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Who's Protecting You?
Urban environments have people as the main threat. Are you prepared to defend yourself and your loved ones from the unexpected?
Prepared to Defend
HERO® 2020's compact and concealable design fires non-lethal pepper filled projectiles as an effective alternative to firearms. Protect your family.
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Ready for Anything
AIIRO® covers the target in sticky and debilitating irritant gel. Legal, safe, and easy to use. Conceal AIIRO® in your bag or pocket for defense wherever you go.
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Don't Be a Victim
Crime has spilled into our every day lives with police overburdened and arriving too late. Safety is now a personal responsibility. Be proactive.
Who's Protecting You?
Urban environments have people as the main threat. Are you prepared to defend yourself and your loved ones from the unexpected?
Prepared to Defend
HERO® 2020's compact and concealable design fires non-lethal pepper filled projectiles as an effective alternative to firearms. Protect your family.
Shop Now
Ready for Anything
AIIRO® covers the target in sticky and debilitating irritant gel. Legal, safe, and easy to use. Conceal AIIRO® in your bag or pocket for defense wherever you go.
Shop Now
Don't Be a Victim
Crime has spilled into our every day lives with police overburdened and arriving too late. Safety is now a personal responsibility. Be proactive.
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DefenderSeries-Logo

Non-Lethal. Compact. Concealed.

HERO® Defender Series

The Self-Defense Weapon of Choice

Featured Products

HERO 2020

From $189

HERO® 2020

Customizable, powerful protection that won Self Defense Product of the Year.

An AIIRO non-lethal defense device sits on a nightstand.

From $175

AIIRO®

Sticky gel defense that fits in your purse or pocket. Simple and award-winning design.

HERO 2020 and AIIRO Duo Bundle

From $358

Duo Kit

Get both our patented, powerful defense device in one value packed bundle.

HERO® 2020 Powerful Defense

Compact and easy to conceal, HERO® 2020 offers simplicity and power that won Self Defense Product of the Year. Customize your defense with cartridge options, and empower yourself with practical features like stun light and laser sight. Take action and start protecting your family.
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AIIRO® Defense that sticks!

The Personal Protection Product of the Year! AIIRO® fires non-lethal irritant gel that sticks to the target, disabling attackers for up to an hour. At the size of a phone it fits easily into your pocket or purse for defense anywhere you go. Available with a 120dB alarm.
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Empowering women with non-lethal personal protection.

HERO Protected - Logo

HERO® 2020 Powerful Defense

Compact and easy to conceal, HERO® 2020 offers simplicity and power that won Self Defense Product of the Year. Customize your defense with cartridge options, and empower yourself with practical features like stun light and laser sight. Take action and start protecting your family.
Explore Now

Empowering women with non-lethal personal protection.

HERO Protected - Logo

AIIRO® Defense that sticks!

The Personal Protection Product of the Year! AIIRO® fires non-lethal irritant gel that sticks to the target, disabling attackers for up to an hour. At the size of a phone it fits easily into your pocket or purse for defense anywhere you go. Available with a 120dB alarm.
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Concealable

Compact, light weight designs are easy to conceal carry wherever you go.

High-Tech

Innovation leader. 2 product of the year awards with patented technology.

Powerful

Potent irritant incapacitates attackers for up to an hour with no long term damage.

Easy to Use

Effective, reliable, and easy to use self-defense solutions for men & women.

Accurate

Powerful Nitrogen based cartridges fire from up to 21 feet away with excellent accuracy.

Advantages of Non-Lethal Defense

HERO device sizes shown next to an iPhone and a competitor.

Compact &

Concealable

 Smaller and lighter than other devices, HERO® products are easy to conceal in a pocket or purse for easy to use defense wherever you go.

Advanced

Features

HERO® devices combine powerful self-defense with the best features in the industry including alarms, stun lights, and laser sights.

Defend Yourself Legally

Powerful

PAVA Irritant

Trusted by police and military for decades, our lab quality, non-lethal PAVA irritant disables attackers for up to an hour.

Customize

Your Defense

Be prepared for anything. Choose from multiple formats including powered aerosol gel, exploding irritant filled balls, and hard kinetic rounds.

A target being hit with an exploding PavaBall

Safety At

a Distance

Stop the target before they get too close. Fire up to 21 feet away with pinpoint accuracy to stop attackers in their tracks.

Quick Swap

Cartridges

Reload in seconds with ease. Simply activate the release and swap out the cartridge. Pre-built cartridges are easy for everyone to use.

Two women hold each other after a frightening encounter

Non-Lethal

Saves Lives

Protect your loved ones without taking a life. HERO® products do not cause long term injury or death to the target, bystanders, or others.

Carry Safely

and Legally

HERO® products do not require a license or permit to carry in most locations. Check our state restrictions page for more information.

Legal Safe Self-Defense
HERO 2020 training website on a smart phone

Free Training

Included Online

HERO® provides free online video training and resources with every bundle. Learn how to use your device in just minutes.

Award Winning

Self-Defense

HERO® 2020 and AIIRO® were each recognized for their user friendly, powerful designs – earning both devices the Product of the Year award.

HERO 2020 and AIIRO with their product of the year awards.

Explore HERO Videos & Blogs

Street Smart Series: Don't be a Victim

Street Smart Series

HERO 2020 Firing a Projectile Exploding into a Cloud of Chemical Irritant

Explore HERO® 2020

AIIRO Firing Sticky Irritant Gel

Explore AIIRO®

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HERO® is a pioneer in non-lethal defense, crafting products that empower personal safety and confidence. Our mission is to enhance lives by offering top-tier, less-lethal protection products and training. We aim to help over a million people maintain their lifestyle confidently through responsible self-defense solutions. Our products are engineered to be compact, powerful, and user-friendly, utilizing advanced manufacturing techniques such as injection molding, CNC machining, and electronics assembly. Every device we create is subject to rigorous quality control and safety standards, ensuring exceptional performance. Proudly designed, assembled, and supported in the USA, HERO® is committed to supporting American workers and maintaining the highest quality standards in the industry.

AIIRO® is our revolutionary non-lethal defense device, uniquely designed to enhance personal safety and set itself apart from traditional pepper spray. It launches a powerful blast of chemical irritant gel that can debilitate a target for up to an hour without causing long-term effects. Additionally, AIIRO® is equipped with a 120dB alarm for added security. This device is compact, about the size of a phone, making it easy to carry and conceal in a pocket, purse, or bag. User-friendly and safe, AIIRO® is activated by a simple button press and includes dual safety slides to prevent accidental discharge. It allows for two shots per cartridge and features a quick-swap system for easy cartridge replacement. Engineered from the ground up, AIIRO® stands out with its unique form and function, offering a safe, legal, and effective alternative for self-defense.

 

 

The HERO® 2020 stands out in the non-lethal self-defense market primarily due to its user-friendly design and advanced features that ensure both ease of use and effectiveness. Here’s what makes it unique compared to other projectile weapons:

  1. Compact and Concealable: The HERO® 2020 is designed to be discreet and portable. Its small size allows it to fit easily into a pocket or purse, making it accessible wherever you go without drawing attention. This feature is particularly valuable for personal defense, as it ensures the device can be carried comfortably and used spontaneously in emergency situations.

  2. Quick Swap Cartridges: Unlike many self-defense tools that can be complicated and time-consuming to reload, the HERO® 2020 features a quick swap cartridge system. Users can change cartridges in seconds without any mess or hassle, ensuring they can quickly reload and continue to defend themselves if necessary.

  3. Ergonomic Design and Grip: The HERO® 2020 is engineered with a unique grip that counteracts the common issue of muzzle lift experienced in traditional firearms. This design ensures greater accuracy and control when deploying the device, making it more effective as a self-defense tool. The two-finger trigger is easy to pull, which is beneficial for users with reduced grip strength.

  4. Powerful Features:

    • Stun Light: A blinding 600-lumen LED light activates automatically when the device is deployed, disorienting a potential attacker and providing a crucial advantage to the user.
    • Laser Sight: Equipped with a built-in Class 2 laser, the HERO® 2020 helps in aiming by providing a precise indication of where the projectile will land. This feature enhances accuracy and user confidence.
    • Rechargeable Battery: The inclusion of a rechargeable 5V battery, which can be charged via USB, adds convenience and ensures the device is always ready for use.

Overall, the HERO® 2020 combines practicality with powerful features, setting it apart as a versatile and reliable choice in non-lethal self-defense. Its award as Self Defense Product of the Year highlights its effectiveness and innovation in providing safety solutions.

Considering a non-lethal option over a lethal option for self-defense involves numerous factors that can influence your decision. Here’s why you might opt for a less-lethal tool:

  1. Stop an Attacker Without Taking a Life: Non-lethal weapons provide a significant advantage by incapacitating an attacker without causing fatal injuries. This allows you to defend yourself effectively while minimizing the chance of causing irreversible harm. The goal is to neutralize the threat and escape safely, not to inflict permanent damage or take a life.
  2. Avoid Legal Consequences: Using lethal force, even in self-defense, can lead to complex legal challenges, including criminal charges and civil lawsuits. The legal implications of injuring or killing an attacker can be severe, potentially involving hefty fees, fines, or even imprisonment. Non-lethal defense tools often result in fewer legal complications, as their use is generally viewed more favorably in the eyes of the law when justified.
  3. Carry in More Places: Non-lethal options like HERO® 2020 and AIIRO® can often be carried in locations where firearms are prohibited. This includes certain public areas, establishments, and cities with strict gun laws. Having a non-lethal weapon increases your ability to defend yourself in more places, providing continuous protection.
  4. No License Required for Carry: In many places, non-lethal weapons do not require a license to carry, either openly or concealed. This ease of access makes them an attractive option for personal defense, as it eliminates the need for background checks, permits, and other regulatory hurdles associated with firearms.
  5. Suitable for Those Unable or Unwilling to Use Firearms: For individuals who are uncomfortable with the idea of using lethal force or those who are legally or physically unable to handle a firearm, non-lethal weapons offer a viable alternative. They provide a means of defense without the associated risks and responsibilities of a gun, making them accessible and preferable for a wider range of people.

In the realm of personal security, it’s important to understand the difference between non-lethal and less-lethal weapons, as each category offers different levels of force suitable for varying defense needs.

 

Non-Lethal Weapons: These weapons are designed to significantly minimize the risk of fatality and long-term injury. Non-lethal tools, such as the HERO® 2020 and AIIRO®, are engineered to incapacitate an attacker temporarily without causing permanent harm. HERO® 2020 and AIIRO® represent advanced solutions in personal defense, allowing users to neutralize threats effectively while aligning with ethical considerations that prioritize preserving life. These devices are perfect for those who want to maintain security and peace of mind without the psychological and moral implications of using lethal force.

 

Less-Lethal Weapons: While also designed to be less fatal than traditional firearms, less-lethal weapons still carry a risk of causing serious injury under certain conditions. They are intended to offer a strong enough response to stop an aggressor but may result in greater physical harm than non-lethal options. Less-lethal weapons are generally used in scenarios where slightly more force is necessary to ensure personal safety.

Choosing between non-lethal and less-lethal options involves careful consideration of potential legal ramifications and personal comfort with the ethical implications of inflicting harm. Both HERO® 2020 and AIIRO® exemplify non-lethal options that provide users with effective means of protection, adhering to legal standards and ethical practices. Proper training in the use of these tools is essential to maximize their effectiveness and minimize any risks, showcasing a commitment to responsible and humane defense strategies.

The most effective personal safety strategies women can implement to enhance their daily security include:

  1. Being Aware of Your Surroundings: Always stay alert and aware of your environment, especially in unfamiliar or crowded places. Trust your instincts if something feels off.
  2. Having a Safety Plan: Develop and practice a personal safety plan. Know escape routes, keep emergency contacts on speed dial, and inform trusted individuals of your whereabouts.
  3. Using Non-Lethal Defense Tools: Carry non-lethal defense tools such as those from HERO®. The AIIRO® device, for example, can launch powerful blasts of chemical irritant gel, which can incapacitate an attacker for up to an hour without causing long-term harm. HERO® products are designed to be compact, easy to carry, and user-friendly, making them a practical addition to your safety toolkit.
  4. Learning Self-Defense Techniques: Enroll in self-defense classes to learn techniques that can help protect you in case of an attack. Physical and mental preparedness can make a big difference.
  5. Traveling in Groups: Whenever possible, travel with friends or in groups, especially at night or in isolated areas. There’s safety in numbers.
  6. Securing Your Home: Ensure your home is secure with strong locks, adequate lighting, and possibly a security system. Be cautious about opening the door to strangers.
  7. Using Technology Wisely: Utilize safety apps on your phone that can quickly alert emergency contacts or authorities if you’re in danger.

By incorporating these strategies and utilizing HERO® products, women can significantly increase their safety and confidence in various situations. HERO® devices like the AIIRO® provide a reliable, non-lethal option for personal protection, empowering women to defend themselves effectively without the need for permits or licenses in most locations.

HERO® devices offer several advantages compared to other self-defense tools for college students:

  1. Non-lethal and Legal: Unlike some traditional weapons like firearms, HERO® devices are non-lethal, reducing the risk of causing permanent harm or facing legal consequences. Most campuses prohibit firearms, but HERO® devices can typically be carried without permits or licenses, making them a more accessible option for students.

  2. Compact and Concealable: HERO® devices are designed to be small and easy to carry, fitting into backpacks, purses, or even pockets. Their compact size makes them convenient for students who need to move around campus and store their belongings in dorms or small spaces.

  3. Easy to Use: HERO® devices, like the AIIRO® and HERO® 2020, are intuitive and user-friendly, which is essential for first-time users or students in high-stress situations. They don’t require complicated operation, unlike some other self-defense tools that may need extensive training to use effectively.

  4. Effective Deterrence: HERO® devices deploy chemical irritant gel that incapacitates an attacker without causing permanent injury. This provides a strong line of defense while minimizing the risk of excessive force, making them a safer option for students.

  5. Additional Features: Many HERO® devices come with built-in features like a 120dB alarm to attract attention, adding an extra layer of protection in situations where immediate help is needed.

Overall, HERO® devices provide students with an easy-to-carry, effective, and legally safer alternative to other self-defense tools, offering protection without the lethal risks associated with more traditional weapons.

Personal safety is crucial for everyone, regardless of their profession. While certain occupations may face higher risks due to the nature of their work, the truth is that safety concerns can arise in any situation or environment. No matter what your job entails, having access to self-defense tools provides an extra layer of protection, ensuring that you’re prepared for the unexpected.

Here are some occupations that particularly benefit from carrying self-defense tools:

  1. Realtors: Often meeting clients alone in vacant properties, realtors face unique safety challenges. Having a non-lethal defense tool can provide peace of mind for realtors.

  2. Delivery Drivers: Navigating unfamiliar neighborhoods and interacting with strangers can put delivery drivers in vulnerable situations. Self-defense tools can offer added security when working in isolated areas or at night.

  3. Healthcare Workers: Nurses, home health aides, and other medical professionals frequently deal with high-stress environments and, at times, hostile patients. Having a self-defense option can provide comfort and protection in unpredictable situations.

  4. Rideshare Drivers: With a constant flow of passengers, many of whom are strangers, rideshare drivers can find themselves in risky situations, especially during late-night shifts. A compact defense tool ensures they are never caught off guard.

  5. Social Workers: These professionals often visit clients in their homes, many of which are in unfamiliar or potentially unsafe areas. A non-lethal self-defense device can help mitigate the risks associated with their work.

  6. Teachers and Educators: Though it may not always seem obvious, educators—especially those on college campuses or in large institutions—can find themselves in threatening situations. Having a defense tool on hand offers protection and reassurance.

  7. Real Estate Appraisers: Like realtors, appraisers frequently enter vacant properties or remote locations alone. Carrying a self-defense tool ensures they are prepared in case of an emergency.

  8. Traveling Salespersons or Service Technicians: These professionals spend significant time on the road and often interact with strangers in unfamiliar environments. A self-defense tool can enhance their sense of safety while working remotely.

While these professions may encounter more apparent risks, the reality is that personal safety is important for everyone. Whether you’re in an office, on the road, or visiting client sites, being equipped with a reliable self-defense tool empowers you to feel secure and confident in any environment. Personal safety is universal, and having a plan in place ensures that you’re ready to protect yourself, no matter the circumstance.

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