Huguenot, either you hadn't heard of the beanbag gun or you chose not to inform SSue40 of the alternative. Whether or not this alternative would have been effective, I can't say and neither can you with any certainty. I just remembered seeing it used on an american 'Cops with cameras' type show some years ago. I know nothing of failure/success rates, I was merely responding to her question as an alternative to the snakes, hugs and night nurse posts. Also can I just say, your point about water bombs versus pistols was probably meant to be patronising, but in your own words "be realistic" it makes you come across as particularly stupid and weakens your argument. Santerme Wrote: ------------------------------------------------------- > The target needs to be immobilised quickly. > > You aim at centre mass where the major organs are > located. As someone with almost zero gun experience, I imagine the use of this powerful non lethal weapon aimed at centre mass could have immobilised the guy, (had trials been successful and its use sanctioned of course). With that said, the article was posted for information only, and not as a way of making any judgements. Whether for or against the action taken by the police, many posters here are basing their comments on things they can't know. As far as I am aware, all that is known for certain is the police shot and killed a man they claim/believed fired on them. A vigil/protest was held outside a police station which was later followed by rioting and in time the events will be investigated. Finally, I would like to add, I have no time for drugs, dealers nor the people who keep the dealers in business. Likewise, I have no time or pity for unprofessional officers who try to hide behind the uniform or indeed, those that protect them.