Rubber bullets are plastic or rubber projectiles fired from standard guns or special launchers. They’re marketed as “non‑lethal” crowd‑control tools, but that doesn’t make them harmless. Police and security forces use them to disperse protests, break up riots or keep angry crowds at a distance. Because they’re cheaper than other less‑lethal ammo and work with existing weapons, many agencies keep them in their arsenal.
When a rubber bullet leaves the barrel it travels slower than a real bullet, usually between 70 and 120 m/s. The round is heavier and softer, so it spreads its impact over a larger area. In the best‑case scenario it can knock a person down without breaking bone. In reality the outcome depends on the distance, aim, and where it hits. A shot to the head or chest can cause serious injury, while a hit to the leg might just bruise or cause a sprain.
Because rubber bullets can still cause permanent damage, they’re a hot topic in human‑rights debates. Some countries have strict rules – for example, the UK only allows them at a minimum distance of 20 metres and bans head shots. Others, like the US, have looser guidelines that vary by state or city. Courts have ruled that firing rubber bullets at close range can be excessive force, leading to lawsuits and policy changes.
If you ever find yourself in a situation where rubber bullets are being used, the safest move is to get low and move away quickly. Stay out of the line of fire, cover your head, and if you’re hit, seek medical attention even if the wound looks minor – internal injuries aren’t always obvious.Police departments train officers on proper use, but training quality differs widely. Some forces practice aiming at the lower body and keeping a safe distance, while others have been caught shooting from point‑blank range. That inconsistency fuels public mistrust and drives advocacy groups to push for bans or stricter oversight.
In short, rubber bullets sit in a gray zone between lethal and non‑lethal. They can be useful for crowd control when used responsibly, but they also carry real risks of serious injury. Knowing how they work, the legal limits, and what to do if you’re caught in their path can help you stay safer and keep the conversation about police tactics grounded in facts.
Australian reporter Lauren Tomasi was struck by a rubber bullet while covering immigration protests in Los Angeles. The LAPD used aggressive crowd-control tactics as unrest flared up after immigration raids. Tomasi continued her live report despite the injury, highlighting the daily risks journalists face on assignment.
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