Security teams in Hawaii that want less-lethal options usually compare four groups of tools: PepperBall® launchers such as the VKS line, TAC-SA Pro, TAC-Patrol and FTC Pro; handheld PepperBall BlastSticks; Byrna launchers; and the TASER X1 and TASER 7 CQ. According to the store's Hawaii laws guide, CO2 and air launchers like Byrna and PepperBall are not classified as firearms in Hawaii and can be bought by adults 18 and older without a permit. TASER devices require buyers to be 21 or older and to complete the purchase in person. Staff training, written policy, and any licensing or employer requirements are the organisation's responsibility, so check those with the relevant authority before you buy.
Before comparing tools, write down what your team actually does. A hotel lobby, a condo parking structure, and a patrol route across a large property have different needs: tight hallways favor compact tools, open lots may suit longer range, and every device needs locked storage and a sign-out log between shifts. Most security work is observing, reporting, de-escalating, and calling 911. Any less-lethal tool is the last layer, after distance and communication.
PepperBall launchers: the VKS line and hopper-fed options
VKS line. The VKS Pro ($1,710) is the full-size tactical launcher in the VKS line, and it is in stock at the Honolulu store for teams that want to see it in person. The VK-SBL Pro ($1,818) offers the VKS Pro's features in a lighter, smaller frame, with two 15-round magazines, a 13 cu in 3000 psi air system, a green dot sight, a maximum range of 150 ft, and no recoil. It is a special order, usually 7 to 10 days, call the store. The VKS Phantom ($2,500) is the compact option, with a 6 inch barrel, two 10-round magazines, a green dot optic, a silicone textured grip that stays planted with gloves or in rain, and a maximum range of 150 ft. Call the store to order, and staff will confirm availability and current pricing first.
Hopper-fed launchers. The TAC-SA Pro ($1,513) has a 160-round hopper, a 30 cu in 3000 psi air system, a red dot sight, and a maximum range of 100 ft. The TAC-Patrol ($1,700) has a 60-round hopper, an 18 cu in 4500 psi carbon fibre air system, a push-button folding stock, no recoil, and a maximum range of 100 ft. The Pepperball FTC PRO ($1,015) has a 160-round hopper, a 13 cu in 3000 psi air system, a cross-bolt safety, single-point sling, no recoil, and a maximum range of 100 ft. All three are special order, usually 7 to 10 days, call the store.
Handheld BlastSticks for close encounters
Not every post needs a launcher. BlastSticks are small handheld tools.
- The Blast Stick Live X ($53) delivers a 3x payload per shot, uses a 1.8g N2 cartridge, has a quick flip safety and an 8 lb trigger pull, is reloadable, and has a 10 ft effective range.
- The BlastStick Maxx 20x ($73) is the redesigned BLAST Maxx, delivering a payload equal to three projectiles' worth of powder.
- For practice, the Inert Blast ($50) uses a baby powder payload, and the Inert Refill ($29) reloads it. Live refills are the Live X Refill ($49) and Live-Maxx Refill ($59).
Byrna pistol-format launchers
Byrna launchers are pistol-format CO2 tools.
- The Byrna SD Universal Kit - Self Defense ($415) is a .68 caliber launcher with 5-round magazines, 8-gram CO2, and a 60-foot range.
- The Byrna LE Kinetic Kit ($515) is Byrna's most powerful handheld launcher, rated at 330 FPS with a 60-foot effective range and 12-gram CO2.
- For repeat practice, the Pro Training Projectiles (95 count) ($84) are filled with inert powder.
Use the compatibility guide to match projectiles and CO2 to each launcher before ordering supplies for a whole team.
TASER X1 and TASER 7 CQ
- The Taser X1 ($799, regularly $1,099) has a 15-foot range, laser-assisted targeting, and contact stun. The box includes two live cartridges and a conductive practice target.
- The Taser 7 CQ ($1,499, regularly $1,799) is optimized for close quarters with a 12-foot reach, a loud arc warning, and double-shot capability. Its box includes the same two live cartridges and practice target.
Both are special order, usually 7 to 10 days, call the store. Hawaii requires every electric gun transfer to be completed in person at the Honolulu store. Each buyer must be 21 or older, and state law requires a background check, a printed result the buyer reviews and signs, and an in-person briefing. TASER products are never shipped.
Training, policy, and the rules that stay with you
The store sells equipment. Your use-of-force policy, officer training, and what your contracts or licenses require belong to the organisation.
- Training. Decide who trains officers and how often, and keep records.
- Policy. Put in writing when a tool may be carried, when it may be used, and how every use is reported.
- Licensing and employer requirements. Check with the relevant authority, your insurer, and your legal counsel before issuing any device to staff.
- Carry limits. The Hawaii laws guide notes that launchers cannot be carried concealed in certain restricted areas, such as government buildings, schools, and airports.
- Force. The guide's summary of HRS 703-304 says force must be proportional to the threat and used only when reasonably believed to be immediately necessary against unlawful force.
This is general information, not legal advice. Check our Hawaii laws guide or a licensed attorney.
Ordering for a department
Several product listings invite security departments to ask about pricing, so call (808) 489-2454 or contact us before placing a larger order. Shipping is charged by the largest box: rifle-length launchers are $68, and pickup at 1773 S King St is free. The shop offers hands-on demos, so supervisors can handle launchers before choosing. You can also browse the full range in the shop.
Frequently asked questions
Do security officers need a permit to own a PepperBall or Byrna launcher in Hawaii?
According to the store's Hawaii laws guide, CO2 and air launchers like Byrna and PepperBall are not classified as firearms in Hawaii and can be bought by adults 18 and older without a permit. Licensing and employer requirements for security work are separate, so check with the relevant authority.
Can a security company order TASER devices online in Hawaii?
No. Every electric gun transfer in Hawaii must be completed in person at the dealer's premises, with the buyer 21 or older, a background check, a signed declaration, and a safety briefing.
Which PepperBall launchers are in stock in Honolulu?
The VKS Pro is listed as in stock at the Honolulu store. The VK-SBL Pro, TAC-SA Pro, TAC-Patrol and FTC Pro are special order, usually 7 to 10 days, so call the store.
Does the store offer pricing for security departments?
Yes. Several listings, including the VKS Pro, TASER X1 and TASER 7 CQ, invite security departments to ask about pricing. Call (808) 489-2454.
Who is responsible for training security staff on less-lethal tools?
The organisation is. Training, written policy, and any licensing or employer requirements should be set by the company and checked with the relevant authority.