An officer’s toolbelt is his lifeline in the field. Depending on the situation, the toolbelt has the answer, holding communication, less lethal and lethal options. However, in order to effectively deploy less lethal tools or chemical agents, officers must be trained in them. Just like with firearms, deploying a less lethal without training opens up departments to unnecessary liability.

However, training with live less lethals quickly becomes expensive. Spent Axon® TASER® cartridges and OC canisters pile up with extensive officer use, along with the cost. Then there are the decontamination and risk of injury concerns. But what’s an agency to do when this training is required?

Less Lethal Simulations

VirTra offers a cost and time-efficient way to train in less lethals—in addition to judgmental use of force, verbal de-escalation, active shooters and more. Law enforcement officers can enter the simulator equipped with TASER and OC spray to train in situations that would require a less lethal option. They can also use our ballistically accurate V-Marksmanship system to hone the mechanics of less-lethal deployment.

Enabling an officer to train using all the tools on their tool belt provides more than an understanding of how to work a less lethal accessory; it provides decision-making training and enhanced realism. The enhanced realism is two-fold, comprising of both physical and psychological fidelity.

Increased Fidelity

The psychological fidelity comes from the officer knowing they can engage in a variety of de-escalation and less lethal options, and the subjects on screen will react accordingly. Instructors can add another element of psychological fidelity by utilizing the patented Threat-Fire® on trainees to increase stress.

As for the physical fidelity, VirTra’s technology allows officers to use their duty weapons and TASER inside the simulator—once they are outfitted with the corresponding drop-in replacement. For example, VirTra’s patent-pending TASER simulation training cartridges are direct drop-in replacements for live cartridges on real Axon X2 and X26P TASERs. See more TASER features here.

As for the OC spray, VirTra offers laser-based OC spray training devices, which are placed in the SABRE®MK3 OC canister. The canister size, weight, activation button pressure and launch angle all match the actual OEM MK3 canister to increase realism while reducing training scars.

By utilizing TASER drop-in replacements and OC training devices, departments can train in less lethal all day without having to throw away a single cartridge.

Realistic Scenarios

There are many scenarios designed to teach the implementation of less lethal tools. One scenario is where officers respond to a scene where an emotionally disturbed person (EDP) is holding a knife to his chest and threatening to harm himself and others.

Scenarios like this are effective training tools, as they move beyond simple shoot/don’t shoot situations and prompt skills like scene control, contact and cover concepts and de-escalation. With the EDP scenario, watch as the officers communicate with the subject on screen. After attempts to verbally de-escalate the situation, and after the subject begins to escalate, the officer can use her TASER and the character on screen reacts realistically.

This is what training with VirTra is like. Realistic training with realistic tools in realistic situations.

Learn more about less lethal training and how it can improve your training program while saving money by contacting a VirTra specialist.

Law enforcement officers often encounter dangerous or complicated situations that require them to use different types of use of force. However, police use of force is only to be used for specific reasons, such as defense of self, the defense of another, to prevent the destruction of evidence, prevent suicide or to take a person into custody.

The International Association of Chiefs of Police defines use of force as the “amount of effort required by police to compel compliance by an unwilling subject.” Definitions of use of force are often vague due to each situation and officer being different. In a potentially threatening situation, officers may use physical force to mitigate the situation, make an arrest, or protect themselves or society from harm, though they must use only the amount of force that is objectively reasonable to obtain lawful objectives. Excessive use of force is a dangerous and by its own definition…unjustifiable.

In order to aid their mission to serve and protect, police have a wide array of force options in their toolbelts, both literally and figuratively. These options allow police to select and implement the right force option depending on what the situation requires. All types of use of force options can be broken up into the following use of force categories:

Verbal Direction and Control

Verbal commands are different from verbal de-escalation. Whereas verbal de-escalation is meant to diffuse the situation, and should be used first if possible, verbal force commands such as “stop”, “don’t move,” “you’re under arrest,” etc. are more forceful. The officer’s posture and tone should be stern, firm, though it may escalate to shouting and shortened commands in an attempt to gain compliance. These only work if someone chooses to comply.

Empty Hand Control

Empty hand control includes wrist locks, pressure points, and other come-a-long techniques. This can be broken up further in to soft and hard techniques. Hard empty hand control includes strikes and are typically associated with active aggression on the part of the subject being controlled.

Chemical Agents

Officers can utilize chemical force, depending on their department’s policies. Chemical weapons are usually sprays or projectiles embedded with chemicals to disburse a crowd or gain compliance of a suspect, with the most common chemical weapon being pepper spray. Due to their restraining and less harmful nature, chemical force falls under the less lethal category.

Electronic Control Device

Similar to chemical weapons, law enforcement officers may have an Axon® TASER®, stun gun or similar electronic device in their toolbelt, if permitted by the department. Also similar to chemical weapon, electronic tools are under the less lethal category. This form of force is beneficial in establishing control of a situation where the subject may be harming themselves, others or the officer.

Deadly Use of Force

Firearms are placed directly in the lethal category and are to be used by officers only when the officer reasonably believes the subject poses a significant threat of serious bodily injury, or death, to themselves or others. If the situation permits, officers are encouraged to begin with other force options before resorting to lethal options. However, all situations are different, forcing officers to rely on state law, knowledge and training in determining which force option to use.

VirTra is working hard to provide officers with the most beneficial, realistic use of force training . Each simulator is designed to build an officer’s skills and transfer that knowledge to the field. Each VirTra simulator is designed to work with a variety of force options, allowing officers to practice real-life situations with their full duty belt. For example, departments can utilize special TASER drop-in kits that make department-issued TASERS able to interact with the simulator, allowing officers to practice electronic control device.

Other accessories and tools include CO2 canisters, batons, etc. For situations that require use of a firearm, trainers can utilize a drop-in recoil kit and CO2 magazine, which fit into the duty weapon and convert it from a live weapon to a simulator-ready firearm. Learn more about these training tools by contacting a VirTra representative.

The phrases “Non-Lethal” and “Less Lethal” are used by law enforcement and military agencies worldwide. But what exactly does each phrase mean? Are these phrases interchangeable or apply to different products?

The Difference Between Less Lethal and Non-Lethal

The answer to non-lethal vs. less lethal is surprisingly simple: there is no force option that is completely non-lethal.

One of the best definitions of less lethal is “any use of force other than that which is considered deadly force that involves physical effort to control, restrain, or overcome the resistance of another.” ¹ This less lethal definition encompasses force such as an officer’s manual restraint, electronic control weapons, aerosol spray and impact projectiles.

However, you may be wondering how these tools are designed to overcome a subject rather than cause harm, why they are specifically called “less lethal” instead of “non-lethal”.

Think about physical restraint. If you tackle a suspect and handcuff them, if done wrong or if the subject has a pre-existing medical condition, it could kill them. Or if you try to gain control over a situation by using OC spray and the subject suffers an allergic reaction, it could kill them.

This same concept applies to Axon® TASER®, batons and so forth. While these instances are extremely miniscule, the possibility still exists. From a legal standpoint, it is safer and smarter to refer to these tools as “less lethal” rather than placing them in the “non-lethal” category.

However, these examples barely scratch the surface of less-lethal tools. According to the National Institute of Justice², there are seven types of less lethal device technologies:

• Conducted Energy Devices—encompasses TASERs, stun guns and stun belts
• Directed Energy Devices—radiated energy to achieve same effect as blunt force, with lower likelihood of injury
• Chemicals—pepper spray (OC), tear gas and stink bombs
• Distraction—laser dazzlers, bright lights or noise
• Vehicle-Stopping Technology—equipment that stops cars during high-speed chases
• Barriers—nets, foams and other physical barriers
• Blunt Force—projectiles in crowd-control to deter certain actions

Each tool is designed to mitigate harm while allowing law enforcement to gain control over a situation. Depending on agency policy and the unique situation, officers may choose which less lethal tool to utilize.

Non-Lethal Approach Verbiage

You may still be wondering about agencies that use the phrase “non-lethal”. The only organization that consistently uses that phrase is the military³. This is due to the terminology describing certain categories of weapons. While there is no clear policy as to why this phrase is used primarily over others, it could possibly be due to the nature of their missions.

How VirTra Trains with Less Lethal

VirTra’s judgmental use of force simulators are designed to train using the entire use of force spectrum. Officers are encouraged to start with de-escalation to “stabilize the situation and reduce the immediacy of the threat”¹ without the use of force.

However, certain subjects may not comply or situations may hinder de-escalation tactics. In these cases, officers may react with the next best option: less lethal.

The less lethal tools provided to officers depends on the agency, though they most likely include TASERs, OC and similar. Knowing this, VirTra designed less lethal accessories that are compatible with the simulator, allowing trainees and seasoned officers alike to train with all the tools found in their duty belt at the same time.

TASERs

VirTra offers two different TASER training tools: the V-TX2 and V-X26P (TASER 7 is in development). These products are drop-in replacements for the Axon TASER X2 and X26P, respectively. The cartridge probes allow for precise aiming and realistic targeting within the system, while providing proper form fit without modification to live TASER handles. In regards to the scenario, subjects who are hit with a TASER react accordingly, for the most realistic training possible.

OC Spray

While the TASER training options are drop-in replacements for duty TASERs, the OC training device is different. Instead, this device is a separate tool created by VirTra. While it is not a drop-in replacement, the accessory is still placed in a SABRE® MK3 OC canister, with proper activation button pressure and proper weight for maximum realism while mitigating training scars. Similar to TASERs, on-screen subjects react accordingly when hit with OC spray.

VirTra offers a variety of other less lethal training accessories to maximize training sessions, including impact munitions and 12g, 37mm and 40mm. For more information about our law enforcement accessories, please contact a VirTra representative.

 

1. IACP. National Consensus Policy and Discussion Paper on Use of Force. IACP, October 2017
2. National Institute of Justice, “Overview of Less-Lethal Technologies,” June 1, 2011, nij.ojp.gov: https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/overview-less-lethal-technologies
3. “Non Lethal or Less Lethal: What is the Difference? SDI” SDI | Security Devices Intl., 21 Sept. 2016, securitydii.com/non-lethal-less-lethal/

High quality law enforcement training is more than what is shown on the screens. While the video and graphics are high-quality, the screens alone do not provide the most immersive experience possible for law enforcement trainees. To create the most powerful law enforcement training environment, VirTra’s engineers and subject matter experts work tirelessly to design and perfect hardware that is then paired with the simulator. Each piece of hardware manufactured in-house is tested and designed to replicate the true feel and accuracy of the tool it represents.

Recoil Kits & CO2 Magazines

VirTra’s durable recoil kits and CO2 magazines transform officer’s duty weapons from live fire to simulation-ready in under two minutes. These kits require no permanent modification, allowing officers to practice utilizing their own weapon while saving departments money.

The kit allows the firearm to communicate with the training simulator, while the CO2 magazine provides the realistic recoil. The recoil provided is the best in the industry, providing officers with a true-to-life experience while saving money on ammunition and improving safety, as the gun foregoes blanks.

Since VirTra manufacturers recoil kits and magazine for a majority of popular on-duty weapons, police can practice using a whole arsenal, from pistols to rifles. For rifles, the recoil kits are integrated into the duty weapon by removing the bolt carrier group and replacing it with VirTra’s kit. As for pistols, the recoil kits are designed as barrel replacements.

Less-Lethal Training Options

Law Enforcement officers can practice utilizing their whole toolbelt inside VirTra’s simulators. After all, VirTra is so much more than a shoot-don’t-shoot simulator—instead, each simulator is programmed with a variety of scenarios that allow and encourage trainees to practice using Axon® TASER® and OC spray. Each less-lethal device is laser-based and equipped with an OEM form, thus replicating the size and weight of the same tools used in the field to minimize training scars.

For TASERs, VirTra’s cartridges simply drop into the existing TASER X2 or VX26P. The intelligent software allows instructors to see where the simulated probes landed, even when multiple students are using TASERs simultaneously in the simulation.

As for OC, every aspect from the size of the can to the placement of the button replicates the SABRE® MK3 OC spray. This includes the angle of the spray, which is perfectly positioned to allow training skills learned in the simulator to transfer to life in the field.

Threat-Fire® Law Enforcement Training

VirTra’s patented Threat-Fire reminds law enforcement trainees that simulation training is not a game. The Threat-Fire is a lightweight device that clips onto a trainee’s belt and is used to simulate return fire, dog bites, explosions and other consequences. This serves to elevate an officer’s heart rate and cause stress, mimicking psychological environments.

This tool is a more powerful teaching device than traditional “shoot back” devices. Other consequence devices shoot projectiles, which can cause injury, or produce vibrations or noises, which are ineffective. Instead, the Threat-Fire trains officers to continue performing even under stressful conditions, making it incredibly valuable for all training environments.

Low-Light Training

Unfortunately, many subject encounters occur in less-than-ideal times, such as at night. Instructors can incorporate the use of rail-mounted or handheld flashlights within any VirTra scenario to truly replicate real-life conditions and encourage practice in low-light environments.

VirTra offers both handheld and rail-mounted flashlights with adjustable illumination for beams of different shapes and sizes. Each light is laser-operated and projects onto the screen accurately, even when multiple trainees are using flashlights simultaneously in the same simulator. This is due to V-Lux™ technology, which allows the beam of light to transfer smoothly and accurately across the screens.

VirTra is so much more than a simulator training company. With state-of-the-art technology, realistic lethal and less lethal tools, consequence devices and more, law enforcement trainees are better prepared for the field. For more information on how you can maximize your VirTra simulator with high-tech equipment, contact a specialist today.

TEMPE, Ariz. — October 31, 2019 — VirTra, Inc. (NASDAQ: VTSI), a global provider of training simulators for the law enforcement, military, educational and commercial markets, today announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office has issued the company two new patents: patent 10,438,503, which relates to VirTra’s TASER® cartridge kits, and patent 10,436,539, which relates to mechanical malfunction of real firearms used in simulation training.

Based on the parameters of patent 10,438,503, VirTra is the only company in the United States that can produce or sell a specially triggered training cartridge for the TASER line of products by Axon, the global leader in connected public safety technologies. The patent covers VirTra’s proprietary method of reliably triggering the training device based on the unique acoustic sound produced by a TASER Conducted Energy Weapon’s (CEW) electrical arc. This innovation allows trainees to deploy the cartridges from a real TASER CEW during simulation training and avoid high-voltage feedback. It also allows trainees to practice with a TASER CEW’s “ARC” and/or “Re-ARC” functions, which increases the realism of each training session. By using a live CEW while training in VirTra’s simulators, trainees are able to improve their technique and develop proper habits that carry into real world situations. The patent applies to both legacy units and the latest multi-cartridge systems used for the TASER X2 and TASER 7 weapons.

“TASER CEWs have been classified as ‘less-lethal’ devices, and as such, require the same type of high quality, judgmental use-of-force simulation training as lethal devices like firearms,” said Lon Bartel Director of Training and Curriculum at VirTra. “By combining live TASER CEW and VirTra training cartridges with VirTra’s simulators and library of content, trainees have an opportunity to develop critical decision-making skills when under stress as well as further develop safe weapon handling by practicing the removal and replacement of cartridges during simulations that escalate.”

Based on the parameters of patent 10,436,539, VirTra is the only company in the United States that can produce or sell a specially designed kit that affordably converts a live firearm into a safe and reliable training tool that can simulate mechanical malfunction and therefore increase realism. This patent addresses the growing need to safely, affordably, and accurately reproduce the intricacies of real firearms for training purposes. Patent 10,436,539 expands VirTra’s growing library of intellectual property related to affordably converting real firearms (whether pistol or rifle) into suitable training tools that can be used in realistic simulation training without the expense or hassle of modifying the original firearm.

Bob Ferris, VirTra Chairman and CEO, added, “These new patents are the latest progression in the strategy we outlined at the beginning of the year to bolster our technological capabilities. These patents not only expand our competitive moat by protecting important simulated weapon technology, but they also help ensure that VirTra remains an industry leader and continues to offer the highest quality judgmental use-of-force simulation training available.”

About VirTra
VirTra (NASDAQ: VTSI) is a global provider of judgmental use of force training simulators, firearms training simulators and driving simulators for the law enforcement, military, educational and commercial markets. The company’s patented technologies, software, and scenarios provide intense training for de-escalation, judgmental use-of-force, marksmanship and related training that mimics real-world situations. VirTra’s mission is to save and improve lives worldwide through practical and highly-effective virtual reality and simulator technology. Learn more about the company at www.VirTra.com.

About Axon
Axon (NASDAQ: AAXN) is a network of devices, apps and people that helps public safety personnel become smarter and safer. With a mission of protecting life, its technologies give customers the confidence, focus and time they need to keep their communities safe. Axon’s products impact every aspect of a public safety officer’s day-to-day experience.

Axon works hard for those who put themselves in harm’s way for the rest of the community. To date, there are more than 397,800 software seats booked on the Axon network around the world and more than 223,000 lives and countless dollars have been saved with the Axon network of devices, apps and people. Learn more at www.axon.com or by calling (800) 978-2737.

Facebook is a trademark of Facebook, Inc., Twitter is a trademark of Twitter, Inc., TASER 7, TASER X2, Axon and the Delta Logo are trademarks of Axon Enterprise, Inc., some of which are registered in the US and other countries. For more information, visit www.axon.com/legal. All rights reserved.

Follow Axon here

• Axon on Twitter: https://twitter.com/axon_us
• Axon on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Axon.ProtectLife/

Forward-Looking Statements:
This news release includes certain information that may constitute forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by terminology such as “could,” “may,” “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “proposed,” “planned,” “potential” and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including statements about VirTra’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking information is necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Although VirTra believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. VirTra cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Accordingly, due to the risks, uncertainties and assumptions inherent in forward-looking information, readers and prospective investors in the Company’s securities should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. All forward-looking information contained in this press release is given as of the date hereof, is based upon the opinions and estimates of management and information available to management as at the date hereof and is subject to change. The Company assumes no obligation to revise or update forward-looking information to reflect new circumstances, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

###

Investor Relations Contact:
Matt Glover or Charlie Schumacher
[email protected]
949-574-3860

The first question you should ask when weighing firearm training options for your agency is, “do all firearms simulators provide the same training value?” The simple answer is no. The purpose of simulation training is to immerse the trainee in an environment as true-to-life as what they may experience in real-world situations.

VirTra understands that there is much more to law enforcement work than simply “shoot don’t shoot” scenarios. As the saying goes, communication is key.  It’s one of the best tools available to law enforcement officers, and the reason that – based on the verbal commands of the trainee – there are so many different outcomes to choose from as a scenario progresses. Lethal or less lethal force may be necessary based on trainee communication and scenario progression.

Law enforcement positions carry a high liability to all concerned – both for the officer and the public they serve – and training with the proper use of their tools is essential. It is vital that officers are trained with the most sophisticated, relevant and ever-evolving equipment.  When VirTra simulation training is added to an agency’s existing training program, defensive tactics, search and seizure, and report writing are incorporated to provide a truly dynamic training experience.

One of the key features of the VirTra system is that you can accomplish numerous types of training with a single system – such as weapons handling, judgmental use of force and de-escalation. An agency can also enhance a particular skill or ability of a trainee, conduct administrative tests, introduce new policies or design custom scenarios to focus on a specific purpose or “re-certification” in order to measure the successes or failures of the trainee before they are in a real-life situation.

VirTra – A True Reality-based Simulator

VirTra spares no expense when developing and producing scenarios that have a high attention to detail and incorporate all of the senses. Experienced film crews and vetted actors/actresses are used in all scenarios to produce the highest quality product where no detail is overlooked. By incorporating all of the senses into the VirTra simulator experience, trainees can get the adrenaline rush that occurs in high stress situations where senses become heightened to sounds, smell, touch and even light.

The stage of the VirTra V-300 is designed to vibrate with scenario-specific sound(s) of the training officer’s choosing, such as helicopters, dogs barking, emergency sirens and weather (rain, thunder, snow, wind).  The noise level can be as high – or as low – as the training operator desires.  Scenarios can also be experienced in any sort of desired light – such as daylight, high noon, sunset, and evening – causing the trainee to have to use a flashlight (which can be seen in the scenario). The operator also has the ability to add props for cover and concealment.

VirTra – Reality-based Simulation Intensified

Not only can a trainee be outfitted with an Axon® TASER®, OC spray or a flashlight, they can also be fitted with a Threat-Fire® and recoil kit for the on-duty firearm that they carry.  Both the TASER and OC work within the scenario, capturing both the time and placement of “hits.” This allows both the operator and the trainee to use the information to enhance the trainee’s training experience.

When firing a gun, it is important to know what to do in the event of a gun malfunction or something as simple as running out of ammunition. The realistic VirTra simulator provides a safe environment for that training.

The use of the VirTra threat-fire, which is a small box fitted to the trainee’s belt, is designed to “shock” the trainee if the they failed to react to scenario in appropriate manner. The threat-fire is not designed to punish the trainee, but rather stun and surprise them – encouraging the trainee to work through the shock and continue on until the threat has stopped.

In an effort to ensure the VirTra simulator experience is as close to reality as possible, it is essential that the tools have a realistic feel. VirTra recoil kits provide the feel of live firing by doing exactly what its name states – recoil. The barrel of the firearm is removed and a laser kit is dropped in, allowing the trainee to experience the recoil feel of live fire from firing their own duty weapon in the simulator as they proceed through the training exercise. Not only will the gun provide accurate sight view, it will recoil with every pull of the trigger.

Currently, VirTra has recoil kits for the following pistols, rifles and shotguns:

• Beretta M9, Glock 17, Glock 19, Glock 22, Taurus T92, Sig Sauer P226, H&K P2000, H&K USPC, M4/M16/AR-15, AK-47, 12-Gauge Shotgun, HK SL8 and many more.

The VirTra realistic recoil accessory allow trainees to experience the feel of recoil from live fire, without the expense, danger, and environmental factors associated with live ammunition. When recoil – combined with sight alignment, breathing exercises, trigger pull, and scenarios or marksmanship – is built into a training program, the trainee is provided every opportunity to succeed and make sure everyone makes it home at the end of the night.

Although there is no exception to live firing qualification, simulation training – either scenario-based or marksmanship – can enhance one’s skill set, improve marksmanship, and build confidence as a cost-effective and proven training asset.

Patent Pending, Less-Lethal Training Simulator Cartridges for TASER X2 and X26P Expand VirTra’s Offerings

Tempe, Ariz. — December 5, 2017 — VirTra, Inc. (OTCQX: VTSI), a global provider of training simulators for the law enforcement, military, educational and commercial markets, today announced a new series of training cartridges for the Axon® X2 and X26P TASER® handles. The VirTra® less-lethal training accessories utilize patent pending, state-of-the-art electronic sensing technology that enhances the safety, durability, and maintenance of the cartridges and addresses the full and accurate deployment of training points within VirTra’s virtual reality training simulator.

“Almost every law enforcement officer trains with a TASER or similar conducted electrical weapon (CEW), less-lethal option for de-escalation training which is a vital portion of the training program,” said Jason Mulcahy General Manager of VirTra. “Real training goes beyond the daily spark test to learning to manage target distance with a cartridge’s 8-degree spread. VirTra prides itself on providing the most accurate and realistic training system, with the goal of saving lives and supporting law enforcement officers around the world, and bolstering our product line improves our ability to meet this important goal.”

The newest non-lethal force options in the VirTra product offering, the training kits for the X2 have cross link arcing, arcing of two individual characters, and re-arc capability features. These cartridges interact dynamically with the new custom VirTra training scenarios recently released and newly created interactive characters.

The cartridges use an officer’s own X2 or X26P handles, have patent pending electronic sensing and filtering and employ rechargeable batteries. There is no on-off switch to worry about. Instead, an embedded smart motion sensor automatically turns the unit on when picked up, puts it to sleep when stationary, and turns the unit off when inactive for extended periods of time. The new, user-friendly RGB LEDs let the trainer know the status of the batteries, mode of operation, and indicate charge status. All of this technology combines to provide a trainer-friendly device that is easy to operate, prolonging training times between charges, and making the cartridge easy to maintain. The internal rechargeable battery and charging circuitry has been selected to provide years of training activity, uses a standard micro-USB charger that is supplied as part of the kit, and is also designed so that the end user could use almost any standard micro-USB cell phone charger if needed.

The VirTra cartridges are factory aligned to match the AXON X2 and X26P TASER handle’s red laser dots that aim onto the screen for real life training similarities. The quality of the laser components and factory alignment process improves precision, accuracy, and reliability within the VirTra software. The lasers are class 1A (<0.850mw) skin hazard from direct beam and eye hazard when viewed directly. Each TASER laser or ECW device can be assigned a unique ID, to individually track and score each cadet or officer.

The kits are more durable than ever for the training realism covers verification of cartridge readiness, transitioning rapidly to other force options and re-loading without fear of harming the VirTra cartridges.  The VirTra technology enhancements solve today’s industry training issues by enhancing the safety, durability and maintenance of taser training, while addressing the full and accurate deployment of training points.

About VirTra 

VirTra is a global provider of training simulators for the law enforcement, military, educational and commercial markets. The Company’s patented technologies, software and scenarios provide intense training for de-escalation, judgmental use-of-force, marksmanship and related training that mimics real world situations. VirTra’s mission is to save and improve lives worldwide through realistic and highly-effective virtual reality and simulator technology. Learn more about the company at www.VirTra.com.

Forward-looking Statements 

This news release includes certain information that may constitute forward-looking statements.  Forward-looking statements are typically identified by terminology such as “could,” “may,” “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “proposed,” “planned,” “potential” and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events.  All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, including statements about VirTra’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements.  Forward-looking information is necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information.  Although VirTra believes that such statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. VirTra cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements as a result of various factors.  Accordingly, due to the risks, uncertainties and assumptions inherent in forward-looking information, readers and prospective investors in the Company’s securities should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.  All forward-looking information contained in this press release is given as of the date hereof, and is based upon the opinions and estimates of management and information available to management as at the date hereof and is subject to change.  The Company assumes no obligation to revise or update forward-looking information to reflect new circumstances, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Media contact:

Susan Lehman
[email protected]
(510) 599-6555

Investor relations contact:

Brett Maas
[email protected]
(646) 536-7331

*AXON, TASER, X2 and X26P are registered trademarks of AXON ENTERPRISE, INC which can be referenced at www.TASER.com/legal

One of the greatest risks in law enforcement is the proper management of the use of force. A survey conducted in the Midwest found that excessive force claims made up 17% of all liability claims made against police departments, and these claims cost about $4 million in losses. VirTra’s use of force scenarios and training simulators help police officers make better decisions in the real world. Through virtual real-life scenarios, they learn how and when to use force – whether it’s lethal or less lethal.

Proper Training to Reduce Risk via Use of Force Training Scenarios

Police officers face a multitude of dangerous situations during each and every shift, but adequate judgmental use of force training can help them prepare for the unexpected. After all, it is difficult to make assumptions about how to react in certain situations unless that situation comes up in real life. That is exactly what VirTra had in mind when creating its high-tech line of training simulators. The goal involves allowing police officers to experience situations in a virtual setting before they encounter them in the real world, which better prepares them and gives them the experience they need to make better on-the-spot decisions.

Firearms, Recoil, and Return Fire Training Use of Force Scenario

Knowing how and when to use a firearm is one thing, but understanding how that firearm will react when fired is another. Though officers regularly use firing ranges to get the feel for their firearms, shooting at a range and shooting during a dangerous encounter are not the same. Sometimes, officers may be required to fire their weapons from awkward positions, which can amplify the recoil and catch officers off-guard. Firearms simulators that incorporate real-life scenarios along with weapon recoil and simulated return fire better train officers how to react and respond.

Non-Lethal Force Training

Police officers hope they never need to fire their weapons, and it is their duty to exhaust all other means of subduing and apprehending a suspect before pulling the trigger. VirTra’s use of force training scenarios also provide training for non-lethal tools, including everything from OC to impact munition (12 gauge, 37mm, 40mm) and even TASER® devices. This real-life training gives officers the opportunity to see how a use of force scenario will play out if they choose to avoid using lethal force. These tools create a true-to-life reaction within the simulator.

Use of Force Scenarios That Change Based on Officers’ Decisions

VirTra understands that judgmental use of force training is not as effective when officers learn to anticipate what will come next in the scenario. That is why their products offer various outcomes that depend on the officers’ decisions along the way. For example, in an active shooter situation, the outcomes are different when the officer chooses to use a TASER and when they choose to use lethal force. Following the use of force training scenarios, debriefing can help officers learn why the decisions they made were correct or incorrect, thus giving them vital experience for real-world situations.

Judgmental use of force scenarios are important for the safety of not only the officers but also of the general public. Depending on the situation, quickly subduing and apprehending a suspect can save many lives. That’s why VirTra’s use of force training scenarios are so diverse and customizable – they seek to provide the best and most realistic training possible.

Interested in learning more or scheduling a demonstration? Contact a product specialist!

In today’s day and age, information is at everyone’s fingertips thanks to the internet and social media. Because of this, police officers are constantly under scrutiny for their actions, even in life-or-death situations. Many police departments have turned to virtual reality and Judgmental Use of Force training simulators in order to help better train officers for real-world scenarios. With these systems, officers can better learn when to use force.

Real-World Scenarios

Judgmental use of force training simulators like the VirTra V-300 give officers the opportunity to experience a variety of scenarios they may encounter in the real world, but without the inherent dangers. For example, unlike many of the simulators in the past, including firearms training simulators, VirTra gives officers the ability to participate in multi-incident scenarios. In real life, most dangerous encounters are not simply one incident – these encounters consist of many different incidents with multiple confrontations as active threats at the same time on multiple screens. The results and outcomes vary based on the officer’s decisions, and with VirTra, officers can see how their decisions might impact the scenario.

Training for Multiple Situations

When a police officer puts on his or her badge or uniform before a shift, he or she has no idea what may happen that day. In order to properly protect and serve, these officers must be prepared to handle anything that comes their way. That’s why VirTra, which consists of anything from single-screen to 300-degree wrap-around use of force simulator loaded with real-life scenarios, takes almost any situation into account. For example, officers can receive judgmental use of force training for any of the following scenarios:

• Ambushes – Officers can learn when to use force if they are ambushed in the field. Often, it is difficult for officers to make spur-of-the-moment choices when they are taken by surprise, so this type of training is invaluable.
• Active Shooters – Active shooting situations are intense, and learning when to use force and when to wait can be tricky. There are numerous active shooter scenarios included with the judgmental use of force training simulator.
• Low-Light Searches – Police officers don’t always have the luxury of a well-lit encounter, so judgmental use of force training also helps officers learn to search for, control, and even apprehend suspects in low lighting.
• Suspect Control – The training simulators assist officers in learning proper suspect control, both with and without use of force.

Real Firearms Training Simulation

Today’s police & military training simulators go above and beyond traditional firearms training systems by making the experiences and encounters as realistic and lifelike as possible. Realistic scenarios are important, but so are realistic firearms. Judgmental use of force training simulators allow officers to use CO2 firearms, and they even provide true-to-life recoil. Officers who use the simulator regularly will better understand what to expect from a variety of firearms, which include shotguns, rifles, and pistols. Aside from this, officers can learn when to use Axon® TASERs® and OC rather than lethal force.

Law enforcement officials and police officers alike can benefit from judgmental use of force training in several unique ways. In the end, it’s about making situations these officers may encounter on the job feel like second nature. A well-trained officer is better equipped to protect, serve, and make the best possible choices in every possible situation.

Police officers today have a wide range of crime-fighting tools available to them beyond just their service weapons as they perform their duties on the streets. They also have access to less lethal options, such as Axon® TASER®, kinetic energy rounds and OC or pepper spray, giving them additional choices when dealing with suspects in tense situations.

VirTra OC Spray Training

Yet to be ready to use those additional tools at a moment’s notice, officers need to regularly and safely practice operating them when dealing with criminal suspects and real-time crimes. That’s where the kinetic energy rounds, TASER and OC spray accessories available for VirTra’s use of force training simulators can be brought in to help officers better train for incidents when they will need to use de-escalation techniques and non-lethal force to control and subdue a suspect.

VirTra’s 12 gauge/37mm/40mm kinetic energy round accessories uses a laser within the simulator to represent these direct fire options. These dynamic training tools allow for higher stress, repetitive, skill building on these vital longer range less lethal options.

VirTra’s TASER accessory is modified to use a laser that “fires” at the display screens of the training simulator, rather than standard TASER stun equipment that strikes and disables suspects when they are shot. By allowing officers to use the same kinds of Taser devices in training that they will use on the street, it ensures they get and maintain real-world experience in operating the non-lethal devices so they are ready if they are needed.

The VirTra OC Spray accessory is a realistic-looking OC spray canister that is also modified to fire a laser rather than actual gas, giving officers the ability to train with the non-lethal crime-fighting tool while immersed in a training scenario on a VirTra use of force simulator.

The lasers in all products interact in real-time with the scenario videos being shown in the VirTra simulators, giving police officers the most realistic training they can receive. The suspects in the real videos featured in the simulators are affected by and react immediately to the officer’s use of the kinetic energy rounds, TASER or OC spray as part of the simulations.

By providing these training tools, officers get positive experiences in operating them to build their confidence and help them replicate their real-world, on-the-street use as closely as possible.

Several other accessories are also available for use with the simulators, including a low-light package that includes two special flashlights and other hardware and software which allows officers to simulate operations in low-light situations. The low-light option exposes the officers to the proper use of the flashlight and their weapon in such situations and teaches how to determine proper threat and target identification.

A specialty “breach door” accessory allows officers to practice how to break through a door when responding in an emergency. The device, which is specially designed to be re-useable for repeated entry by officers in training for close quarters battle (CQB) or room-clearing operations, gives officers experience with movements that are often not provided in standard training exercises. Officers can train in how to properly enter a room with their partner after breaching the door – when they still don’t know what is on the other side – enabling trainees to simulate this high-stress situation.

VirTra System Upgrades

In addition, VirTra offers other system upgrades that can enhance the use of its simulators. One upgrade is a 16-inch raised training platform for the simulator that brings officers up to the level of the display screens used by the systems, as well as an optional sound system that includes an amplifier and transducers to let officers “feel” the sounds they are hearing as they train. Also available are borderless display screens to make the videos seen by the officers even clearer and larger, eliminating a 5-inch black border between each screen in the standard versions. A touch-screen display option is also available for the computer system which is operated by an instructor to run the VirTra use of force training simulator.

All of these accessories and options are available in addition to VirTra’s patented Threat-Fire® Return Fire Simulator, which is a wireless, battery-operated electronic accessory that clips on an officer’s waist on a belt or clothing and can be used by a training instructor to add real-time threat and return fire simulation to an officer’s training experience.

Law Enforcement Use of Force Training

The patented VirTra Threat-Fire brings the ultimate in realism to law enforcement use of force training by adding the simulated – but noticeable – “consequences” of a suspect attacking an officer. The Threat-Fire jolts the trainee officer with an ultra-low-dose of an electrical charge to replicate the sensation of being assaulted during a high-stress situation on the street. The device safely simulates the pain of hostile attack using an electric stun, which can be adjusted in duration to up to 2.5 seconds.

The activation of the Threat-Fire Simulator is made even more effective because an officer undergoing use of force training in the V-300 or other VirTra use of force simulators doesn’t know when it will be activated by the training instructor. By randomly adding this consequence to the video training, officers can practice de-escalation techniques as well as the use of non-lethal weapons as they react to situations from domestic disputes to hostage use of force scenarios and more.

V-300® Use of Force Training Simulator

VirTra’s judgmental use of force training systems, such as its five-screen V-300 simulator, provide police officers with video-enhanced, real-world training scenarios that mirror situations officers experience on the street regularly in their jobs. The V-300 allows police officers to be surrounded by 300 degrees of realistic video simulations which allow them to become enmeshed in the crime incident scenarios unfolding around them. VirTra also offers a full line of other simulators in three-screen and single-screen configurations for every training requirement.