Which of the following is NOT considered a weapon in weapon strategies of the force continuum?

The focus of the question is on the concept of the force continuum, which outlines the appropriate levels of force that law enforcement officers can use in response to escalating situations. In this context, weapons are categorized based on their intended use and effectiveness in subduing threats.

A gun is typically classified as a lethal weapon, signifying a high level of force in the continuum. This category differentiates it from other options that are generally recognized as less lethal or non-lethal alternatives. Options such as a stun gun, Taser, and mace or pepper spray fall into the category of less lethal weapons. These tools are designed to incapacitate a suspect with minimal risk of serious injury or death, aligning them with strategies for controlling situations without resorting to lethal force.

By understanding the levels of force and the types of weapons associated with each level, one realizes that a gun represents a distinct and more extreme form of force compared to the other options listed, which are generally meant for situations that require a response short of lethal action. This classification is crucial for law enforcement training and policy to ensure the appropriate response to various situations.