Tactical police units are to have a new weapon for their arsenal that when fired doesn't penetrate on impact.
The XM-1006 sponge round is fired from a gas launcher with a range of about 30 metres.
The sponge rounds are fired from a 40mm gas launcher. Photo: NZ POLICE
The 40mm rounds can be used at extremely close range and have a high density sponge nose which provides a large impact surface ensuring they won't penetrate the target.
National Tactical Groups commander Superintendent Bruce Dunstan said the weapon provides specialist police staff with an effective tool that can help resolve dangerous incidents from a safe distance, where previously firearms may have been the only remaining option.
Mr Dunstan said while being hit by a sponge round does cause pain, bruising and abrasions, the risk of serious or life-threatening injury is extremely low.
"Being of a sponge material, it disperses its force. It's quite large and again and that's an advantage in that it disperses its energy over about four-and-a-half times its size. So, really there's no comparison with a bullet at all."
Mr Dunstan said use of the sponge round will be relatively limited and it won't be viable in every situation.
The sponge round will be available to Armed Offenders Squads in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch and the National Special Tactics Group from 30 November.
Police say they consulted with the Independent Police Conduct Authority and other interested groups before introducing the weapon.
