storm.

The totally electronic mechanism provides for remarkable new features:

  • Complete record of use, downloadable to a personal computer
  • Recognition of authorized user, by ring transponder (biometric data acceptance is planned for future versions).
  • Voice statement by the weapon, affirming its present setting to the user and the assailant
The most useful aspect of the VLe is that it finally provides law enforcement and military personnel with a choice of lethality in a single weapon. The device fires small high-velocity beanbags to bring down an assailant, functioning in a similar capacity to a stun gun or taser. It also fires conventional bullets.

The manufacturer claims that this device is an improved self-defense weapon for use by home owners, or by organized police and military forces, because it cannot be used against it's owner, and provides a wider choice of response by the user.

In his 1992 novel Snow Crash, sf author Neal Stephenson refers to a loogie gun, another non-lethal response device with a different design, but similar purpose. See also the manufacturer website Metal Storm Limited - 100% Electronic Ballistic Technology.

Scroll down for more stories in the same category. (Story submitted 3/30/2004)

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