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, we’ve 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 we’ve been incredibly impressed with these less-lethal personal protection devices, we recognize they aren’t perfect.

The following explores the most common problems people may experience with a Byrna launcher—whether it's the Byrna SD, Byrna LE, or an older model—and how to troubleshoot or prevent them.

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 it’s no better than a paperweight.

Possible Causes:

CO2 cartridge is empty or improperly punctured

Safety is still engaged

An ammunition jam

Internal valve issue

What to do:

Make sure the CO2 cartridge is fresh and seated correctly. If it's already punctured from previous use, replace it.

Double-check that the safety is in the off position.

If you suspect a jam, unload the launcher and inspect the barrel.

For persistent valve issues, contact Byrna support or a certified technician.

The issue: Your rounds don’t 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 you’re getting with each pull of the trigger.

Don’t worry though, the most common cause is a leaking or partially depleted C02 cartridge. This is almost always the result of attempting to ‘save’ a C02 cartridge that’s been previously pierced.

Possible causes:

Leaking or partially depleted CO2 cartridge

Cold weather affecting CO2 pressure

Dirty or worn internal seals

What to do:

The issue: Rounds don’t feed properly into the firing chamber.

While some rounds, like kinetic rounds, can be re-used, you’ll want to take special precaution to make sure they haven’t been warped or damaged.

Possible causes:

Warped or damaged projectiles

Dirty or worn magazine internals

Incorrect loading sequence

What to do:

Inspect your ammo—especially if using kinetic or pepper rounds—for any deformities.

Clean the magazine thoroughly and ensure the spring moves freely.

Load rounds following Byrna’s recommended sequence and orientation.

The issue: The trigger is too stiff, unresponsive, or sticks after firing.

Possible causes:

Mechanical wear or debris buildup

Over-lubrication causing residue buildup

Internal component misalignment

What to do:

Disassemble (if you're comfortable) and clean the trigger assembly. (Please note: This may void your warranty. Be sure to proceed with caution.)

Use only manufacturer-recommended lubricants in minimal amounts.

If the issue persists, contact Byrna for professional servicing.

The issue: You hear a hissing sound or lose pressure quickly.

Possible causes:

Damaged or dry O-rings

Improperly installed CO2 cartridge

Over-tightening or cross-threading the cartridge

What to do:

Lubricate O-rings with silicone grease regularly.

Carefully follow the cartridge installation process, avoiding excessive force.

Replace worn or damaged O-rings (Byrna offers replacement kits).

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:

Schools

Courthouseses

Areas Restricted by Local Ordinances

Jails

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 facility’s guidelines or contacting the local law enforcement office to confirm.

​Byrna 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 hasn’t been completely kept out of news reports. On New Year’s 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 — the Byrna launcher offers a less-lethal self-defense solution whether you’re in public or at home.

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, Byrna’s customer support is responsive and helpful, and there are plenty of online communities ready to offer guidance.

Compare the Byrna SD and Byrna LE