Push switch and you will hear and see an electrical discharge between the two probes. Touch both probes against the assailants body. For 1/2 second will startle assailants giving some pain, muscular contraction and shock. For 1-2 seconds will cause some muscle spasms and a dazed mental state. For 3-4 seconds will cause loss of balance and muscle control total mental confusion and disorentation leaving him dazed. Under no conditons can you suffer a charge-back to your own body so you can feel safe to use even if the assailant is holding you. The Stun Baton can not be damaged by continued firing into the body of an assailant. Can not cuase permanent damage.