A Thorough Review of Byrna Launcher Issues & Solutions
Discover how the leading less-lethal self-defense solution needs to be cared for in order to avoid problems.
Byrna Launchers have become increasingly popular for self-defense and less-lethal personal protection. Compact, easy to carry, and non-lethal, these launchers (also known as a Byrna gun) fire CO2-powered projectiles that can deter threats without deadly force.
Since 1988, weāve helped customers provide security solutions in their homes and businesses. After a lot of consideration and in-house testing, we began selling Byrna launchers. While weāve been incredibly impressed with these less-lethal personal protection devices, we recognize they arenāt perfect.
The following explores the most common problems people may experience with a Byrna launcherāwhether it's the Byrna SD, Byrna LE, or an older modelāand how to troubleshoot or prevent them.
Top 5 Byrna Launcher Issues
1. Failure to Fire
The Issue: You pull the trigger, but nothing happens.
While extremely rare, this is undoubtedly the last thing you want. When you need your personal defense weapon, you want it to fire. Otherwise itās no better than a paperweight.
Possible Causes:
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CO2 cartridge is empty or improperly punctured
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Safety is still engaged
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An ammunition jam
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Internal valve issue
What to do:
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Make sure the CO2 cartridge is fresh and seated correctly. If it's already punctured from previous use, replace it.
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Double-check that the safety is in the off position.
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If you suspect a jam, unload the launcher and inspect the barrel.
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For persistent valve issues, contact Byrna support or a certified technician.
2. Inconsistent Firing Power (or low power)
The issue: Your rounds donāt seem to have the usual velocity or range.
Inconsistent fire power (aka velocity) can pose a risk, as it leaves you unable to judge the effectiveness of your launcher. You want to know what youāre getting with each pull of the trigger.
Donāt worry though, the most common cause is a leaking or partially depleted C02 cartridge. This is almost always the result of attempting to āsaveā a C02 cartridge thatās been previously pierced.
Possible causes:
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Leaking or partially depleted CO2 cartridge
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Cold weather affecting CO2 pressure
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Dirty or worn internal seals
What to do:
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Store and operate the launcher in temperatures above 60°F for best performance.
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Clean your launcher regularly, especially the bolt and barrel area.
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Replace the CO2 cartridge if there's any doubt about its integrity.
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Consider upgrading to the Byrna LE model, which offers better gas efficiency and performance.
3. Magazine Feed Issues
The issue: Rounds donāt feed properly into the firing chamber.
While some rounds, like kinetic rounds, can be re-used, youāll want to take special precaution to make sure they havenāt been warped or damaged.
Possible causes:
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Warped or damaged projectiles
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Dirty or worn magazine internals
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Incorrect loading sequence
What to do:
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Inspect your ammoāespecially if using kinetic or pepper roundsāfor any deformities.
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Clean the magazine thoroughly and ensure the spring moves freely.
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Load rounds following Byrnaās recommended sequence and orientation.
4. Trigger Malfunctions
The issue: The trigger is too stiff, unresponsive, or sticks after firing.
Possible causes:
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Mechanical wear or debris buildup
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Over-lubrication causing residue buildup
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Internal component misalignment
What to do:
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Disassemble (if you're comfortable) and clean the trigger assembly. (Please note: This may void your warranty. Be sure to proceed with caution.)
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Use only manufacturer-recommended lubricants in minimal amounts.
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If the issue persists, contact Byrna for professional servicing.
5. CO2 Leaks
The issue: You hear a hissing sound or lose pressure quickly.
Possible causes:
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Damaged or dry O-rings
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Improperly installed CO2 cartridge
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Over-tightening or cross-threading the cartridge
What to do:
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Lubricate O-rings with silicone grease regularly.
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Carefully follow the cartridge installation process, avoiding excessive force.
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Replace worn or damaged O-rings (Byrna offers replacement kits).
Bonus Tips for Long-Term Byrna Launcher Health
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Regularly test fire your launcher (in a safe, legal environment) to keep parts functioning properly. This also helps you become extremely familiar and comfortable with your launcher. When youāre in an intense situation, muscle memory is critical to your safety. You want to be able to access and operate your launcher as though it was second nature.
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Keep it clean. We canāt stress this one enough. Dust, debris, or residue can build up quickly, especially after firing pepper or chemical rounds. Regularly cleaning your launcher will help it maintain its functionality and velocity.
Where Can I Carry a Byrna Launcher in Washington State?
If you live in the greater Seattle area or throughout Washington, you may be wondering where you can carry a Byrna launcher. Byrna launchers are legal in Washington state, though the law prohibits them in some specific locations. These locations include:
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Schools
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Courthouseses
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Areas Restricted by Local Ordinances
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Jails
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Certain Public Facilities
If you have questions about whether your Byrna is allowed in a facility or at a location, we strongly recommend referencing the facilityās guidelines or contacting the local law enforcement office to confirm.
Byrna Pepper Gun Defends Against Home Break-In Attempt
āByrna Launchers have been employed effectively in various self-defense situations, providing individuals with a less-lethal means to protect themselves and others. Accounts of these personal defense solutions being used are infrequent, as they are not a popular topic with most regional and national news outlets.
Luckily, the brand hasnāt been completely kept out of news reports. On New Yearās Day 2023, Angela Morales used her Byrna pepper gun to stop an assailant from breaking into her home. A Byrna has been used to stop a chainsaw wielding an intruder. Police officers have used the pepper rounds to help subdue violent assailants with a less-lethal solution.
Simply put ā the Byrna launcher offers a less-lethal self-defense solution whether youāre in public or at home.
Purchase a Byrna Launcher
The Byrna Launcher is a reliable and effective self-defense tool when maintained properly. Like any mechanical device, it needs routine care and the occasional tune-up to ensure it's ready when you need it most. If you're ever unsure about a problem, Byrnaās customer support is responsive and helpful, and there are plenty of online communities ready to offer guidance.