The Byrna SD and Byrna LE are two of the most popular non-lethal self-defense launchers on the market today. Both models are designed to provide a high level of personal protection, but they each have unique features that set them apart. This blog post will provide a detailed comparison of the two models, helping you decide which one is right for you.
Byrna SD: The Flagship Launcher
The Byrna SD has been the flagship launcher for the last two years and has been wildly popular.It uses 8 gram CO2 cartridges that remain un-pierced in the launcher until the trigger is pulled, allowing it to fire over 20 rounds per cartridge.The SD is effective at over 60 feet, providing a significant range for personal defense.
One of the key features of the Byrna SD is its external safety.This feature allows the CO2 cartridge to be pre-punctured while the weapon is on safe, allowing for an additional increase of velocity on the first shot.The SD also offers a more ergonomic design with an integrated laser sight, catering to personal defense needs with enhanced accuracy.
Byrna SD: Product Breakdown(See video below)
Byrna LE: The Powerhouse
The Byrna LE is a ground-up redesign for those looking for the most powerful launcher Byrna has ever produced.It contains a completely redesigned valve and trigger assembly, allowing it to fire rounds at an average of over 340 feet per second.This is a 75 feet per second increase from previous launchers, providing more stopping power.
The Byrna LE also features upgraded high visibility white sights and includes a seven-round magazine. This makes the LE the most capable launcher in the lineup.Additionally, the LE has a 33% increased effective range over the Byrna SD, being accurate at up to 80 feet.
Product Breakdown: The NEW Byrna LE(See video below)
Head-to-Head Comparison
When comparing the Byrna SD and Byrna LE, several key differences stand out.The Byrna LE has more power, more accuracy, a lighter trigger pull, and better sights than the Byrna SD.It also has a higher shot capacity, with the ability to fire up to 30 rounds per single 12g CO2 cylinder.
However, the Byrna SD remains a popular choice due to its affordability and the presence of an external safety.It also has a proven track record, having been the flagship launcher for the last two years.
Below is a chart comparing the main features of both units.
| Feature | Byrna SD | Byrna LE |
|---|
| Power | Standard | 60% more powerful than the SD |
| Velocity | Up to 300 feet per second average projectile speed | Max projectile speeds of 340 feet per second |
| Shot Capacity | Can fire over 20 rounds per 8g CO2 cartridge | 40% greater shot capacity than the SD, can fire up to 30 rounds per single 12g CO2 cylinder |
| Effective Range | Over 60 feet | 33% increased effective range over the SD, accurate at up to 80 feet |
| Sights | Enhanced sights for quicker target acquisition | Upgraded high visibility white sights |
| Trigger | 6.5 lb. trigger pull weight on the 2nd shot and smoother press | Completely redesigned trigger that’s lighter weight |
| Magazines Included | Two 5-Round magazines | Two 7-round magazines |
| Pistol Size | Compact | Mid-sized |
Conclusion
Both the Byrna SD and Byrna LE are excellent choices for non-lethal self-defense. The SD offers affordability and reliability, while the LE provides enhanced power and accuracy. Your choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you choose the SD or the LE, you can be confident that you are getting a high-quality, effective self-defense tool.
See cost of theByrna SD and Byrna LE
FAQs
The Byrna LE has more power, more accuracy, a lighter trigger pull, and better sights than the Byrna SD. It also has a higher shot capacity, with the ability to fire up to 30 rounds per single 12g CO2 cylinder.
What is the difference between byRNA SD and Byrna LE? ›
The primary difference between the SD cartridge and the LE cartridge is the LE cartridge can fire up to 30 rounds before it needs to be replaced (10 more rounds than the SD).
Which Byrna is the strongest? ›
The Byrna LE, Byrna's most powerful handheld launcher! This kit contains no chemical projectiles and is legal in all states in the US. The Byrna LE features a completely redesigned trigger interface and valve assembly to fire .68 caliber rounds at speed of up to 330 feet per second.
How effective is the Byrna LE? ›
Like with a traditional gun, the Byrna LE Launch is most effective at stopping an attacker when you actually hit the attacker. But unlike when you fire a traditional firearm, this non-lethal device won't kill an attacker if you hit them and it can provide protection even if you don't hit them.
What is the difference between Byrna SD and HD XL? ›
The BYRNA SD XL (Self Defense) is the successor of the BYRNA HD XL. It has been re-engineered for optimal performance. Powered by a 12gr CO2, the BYRNA SD XL shoots . 68 caliber kinetic and/or chemical irritant projectiles that can disable a threat from up to 20 meters away.
What is the range of Byrna Le? ›
DISTANCE EQUALS SAFETY
The Byrna SD and EP have a 60' effective range and the Byrna LE has an 80' effective range.
Will Byrna stop an attacker? ›
These chemical irritant rounds are engineered to burst upon impact, dispersing a cloud of powerful pepper and/or tear gas powder capable of disabling an attacker for up to 30 minutes. The Byrna compact size and line of custom-made holsters and carry bags, makes the Byrna easy to take with you wherever you go.
Can felons carry a Byrna? ›
Generally, a felon can legally own a Byrna in 45 states. The exceptions are: Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, New Jersey & Rhode Island.
Can Byrna get wet? ›
The Byrna launcher wraps are 100% waterproof, non-reflective, made in the USA, and makes a great statement piece!
Can a security guard carry a Byrna? ›
“If necessary, use the less lethal weapons you are authorized and certified to carry. Acceptable tools are: 'BYRNA,' Pepper Gel, and 'TASER,'” a May 3 Kingdom Group memo said.
The cartridge is not pierced until the trigger is pulled so you can always keep an un-punctured CO2 cartridge in your Byrna HD to maximize its utility for self-defense. The Byrna HD incorporates puncture technology to allow it to fire on the first trigger pull.
How loud is a Byrna LE? ›
One of the best parts about shooting the Byrna 12 gauge rounds, is that they are quite enough to shoot in your own backyard. While a normal shotgun round is over 160 decibels, the Byrna 12 gauge is less than 115 decibels, making it quieter than a cap gun, leaf blower, or even your average squeaky dog toy.
Does Byrna have stopping power? ›
American conservative political commentator, radio host, entrepreneur, and television producer Glenn Beck recently had the eye-opening opportunity to learn about Byrna's less-lethal stopping power firsthand.
What is the most powerful Byrna gun? ›
WHICH BYRNA PISTOL IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
| BYRNA LE New SHOP NOW | BYRNA SD Best Seller SHOP NOW |
|---|
| Price | $479.99 | $379.99 |
| DETAILS | Our most powerful less-lethal pistol | Our most popular less-lethal pistol |
| Reviews | 4.7 star rating 1380 Reviews | 4.7 star rating 3707 Reviews |
| Energy | 15.2 joules | 10.9 joules |
6 more rowsThe Byrna LE is the only launcher that comes with our new 7 round magazines, but it also backwards compatible with the legacy 5 round magazines. This gives you the ability to fire 14 rounds with just one reload!
How long does a Byrna cartridge last? ›
How long will the CO2 Cartridge last? Byrna® CO2 cartridges have a virtually indefinite shelf life.
What is the effective range of Byrna SD? ›
Effective range: 39ft (12m) on a 6” (15cm) target and 65ft (20m) on a 18” (45cm) target. Ambidextrous safe/fire switch.
What is Byrna SD XL? ›
The patented compact BYRNA SDXL is a less-lethal launcher with ergonomic design resembling that of semi-automatic handgun. The body is made from the highest quality glass-reinforced polymers and the rubber over-mold grip improves retention; and internals feature aircraft grade aluminium precision parts.
The Byrna SD and Byrna LE are two of the most popular non-lethal self-defense launchers on the market today. Both models are designed to provide a high level of personal protection, but they each have unique features that set them apart. This blog post will provide a detailed comparison of the two models, helping you decide which one is right for you.