Byrna the Ungun
Maybe you’ve heard about it, or maybe it’s your first time reading about it. In either case, we are going to dive into the world of Byrna. What is it? What does it do? Is it a good option for self-defense? At SpyCentre, we’ve done extensive research on the subject and have helped countless people feel more secure in an insecure world. That is why we would like to introduce a new product to our line of self-defense tools: the Byrna.
When talking about self-defense, everyone, and I mean everyone, has a strong opinion. Someone could appear to be your run-of-the-mill average Joe, but behind those polo t-shirts and Crocs is a judo master, six-shooting, 5-time blood sport champion. I couldn’t tell you how many times I’ve received a visual demonstration for the proper way to "judo-chop" a knife out of someone's hand, and then convert that into a backflip takedown. No lie, it looks cool. And I’m sure if a 1950’s street gang attacked me, I’d probably have time to perform this while they are monologuing about how I "made a big mistake crossing into Greaser Shark turf". I even have a cool line too, “Don’t mess with Texas.” Then, I, um, would probably leave or something; I haven't figured that last part out yet.
Though I’m poking fun, there is a real reason why everyone has a plan. This is rather a serious subject matter; There will be a time in your life when you will need to defend yourself. If you are fortunate enough, you’ll be in a position where you can defend yourself, your home, and most importantly, your family. There are some bad people in this world, and as the saying goes, "sometimes trouble finds you".
Self-defense and personal protection items have been an integral part of SpyCentre since our inception. We’ve carried countless name brands, including Taser, Streetwise, and Mace. Now, SpyCentre is an authorized dealer for Byrna Technologies. Over the years, I have just about heard it all. It is still shocking to me that there is this underlying idea that merely having pepper spray or a stun gun on your person can magically protect you in any circumstance. That's not even exploring any of the potentially lethal options. Talk to the people who have to deal with unruly situations for a living, such as a nightclub security guard, MP, or corrections officer. In my opinion, these individuals are the best to ask for advice, since it's such a large part of their job. They use a term called "confrontational de-escalation". And being prepared for this is what they're best at. The right tool can be essential when diffusing a situation, before resorting to deadly force.
So let's get into it.
WHAT IS A BYRNA?
The Byrna Launcher, also known as the UNGUN, is what bridges that gap. This tool is a hand-held, non-lethal self-defense device that uses CO2 to fire kinetic projectile balls at an effective distance of 60 feet away with the hand-held model, delivering 41.9 joules per square inch. It is notably more powerful in comparison to something like an air-soft BB, which only hits a velocity of 22 joules per square inch. This is significantly more effective at creating what is called "pain compliance" to effectively defend yourself without the risk and hesitation associated with traditional lethal alternatives. Pain compliance in self-defense refers to using a tool that causes temporary discomfort or pain in an attempt to make an aggressor stop or disengage from an attack. The objective is generally to create an opportunity to escape rather than administer deadly force.
Some History about Byrna:
Byrna was created by an avid group of gun owners in Massachusetts, who realised that they wouldn’t know for sure if they would hesitate or not when confronted with a threat. It's easy to imagine a scenario where a life-or-death situation requires the use of a firearm, such as a wild animal, but what about the situations where it's more vague? Or, as responsible gun owners, how would they respond when the use of a firearm is required? Hesitation when deciding in a moment's notice to use deadly force is where the idea of Byrna was born. They wanted a less lethal, legal to carry in all 50 states, alternative that was safe, effective, and reliable at close range and at a distance.
At the time, there were other projectile launchers on the market, but they were nothing more than repurposed paintball guns. Although stronger than a BB, paintball guns only hit a velocity of 22 joules per square inch, which may hurt, but doesn't have the stopping power needed. The other major issue was that these devices were not designed to hold a CO2 cartridge for prolonged periods of time. Once the cartridge was loaded, it would slowly leak, rendering them almost useless in a defensive situation. Paintball guns were never designed for self-defense. There was a need for an alternative that utilized a similar principle, but was built to be compact, reliable, and designed with self-defense in mind above all else.
So, in 2019, the Byrna HD Launcher was born. This was a small, easy-to-carry, and concealable handheld device. The critical factor in the Byrna HD development was to increase its hit velocity. And after rigorous testing and refinement, the Byrna HD Launcher was capable of delivering over 40 joules per square inch of stopping power at an impressive 60 feet away. The second breakthrough in development, was manufactured in the first shot; CO2 pull-pierce technology. This innovation allows for the CO2 cylinder to remain in the launcher and ready for use straight away. Stopping power and the ability to have the device ready to use at a moment's notice were the two features that really set the Byrna HD Launcher apart. Since then, over 750,000 Byrna units have been sold. Pretty solid for a company that builds and manufactures its product in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, USA.
The Vision:
Compact and Concealable: All Byrna handheld launchers needed to be small enough to fit in a purse or jacket pocket, but still maintain the stopping power to deter and defend.
Able to Stop an Assailant: The Byrna launcher needed to be easy to operate and able to disarm, disable, and deter without causing permanent injury or death.
Always Ready to Deploy: With other CO2 launchers, once the cylinder is punctured during loading, leaking begins, leaving the unit completely empty after about 24 hours. Byrna developed the first-shot, pull-pierce technology, allowing for the CO2 cylinder to remain in the launcher and be ready to use, without loading or hesitation.
Distance = Safety: All Byrna Launchers fire their projectiles with over 40 joules per square inch of stopping power, and are effective at 60 feet.
Multiple Shots: Byrna hand-held launchers carry up to 7 rounds within the magazine, and can fire multiple magazines on a single CO2 cartridge. This means that multiple kinetic ball magazines can be used reliably in sequence without the need to dismantle and replace the CO2.
Build Quality: With over 110 individual parts and the need to contain air at 800 psi, Byrna Launchers are constructed to the exact specifications from glass-infused polymers, military-grade aluminum, and stainless steel. This is the same as the most well-known and respected firearm brands.
BYRNA CL COMPACT LAUNCHER
BYRNA CL COMPACT
The Byrna CL (Compact Launcher) is the most compact less-lethal launcher in the world. The CL provides the same stopping power as the larger LE (Law-Enforcement Launcher) model in a more compact size. The Byrna CL is a powerful, compact option built for personal protection. The entire platform has been reimagined for maximum concealability and stopping power. Powered by an 8-gram compressed air (CO2) capsule, the Byrna CL shoots .61 caliber round kinetic and/or chemical irritant projectiles that can disable a threat from up to 60 feet away. The Byrna CL's magazine can hold 5 rounds, and multiple magazines (15 shots) can be utilized on a single CO2 capsule. The Compact Launcher is about six inches long, or roughly the same length as a dollar bill, but delivers the same 41 joules per square inch of stopping power as the larger LE.
The Byrna CL is not classified as a firearm; therefore does not require a permit or background check to own. Legal to carry in all 50 states, and must be 18 or older to purchase.
BYRNA CL COMPACT LAUNCHER UNIVERSAL KIT
KIT DETAILS
- (1) Byrna CL Launcher
- (2) 5-Round Magazines
- (2) Byrna 8-Gram CO2 Cylinders
- (3) 5-Round Tube of Byrna .61 Cal Kinetic Projectiles
- (1) Launcher Card
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(1) Byrna Carrying Case
FEATURES
- .61 Caliber Projectiles (15 per kit)
- 5-round Magazine (2 per Kit)
- Uses 8-gram C02 (2 per Kit)
- Picatinny Rail
- Improved fiber optics sights for faster target acquisition
- Red-dot-ready universal bolt pattern
- Loaded chamber indicator
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PATENTED PULL-PIERCE TECHNOLOGY: CO2 is stored in the launcher unpunctured until the first trigger pull. On the first trigger pull, the CO2 is punctured, and a projectile is launched simultaneously.
PERFORMANCE
- Energy Density - 41.9 J/in²
- Muzzle Velocity - 400 fps**
- Magazine Capacity - 5 rounds
- Shot Capacity per CO2 - 15 shots **
- Effective Range - 60'
- CO2 Size - 8 grams
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Pistol Size - Compact
**At room temperature
BYRNA CL-XL COMPACT LAUNCHER
BYRNA CL-XL COMPACT LAUNCHER EXTRA LARGE
Built on the foundation of the CL, the XL (Extra Large) now uses the widely available 12-gram CO2 cartridge while adding just over three-quarters of an inch to the overall length. It's about the same length as a standard smartphone but remains compact and lightweight. The entire platform has been reimagined for maximum concealability and stopping power. The increase in length has also allowed for a larger 7-round magazine and can deliver 42.3 joules per square inch of stopping power, making the CL-XL more powerful than the LE Law-Enforcement model. With up to 17 shots on a single 12-gram CO2 cartridge, the CL-XL shoots .61 caliber round kinetic and/or chemical irritant projectiles that can disable a threat from up to 60 feet away.
The Byrna CL-XL is not classified as a firearm; therefore does not require a permit or background check to own. Legal to carry in all 50 states, and must be 18 or older to purchase.
BYRNA CL-XL COMPACT LAUNCHER EXTRA LARGE UNIVERSAL KIT
KIT DETAILS
- (1) Byrna CL-XL Launcher
- (1) 7-Round Magazine
- (1) 5-Round Magazine
- (2) Byrna 12-Gram CO2 Cylinders
- (3) 5-Round Tube of Byrna .61 Cal Kinetic Projectiles
- (1) Launcher Card
-
(1) Byrna Carrying Case
FEATURES
- Upgraded Optic-Cut Top Cover
- Removable Front and Rear Fiber Optic Sights for improved target acquisition
- Compatible with Byrna ProSight (Optic Reflex Red Dot Sight)
- Improved Ergonomic Magazine Release Button
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PATENTED PULL-PIERCE TECHNOLOGY: CO2 is stored in the launcher unpunctured until the first trigger pull. On the first trigger pull, the CO2 is punctured, and a projectile is launched simultaneously.
PERFORMANCE
- Energy Density - 42.3 J/in²
- Muzzle Velocity - 410 fps**
- Shot Capacity per CO2 - 17 shots **
- Effective Range - 60'
-
CO2 Size - 12 grams
**At room temperature
BYRNA SD LAUNCHER
BYRNA SD SELF DEFENSE LAUNCHER
The Byrna SD (Self Defense) is the successor of the original Byrna HD. It has been re-engineered for optimal performance, comfort, and effectiveness. Powered by an 8-gram CO2 compressed air cylinder (CO2), the Byrna SD shoots .68 caliber round kinetic and/or chemical irritant projectiles that can disable a threat from up to 60 feet away. This is the perfect, cost-effective model for personal or home self-defense. The Byrna SD allows for a 5-round Magazine and can deliver an impressive 22 shots on a single CO2 cylinder. Although not as powerful as the CL or LE models, the Byrna SD still packs a punch of 30 joules per square inch at 60 feet away. Other features include an Ambidextrous safe/fire switch for both left-handed and right-handed users, a Honeycomb Grip for control, and an improved sight over the standard HD model. This is an incredibly powerful and non-lethal self-defense weapon.
The Byrna SD is not classified as a firearm; therefore does not require a permit or background check to own. Must be 18 or older to purchase.
BYRNA SD SELF DEFENSE LAUNCHER UNIVERSAL KIT
KIT DETAILS
- (1) Byrna SD Launcher
- (2) 5-Round Magazines
- (2) Byrna 8-Gram CO2 Cylinders
- (3) 5-Round Tube of Byrna Kinetic Projectiles
- (1) Launcher Card
-
(1) Byrna Carrying Case
FEATURES
- .68 Caliber Projectiles (15 per kit)
- 5-round Magazine (2 per Kit)
- Uses 8-gram C02 (2 per Kit)
- Picatinny Rail
- Honeycomb Over-molded Grip for Better Control
- Ambidextrous safe/fire switch that allows for easy toggling for both left-handed and right-handed individuals
- Improved sights for faster target acquisition
- Straight trigger with a 6-8 lb. trigger pull weight
- PATENTED PULL-PIERCE TECHNOLOGY: CO2 is stored in the launcher unpunctured until the first trigger pull. On the first trigger pull, the CO2 is punctured, and a projectile is launched simultaneously.
-
STANDOFF DISTANCE: Accurate at up to 60 feet.
PERFORMANCE
- Energy Density - 30 J/in^2*
- Muzzle Velocity – 280 fps*
- Magazine Capacity - 5 rounds
- Shot Capacity per CO2 – 22 shots**
- Effective Range – 60'
- CO2 Size - 8 grams
-
Pistol Size - Compact
*Average first 10 shots
**At room temperature
BYRNA LE PLUS LAUNCHER
BYRNA LE LAW ENFORCEMENT PLUS LAUNCHER
The Byrna LE Plus features a completely redesigned trigger interface and valve assembly to fire .68 caliber rounds at a speed of up to 330 feet per second. This is Byrna's most powerful handheld self-defense pistol, offering more power and an extended range, compared to the standard Byrna SD model. This is the flagship Byrna model and offers law-enforcement-grade protection to any user with 41 joules per square inch of stopping power at 60 feet away. The LE also uses the widely available 12-gram CO2 cartridge, capable of 17 shots per cylinder with a 5-round magazine. The new trigger design on the Byrna LE allows for a much smoother and lighter trigger pull, providing a better experience for the shooter with other features including an ambidextrous safe/fire switch for both left-handed and right-handed users, a Honeycomb Grip for control, and an improved White Dot sight over the standard HD model for quicker acquisition in high-stress situations.
The Byrna LE is not classified as a firearm; therefore does not require a permit or background check to own. Legal to carry in all 50 states, and must be 18 or older to purchase.
BYRNA LE LAW ENFORCEMENT PLUS LAUNCHER UNIVERSAL KIT
KIT DETAILS
- (1) Byrna LE Launcher
- (3) 5-count tube Kinetic Projectiles
- (2) 5-round Magazines
- (2) 12g CO2 cylinders
- (1) Launcher Card
-
(1) Byrna Carrying Case
FEATURES
-
Updated top slide that allows for mounting of Byrna Red Dot Pro Sight
- .68 caliber projectiles (15 per Kit)
- 5-round Magazine (2 per Kit)
- Uses 12-gram C02 (2 per Kit)
- Picatinny Rail
- Honeycomb over-molded grip for better control
- Ambidextrous safe/fire switch that allows for easy toggling for both left-handed and right-handed individuals
- Straight trigger with a 4-6 lb. trigger pull weight
- PATENTED PULL-PIERCE TECHNOLOGY: CO2 is stored in the launcher unpunctured until the first trigger pull. On the first trigger pull, the CO2 is punctured, and a projectile is launched simultaneously.
- UPGRADED WHITE DOT SIGHTS: High-Contrast bright white sights which allow for quicker acquisition in high-stress situations.
- SUPER-CHARGED: Max projectile speeds of 330 feet per second.
-
STANDOFF DISTANCE: Accurate at up to 60 feet.
PERFORMANCE
- Energy Density - 41.9 J/in^2*
- Muzzle Velocity - 330 fps*
- Magazine Capacity - 5 rounds
- Shot Capacity per C02 - 17 shots**
- Effective Range - 60'
- CO2 Size - 12 grams
-
Pistol Size - Mid-sized
*Average first 10 shots
**At room temperature
Comparision Chart
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| Model Name | Unit of Measurements | Byrna CL-XL | Byrna CL | Byrna LE | Byrna SD |
| Caliber | inch | 0.61" | 0.61" | 0.68" | 0.68" |
| Projectile Type | Round Ball | Round Ball | Round Ball | Round Ball | |
| Barrell Lenght | inch | 4.08" | 4.07" | 5.24" | 4.49" |
| Height (along the grip) | inch | 6.62" | 5.10" | 5.62" | 5.62" |
| Width | inch | 1.18" | 1.18" | 1.61" | 1.61" |
| Weight | lbs. | 0.87 lbs | 0.76 lbs | 1.3 lbs | 1.2 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | no. rounds | 7 rounds | 5 rounds | 5 rounds | 5 rounds |
| Housing Material | Glass-Filled Nylon | Glass-Filled Nylon | Glass-Filled Nylon | Glass-Filled Nylon | |
| Component Material | Aluminum, stainless steel, Brass | Aluminum, stainless steel, Brass | Aluminum, stainless steel, Brass | Aluminum, stainless steel, Brass | |
| Propulsion | 12-gram CO2 | 8-gram CO2 | 12-gram CO2 | 8-gram CO2 | |
| Ave. Velocity | feet per second | up to 410fps | up to 400fps | up to 330fps | up to 280fps |
| Energy Density | J/in2 | 42.3 J/in2 | 41.9 J/in2 | 41.9 J/in2 | 30.0 J/in2 |
| Effective Range | feet | 60' | 60' | 60' | 60' |
| shot capacity per CO2 | no. of rounds | 17 | 15 | 17 | 22 |
| Operating Temp. | F° | 30°-120°F | 30°-120°F | 30°-120°F | 30°-120°F |
| Manual Safety | None | None | Lever | Lever |
Projectiles, CO2 & Accessories
BYRNA KINETIC PROJECTILES
BYRNA KINETIC PROJECTILES
Byrna Kinetic Projectiles do not contain any active or inert ingredients. These hard, solid plastic projectiles do not break upon impact and can discourage, deter, and delay an attacker. They are durable enough to be collected and reused multiple times if undamaged, which is ideal for practice rounds and becoming familiar with using the Byrna Launcher. The ability to practice with the Byrna Launcher is one of its greatest advantages, and can be the key difference between its user feeling prepared and ready, or feeling hesitation. There is also an Eco version of the Kinetic Projectiles made from compressed powder, clay, and water-soluble, biodegradable materials. These projectiles are unique and built for eco-friendly practice and recreational target shooting. Byrna Kinetic Projectiles also provide useful training without the necessity of traveling to a practice range.
Please exercise caution while using.
* Byrna Kinetic Projectiles 0.61 Cal Compatible with Byrna CL & CL-XL only.
* Byrna Kinetic Projectiles 0.68 Cal NOT Compatible with Byrna CL & CL-XL.
BYRNA MAX PROJECTILES
Byrna Kinetic Projectiles and Byrna Max Projectiles serve completely different purposes in self-defense, differing in their material composition, mechanism of action, and reusability. These projectiles have intentionally brittle shells designed to break apart upon impact. These offer a powerful blend of pepper and tear gas: OC, CS in one shot, designed to incapacitate in a single shot. The highly potent concentration of chemical irritants within the round is designed to be fired at or near an attacker. The Byrna Max Projectiles are the most powerful proprietary pepper and tear gas blend rounds found on the market today.
Please exercise caution while using.
* Byrna Max Projectiles 0.61 Cal Compatible with Byrna CL & CL-XL only.
* Byrna Max Projectiles 0.68 Cal NOT Compatible with Byrna CL & CL-XL.
Physical Effects:
- Burning in throat
- Wheezing
- Gasping
- Dry cough
- Shortness of breath
- Gagging
- Inability to breathe
- Nausea
- Burning of the eyes
- Burning of the lungs
- Chest tightness
- Excessive salivation
BYRNA PEPPER PROJECTILES
Byrna Kinetic Projectiles and Byrna Pepper Projectiles serve completely different purposes in self-defense, differing in their material composition, mechanism of action, and reusability. The Byrna Pepper Projectile shells are designed to shatter violently upon hitting a hard surface or target. When the ball impacts a surface, it will shatter, releasing a potent concentration of OC Pepper powder within the impacted area. These rounds function best when making contact on a hard surface near the assailant, releasing the power airborne to inflict compliance. They burst and release a 3-to-5-foot cloud of a powdered chemical irritant that causes intense eye closure, burning, and respiratory distress. The Pepper Projectiles contain a blend of Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) + PAVA, making it one of the most powerful pepper projectiles on the market.
Please exercise caution while using.
* Byrna 0.61 Cal Compatible with Byrna CL & CL-XL only.
* Byrna 0.68 Cal NOT Compatible with Byrna CL & CL-XL.
Physical Effects:
- Burning in throat
- Wheezing
- Gasping
- Dry cough
- Shortness of breath
- Gagging
- Inability to breathe
BYRNA CO2 CYLINDERS
BYRNA 8-GRAM / 12-GRAM C02 CYLINDER
Byrna-branded CO2 cartridges provide more consistent muzzle velocity (averaging around 261 FPS) and guaranteed seal/compatibility. These CO2 cylinders are made to exact internal chamber tolerances for models like the SD, CL, and (8g) or LE (12g). In comparison, off-brand CO2 cartridges are cheaper, but can vary in sizing, power consistency, and risk voiding the launcher's warranty.
Both types require regular maintenance—Byrna recommends running an oiler cartridge roughly every 10 CO2 changes to keep internal seals lubricated.
It is recommended to keep an unpunctured cylinder in your launcher at all times for self-defense purposes. Punctured cylinders within your Byrna Launcher will leak over time.
BYRNA ACCESSORIES
BYRNA LASER SIGHTS
The all-new Byrna Laser upgrades your launcher from a tactical tool to a precision instrument. These come in a Red or Green laser type and are compatible with all Byrna pistols and rifle launchers. The stainless steel laser housing enhances longevity and offers a Class 3A 3mW laser visible up to 200m in daylight for 2 hours of consistent run time. The internal batteries are rechargeable and are simple and fast to install.
BYRNA HOLSTERS
The Byrna Holster is designed for users who want a secure carry solution while maintaining rapid access to their launcher. Each Byrna Holster is designed with a retention system that helps keep the launcher securely in place during movement while allowing for a smooth draw when needed. The holster is suitable for everyday carry, training, and professionals. They are a convenient mounting option, while additional mounting accessories are available for users who prefer alternative carry methods.
SPYCENTRE IS YOUR AUTHORIZED DEALER OF BYRNA PRODUCTS
ABOUT SPYCENTRE
SpyCentre Security® is the Premier McKinney Spy Shop in Texas, offering a wide array of Hidden Cameras, GPS Trackers, Spy Voice Recorders, Body-Worn Cameras, Counter Surveillance, and more. Located at 106 South Church St. In Historic Downtown McKinney, SpyCentre Security® has been in continual operation since 1993.
We pride ourselves in our experience. Our friendly sales staff has an intimate knowledge of the equipment we offer. Owner Michael Dear personally trains each team member with the goal of helping you get the most out of your purchase. Established in 1993, we have been in business for over 30 years, and we have a broad depth of knowledge that is unmatched by our competitors. No matter what security problem you face, we have likely crossed that bridge before, so stop in or call us today and let us help you live a more secure life.
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