Byrna CL Launcher - 400 FPS Compact Self-Defense Launcher

Q: Is the Byrna CL legal to own?
A: Yes! The Byrna CL is legal in all 50 states and does not require permits, licenses, or background checks. It's classified as a less-lethal self-defense weapon, not a firearm. However, always check your local laws regarding less-lethal weapons and their use in self-defense situations.

Q: Do you need a license for a Byrna CL?
A: No license is required to purchase or own a Byrna CL. Unlike firearms, the Byrna CL does not require background checks, permits, waiting periods, or any special licensing. You must be 18+ years old to purchase.

Q: What's the difference between the Basic Kit and Universal Kit?
A: The launcher performance is IDENTICAL - both shoot at 400 FPS with 60-foot range and .61 caliber. The Basic Kit includes just the launcher with White Dot Sight and 1 magazine. The Universal Kit includes the launcher with Pro Fiber Optic Sight (upgraded), 2 magazines, 2 CO2 cartridges, 10 kinetic rounds, 5 pro training rounds, and a protective carrying case. If you want the complete package ready to use, choose Universal. If you want just the launcher and plan to buy accessories separately, choose Basic.

Q: Byrna CL vs SD vs LE - which should I buy?
A: Choose the Byrna CL if you want the most compact, concealable option for everyday carry (EDC) or concealed carry. The CL is 30% smaller, shoots at 400 FPS with .61 caliber projectiles, and fits in pockets or small holsters. Choose the SD for home defense at a lower price (285 FPS, .68 caliber). Choose the LE for maximum power (330 FPS, .68 caliber, law enforcement-grade). All are highly effective - it depends on your primary use case.

Q: Does the Byrna CL hurt?
A: Yes, the Byrna CL is designed to cause significant pain and incapacitation. At 400 FPS (the highest velocity in the Byrna lineup), Kinetic rounds deliver intense impact pain. Chemical rounds (Pepper/Max) cause immediate burning, eye closure, coughing, and respiratory distress lasting 30-45 minutes. The CL's compact size doesn't compromise stopping power.

Q: Can Byrna CL stop an attacker?
A: Absolutely. Despite its compact size, the Byrna CL delivers 400 FPS - the highest velocity of any Byrna launcher. Chemical rounds cause immediate incapacitation through eye closure, respiratory distress, and complete disorientation. The CL's power-to-size ratio makes it extremely effective for personal protection while remaining concealable.

Q: Is the Byrna CL worth it?
A: Yes, especially if you need concealed carry or everyday carry (EDC) protection. The CL offers the highest velocity (400 FPS) in the most compact package, making it perfect for carrying in pockets, purses, or vehicle glove boxes. You get serious stopping power without the bulk of traditional launchers. The Universal Kit provides the best value with everything included.

Q: What is Pull-Pierce Technology?
A: Pull-Pierce Technology is Byrna's innovative CO2 system that doesn't puncture the cartridge when you insert it. Instead, the CO2 is only punctured when you pull the trigger for the first time. This allows you to store your Byrna CL with CO2 installed and ready to fire instantly, without the weapon being under pressure. This means less maintenance, longer seal life, and no wasted CO2.

Q: Can I leave CO2 in my Byrna CL?
A: Yes! Thanks to Pull-Pierce Technology, you should store your Byrna CL with an unpunctured 8-gram CO2 cartridge installed. This keeps your launcher always ready for immediate use without being stored under pressure. Once you've fired and punctured the CO2, it's best to use all shots and replace with a fresh cartridge.

Q: How far does the Byrna CL shoot?
A: The Byrna CL has an effective range of 60 feet with excellent accuracy at 400 FPS. This standoff distance allows you to engage threats from across a room, parking lot, or property while staying safely out of arm's reach. The CL's high velocity maintains accuracy even at longer distances.

Q: How many shots can I get from one CO2 cartridge?
A: Each 8-gram CO2 cartridge provides approximately 15-20 shots at 400 FPS. The Universal Kit includes 2 CO2 cartridges, giving you about 30-40 total shots before needing to reload CO2. Shot count may vary slightly based on temperature and firing rate. We recommend carrying spare cartridges for extended use.

Q: What projectiles can I use with the Byrna CL?
A: The Byrna CL uses .61 caliber projectiles including: Pepper (OC + PAVA pepper powder), Max (pepper + CS tear gas combo for maximum stopping power), Kinetic (solid impact rounds), and Pro Training (inert practice rounds). Note: The CL uses .61 caliber (not .68 caliber like SD/LE models).

Q: Can I use .68 caliber projectiles in the Byrna CL?
A: No. The Byrna CL is specifically designed for .61 caliber projectiles. Do not attempt to use .68 caliber projectiles (from SD/LE models) in the CL - they will not fit and could damage the launcher. Always use .61 caliber projectiles designed for the CL.

Q: Byrna CL vs pepper spray - which is better?
A: The Byrna CL is vastly superior to pepper spray. Byrna offers 60-foot range vs pepper spray's 10-15 feet, works in wind and rain (pepper spray blows back), provides multiple shots (5-round magazine), delivers both impact and chemical irritant at 400 FPS, and keeps you much safer by maintaining distance. The CL is also more concealable than most pepper spray canisters.

Q: Byrna CL vs real gun - what's the difference?
A: The Byrna CL provides serious stopping power (400 FPS) without the legal, moral, and liability issues of firearms. Key differences: no permits/licenses required, legal in all 50 states, lower liability in self-defense situations, can be used when lethal force isn't justified, no risk of accidental death, TSA-approved for checked luggage, and more concealable than most compact firearms.

Q: Can I carry the Byrna CL concealed?
A: Yes! The Byrna CL's compact design makes it ideal for concealed carry. It's 30% smaller than traditional launchers and fits comfortably in a waistband holster, jacket pocket, purse, or bag. The Universal Kit includes a carrying case for discreet transport. Always check your local laws regarding concealed carry of less-lethal weapons.

Q: Is the Byrna CL effective for home defense?
A: Yes, the Byrna CL is effective for home defense with its 400 FPS velocity and 60-foot range. However, if home defense is your primary use case, consider the SD or LE models which offer larger .68 caliber projectiles. The CL excels at personal carry and vehicle defense where compact size is critical.

Q: How accurate is the Byrna CL?
A: The Byrna CL is highly accurate up to 60 feet with its 400 FPS velocity. The Pro Fiber Optic Sight (Universal Kit) and White Dot Sight (Basic Kit) both provide excellent target acquisition. For enhanced precision, you can add a red dot sight to the Picatinny rail. The high velocity helps maintain accuracy at longer ranges.

Q: How loud is the Byrna CL?
A: The Byrna CL produces approximately 117-120 decibels when fired at 400 FPS - similar to a loud hand clap or car horn. It's much quieter than a firearm (140-165 dB) and won't cause hearing damage. The sound is loud enough to be startling but won't permanently damage hearing like gunshots can.

Q: Is the Byrna CL reliable?
A: Yes, the Byrna CL is highly reliable with its CO2-powered system and Pull-Pierce Technology. The compact design uses proven Byrna engineering scaled down for portability. Thousands of users trust the CL for everyday carry and personal protection. Proper maintenance ensures consistent performance.

Q: Can police take your Byrna CL?
A: Generally no, but it depends on local laws and circumstances. Since the Byrna CL is not classified as a firearm, it's legal to own in all 50 states without permits. However, if used in self-defense, police may temporarily confiscate it as evidence during an investigation. Always comply with law enforcement and consult an attorney if your Byrna is used in self-defense.

Q: What's the difference between the sights on each kit?
A: The Basic Kit comes with a White Dot Sight (simple, effective aiming point), while the Universal Kit features a Pro Fiber Optic Sight (enhanced visibility in various lighting conditions). Both are accurate - the fiber optic sight just offers improved target acquisition, especially in low light. Both kits support adding aftermarket red dot sights.

Q: Can I add a red dot sight to the Byrna CL?
A: Yes! The Byrna CL features a Picatinny rail system that's compatible with most red dot sights and optics. The Universal Kit comes with a Pro Fiber Optic Sight, while the Basic Kit includes a White Dot Sight. Both can be upgraded with aftermarket red dot optics for enhanced precision.

Q: What colors are available for the Byrna CL?
A: The Byrna CL is available in Black, Orange, and Green. Note: Green is only available in the Universal Kit. All colors feature the same 400 FPS performance and specifications. Color choice is purely aesthetic.

Q: Do I need training to use the Byrna CL?
A: While the Byrna CL is intuitive to use, we highly recommend practicing with Pro Training projectiles to familiarize yourself with the launcher's operation, trigger pull, accuracy, and CO2 cartridge changes. The CL's compact size and high velocity (400 FPS) make training important. We offer professional training classes for Byrna owners.

Q: Can I travel with my Byrna CL?
A: Yes, you can travel with your Byrna CL. It's TSA-approved for checked luggage (not carry-on). Remove the CO2 cartridge before packing. The CL's compact size makes it ideal for travel. Always check local laws at your destination, as some cities or states may have restrictions on less-lethal weapons. International travel restrictions vary by country.

Q: How do I maintain my Byrna CL?
A: Maintenance is minimal. After use, wipe down the exterior, check the barrel for debris, and store in a cool, dry place. Periodically lubricate moving parts with Byrna-approved lubricant (use the included oiled CO2 cartridge every 10 cartridges). Always store with an unpunctured 8-gram CO2 cartridge installed for maximum readiness thanks to Pull-Pierce Technology.

Q: Can I use the Byrna CL indoors?
A: Yes, but with considerations. Kinetic rounds are ideal for indoor use with no chemical contamination. Chemical rounds (Pepper/Max) will heavily saturate indoor spaces and may affect you as well due to the CL's high velocity (400 FPS). If using chemical rounds indoors, evacuate immediately after firing and ventilate extensively.

Q: Which kit should I buy - Basic or Universal?
A: Choose the Universal Kit if you want the complete package ready to use immediately (better sight, 2 magazines, CO2, ammo, case). It's the best value. Choose the Basic Kit if you want just the launcher and plan to buy accessories separately, or if you're on a tight budget. Both have identical 400 FPS performance - the difference is what's included.