The Alternative® is a blunt impact projectile attachment for firearms, offering a less-lethal way to subdue violent or non-compliant subjects. It’s compact, quick to deploy, and designed to preserve life, protect officers, and reduce risk in critical incidents.
When the firearm is discharged, the live round is captured by a launchable projectile that separates from the docking interface and travels downrange at about 210–230 ft/s (64–70 m/s) — roughly an 80% reduction from the bullet’s normal muzzle velocity. The projectile is designed to transfer a controlled blunt impact to the body of a subject, intended to produce pain compliance and a psychological stimulus, to change behavior while maintaining a low risk of serious injury under proper deployment conditions.
The Alternative® is intended for planned, controlled deployments, not for sudden or rapidly evolving encounters. Consider using it when all of the following are true:
Officers should always follow department policies, applicable law, and tactical training. Deployment decisions must be guided by sound judgment and may vary by agency.
Yes. The Alternative® requires a structured training program. A one-day course certifies department trainers, who then complete our operator course to qualify their officers. Annual officer requalification and bi-annual trainer recertification are mandatory, with additional training strongly encouraged.
The recommended deployment range for The Alternative® is 20–40 feet (6–9 meters). Within this band the device is most effective while minimizing injury risk. Deploying at closer distances can increase the chance of serious injury and reduce officer safety. Deployment from further distances can lessen accuracy and effectiveness, due to a velocity degradation of approximately 10 ft/s (3 m/s) every 20 ft (6 m).
Primary target areas are the navel area and thighs. Secondary target areas are the chest, arms, and lower legs. Restricted target areas are the head, neck, back, and groin. Based on the results of ballistic testing, injuries to the primary target areas will result in significant pain and bruising. Injuries to the secondary target areas are expected to register an AIS 2 on the Abbreviated Injury Scale, with a 25-35% probability of an AIS 2+ injury using 9mm ammunition, and a 75-85% probability of an AIS 2+ with .40cal. An AIS 2+ refers to a moderate injury, such as a fractured sternum or ribs, but a low risk of a severe lung injury or commotio cordis (< 2% with 9mm and < 3% with .40cal). Any impact to a restricted area has a high probability of severe injury.
Laboratory testing using NIJ standard protocols for less lethal projectiles indicates little to no risk of skin penetration from The Alternative® under the tested conditions. The device’s measured energy density is substantially below thresholds associated with risks of penetrating injuries in those tests. These results assume proper deployment guidelines have been followed, and real world outcomes can vary with range, exact point of impact (e.g., bony vs. soft tissue), subject clothing/body composition, and device condition. Departments should require on scene medical assessment after any use, and report and review all incidents to inform ongoing risk management.
The Alternative® is designed for planned engagements, not quick-draw or rapidly evolving encounters. When a situation is deemed appropriate, officers follow a structured process that includes issuing verbal commands, coordinating with fellow officers, and making an audible announcement before firing. Training emphasizes firing a single round and then assessing its effectiveness before considering any further action.
Our solution’s value is as an instantly available less-lethal option on scene, where other tools may be unavailable, ineffective, or not applicable. The Alternative fills the gap between no longer and not yet on the force continuum, as an additional option between traditional less-lethal tools and a firearm, and less-lethal rifles are usually not on scene and need to be called up or retrieved from a patrol car.
Compatible with Glock, S&W M&P, CZ P-10, Sig P320, HK VP9, and Springfield Echelon. Inquire about .40cal options or specific types of firearms. New versions can be made for most semi-automatic handguns based on demand — firearm modifications may affect compatibility.
The Alternative® is designed for use with 9mm and .40‑caliber ammunition.
No. When properly installed, The Alternative® does not obstruct sights or interfere with the firearm’s operation. Officers should verify that any custom sights, optic mounts, or aftermarket accessories clear the docking interface during equipment checks and training; if a sight or modification prevents proper docking, it must be adjusted or removed. Always inspect the system before deployment and confirm fit during qualification drills.
The projectile is manufactured from an aluminum alloy chosen for its strength-to-weight ratio and energy absorbing properties. It is engineered to dissipate the bullet’s kinetic energy and does not involve moving parts or hazardous materials.
The bright orange color deliberately identifies The Alternative® as a less‑lethal device, making it easily distinguishable to officers and bystanders and reducing the risk of misidentification in the field. Officers are trained to announce their intent, issue verbal commands and warnings, and follow communication protocols before deployment so the color works together with procedural safeguards to minimize confusion.
The bright orange color clearly identifies The Alternative® as a less-lethal device to officers and bystanders. Officers are trained to give verbal commands, issue warnings, and follow communication protocols to prevent confusion before deployment.
No. The Alternative® is a single-use device designed for operational deployment. A reusable training version is available for virtual and reality-based training scenarios, allowing officers to practice safe handling and deployment techniques without consuming live units.
Yes. If the device has not been discharged, it can be safely detached and re holstered following trained procedures.
Yes. Each The Alternative® projectile is marked with a unique serial number to enable tracking and accountability throughout its lifecycle.
No. The Alternative® has no set expiration and remains functional if stored properly and kept undamaged. Officers should routinely inspect all equipment for signs of wear or damage and follow department maintenance protocols.
