In the last 10 years, stun guns have undergone some changes.
While most of these changes are largely driven by marketing considerations and low cost foreign labor, the benefits they present make owning a quality unit more appealing and affordable than ever.

• Higher Voltages: Until a few years ago, most stun guns were between 100,000 to 300,000 volts.
  Most modern units are now between 5 million and 10 million volts.
  While the high voltage sounds very impressive, even the older models with lower voltages reliably did the job they were designed to do.
  The higher voltage does provide a quicker transmission of the stun, and many times, will produce a louder crackling sound.
  This is particularly important, since even the sound and sight of electricity arcing between the prongs has been proven to be a deterrent to crime.
  
• Smaller Sizes: Older models were usually large, bulky and unwieldy, making them uncomfortable to keep handy.
  Modern units are now available in a variety of shapes and sizes, from large flashlight stun gun combos to units which are not much larger than a 1/2 can of pepper spay commonly found on key chains.
  This makes it easy to choose one that fits your self defense and lifestyle needs.
  
• Added Features: Most stun guns are not just stun guns.
  The average unit has at least one added feature.
  The most common one is a flashlight.
  The best models have a bright LED flashlight mode.
  Other features commonly found are: loud alarms, disabling pins and long lasting lithium batteries with built in chargers.
  
• Fashion Appeal: Older units were available in your choice of black and, well, black.
  Then pink stun guns emerged on the scene.
  Now there are purple models, floral print styles shaped like electric razors, animal prints and for the woodsmen, camouflage prints.
  While the color adds nothing to the effectiveness of the unit, there are some people who are more likely to carry a self defense weapon if it looks good.
  It proves that you can be stylish and safe.
  
• Lower Prices: A quick search showed that in 2001 a 625,000 volt unit that ran on a 9 volt battery cost $79.
  95.
  You can now get a rechargeable Runt Stun Gun with 10 Million volts for under $25.
  00.
  

These five trends: higher voltages, smaller sizes, bonus features, fashion appeal and especially lower prices make owning a stun gun a good idea for anyone who is concerned about their safety.