CN113272616A

CN113272616A - Low-fatal equipment

Info

Publication number: CN113272616A
Application number: CN201980079014.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 安德烈·约翰·布伊斯
Original assignee: Bayerna Technology Co ltd
Current assignee: Bayerna Technology Co ltd
Priority date: 2018-10-24
Filing date: 2019-10-24
Publication date: 2021-08-17
Also published as: EP3870925A1; ZA202102716B; WO2020084550A1; CA3117574A1; US20210381796A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to mechanisms and components of a low mortality device, including a magazine configured to house a plurality of generally spherical projectiles in a "staggered" configuration, a barrel shifting mechanism, a projectile release mechanism and loading indicator, a projectile retainer, and a loading mechanism. The magazine comprises: a hollow body having a first closed end and a second end, the second end having an opening therein through which the projectile is received into or from the body; a first follower displaceable a first distance away from the first end in the direction of the second end, the first follower being biased in the direction of the second end; and a second follower displaceable a second distance away from the first end in the direction of the second end, the second follower being biased in the direction of the second end, and wherein the first distance exceeds the second distance.

Description

Low-fatal equipment

Introduction and background

The invention relates to a low-mortality device. More particularly, the present invention relates to various mechanisms and components of a low mortality device, including a magazine configured to house a plurality of generally spherical projectiles in a "staggered" configuration, a magazine including a snap-fit structure, a barrel shifting mechanism, a projectile release mechanism and loading indicator, a projectile retainer, and a loading mechanism.

Law enforcement agencies or personnel, private security companies, and even ordinary citizens, are often dissatisfied with the use of deadly force as a defense or self-defense measure. Internationally, legislative and regulatory requirements generally tend to discourage the use of lethal force, while tending to use defensive regimens in the less lethal range.

For example, currently in the united states, proposed legislative changes are intended to require law enforcement personnel to incapacitate attackers using low lethal force before committing to lethal force.

In most cases, the effective range or accuracy of known or currently available low-mortality devices renders these devices ineffective. The best known examples include the thathergun and tear-inducing substances such as the meis spray (also known as pepper spray). The accuracy and effectiveness of the tasephson gun can range up to 15 feet. This is within the currently allowable 21 foot "shooting" range. Thus, the inefficiency, inaccuracy and ineffectiveness of current low-mortality devices appears to make compliance with proposed legislative terms impractical. In some cases, the use of a taiser gun is considered an overuse of force, and as many as one thousand "false deaths" per year are attributed to law enforcement attempts to use a taiser gun with low lethal force.

Also usable are launchers (similar to paintball guns) that launch frangible projectiles containing a tear-inducing substance. Despite the increased range of these devices, it is well known that they are still inaccurate, particularly due to manufacturing defects and shot instability. These emitters are also cumbersome and not ergonomic to carry or transport.

One way to improve the accuracy of the projectile is to impart spin to the projectile as it is launched. This is achieved by using a launcher comprising a rifled barrel. However, the use of rifling barrels is generally within the purview of legislative regulations or agencies, such as the ATF (smoke and wine gun explosives authority).

There is a need for a low-mortality device that can effectively disable a person temporarily beyond the range of currently available low-mortality devices. There is also a need for a compact and ergonomic low mortality projectile launcher suitable for law enforcement agencies, educational departments, military and civilian use that does not fall within legislative or institutional limits of authority.

Known low-lethal devices, such as low-lethal handguns, comprise a body having a grip, a barrel, a compressed gas canister, and a valve assembly arranged to discharge gas to propel a pellet contained in the barrel when actuated by a firing mechanism (or trigger).

To reduce the overall size of the low mortality device, a canister including a sealing port is housed within the body and a piercing mechanism is provided for piercing the sealing port to allow compressed gas to flow to the valve assembly.

The magazine capacity of low-mortality devices using spherical pellets is very limited and is often cumbersome and complex. The double or staggered stacking of spherical pellets presents a number of problems, particularly due to the small contact area between subsequent pellets. This often results in jamming of the ball when it is unloaded from the magazine. To overcome this problem, complex followers are sometimes used that pivot to push the last pellet out of the magazine. But this adds complexity and unreliability to the magazine design.

The barrel length of the weapon affects its accuracy. A trade-off must be made between the length of the barrel and the overall size of the weapon. The effective length of the barrel is adversely affected when the projectile is loaded from the magazine and effectively pushed forward into the rear or breech of the barrel. There is therefore a need for a mechanism that allows loading of pellets, in particular elongated pellets, from a magazine into the barrel of a device, while ensuring that the effective length of the barrel can be as long as possible, while keeping the overall size of the device as compact as possible.

When the projectile is contained in the barrel of the device, the projectile tends to fall out of the barrel before the trigger is pulled. Alternatively, in some cases, more than one projectile may be loaded into the barrel at the same time as the device is further "loaded". Both of these conditions defeat the use of the device.

Throughout the description, when used in a magazine of a weapon, a follower will be understood to refer to a displaceable driving member within the magazine for urging a projectile contained within the magazine towards the mouth of the magazine.

Object of the Invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide various components and mechanisms for a low mortality device. The applicant believes that these components and mechanisms may at least alleviate the above disadvantages or may provide a useful alternative to known apparatus and methods.

Disclosure of Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a magazine for a plurality of substantially spherical projectiles. The magazine includes:

an elongated hollow body having a first closed end and a second end, the second end having an opening therein through which the projectile is operatively received into or from the body;

a first follower displaceable a first distance away from proximate the first end in a direction of the second end, the first follower being biased in the direction of the second end; and

a second follower displaceable a second distance away from proximate the first end in a direction of the second end, the second follower being biased in the direction of the second end, and wherein the first distance exceeds the second distance.

The second follower may be inhibited from being displaced beyond a predetermined position along the length of the body. The first follower may be allowed to displace beyond a predetermined position toward the second end.

A guide structure may be provided for guiding the second follower relative to the body during displacement. The guide formation comprises a groove formed on one of the body and the second follower, and a ridge or projection formed on the other of the body and the second follower, the ridge or projection being received in the groove in use.

The first follower and the second follower may be positioned side-by-side when the first and second followers are positioned near the first end. The cross-sectional dimension of the body towards the first end may exceed the cross-sectional dimension of the body towards the second end. Portions of the opposing outer walls of the body between the first end and the predetermined position may be substantially parallel to each other. Portions of the opposing walls of the body beyond the predetermined position in the direction of the second end may converge toward each other. A neck of the body is formed adjacent the second end, the neck defining an internal passage that is shaped and sized to approximate the opening. The opening is generally circular and is sized to allow the projectile to move through the opening without obstruction.

The first follower may be sized such that a portion of the first follower may at least partially protrude into the neck. The first follower may have a convex outer surface arranged to operatively push against a projectile received through the opening.

The first follower is sized such that a portion of the first follower may at least partially protrude into the neck. The first follower has a convex outer surface arranged to operatively push against a projectile received through the opening.

The second follower may have a generally concave outer surface arranged to operatively push against a projectile received through the opening. The path followed by the first follower between the first end and the opening may follow the contour of the outer wall of the body. The path is non-linear.

Coupling means may be provided between the first follower and the second follower such that when the first follower is moved towards the first end against the bias, the first follower and the second follower become coupled to each other such that the coupling means causes the first follower to urge the second follower from the predetermined position towards the first end.

The coupling means comprises a catch or shoulder formation on one of the first and second followers and a hook or projection on the other of the first and second followers.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a magazine for a plurality of substantially spherical projectiles. The magazine includes:

an elongate hollow body defining an interior cavity for receiving a projectile, the body having a first closed end and a second end, the second end defining an opening through which the projectile is operatively received into or from the body;

a ridge structure projecting from the side wall of the body from adjacent the first end towards the second end, thereby defining first and second contiguous, generally cylindrical channels; and

a follower displaceable from a first position within the first channel and proximate the first end to a second position proximate the opening, the follower being biased to the second position.

A neck portion of the body may be formed adjacent the second end, the neck portion defining an internal passage that is shaped and sized to approximate the opening. The opening is generally circular and is sized to allow the projectile to move therethrough without obstruction.

A guide structure may be provided for guiding the follower relative to the body during displacement between the first and second positions. The guide formation comprises a groove formed on one of the body and the follower and a ridge or projection formed on the other of the body and the follower, the ridge or projection being received in the groove in use.

The follower may be biased towards the second position by a biasing element in the form of a spring. The biasing element may be fixed to the first end and extend along the first channel when the follower is in the second position and may be inhibited from deflecting into the second channel.

The follower may be sized such that a portion of the follower may at least partially protrude into the neck of the body when the follower is in the second position. The follower may comprise a generally convex outer surface arranged to operatively push against a projectile received through the opening.

The first and second channels may extend generally parallel to each other and intersect each other along their lengths such that a projectile operably contained within the first channel may partially project into the second channel and such that a projectile operably contained within the second channel may partially project into the first channel.

The first and second channels may terminate in the receiving area. The receiving area may taper/converge towards the neck of the body.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a magazine for containing a plurality of projectiles, the magazine being housed in use within a low mortality device and comprising:

a catch structure located adjacent the opening and mounted to the body, the catch structure including a stop displaceable between a first position relative to the opening in which the stop blocks a portion of the opening thereby inhibiting movement of the projectile through the opening and a second position relative to the opening in which the opening is not blocked by the stop thereby allowing the projectile to pass through the opening, the catch structure being mounted to the exterior of the body.

The catch structure may be pivotably mounted to an exterior of the body such that the stop is pivotable between the first and second positions. The stop may be biased toward the first position by a biasing element. The biasing element may be a torsion spring.

The catch formation also has a drive surface for cooperating, in use, with a driver located within the body of the low mortality device, such that when the magazine is inserted into the body the driver pushes against the drive surface, thereby pivoting the catch formation to the second position.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, a barrel displacement mechanism for displacing a barrel of a device between a first axial position and a second axial position is provided. The displacement mechanism includes:

a structure located on the barrel; and

a drive member disposed in contact with the structure and in communication with the trigger mechanism such that when the trigger mechanism is triggered, the drive member pushes against the structure to displace the barrel toward the second axial position.

The barrel may slide axially relative to the body of the device.

The feature may be a shoulder on the barrel.

The drive member may be pivotably mounted relative to the barrel and may include at least a first drive arm, an end region of which may be arranged to contact the structure.

The drive member further includes a plurality of cogs that engage a plurality of cogs formed on the trigger member such that when the trigger member is triggered, the cogs on the trigger member pivot at least the first arm relative to the barrel.

An end region of the at least one arm may be arranged in sliding contact with the structure.

The drive member may comprise a second arm.

Alternatively, the structure may take the form of a rack, and the drive member comprises a plurality of cogs arranged to interact with the rack to form a rack and pinion type interaction.

Alternatively, the link body may be pivotally arranged between the structure and the trigger mechanism, and the trigger mechanism may be provided with a cam surface for pushing against the link body when the trigger mechanism is triggered, thereby displacing the barrel to the rearward position.

Further alternatively, the barrel shifting mechanism may include a pin received within a slot. When the trigger mechanism is triggered, the pin may be driven via a lever associated with the trigger mechanism. When the pin is actuated, the pin may slide within the slot, causing the barrel to be displaced to a rearward position.

Still further alternatively, the barrel shifting mechanism may comprise a multi-link or control rod system. The links or levers may be pivotally interconnected by pins. The arrangement is such that when the trigger mechanism is triggered, the links or levers pivot relative to each other, thereby displacing the barrel to the rearward position.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a release mechanism for a device for releasing a projectile held by a containing projection of a release valve thereof, the release mechanism comprising an indicator body secured to a body of the device such that a portion of the indicator body projects outside of the body of the device, wherein the indicator body is displaceable between a raised position in which the indicator body stands proud of the body of the device and a lowered position, the arrangement being such that the indicator body is displaced to the raised position when the projectile is held on the containing projection such that when the indicator body is urged towards the lowered position, a force is exerted on the projectile.

The receiving projection may comprise a displaceable release body operatively arranged to be brought into contact with the projectile. The contact portion of the pointer may push against the release body so that when the pointer is displaced to the lowered position, the release body is displaced accordingly.

The release body may be pivotably secured to the receiving boss. The indicator body may be pivotably secured to the main body of the device.

The indicator body may be arranged to rest on the release body. The arrangement may be such that the indicator body may be lifted from the release body when the barrel is moved to the second or rearward position relative to the receiving boss.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention there is provided a projectile retainer comprising a body having a first portion mounted relative to a breech of an apparatus and a second portion made of a resiliently deformable material, the second portion being displaceable between a first position in which the second portion retains a projectile within the breech of a barrel and a second position in which the projectile is permitted to be removed from the barrel.

According to a seventh aspect of the invention, there is provided a loading mechanism for loading a projectile into a bore/breech of a barrel of an apparatus. The loading mechanism includes first and second bodies pivotally secured relative to one another, the first and second bodies defining a cavity therebetween and being configurable between a first configuration in which the first and second bodies are pivoted towards one another such that the cavity is generally cylindrical and a second configuration in which the first and second bodies are pivoted away from one another so as to define an opening into the cavity through which a projectile is operatively received into the cavity.

The loading mechanism may further comprise a biasing member for biasing the first and second bodies towards the second configuration. The biasing member may be a spring, such as a torsion spring. Alternatively, the first and second bodies may be biased to the first configuration.

The first body and the second body may each define a generally semi-cylindrical inner surface.

The first and second bodies may be provided with first and second drive formations, respectively, for operatively driving the first and second bodies against the bias to the first configuration. The drive structure may comprise a ramp for interacting with a corresponding slide structure, the ramp being provided on an inner side of a slide associated with a barrel of the device.

The arrangement may be such that when the slide is operatively displaced from the first rest position to the second position, the slide structure may interact with the drive structure to allow the first and second bodies to move under the bias of the biasing member to the second configuration so that a projectile may be received into the cavity through the opening, and when the slide is operatively displaced from the second position to the first rest position, the slide structure may cause the first and second bodies to pivot against the bias to the first configuration.

The first end of the loading mechanism may be disposed near the end of the barrel. The configuration of the loading mechanism is such that when the first and second bodies are in the first configuration, the cylindrical cavity is aligned with the bore and the first end of the loading mechanism seals against the barrel, thereby extending the length of the bore through the length of the cylindrical cavity.

The second end of the loading mechanism may be disposed in operable proximity to a pressure vent valve operable to vent a predetermined amount of compressed gas into the cavity to thereby cause the projectiles to be expelled from the barrel. The arrangement may be such that when the first and second bodies are in the first configuration, the second end of the loading mechanism may seal against the discharge valve such that the pressure discharge valve and the aperture may be arranged in fluid flow communication, and such that when pressurized gas is discharged or vented via the pressure discharge valve, the projectiles located within the cavity are expelled from the apparatus via the aperture.

The barrel displacement mechanism may cause the barrel to operably move away from the loading mechanism when the first body and the second body are in the second position such that a gap is defined between the first end of the loading mechanism and the barrel.

The barrel shifting mechanism may cause the loading mechanism to operably move away from the discharge valve to define a gap between the second end of the loading mechanism and the discharge valve when the first body and the second body are in the second position.

The first and second body may be allowed to slide axially on the first and second pins, respectively, between a rearward position in which the charging mechanism seals against the discharge valve and a forward position in which a gap is defined between the charging mechanism and the discharge valve. The biasing element may bias the loading mechanism to a forward position. The shoulder may limit axial displacement of the loading mechanism on the first pin and the second pin, respectively.

The cross-sectional dimension of the opening to the cavity may be approximately the diameter of the projectile.

The length of the first and second bodies may exceed the length of the projectile.

The first and second bodies, the drive structure and the slide structure are made of a polymeric material and are formed by means of injection molding. Alternatively, the first and second bodies, the driving structure and the sliding structure may be made of a metallic material and may have relatively smooth outer surfaces. The outer surfaces of the drive structure and the slide structure may be polished.

The device may be a low-mortality device.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention there is provided a barrel displacing mechanism for displacing a barrel of a low mortality device having a main body between a forward axial position and a rearward axial position, the barrel displacing mechanism comprising a drive member on a slide of the main body, the drive member being arranged to interact with a drive mechanism provided between the slide and the barrel such that when the slide is moved to the rearward axial position the drive member interacts with the drive mechanism so as to move the barrel to the forward axial position and such that when the slide is moved to the forward axial position the drive member interacts with the drive mechanism so as to move the barrel to the rearward axial position.

The drive member may comprise an interacting surface and may take the form of a pin.

The drive mechanism may include:

a drive body pivotably secured relative to the body of the apparatus and including a first drive surface and a second drive surface; and

a link body pivotably secured between the drive body and the barrel.

The arrangement may be such that when the slider is moved towards the rearward axial position, the drive member interacts with the first drive surface of the drive body to cause the drive body to pivot relative to the body of the apparatus causing the barrel to be displaced to the forward position, and such that when the slider is moved towards the forward axial position, the drive member interacts with the second drive surface of the drive body to cause the drive body to pivot relative to the body of the apparatus causing the barrel to be displaced to the rearward position.

Drawings

The invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

fig. 1 is a perspective view of a first exemplary low mortality device in the form of a pistol with a body panel removed to reveal its internal components, the pistol being adapted to propel a spherical projectile through a barrel of the barrel;

fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of a first exemplary magazine for use with the low mortality apparatus of fig. 1, the magazine having a plurality of generally spherical projectiles housed therein in a staggered configuration, the magazine including dual followers;

FIG. 3 is the magazine of FIG. 2 with a first spherical projectile loaded therein;

FIG. 4 is the magazine of FIG. 2 with a second spherical projectile loaded therein;

fig. 5 is the magazine of fig. 2, loaded with a third spherical projectile;

FIG. 6 is the magazine of FIG. 2 with a fourth spherical projectile loaded therein;

FIG. 7 is the magazine of FIG. 2 with a fifth spherical projectile loaded therein;

FIG. 8 is the magazine of FIG. 2 with a sixth spherical projectile loaded therein;

FIG. 9 is the magazine of FIG. 2 with a seventh spherical projectile loaded therein;

fig. 10 is a first perspective view of a second exemplary magazine for use with the low mortality apparatus of fig. 1, the magazine having a plurality of generally spherical projectiles housed therein in a staggered configuration, the magazine including a single follower;

fig. 11 is a front view of the magazine of fig. 10, showing the catch structure in a first position;

figure 12 is a side elevational view of the magazine of figure 10 shown in cross-section along line IV-IV' of figure 11;

FIG. 13 is a top view taken along line XIII-XIII' in FIG. 11 showing the first and second channels defined by the ridge structure;

FIG. 14 is a front view of the magazine of FIG. 10 showing the catch structure in a second position;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the magazine of FIG. 10 with some details shown in phantom to make visible the internal details thereof;

fig. 16 is a perspective view of the magazine of fig. 15, loaded with the first four spherical projectiles;

fig. 17 is a perspective view of the magazine of fig. 15, which has been loaded with eight spherical projectiles;

figure 18 is a front view in section of the apparatus of figure 1 showing details of the magazine in an operative position within the grip of the apparatus and in which the driver has pivoted the stop of the magazine away from the opening of the magazine;

figure 19 is a front view of the section of figure 18 with the magazine having been released from the grip of the apparatus and with the stop preventing displacement of a projectile within the magazine through the opening;

FIG. 20 is a front elevational view of the section of FIG. 19 with the magazine moved further downwardly out of the grip and with the stop retaining the projectiles within the magazine;

fig. 21 is a perspective view of a subassembly of the low mortality device of fig. 1, the subassembly including a barrel, a release valve and a barrel displacement mechanism, wherein the barrel is in a first forward position;

FIG. 22 is a side view of the subassembly of FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is a side view of the subassembly of FIG. 22 with the barrel shift mechanism actuated and the barrel in an intermediate position;

FIG. 24 is a side view of the subassembly of FIG. 22 with the barrel shift mechanism fully actuated and the barrel in a second rearward position;

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional side view of the subassembly of FIG. 24;

fig. 26 is a perspective view of the release valve and release mechanism of the low mortality device of fig. 1 showing the containment structure prior to containing a projectile therein;

FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional side view of the release valve and release mechanism of FIG. 26 with the projectile in the process of being received within the receiving boss;

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional side view of the release valve and release mechanism of FIG. 26 with the projectile in its final position within the receiving boss;

FIG. 29 is a perspective detail view of the release valve, release mechanism, a portion of the barrel, and the pellet stop of the device of FIG. 1 with the pellet received in the receiving boss and the barrel in a first forward position;

FIG. 30 is a top view of the release valve, release mechanism, barrel and pellet stop of FIG. 29;

FIG. 31 is a top view of the release valve, release mechanism, barrel and pellet stop of FIG. 29, with the barrel having been displaced to a second rearward position and the barrel having deflected the stop;

fig. 32 is a perspective view of a second exemplary low mortality device in the form of a pistol with a body panel removed to reveal its internal components, the pistol being adapted to propel an elongated winged pellet through the barrel;

fig. 33 is a top perspective view of an exemplary elongated winged projectile for use with the low mortality device of fig. 32;

FIG. 34 is a bottom perspective view of the projectile of FIG. 33;

fig. 35 is a perspective view of an exemplary loading mechanism for use with the low mortality device of fig. 32 and wherein the first body and the second body are in a first configuration or position;

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the loading mechanism of FIG. 35 with the first and second bodies in a second configuration;

fig. 37 is a cross-sectional side view of an assembly including a portion of the barrel of the low mortality device of fig. 32 and a release valve, wherein the loading mechanism of fig. 35 is in position prior to loading the projectile into the loading mechanism;

FIG. 38 is a cross-sectional front view of the assembly of FIG. 37;

FIG. 39 is a cross-sectional side view of the assembly of FIG. 37, with the barrel moved axially away from the charging mechanism to define a first gap therebetween, and the charging mechanism moved axially away from the release valve to define a second gap therebetween;

FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional front view of the assembly of FIG. 39;

FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional side view of the assembly of FIG. 37, with the first and second bodies in a second configuration and with a projectile loaded into the loading mechanism;

FIG. 42 is a cross-sectional front view of the assembly of FIG. 41;

FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional side view of the assembly of FIG. 41, with the first and second bodies returned to the first configuration;

FIG. 44 is a cross-sectional front view of the assembly of FIG. 43;

FIG. 45 is a cross-sectional side view of the assembly of FIG. 37 with the barrel and the loading mechanism both axially displaced to eliminate the first and second gaps;

FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional front view of the assembly of FIG. 45;

FIG. 47 is a cross-sectional side view of the assembly of FIG. 37 with the projectile in the process of being ejected from the barrel;

FIG. 48 is a cross-sectional front view of the assembly of FIG. 47;

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of first and second drive structures formed on first and second bodies of the loading mechanism of FIG. 35, with the first and second bodies in a first configuration;

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of the first and second drive structures of FIG. 49 with the first and second bodies in a second configuration;

fig. 51 is a side view of the barrel displacement mechanism of the low lethal device of fig. 32, with the barrel in a rearward position;

FIG. 52 is a side view of the barrel shifting mechanism of FIG. 51 with the slide in the process of being shifted rearwardly, thereby shifting the barrel forwardly;

FIG. 53 is a side view of the barrel shift mechanism of FIG. 51 with the barrel in a forward position such that a first gap is formed between the barrel and the loading mechanism and such that a second gap is formed between the loading mechanism and the release valve; and

fig. 54 is a side view of the barrel shifting mechanism of fig. 51 with the barrel still in the rearward position, but with the slide not yet fully shifted to the forward position, and thus not yet beginning to move the barrel to the rearward position.

Detailed description of the preferred embodiments

A first exemplary low lethal apparatus in the form of a low lethal pistol is designated by reference numeral 10 in fig. 1. Low mortality device 10 generally comprises a main body 12. The body 12 has a grip portion 14 for holding the apparatus 10 and a barrel 16 through which a projectile (not shown in fig. 1) is propelled in use. A magazine (shown generally at 18 in fig. 1) is disposed within the grip portion 14. The apparatus 10 is particularly suited for propelling generally spherical projectiles. The magazine 18 is used to house a plurality of spherical projectiles and to load the projectiles into the breech of the barrel. A compressed gas canister 20 is located within body 12 and generally below barrel 16. The canister 20 is locked in place within the body 12 by a locking cap 22, typically having a screw-in or bayonet type locking mechanism. A release valve 24 is provided to discharge a predetermined amount of compressed gas into the barrel 16 to expel the projectiles therefrom. Thus, the release valve 24 and the canister 20 are operatively arranged in fluid flow communication. The release of gas by the release valve 24 is triggered by a trigger mechanism 26, the trigger mechanism 26 being hinged about a hinge point 28. Generally, the trigger mechanism 26 triggers a hammer (or hammer) 34, and the hammer 34 actuates the release valve 24.

Piercing mechanism 30 is provided to initially pierce or open a seal (not shown) provided on a port (not shown) of canister 20. The tank 20 (also called cartridge) is of known type and is usually filled with compressed carbon dioxide (CO)₂). A pressure tube 32 connects the canister 20 to the release valve 24 via the puncture mechanism 30.

It should be understood that low mortality device 10 may take various forms or configurations other than a pistol, and may include configurations such as a rifle. It should also be understood that the components described herein may be compatible with such other configurations. In the remainder of this disclosure, the low mortality device 10 will be referred to as a pistol-configured device.

A first exemplary magazine of the device 10 is indicated by reference numeral 18.1 in fig. 2 to 9. The magazine 18.1 is particularly adapted to receive a plurality of generally spherical projectiles 36 in a "double stacked" configuration, as best shown in fig. 8 and 9 and as described in more detail below.

The magazine includes an elongated hollow body 38. The elongated hollow body 38 has a closed first end (not shown in the figures, but it should be understood that the closed first end comprises the bottom of the magazine and is similar in this regard to a conventional magazine) and a second end 42 defining an opening 44 into the hollow body 38. Spherical projectiles 36 are loaded into the hollow body 38 through the opening 44 or are received from the hollow body 38 (as will be described in more detail below).

The magazine 18.1 also includes a first follower 46 within the hollow body 38. The first follower 46 is displaceable a first distance 48 in the direction of the second end 42 away from a position proximate the first end of the hollow body 38 (as shown in fig. 9). The first follower 46 is biased toward the second end 42 by a biasing element, typically in the form of a first spring 50.

The magazine 18.1 also includes a second follower 52 within the hollow body 38. The second follower 52 is also displaceable a second distance 53 in the direction of the second end 42 away from a position proximate the first end of the hollow body 38 (as shown in fig. 9). As shown in fig. 2, the first distance 48 exceeds the second distance 53. The second follower 52 is also biased toward the second end 42 by a biasing element, typically in the form of a second spring 54. When the second follower 52 is displaced a second distance 53 away from the first end, the second follower 52 is inhibited from moving further toward the second end 42 and remains at a predetermined position 56 along the length of the body 38, as shown in fig. 2-5. Also, as can be seen in fig. 2, the first follower 46 is free to move beyond the predetermined position 56 toward the second end 42.

Typically, a guide structure (not shown) is provided to guide the second follower 52 during displacement of the second follower 52 relative to the body 38. The guide structure typically comprises a ridge-and-groove structure. Accordingly, a ridge may be formed on the inner wall of the main body 38 and a groove may be formed on the second follower 52, or a ridge may be formed on the second follower 52 and a groove may be formed on the inner wall of the main body 38. The ridges and grooves are cooperatively arranged such that the second follower 52 may be slidably displaced relative to the body 38.

The first and second followers (46, 52) are positioned side-by-side (as shown in fig. 5-9) when the first and second followers (46, 52) are between the predetermined position 56 and the first end. A first cross-sectional dimension at a first end, such as a first width 58 of the magazine 18.1, exceeds a second cross-sectional dimension at a second end, such as a second width 60 of the magazine 18.1.

A first portion 62 of the body 38 (between the first end and the predetermined location 56) has opposing outer walls (62.1 and 62.2) that are substantially parallel to each other.

The second portion 64 of the body 38 (between the predetermined location 56 and the second end 42) has opposing outer walls (64.1 and 64.2) that converge toward one another.

The neck 66 of the body 38 is located near the second end 42. The neck 66 defines an internal cavity having a cross-section similar in shape and size to the opening 44. The opening 44 is generally circular and, therefore, the interior cavity of the neck 66 is generally cylindrical. The generally cylindrical interior of opening 44 and neck 66 is sized so that spherical projectile 36 may pass therethrough without becoming obstructed.

Similarly, the first follower 46 is shaped and sized so that it can at least partially protrude into the interior cavity of the neck 66. The first follower 46 has a nose 68, the nose 68 being in direct contact with the first spherical projectile 36.1 loaded into the magazine. When the first follower 46 is displaced towards the first end, the spherical head 68 pushes against the first projectile 36.1. As the first follower 46 is displaced from proximate the opening 44 toward the first end, the first follower 46 is displaced generally along the contour of the walls 64.1 and 62.1 of the second and first portions (64, 62), respectively. Thus, the path followed by the first follower 46 between the first end and the opening 44 is non-linear. The first follower 46 can thus pivot relative to the body 38 along this path. By providing the first follower 46 with the nose 68, it is ensured that the first follower 46 continuously contacts the first spherical projectile 36.1 despite changes in the relative positions of the first spherical projectile 36.1 and the first follower 46.

Since the path of the second follower 52 is linear (guided by the guide means), the second follower 52 has a substantially concave portion 69 for receiving the second projectile 36.2.

Coupling means are provided which include a catch or shoulder formation 70 on the second follower 52 and a hook or projection 72 on the first follower 72. It will be readily appreciated that the coupling arrangement may take on various other variations, such as forming the hook or projection 72 on the second follower 52 and the catch or shoulder structure 70 on the first follower 46.

The magazine 18.1 is designed to receive seven spherical projectiles in a staggered configuration. It will be appreciated that by loading the spherical pellets 36 in a staggered configuration, the magazine 18.1 is significantly more compact than a magazine that does not allow for a staggered configuration.

Fig. 2 shows the magazine 18.1 without any spherical pellets loaded therein. In fig. 3, a first spherical projectile 36.1 is loaded into the magazine 18.1 through the opening 44 and the first follower 46 is displaced a little towards the first end.

In fig. 4, a second spherical projectile 36.2 is loaded into the magazine 18.1 through the opening 44. The second spherical projectile 36.2 pushes against the first spherical projectile 36.1, thereby displacing the first follower 46 a bit further towards the first end. The first follower 46 now begins to move alongside the second follower 52.

In fig. 5, a third spherical projectile 36.3 is loaded into the magazine through opening 44. The third spherical projectile 36.3 pushes against the second spherical projectile 36.2. The recessed portion 69 is slightly inclined towards the first follower 46 so that the first spherical projectile 36.1 follows the first follower 46. The shape of the spherical pellets is such that each subsequent spherical pellet moves to a different side of the magazine 18.1 as additional spherical pellets are loaded.

As can be seen in fig. 5, at a certain point, the catch or shoulder 70 and the hook or protrusion 72 become coupled to one another such that the first and second followers (46, 52) move together toward the first end.

As mentioned above, the order of discharge of the spherical pellets 36 from the magazine 18.1 is reversed from the order of loading the pellets 36 into the magazine 18.1. The second spring 54 may have a rate that exceeds the rate of the first spring 50.

By providing two separate followers and limiting the second distance 53, it is ensured that the first projectile 36.1 can be easily discharged from the magazine 18.1 by the first follower 46 moving freely towards the opening 44, although the opposing walls converge towards each other (64.1, 64.2).

A second exemplary magazine of the device 10 is indicated by reference numeral 18.2 in fig. 10 to 17. The magazine 18.2 is also adapted to receive a plurality of generally spherical projectiles 36 in a "double stack" configuration, as can be seen from fig. 16 and 17 and as described in more detail below. The magazine 18.2 is operatively received in the grip 14 of the device 10, similar to the magazine 18.1.

The magazine 18.2 comprises an elongate hollow body 80 defining an internal cavity 82, in use a projectile being received or contained within the internal cavity 82. The body 80 has a closed first end 84 and a second end 86 defining an opening 88. Spherical projectile 36 is received into lumen 82 or from lumen 82 through opening 88.

The ridge structure 90 protrudes from a sidewall 92 of the body 80 into the internal cavity 82. The ridge structure 90 projects a first distance 94 from the first end 84 to the second end 86. As can be seen, the ridge structure 90 does not extend all the way to the second end 86.

The ridge structure 90 defines first and second contiguous and generally cylindrical channels (or races or grooves) (96, 98), each for receiving a plurality of spherical projectiles 36 in a staggered configuration (as described in more detail below).

The magazine 18.2 also includes a follower 100. The follower 100 is displaceable relative to the body 80 from a first position to a second position. In the first position, follower 100 is positioned within first passage 96 and proximate first end 84, while in the second position, the follower has exited first passage 96 and is positioned proximate opening 88.

A biasing element, such as a spring 101 (shown in fig. 18-20), is disposed between the first end 84 and the follower 100 such that the follower is biased toward the second position. A first end of spring 101 may be fixed to first end 84 and may thus push against first end 84. When the follower 100 is in the second position, the spring 101 extends along the first channel 96 and out of the first channel 96. Thus, the diameter of spring 101 may be slightly smaller than passage 96. When the spring 101 is compressed (in other words, when the follower 100 is displaced to the first position against the bias), the first channel 96 acts as a guide to ensure that the spring 101 does not deflect into the second channel 98.

The body 80 forms a neck 102 toward the second end 86. The neck 102 defines an interior passage. The internal passage corresponds in shape and size to opening 88. Opening 88, and thus the internal passage of neck 102, is generally circular and large enough to allow ball-shaped projectile 36 to pass therethrough unimpeded or unimpeded.

A guide structure 104 is provided for guiding the follower 100 during displacement of the follower 100 relative to the body 88 between the first and second positions. The guide structure typically comprises a ridge-and-groove structure. As shown in fig. 12 and 13, the slot 104 is generally formed in the sidewall 92 of the body 80. A ridge (or protrusion such as a pin 106, best seen in fig. 15) is formed on the follower 100 and is arranged to be received in the slot 104 and slide in the slot 104. It will be readily appreciated that the ridge may be formed on the side wall 92 and the groove 92 may be formed on the follower 100 without departing from the scope of the present invention.

The follower 100 is sized such that at least a portion of the follower 100 protrudes into the neck 102 when the follower is in the second position. The follower has a generally convex outer surface or head 108 with a seat 110 for receiving the first projectile 36.1 received in the magazine 18.2.

The first and second channels (96, 98) extend generally parallel to each other and intersect each other along their lengths. The first and second channels (96, 98) are generally "8" shaped or kidney-shaped when viewed from the top. A longitudinal opening is thus formed between the first and second channels (96, 98). Thus, when the projectile 36 is positioned in the first passage 96, a portion of the projectile 36 will extend into the second passage 98. Similarly, the projectile 36 located in the second channel 98 will extend partially into the first channel 96 (it will be appreciated that the spring 101, due to its diameter, will also extend slightly into the second channel 98, but will not deflect into the second channel 98).

The first and second channels (96, 98) terminate in a receiving area 112. The receiving area 112 tapers or converges toward the neck 102 of the body 88.

In use, a first projectile 36.1 is received through opening 88 and neck 102 into receiving area 112 while seated in seat 110 of follower 100. The first projectile 36.1 thus displaces the follower 100 by the first portion towards the first position. Thus, when additional projectiles are received into the internal cavity 82, the first projectile 36.1 will move with the follower 100 into the first channel 96. When the second projectile 36.2 is received in the internal cavity 82, the outer surfaces of the first and second projectiles (36.1, 36.2) interact such that the second projectile 36.2 moves toward the second channel 98.

The outer surface of the third projectile 36.3 will interact with the outer surface of the second projectile 36.2 such that the third projectile 36.3 is again received in the first channel 96. In this way, subsequent projectiles are stored in a staggered configuration.

Since the first and second projectiles (36.1, 36.2) each partially project into the adjacent channel, the displacement of the second projectile 98 in the second channel 98 is limited by the first projectile 36.1. Thus, when in use a projectile is discharged from the magazine 18.2, and as the follower moves under the influence of the bias towards the second position, the first projectile 36.1 pushes the second projectile 36.2 towards the opening 88, whilst the second projectile 36.2 pushes the third projectile 36.3 towards the opening 88, and so on.

The interaction between the projectiles in adjacent channels enables unloading of projectiles 36 from both channels (96, 98) using a single follower 100. Furthermore, because the follower is sized such that it can fit at least partially through neck 102 and opening 88, even if body 80 converges in receiving area 82, the follower can be displaced along the length of the body, allowing the first projectile to be discharged from magazine 18.2 without requiring complex movable geometries. The path followed by follower 100 is generally linear, which facilitates efficient discharge or unloading of projectile 36 through opening 88. It will be appreciated that the particular geometry of the receiving zone is critical to the operation of the form of magazine 18.2 described above, and in particular to the staggering of subsequent projectiles 36 in adjacent first and second channels (96, 98).

It will again be appreciated that by loading the spherical pellets 36 in a staggered configuration, the magazine 18.2 is significantly more compact than a magazine that does not allow for a staggered configuration.

Fig. 15 shows the magazine 18.2 unloaded with no spherical pellets, with the follower 100 in the second position. In fig. 16, a fifth spherical projectile 36.1 is loaded into the magazine 18.2 through the opening 44 and the follower 100 is displaced towards the first position. Here, the follower has entered the first channel 96.

As mentioned above, the sequence of unloading of spherical pellets 36 from the magazine 18.2 is reversed from the sequence of loading the pellets 36 into the magazine 18.2.

Each of the first and second exemplary magazines (18.1, 18.2) is provided with a snap arrangement 120. However, the snap structure 120 will be described with particular reference to the first exemplary magazine 18.1. The snap features 120 are located adjacent the opening 44 of the body 38. The snap structure 120 includes a stop 122. The stop 122 is pivotally displaceable between a first position (shown in fig. 11) relative to the opening 44 and a second position (shown typically in fig. 14) relative to the opening 44.

When the stop 122 is in the first position, the opening 44 is partially blocked such that a projectile located within the magazine 18 is prevented or inhibited from moving through the opening 44, while when the stop 122 is in the second position, the projectile may move freely through the opening 44.

The snap feature 120 is mounted to the exterior of the body 38 by a screw 124, allowing it to pivot between a first position and a second position, as shown in fig. 14.

A biasing element (not shown) in the form of a torsion spring is provided for biasing the stop 122 to the first position.

The outer surface of the catch structure 120 serves as a drive surface 126. When the magazine 18 is inserted into the grip 14 of the device 10, the internal structure of the body 12 acting as a driver 128 (best shown in fig. 18-20) pushes against the driving surface 126 and pivots the stop 122 to the second position, allowing a projectile to be received into the barrel 16 of the device 10.

When loading a projectile into the magazine 18, the user pivots the stop 122 to the second position. Being located outside of the body 38 greatly simplifies handling of the snap structure 120.

The shape of the stop 122 is such that the resultant force exerted by the projectile on the stop 122 does not pivot the stop 122 to the second position.

When magazine 18 is inserted into grip 14, catch structure 120 is displaced so as to allow top spherical pellets 36 to move from magazine 18 into the breech of barrel 16.

In fig. 18, the magazine 18 is shown in an operative position within the grip 14. Upon insertion to this position, driver 128 is pushed against drive surface 126, thereby pivoting stopper 122 from the first position to the second position. The first spherical projectile 36.1 is then received into the breech of barrel 16 through opening 88. The second spherical projectile 36.2 is located just below the first spherical projectile 36.2. If the first spherical projectile 36.1 is now expelled from the barrel 16, the follower 100 will move the second spherical projectile 36.2 into the breech of the barrel 16, ready to be expelled therefrom.

However, in some instances, the user may choose to remove the magazine 18 before ejecting the first spherical pellet 36.1 from the barrel 16. This is shown in fig. 19 and 20. In fig. 19, the magazine 18 has been released 14 from its position within the grip (as shown in fig. 18) and has been displaced downwardly by a first distance. As shown in fig. 19, the arrangement of the driver 128 and the stop 122 is such that the stop moves to the first position before the second projectile 36.2 is displaced relative to the first projectile 36.1. The stop now blocks the opening 88, thereby prohibiting the second spherical projectile 36.2 from moving through the opening 88. As the magazine moves further downwardly and out of the grip 14, the second spherical projectile 36.2 is retained in the magazine as shown in figure 20.

The combination of the position of the driver 128, the fact that the stop 122 is mounted on the exterior of the body of the magazine 18, and the geometry of the stop 122, ensures that the second spherical projectile 36.2 is retained within the magazine 18 when the magazine 18 is removed from the grip 14. Furthermore, since the stop 122 is mounted to the exterior of the body of the magazine 18, the neck 102 of the magazine 18 is less bulky than the neck of a conventional magazine, and the neck 102 can thus be advanced closer to the breech of the barrel 16 to help retain the second spherical projectile 36.2 when the magazine 18 is removed.

It will be appreciated that the snap structure 120 may equally be used with a magazine adapted for use with winged elongate projectiles, such as the projectile 202 described below and shown in fig. 33 and 34. Moreover, it will be appreciated that the snap structure 120 may be used with a magazine adapted to store a plurality of projectiles in a non-staggered manner.

As shown typically in fig. 26, the release valve 24 includes a receiving boss 130 for receiving the spherical projectile 36 from the magazine 18. The receiving boss 130 may have a substantially semi-cylindrical shape. A retaining piece 132 is provided toward a side of the receiving boss 130. The retaining tabs 132 are made of a resilient material and are biased inwardly such that when the spherical projectile 36 is received into the receiving boss 130, the retaining tabs 132 are displaced against the bias by the spherical projectile 36. The retaining tabs 132 exert a force on the spherical projectile 36, thereby clamping the spherical projectile 36 between itself and the opposing wall portion of the receiving projection 130. This prevents the spherical pellets 36 located within the receiving projection 130 from falling out of the receiving projection 130 when the magazine 18 is removed from the grip 14. Alternatively, the retention tabs 132 may be configured to move apart against the bias when a projectile is inserted into the containment projection 130 and may return under the influence of the bias to catch the projectile 36, preventing it from falling out of the containment projection 130.

The receiving boss 130 includes a generally cylindrical portion 134. A seal in the form of an O-ring 136 is provided around the cylindrical portion 134.

In order for spherical projectile 36 to be received within receiving boss 130, barrel 16 needs to be moved away from release valve 24 to form an opening for movement of spherical projectile 36 therethrough. A barrel shifting mechanism 140 (shown in fig. 21-25) is provided for this purpose. Barrel 16 is permitted to slide axially within body 12 between a first position and a second position. The first position is a forward position in which an opening for the projectile 36 is formed. The second position is a rearward position in which barrel 16 is positioned on receiving boss 130. When the projectile 36 is ejected from the barrel 16, the barrel 16 will be in the second position.

The barrel 16 is biased toward a first (forward) position (as shown in fig. 21 and 22). A locking ring 142 is located near the forward end of the barrel 16. A spring 144 (shown in fig. 1) is disposed on the barrel 16, with a first end of the spring 144 disposed in contact with the locking ring 142. A second end of the spring 144 contacts an internal shoulder formed on the body 12. The barrel is moved against the bias created by the spring 144 to a second or rearward position (as shown in fig. 24 and 25) such that the barrel 16 naturally returns to the first (forward) position.

The barrel shift mechanism 140 includes a structure or shoulder 146 on the barrel. The structure or shoulder 146 may be in the form of a ring integrally formed on the barrel. Alternatively, the structure or shoulder 146 may be in the form of a ring that is locked in place relative to the barrel by a shrink fit, locking pin, or the like. A low friction bushing 148 may be provided to push against the structure or shoulder 146. The bushing 148 may be generally made of a wear resistant material, such as a plastic, self lubricating material.

The drive member 150 is disposed in contact with the structure or shoulder 146. Drive member 150 is disposed in communication with trigger mechanism 26 such that actuation of trigger mechanism 26 by a user causes drive member 150 to push against bushing 148 and structure or shoulder 146, thereby displacing barrel 16 from a first (forward) axial position to a second axial (rearward) position.

Drive member 150 is pivotally mounted with respect to barrel 16 and is free to pivot about pivot point 152. Drive member 150 includes at least a first (and typically also a second) drive arm 154 (one on each side of barrel 16). An end region 156 of the drive arm is arranged to be in sliding contact with the bushing 148 to push against the formation or shoulder 146. Bushing 146 is thus disposed between structure or shoulder 146 and end region 156, thereby reducing friction or preventing wear when end region 156 displaces barrel 16 to the second (rearward) position.

The communication between the trigger mechanism 26 and the drive member 150 is in the form of corresponding cogs or teeth of a gear wheel arranged in mesh. A plurality of cogs or teeth 158 are provided on the drive member 150, typically three or more, and a plurality of cogs or teeth 160 are provided on the trigger mechanism 26. Thus, when the trigger mechanism 26 is actuated by a user, the respective teeth (158, 160) interact such that the arm 154 pivots about the pivot point 152.

In fig. 21 and 22, the barrel 16 is shown in a first (forward) position with the trigger mechanism 26 not activated. A gap or opening is now formed for receiving the spherical projectile 36 into the receiving boss 130. Spherical projectiles 36 are pushed into the receiving protrusion 130 by a follower or projectile 36 subsequently received in the magazine 18, in which case contact will occur between the spherical projectile 36 located in the receiving protrusion 130 and the subsequent projectile 36. In fig. 23, the user begins to actuate trigger mechanism 26 such that drive member 150 begins to pivot about pivot point 152 and such that end region 156 of arm 154 begins to push against bushing 148, thereby moving barrel 16 away from the first (forward) axial position in the direction of the second (rearward) position. In fig. 24, the trigger mechanism is in its fully triggered position, while the barrel 16 is in a second (rearward) position. As can be seen in fig. 25, barrel 16 has now been displaced over cylindrical portion 134 of receiving boss 130 and the inner surface of barrel 16 is sealed against seal 136. Thus, when release valve 24 vents a predetermined amount of compressed gas into barrel 16, seal 136 prevents the compressed gas from escaping between barrel 16 and release valve 24. It will be appreciated that when barrel 16 is displaced to the second (rearward) position, barrel 16 pushes away the subsequent spherical projectile 36.

Once barrel 16 is in the second (rearward) position, release valve 24 is actuated so that spherical pellets 36 are pushed out of barrel 16. When trigger mechanism 26 is released by the user, barrel 16 will return to the first (forward) position under the bias of spring 144, allowing a subsequent spherical projectile 36 to be received into receiving boss 130 in preparation for being ejected from barrel 16.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the structure 146 may take the form of a rack and the drive member 150 may include a plurality of cogs arranged to interact with the rack to form a rack and pinion type interaction between the trigger mechanism 26 and the barrel 16, arranged such that when the trigger mechanism 26 is triggered, the barrel will be displaced to a rearward position.

In another alternative embodiment (not shown), the barrel shifting mechanism 140 may take the form of a link body pivotally disposed between the structure and the trigger mechanism 26, with the trigger mechanism 26 being provided with a cam surface for pushing against the link body when the trigger mechanism 26 is triggered, thereby shifting the barrel 16 to the rearward position.

In yet another alternative embodiment (not shown), barrel shift mechanism 140 includes a pin that is received within a slot. When the trigger mechanism 26 is triggered or pulled, the pin is driven via a lever associated with the trigger mechanism 26. When the pin is actuated, the pin slides within the slot, causing barrel 16 to be displaced to a rearward position.

In another alternative embodiment (not shown), barrel shift mechanism 140 includes a multiple link or lever system, wherein the links or levers are pivotally connected by pins. The arrangement may be such that when the trigger mechanism 26 is triggered, the links or levers pivot relative to each other, thereby displacing the barrel 16 to the rearward position. It should be understood that this arrangement may be altered by changing the configuration of the various links, such as by limiting the relative displacement of some of the links, or by adding or removing a link, so that the barrel is displaced to a forward position when the trigger mechanism 26 is triggered or pulled (as described below with respect to the device 200).

In some cases, it is desirable to release the spherical projectile 36 that has been received within the receiving boss 130 (typically when the magazine 18 is removed from the grip 14). A release mechanism 176 is provided for this purpose.

The release mechanism 176 includes an indicator body 178 held by the main body 12 of the device 10 such that a portion of the indicator body 178 protrudes outside of the main body 12. Indicator body 178 is displaceable between a raised position (shown typically in fig. 28) and a lowered position (shown typically in fig. 27). In the raised position, a portion of the indicator body stands upright on the main body 12. The indicator body 178 is generally arranged to pivot between a raised position and a lowered position, although it will be readily appreciated that the indicator body 178 may similarly be received within a slot formed in the main body 12 such that the indicator body 178 may slide axially between the raised and lowered positions.

The release mechanism 176 is configured such that the indicator body 178 is displaced to the raised position when the projectile 36 is retained within the receiving boss 130. When indicator body 178 is pushed to the lowered position, a force is exerted on projectile 36, thereby releasing projectile 36 from containment lobe 130. The receiving boss 130 includes a displaceable release body 180 that is pivotally secured to the receiving boss 130. When the projectile 36 is received in the receiving projection 130, the release body 180 contacts the projectile 36.

The contact portion 182 of the indicating body 178 pushes against the releasing body 180. A spring (not shown) urges the indicator body 178 into contact with the release body 180. However, the spring is not strong enough to cause the release body to release the projectile 36 from the containment lobe 130. The release body 180 is thus disposed between the projectile 36 and the indicator body 178. When indicator body 178 is pushed to the lowered position by a user, contact portion 182 transmits a force to release body 180, which in turn transmits a force to projectile 36, causing projectile 36 to be released from containment lobe 130. The release body 180 is pivotably fixed to the receiving boss 130.

Indicator body 178 also includes an indicator surface 184. The indicating surface 184 is hidden when the indicator body is in the lowered position, but is visible to the user when the indicator body 178 is in the raised position. The indicating surface 184 is generally marked such that when the marked portion of the indicating surface 184 is visible, the user is thereby informed that the projectile 36 is located within the receiving projection 130 of the apparatus 10.

In fig. 26, the receiving boss 130 is clear of the projectile 36 and the indicator body 178 is therefore in the lowered position. Fig. 27 shows the projectile as received into receiving boss 130, but just prior to it causing displacement of the release body 180. In fig. 28, the projectile is received within the receiving boss 130 and the indicator body 178 is in a raised position in which the indicator surface 184 is visible to a user of the device 10.

If the user now removes the magazine 18 from the grip 14 and presses the indicator body 178, the release body 180 will move the projectile 36 to the position shown in fig. 27 and the projectile will fall into the cavity within the grip that normally houses the magazine 18.

Since indicator body 178 is arranged to rest on release body 180, indicator body 178 will be displaced when barrel 16 is displaced to the second (rearward) position.

Even if pellets 36 are held in place in receiving bosses 130 by retaining tabs 132, pellets 36 may fall out if barrel 16 is struck or barrel 16 of device 10 falls downward. A projectile retainer is provided to inhibit accidental dislodgement of the projectile from the receiving projection 130.

The shot stop includes a stop body 190. The first portion 192 of the stopper 190 is secured to the body 12 of the device 10. As seen in the top view of fig. 30, second portion 194 of stop body 190 is bent inwardly such that first end 196 of stop body 190 contacts projectile 36 when barrel 16 is in the first (forward) position. The stop body 190 inhibits the projectile 36 from falling out in the manner described above. The stop body 190 is made of an elastically deformable material, typically in the form of a plastic, such as polypropylene. When the barrel is displaced to the second (rearward) position, the barrel straightens the second portion 194 of the stop body 190, causing it to move outwardly and away from the projectile 36. As barrel 16 slides over projectile 36, second portion 194 is forced apart as shown in fig. 31. When barrel 16 is displaced back to the first (forward) position, second portion 194 moves back to its curved form, ready to hold projectile 36 in its position. As shown, two stop bodies are typically provided, one on each side of barrel 16.

A second exemplary low lethal apparatus in the form of a low lethal pistol is designated by reference numeral 200 in fig. 32. Low mortality device 200 is similar in many respects to first exemplary low mortality device 10, and also similar in function. Second low mortality device 200 thus comprises similar body 12, grip 14, canister 20 (not shown in fig. 32), locking cap 22, release valve 24, trigger mechanism 26, hinge 28, lancing mechanism 30, pressure tube 32 and hammer 34.

The second apparatus 200 differs from the first apparatus 10 in that the second apparatus 200 is particularly suited for propelling non-spherical projectiles (such as the projectile 202 shown in fig. 33 and 34). Projectile 202 includes a body 204, and a capsule 206 at the front of body 204. The capsule may take the form of a conventional spherical pellet or may be defined by a cap received over the open end of the body 204. The substance is contained within a capsule 206. Towards the rear end of the body 204 a plurality of fins 208 are arranged, the fins 208 imparting a spin to the projectile 202 in flight. An annular airfoil 210 is disposed about the tip of the airfoil 208. The annular airfoil 210 improves the aerodynamics of the in-flight projectiles and enables the projectiles 202 to be stacked in a magazine (described in more detail below).

The second apparatus 200 comprises a magazine 212 arranged to contain a plurality of projectiles 202. Device 200 also includes a barrel 214 from which, in use, projectiles 202 are propelled from barrel 214. Barrel 214 differs from barrel 16 in certain respects, as described below.

The apparatus 200 also includes a loading mechanism 216 that forms a breech of the apparatus 200. The loading mechanism 216 is shown in more detail in fig. 35-50. In use, loading mechanism 216 constitutes an extension of barrel 214. The magazine 212 is arranged such that its open end 44 is located, in use, adjacent the loading mechanism 216. As will be described in greater detail below, loading mechanism 216 is used to load pellets 202 from magazine 212 into barrel 214.

The loading mechanism 216 comprises first and

second bodies

218, 220, the first and

second bodies

218, 220 being fixed to the apparatus 200 such that the first and second bodies (218, 220) are pivotable relative to one another in use. The first and second bodies (218, 220) define an interior cavity 222 therebetween. The first and second bodies (218, 220) are configurable between a first configuration (shown typically in fig. 35) and a second configuration (shown typically in fig. 36). When first and second bodies (218, 220) are configured in the first configuration, first and second bodies (218, 220) are pivoted toward one another such that interior cavity 222 is substantially cylindrical and interior cavity 222 has an inner diameter substantially similar to the bore of barrel 214. Therefore, each of the first and second bodies (218, 220) has a substantially semi-cylindrical inner surface. Thus, in the first configuration, first and second bodies (218, 220) act as extensions of barrel 214, and first and second bodies (218, 220) form a breech of barrel 214.

The first and second bodies (218, 220) pivot away from each other when the first and second bodies (218, 220) are configured in the second configuration, thereby defining an opening 224 in the internal cavity 222. In use, a projectile 202 is received into the cavity 222 through the opening 224.

Biasing members (not shown) in the form of springs are provided to bias the first and second bodies (218, 220) to the second configuration.

The first and second bodies (218, 220) are pivotably secured to the device 200 by first and second pins (226, 228), respectively. The first and second pins (226, 228) are received within cylindrical slots formed toward the top of the first and second bodies (218, 220). The first and second bodies (218, 220) are also axially slidable along the first and second pins (226, 228), as described more fully below.

The first and second bodies (218, 220) further include first and second drive structures or surfaces (230, 232) formed toward the top of the first and second bodies (218, 220).

Each of the first and second drive structures (230, 232) includes a first surface 234, a second surface 236 disposed at an acute angle relative to the first surface 234, and a connecting surface 238 that tapers, slopes, or twists from the first surface 234 to the second surface 236. The arrangement is such that when the first and second bodies (218, 220) are configured in the first configuration, the first surfaces 234 of the first and second drive structures are substantially parallel, and when configured in the second configuration, the second surfaces 236 are substantially parallel.

The slide (not shown) of device 200, which forms the top exterior of body 12 around barrel 214 and which is similar to the slide of a conventional pistol, is provided with an interior driving surface (not shown). The inner drive surface is disposed adjacent to the first and second drive structures (230, 232) in use. When the slide is in the forward position, the drive surface contacts the first surface 234, forcing the first and second bodies (218, 220) toward the first configuration. When the slide is in the rearward position, the drive surface no longer contacts the first surface 234, but rather contacts the second surface 236, such that the first and second bodies (218, 220) are configured in the second configuration. The first and second bodies (218, 220) move to the second configuration under the bias of the spring, the drive surface thereby effectively limiting the extent to which the first and second bodies (218, 220) can pivot away from each other under the bias of the spring.

As the slide moves from the forward position to the rearward position, the drive surface slides from the first surface 234, over the third surface 238, toward the second surface 236. Thus, the shape or profile of the third surface 238 allows the first and second bodies (218, 220) to gradually move from the first configuration to the second configuration and then back.

It will be appreciated that the angular disposition of the second surface 236 relative to the first surface 234 causes the first and second bodies (218, 220) to change configuration. Thus, when the first and second bodies (218, 220) are in the first configuration, the first surfaces 234 need not be parallel to each other, provided the drive surfaces are adapted to do so. The same is true of the second surface 236 when the first and second bodies (218, 220) are in the second configuration.

It will be appreciated that the first and second bodies (218, 220) may alternatively (not shown) be biased to the first configuration by a biasing member, in which case interaction between the drive surfaces of the slider (not shown) and the first and second drive structures (230, 232) will move the first and second bodies (218, 220) against the bias to the second configuration. In this case, the profiles of the first and second drive structures (230, 232) will change accordingly.

The slide is biased towards a forward position and is thus moved towards a rearward position against the bias.

First end 240 of loading mechanism 216 is disposed adjacent first end 242 of barrel 214. Shoulder means 244 is disposed between loading mechanism 216 and a first end (240, 242) of barrel 214 such that loading mechanism 216 is operably sealed with barrel 214 when disposed in contact with one another (first and second bodies (218, 220) are configured in the first configuration). Shoulder 244 also aligns internal cavity 222 with the bore of barrel 214 such that loading mechanism 216 acts as an extension of barrel 214. Thus, when first and second bodies (218, 220) are in the first configuration, first end 240 of loading mechanism 216 seals against first end 242 of barrel 214.

The second end 246 of the loading mechanism 216 is disposed adjacent the pressure relief valve 24. It will be noted that the pressure relief valve 24 used in the apparatus 200 is slightly different from the pressure relief valve used in the apparatus 10. More specifically, the pressure relief valve 24 of the apparatus 200 does not include the receiving boss 130 because this function is performed by the loading mechanism 216. When the first and second bodies (218, 220) are in the first configuration, the loading mechanism 216 seals against the release valve 24. A second shoulder arrangement 248 is provided for forming a tight seal. Thus, when release valve 24 is triggered, a predetermined amount of pressurized gas is discharged into loading mechanism 216, causing the projectiles 202 contained within the internal cavity to be propelled from barrel 216.

Thus, when the first and second bodies (218, 220) are configured in the first configuration, first end 242 of barrel 214 seals against first end 240 of loading mechanism 216, and second end 246 of loading mechanism 216 seals against release valve 24.

As described in more detail below, when the slide of apparatus 200 is moved to the rearward position, barrel 214 is caused to move axially forward, slightly away from first end 240, thereby disengaging shoulder means 244 and causing a first gap 250 to form between barrel 214 and loading mechanism 216. Further, when the slide of the apparatus 200 is moved to the rearward position, the loading mechanism 216 slides axially forward along the first and second pins (226, 228) such that the second end 246 of the loading mechanism 216 moves slightly away from the release valve 24, thereby causing the second shoulder 248 to disengage and a second gap 252 to be formed between the loading mechanism 216 and the release valve 24.

The first and second gaps (250, 252) allow the first and second bodies (218, 220) to move unobstructed to the second configuration.

The first and second bodies (218, 220) are allowed to slide axially on the first and second pins (226, 228), respectively, between a rearward position and a forward position. In the rearward position, the second end 246 of the loading mechanism 216 seals against the discharge valve 24; in the forward position, a second gap 252 is defined between the charging mechanism 216 and the discharge valve 24. A biasing element 254, which may generally take the form of first and second springs associated with the first and second bodies (218, 220), respectively, as best shown in fig. 51-54, may bias the loading mechanism 216 (and thus the first and second bodies (218, 220)) to a forward position. The interaction between first end 242 of barrel 214 and first end 240 of loading mechanism 216 causes loading mechanism 216 to be displaced to a rearward position against the bias of biasing element 254. Thus, when barrel 214 is moved away from loading mechanism 216 to form first gap 250, loading mechanism 216 is displaced to a forward position under the bias of biasing element 254. The shoulder 256 limits axial displacement of the first and second bodies (218, 220).

Device 200 is provided with a barrel shifting mechanism 258. Barrel shifting mechanism 258 is provided for shifting barrel 214 between a forward axial position and a rearward axial position. Barrel shift mechanism 258 includes a drive member, typically in the form of a pin 260, that extends from (and is fixed to, and thus moves with) the slide of device 200. Thus, by displacing the slide, pin 260 may be displaced relative to barrel 214. Pin 260 is arranged to interact with a drive mechanism 262 arranged between pin 260 and barrel 214. Due to this interaction (as described more fully below), the barrel is displaced to a forward axial position when the slide is displaced rearwardly (typically by a user of the device 200), and the barrel is displaced to a rearward axial position when the slide is displaced forwardly.

The drive mechanism 262 includes a drive body 264 fixed to the body 12 of the apparatus 200 such that the drive body 264 can pivot about a pivot point 266. Drive mechanism 262 also includes a connecting body 268 attached to drive body 264 via a pivot 270. Connecting body 268 is also pivotally attached to barrel 214 via flange body 272. Flange body 272 is secured to barrel 214 such that relative movement occurs between the two. The connecting body 268 is attached to a flange body 272 via a pivot 274. It will be appreciated that all of the pivots (266, 270 and 274) may comprise simple pins.

The drive body 264 includes a first drive surface 276 and a second drive surface 278.

Barrel 214 is biased toward a forward axial position by biasing member 280. The biasing element 280 is typically in the form of a spring, such as a wave spring (used due to space limitations). Wave spring 280 is located between flange body 272 and shoulder 282. The shoulder 282 and pivot 266 cannot move relative to each other. Shoulder 282 is formed on body 284, body 284 defining an aperture 286 through which barrel 214 extends. Barrel 214 is thus able to shift axially within bore 286. A shoulder 256 is also formed on the body 284.

When barrel 214 is in the rearward position, as best shown in fig. 51, drive body 264 and connecting body 268 are disposed at an angle 288 slightly less than 180 degrees relative to each other (angle 288 is defined between a first imaginary line 290 extending through

pivots

266 and 270 and a second imaginary line 292 extending through pivots 270 and 274). Due to the bias of the biasing element 280, a tangential force is generated on the pivot 270 in the direction indicated by the arrow in fig. 51. Stop surface 294 (which may be arranged to interact with drive body 264 or connecting body 268) prevents pivot 270 from being displaced in the direction of the tangential force and barrel 214 remains in the rearward position. The biasing of biasing element 280 and the interaction of drive body 264 with stop surface 294 are thus effective to lock barrel 214 in the rearward position.

When the slider is displaced to the rearward position, the pin 260 interacts with the first drive surface 276 and causes the drive body 264 to pivot upward, as shown in fig. 52. Angle 288 is now greater than 180 degrees and barrel 214 is displaced toward the forward position under the bias of biasing element 280. In fig. 52, first end 242 of barrel 214 no longer contacts first end 240 of the loading mechanism because the loading mechanism is in contact with shoulder 256. Thus forming a second gap 252. Barrel 214 is further advanced under bias until the barrel reaches the forward position, as shown in fig. 53. The first gap 250 has now been formed. It will be appreciated that the first and second bodies (218, 220) are now free to move to the second configuration, thereby forming the opening 224.

When the slider is displaced forwardly (typically under spring bias), the pin 260 moves forwardly with the slider until it contacts the second drive surface 278 as shown in fig. 54 and causes the drive body 264 to pivot downwardly until the drive mechanism 262 returns to the configuration shown in fig. 51 (as described above, the first and second bodies (218 and 220) will return to the first configuration as the slider moves forwardly).

The first and second gaps may be between 1mm and 2mm, and thus, barrel 214 may typically be displaced 2mm to 4 mm.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the arrangement may be such that when the slider is moved towards the rearward axial position, the drive member interacts with the first drive surface of the drive body, causing pivoting of the drive body relative to the main body of the apparatus such that the barrel is pulled to the forward position by the link body, and such that when the slider is moved towards the forward axial position, the drive member interacts with the second drive surface of the drive body, causing pivoting of the drive body relative to the main body of the apparatus to push the barrel to the rearward position via the link body.

It will be appreciated that any of the exemplary barrel shifting mechanisms 140 described above with respect to device 10 and barrel 16 may be adapted to shift the barrel to a forward position rather than a rearward position when trigger mechanism 26 is pulled or actuated by a user. Thus, it will be further appreciated that device 200 may alternatively be equipped with such a suitable barrel shifting mechanism 140 driven by trigger mechanism 26 rather than by a slide, so that barrel 214 is shifted to a forward position. Similarly, barrel shift mechanism 258 may be adapted to be driven by trigger mechanism 26 rather than by a slide.

Opening 224 in cavity 222 may have a cross-sectional dimension that is similar to, but slightly larger than, the diameter of projectile 202 so that projectile 202 may be easily received from magazine 212 into cavity 222. The length of loading mechanism 216 exceeds the length of projectile 202.

The first and second bodies (218, 220), the first and second drive structures (230, 232), and the drive surfaces on the slide are all typically made of a polymeric material and may be formed by injection molding. Alternatively, the first and second bodies (218, 220) may be made of a metallic material such as stainless steel. The drive structure (230, 232) and the drive surfaces on the slider may similarly be made of a metallic material and may have relatively smooth or polished outer surfaces to facilitate sliding or relative movement between these surfaces.

As described above, the uppermost projectile located in the magazine 212 is pushed upward from below by other projectiles or followers. It is thus pressed against the first and second bodies (218, 220) initially in the first configuration. When the slide is moved to the rearward position, the first and second bodies (218, 220) move to the second configuration, as described above, thereby forming the opening 224. Through which the uppermost projectile 202 is pushed into the cavity 222. Projectile 202 need only be pushed high enough to enter cavity 222 so that first and second bodies (218, 220) will contact the lower half of projectile 202 when first and second bodies (218, 220) begin to move back to the first configuration.

When the slide is allowed to move to the forward position, the first and second bodies (218, 220) thus return to the first configuration, containing the projectile 202 into the cavity 222. When opening 224 is closed, first and second bodies (218, 220) push the projectile just below the uppermost projectile 202 (which is now located within cavity 222) back down into magazine 212.

If the slide is moved back again, a projectile already within the loading mechanism 216 will block the subsequent projectile from moving into the loading mechanism 216, and again when the slide is allowed to move to the forward position, the first and second bodies (218, 220) will also push the subsequent projectile downward. In this manner, and also because the projectiles are loaded directly from below rather than through the rear opening of the barrel, the loading mechanism 216 prevents more than one projectile 202 from being loaded into the barrel.

Furthermore, because the first and second bodies (218, 220) remain in the first configuration as long as the slide is in the forward position, pills 202 located within loading mechanism 216 (and thus within barrel 212) will not fall off barrel 212 when magazine 214 is removed from grip 14.

It will be understood again that the second low mortality device 200 may take various forms other than a pistol, and may include configurations such as a rifle.

It will be appreciated that loading mechanism 216 may be adapted for use with other low mortality projectiles, and is not limited to use with projectile 202.

It will be appreciated that each barrel shifting mechanism 140 (whether or not barrel shifting mechanism 140 is adapted for use by device 10 or device 200, and whether or not barrel shifting mechanism 140 displaces the barrel to a forward or rearward position when actuated) may be adapted to be actuated by the slide of the respective device rather than trigger mechanism 26.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the precise details described herein and that many variations are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

The foregoing description is provided as illustrative of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention, which are considered to be the most useful and readily understood description. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention. The words used are, therefore, to be interpreted as words of description rather than of limitation.

Claims

1. A magazine for a plurality of generally spherical projectiles, comprising:

an elongated hollow body having a first closed end and a second end, the second end having an opening therein through which a projectile is operatively received into or from the body;

a second follower displaceable a second distance away from proximate the first end in the direction of the second end, the second follower being biased in the direction of the second end, and wherein the first distance exceeds the second distance.

2. The magazine as set forth in claim 1 wherein said second follower is inhibited from being displaced along the length of said body beyond a predetermined position.

3. The magazine as set forth in claim 2 wherein said first follower is displaceable beyond said predetermined position toward said second end.

4. The magazine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein a guide arrangement is provided for guiding the second follower relative to the body during displacement.

5. The magazine as claimed in claim 4 wherein said guide structure comprises a groove formed on one of said body and said second follower and a ridge or projection formed on the other of said body and said second follower, said ridge or projection being received in said groove in use.

6. The magazine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the first and second followers are placed side by side when the first and second followers are located near the first end.

7. The magazine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein a cross sectional dimension of the body towards the first end exceeds a cross sectional dimension of the body towards the second end.

8. The magazine as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 7 wherein portions of the opposing outer walls of the body between the first end and the predetermined position are substantially parallel to each other.

9. The magazine as set forth in claim 8 wherein portions of said opposing walls of said body beyond said predetermined position in said direction of said second end converge toward one another.

10. The magazine as set forth in any one of the preceding claims wherein a neck of said body is formed adjacent said second end, said neck defining an internal passage of approximate shape and size to said opening.

11. A magazine as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the opening is generally circular and is sized to allow the projectiles to move through the opening without obstruction.

12. The magazine as claimed in claim 10 or 11 wherein the first follower is sized such that a portion of the first follower projects at least partially into the neck.

13. A magazine as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the first follower has a convex outer surface arranged to operably push against a projectile received through the opening.

14. A magazine as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the second follower has a generally concave outer surface arranged to operatively push against a projectile received through the opening.

15. The magazine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the path followed by the first follower between the first end and the opening is non-linear.

16. The magazine as set forth in claim 15 wherein said path followed by said first follower between said first end and said opening is a contour defined by said outer wall of said body.

17. The magazine as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein coupling means are provided between the first and second followers such that when the first follower moves against a bias towards the first end, the first and second followers become coupled to each other such that the coupling means causes the first follower to urge the second follower from the predetermined position towards the first end.

18. The magazine as set forth in claim 17 wherein said coupling means includes a catch or shoulder structure on one of said first and second followers and a hook or protrusion on the other of said first and second followers.

19. A magazine for a plurality of generally spherical projectiles, comprising:

an elongated hollow body defining an interior cavity for receiving the projectile, the body having a first closed end and a second end, the second end defining an opening through which the projectile is operatively received into or from the interior cavity;

a ridge structure projecting from a sidewall of the body from proximate the first end toward the second end defining first and second contiguous, generally cylindrical channels; and

20. The magazine as set forth in claim 19 wherein a neck of said body is formed adjacent said second end, said neck defining an interior passage, said interior passage being approximately shaped and sized as said opening.

21. The magazine of claim 19 or 20, wherein the opening is generally circular and is sized to allow unimpeded movement of projectiles therethrough.

22. The magazine as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 21 wherein a guide arrangement is provided for guiding the follower relative to the body during displacement between the first and second positions.

23. The magazine as claimed in claim 22 wherein said guide structure comprises a groove formed on one of said body and said follower and a ridge or protrusion formed on the other of said body and said follower, said ridge or protrusion being received in said groove in use.

24. The magazine as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 23 wherein said follower is biased towards said second position by a biasing element.

25. The magazine as set forth in claim 24 wherein said biasing element is in the form of a spring.

26. The magazine as claimed in claim 24 or 25 wherein said biasing element is fixed to said first end and extends along said first passage and is inhibited from deflecting into said second passage when said follower is in said second position.

27. The magazine of any one of claims 20 to 26, wherein the follower is sized such that a portion of the follower protrudes at least partially into the neck of the body when the follower is in the second position.

28. The magazine of any one of claims 19 to 27, wherein the follower comprises a generally convex outer surface arranged to operably push against a projectile received through the opening.

29. The magazine as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 28 wherein the first and second channels extend generally parallel to each other and intersect each other along their length such that projectiles operably received within the first channel partially project into the second channel and such that projectiles operably received within the second channel partially project into the first channel.

30. The magazine as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 29 wherein said first and second channels terminate in a receiving area.

31. The magazine as set forth in claim 30 wherein said receiving area tapers toward said neck of said body.

32. A magazine for containing a plurality of projectiles, said magazine being housed in use within a low mortality device and comprising:

a catch structure located adjacent the opening and mounted to the body, the catch structure including a stop displaceable between a first position relative to the opening in which the stop blocks a portion of the opening thereby inhibiting movement of projectiles through the opening and a second position relative to the opening in which the opening is not blocked by the stop thereby allowing passage of projectiles through the opening, the catch structure being mounted externally of the body.

33. The magazine as set forth in claim 32 wherein said catch structure is pivotally mounted to said exterior of said body such that said stop member is pivotable between said first and second positions.

34. The magazine as claimed in claim 32 or 33 wherein the stop is biased towards the first position by a biasing element.

35. The magazine as set forth in claim 34 wherein said biasing element is a torsion spring.

36. The magazine as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 35 wherein said catch formation has a drive surface for cooperating, in use, with a driver located within the body of the low mortality device, such that when the magazine is inserted into the body the driver pushes against the drive surface causing the catch formation to pivot to the second position.

37. A barrel displacement mechanism for displacing a barrel of a device between a first axial position and a second axial position, the barrel displacement mechanism comprising:

a structure located on the barrel; and

38. The barrel shifting mechanism of claim 37, wherein the barrel is axially slidable relative to a body of the device.

39. The barrel shifting mechanism of claim 37 or 38, wherein the feature is a shoulder on the barrel.

40. The barrel displacement mechanism according to any one of claims 37 to 39, wherein the drive member is pivotably mounted relative to the barrel and includes at least a first drive arm, an end region of which is arranged to contact the structure.

41. The barrel shifting mechanism of claim 40, wherein the driving member further comprises a plurality of cogs that engage a plurality of cogs formed on the trigger member such that when the trigger member is triggered, the cogs on the trigger member pivot the at least first arm relative to the barrel.

42. The barrel shifting mechanism of claim 40 or 41, wherein the end region of the at least one arm is disposed in sliding contact with the structure.

43. The barrel shifting mechanism according to any one of claims 40 to 42, wherein the driving member comprises a second arm.

44. The barrel shift mechanism of claim 37 or 38, wherein the structure is in the form of a rack and the drive member includes a plurality of cogs arranged to interact with the rack to form a rack and pinion type interaction.

45. The barrel shifting mechanism according to claim 37 or 38, wherein a link body is pivotably arranged between the structure and the trigger mechanism, and the trigger mechanism is provided with a cam surface for pushing against the link body when the trigger mechanism is triggered, thereby shifting the barrel to the rearward position.

46. The barrel shifting mechanism of claim 37 or 38, wherein the barrel shifting mechanism comprises a pin received within a slot, and wherein when the trigger mechanism is triggered, the pin is driven via a control rod associated with the trigger mechanism such that the pin slides within the slot causing the barrel to shift to the rearward position.

47. The barrel shifting mechanism of claim 37 or 38, wherein the barrel shifting mechanism comprises a multi-link or control rod system.

48. The barrel shifting mechanism according to claim 47, wherein the links or levers are pivotally interconnected by pins arranged such that when the trigger mechanism is triggered, the links or levers pivot relative to each other, thereby shifting the barrel to the rearward position.

49. A release mechanism for a device for releasing a projectile held by a containing boss of a release valve thereof, the release mechanism comprising an indicator body secured to a body of the device such that a portion of the indicator body projects outside of the body of the device, wherein the indicator body is displaceable between a raised position in which the indicator body stands proud of the body of the device, and a lowered position, the arrangement being such that the indicator body is displaced to the raised position when a projectile is held on the containing portion, whereby a force is exerted on the projectile when the indicator body is urged towards the lowered position.

50. The release mechanism of claim 49, wherein the receiving boss comprises a displaceable release body operatively arranged to be in contact with the projectile.

51. The release mechanism of claim 50, wherein the contact portion of the indicator body pushes against the release body such that when the indicator body is displaced to the lowered position, the release body is displaced thereby.

52. The release mechanism of claim 50 or 51, wherein the release body is pivotably secured to the receiving boss.

53. The release mechanism of any one of claims 49 to 52, wherein the indicator body is pivotably secured to the main body of the device.

54. The release mechanism of claim 53, wherein the indicator body is arranged to rest on the release body.

55. The release mechanism of claim 54, wherein the indicator body is arranged to be lifted from the release body when the barrel is moved to a second or rearward position relative to the receiving boss.

56. A projectile retainer comprising a body having a first portion mounted relative to a breech of a device and a second portion made of an elastically deformable material, the second portion being displaceable between a first position in which the second portion retains a projectile within the breech of a barrel and a second position in which the projectile is allowed to be removed from the barrel.

57. A loading mechanism for loading a projectile into a breech of a barrel of an apparatus, the loading mechanism comprising first and second bodies pivotally secured relative to each other, the first and second bodies defining a cavity therebetween and being configurable between a first configuration in which the first and second bodies are pivoted towards each other such that the cavity is generally cylindrical, and a second configuration in which the first and second bodies are pivoted away from each other so as to define an opening to the cavity through which the projectile is operatively received into the cavity.

58. The loading mechanism of claim 57, wherein the loading mechanism further comprises a biasing member for biasing the first and second bodies toward the second configuration.

59. The loading mechanism of claim 58, wherein the biasing member is a spring.

60. The loading mechanism of claim 59, wherein the spring is a torsion spring.

61. The loading mechanism of claim 57, wherein the first and second bodies are biased toward the first configuration.

62. The loading mechanism of any one of claims 57-61, wherein the first and second bodies each define a substantially semi-cylindrical inner surface.

63. The loading mechanism according to any one of claims 58 to 62, wherein the first and second bodies are provided with first and second drive formations, respectively, for operatively driving the first and second bodies to the first configuration against the bias.

64. The loading mechanism of claim 63, wherein the drive structure comprises a ramp for interacting with a corresponding slide structure, the ramp being disposed on an inner side of a slide associated with the barrel of the device.

65. The loading mechanism of claim 64, wherein the sliding structure interacts with the drive structure to allow the first and second bodies to move to the second configuration under the bias of the biasing member to receive the projectile into the cavity through the opening when the slide is operatively displaced from a first rest position to a second position, and to pivot the first and second bodies against the bias to the first configuration when the slide is operatively displaced from the second position to the first rest position.

66. The loading mechanism according to any one of claims 57 to 65, wherein the first end of the loading mechanism is disposed near a distal end of the barrel.

67. The loading mechanism of claim 66, wherein the loading configuration is such that when the first and second bodies are in the first configuration, the cylindrical cavity is aligned with the bore and the first end of the loading mechanism seals against the barrel, thereby extending the length of the bore through the length of the cylindrical cavity.

68. The loading mechanism according to any one of claims 57 to 67, wherein the second end of the loading mechanism is disposed in operable proximity to a pressure vent valve operable to vent a predetermined amount of compressed gas into the cavity to cause the projectiles to be expelled from the barrel.

69. The loading mechanism according to claim 68, wherein the loading mechanism is arranged such that when the first and second bodies are in the first configuration, the second end of the loading mechanism seals against the vent valve such that the pressure vent valve is in fluid flow communication with a bore, and such that when pressurised gas is vented or vented via the pressure vent valve, projectiles located within the cavity are expelled from the apparatus via the bore.

70. The loading mechanism of any one of claims 57-69, wherein a barrel shifting mechanism operably moves the barrel away from the loading mechanism when the first and second bodies are in the second position such that a gap is defined between the first end of the loading mechanism and the barrel.

71. The loading mechanism of any one of claims 57-70, wherein the barrel shifting mechanism operably moves the loading mechanism away from the discharge valve to define a gap between the second end of the loading mechanism and the discharge valve when the first and second bodies are in the second position.

72. The loading mechanism according to any one of claims 57 to 71 wherein the first and second bodies slide axially on first and second pins respectively between a rearward position in which the loading mechanism seals against the discharge valve and a forward position in which a gap is defined between the loading mechanism and the discharge valve.

73. The loading mechanism of claim 72, wherein a biasing element biases the loading mechanism to the forward position.

74. The loading mechanism of claim 72 or 73, wherein a shoulder limits the axial displacement of the loading mechanism on the first and second pins, respectively.

75. The loading mechanism of any one of claims 57 to 74, wherein the opening to the cavity has a cross-sectional dimension that approximates the diameter of the projectile.

76. The loading mechanism of any one of claims 57 to 74, wherein the length of the first and second bodies exceeds the length of the projectile.

77. The loading mechanism according to any one of claims 63 to 76, wherein the first and second bodies, the drive structure and the sliding structure are made of a polymeric material and are formed by injection moulding.

78. The loading mechanism according to any one of claims 63 to 76, wherein the first and second bodies, the drive structure and the sliding structure are made of a metallic material and have relatively smooth outer surfaces.

79. The loading mechanism of claim 78, wherein the outer surfaces of the drive structure and the slide structure are polished.

80. The loading mechanism of any one of claims 57 to 79, wherein the device is a low mortality device.

81. A barrel displacement mechanism for displacing a barrel of a low mortality device having a body between a forward axial position and a rearward axial position, the barrel displacement mechanism comprising a drive member on a slide of the body, the drive member being arranged to interact with a drive mechanism provided between the slide and the barrel such that when the slide is moved to the rearward axial position, the drive member interacts with the drive mechanism to move the barrel to the forward axial position, and such that when the slide is moved to the forward axial position, the drive member interacts with the drive mechanism to move the barrel to the rearward axial position.

82. The barrel shifting mechanism of claim 81, wherein the drive member includes an interactive surface and is in the form of a pin.

83. The barrel shifting mechanism of claim 81, wherein the drive mechanism comprises:

a link body pivotably secured between the drive body and the barrel.

84. The barrel displacement mechanism of claim 83, wherein when the slide is moved toward the rearward axial position, the drive member interacts with the first drive surface of the drive body to pivot the drive body relative to the body of the device to cause the barrel to be displaced to the forward position, and wherein when the slide is moved toward the forward axial position, the drive member interacts with the second drive surface of the drive body to pivot the drive body relative to the body of the device to cause the barrel to be displaced to the rearward position.