Less Lethal Ammunition Market

• In October 2023, FN Herstal developed a next-generation less-lethal ammunition system, aimed at improving performance in tactical law enforcement operations. The product is gaining attention for its accuracy and reduced risk of injury​.

• In January 2024, The Safariland Group launched a new line of less-lethal ammunition, designed for crowd control operations. The new product is expected to enhance law enforcement agencies' ability to manage high-risk situations while minimizing fatalities​.

In this report, the Less Lethal Ammunition Market has been segmented by Type, Product, Weapon Type, End-User and Geography.

Less Lethal Ammunition Market, Segmentation by Type

The Less Lethal Ammunition Market has been segmented by Type into Shotguns, Launchers and Other.

Shotguns
Shotguns account for nearly 40% of the less lethal ammunition market, widely used by law enforcement and defense agencies for crowd control. Their versatility in deploying rubber bullets and bean bag rounds enhances public safety while minimizing the risk of fatal injuries.

Launchers
Launchers hold around 35% share, favored for their ability to fire tear gas, smoke, and impact rounds over longer distances. These systems are essential in riot management and provide tactical advantages by ensuring controlled engagement in high-risk environments.

Other
Other less lethal ammunition types, including stun rounds and pepper-based munitions, represent nearly 25% of demand. Their application is growing in civil security, personal defense, and special operations, highlighting the expanding role of non-lethal solutions in modern conflict management.

Less Lethal Ammunition Market, Segmentation by Product

The Less Lethal Ammunition Market has been segmented by Product into Rubber Bullets, Bean Bag Rounds, Polyethylene/Plastic Bullets, OC/CS & Smoke Munitions, Flash Bag Rounds, Paintballs and Other.

Rubber Bullets
Rubber bullets dominate with nearly 28% share, used extensively in riot control and crowd management. They offer a balance between effectiveness and reduced lethality, making them a preferred choice for law enforcement agencies across various regions.

Bean Bag Rounds
Bean bag rounds account for around 18% of demand, valued for their ability to incapacitate individuals without causing permanent harm. These rounds are primarily deployed in close-quarter engagements where precision and controlled impact are essential.

Polyethylene/Plastic Bullets
Polyethylene and plastic bullets contribute nearly 14% to the market. Their lightweight design ensures controlled impact, making them suitable for training exercises and non-lethal crowd control in sensitive urban environments.

OC/CS & Smoke Munitions
OC/CS and smoke munitions hold about 20% share, widely applied in riot dispersal and tactical operations. Their effectiveness in disrupting hostile groups while minimizing permanent injuries strengthens their adoption by military and police forces.

Flash Bang Rounds
Flash bang rounds represent around 10% of usage, known for their ability to disorient and immobilize targets through intense light and sound. They are extensively used in counter-terrorism and hostage rescue missions to gain tactical superiority.

Paintballs
Paintballs hold close to 6% of the market, mainly deployed in training simulations and controlled riot scenarios. Their low cost and ease of use make them a practical choice for non-lethal engagements.

Other
Other products, including stun and pepper-based ammunition, collectively account for nearly 4%. Their adoption is rising in civil defense, special operations, and personal protection, indicating continued diversification of non-lethal solutions.

Less Lethal Ammunition Market, Segmentation by Weapon Type

The Less Lethal Ammunition Market has been segmented by Weapon Type into Shotguns, Launchers and Others

Shotguns
Shotguns hold the largest share of around 45% in the less lethal ammunition market. They are widely used by law enforcement agencies for crowd control and riot situations due to their versatility in firing rubber bullets, bean bag rounds, and other non-lethal projectiles.

Launchers
Launchers contribute nearly 38% of the market, preferred for their precision and ability to deploy OC/CS munitions, smoke, and flash rounds. They are extensively utilized in tactical operations, enabling controlled engagement in high-risk situations with reduced risk of fatalities.

Others
Other weapon types, including specialized devices and improvised non-lethal systems, account for approximately 17%. Their use is increasing in training, special operations, and personal defense, highlighting the growing diversification of less lethal technologies across security domains.

Less Lethal Ammunition Market, Segmentation by End-User

The Less Lethal Ammunition Market has been segmented by End-User into Law Enforcement, Military, Self-Defense and Other.

Law Enforcement
Law enforcement agencies dominate the less lethal ammunition market with nearly 52% share. These agencies use rubber bullets, bean bag rounds, and smoke munitions extensively for riot control, crowd management, and non-lethal interventions, ensuring compliance with public safety regulations.

Military
The military segment accounts for about 28% of the market. Armed forces adopt less lethal weapons for peacekeeping missions, non-combat operations, and handling civilian unrest, emphasizing controlled responses while minimizing permanent harm in sensitive scenarios.

Self-Defense
Self-defense applications represent around 12%, with growing adoption of pepper rounds, plastic bullets, and paintballs for personal safety. Rising concerns over civil security and increased civilian demand for non-lethal options fuel steady growth in this segment.

Other
Other end-users, including private security firms, training institutions, and specialized organizations, make up nearly 8% of the market. These groups leverage less lethal ammunition for controlled environments, demonstrations, and skill development, expanding its application scope beyond traditional uses.

Less Lethal Ammunition Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Less Lethal Ammunition Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America.

Less Lethal Ammunition Market Share (%), by Geographical Region

North America
North America leads the less lethal ammunition market with nearly 41% share. High adoption among law enforcement and defense agencies, coupled with advanced riot control strategies and supportive regulatory frameworks, drives consistent growth in this region.

Europe
Europe accounts for about 27% of the market. Strong emphasis on public safety regulations, military modernization, and frequent use of non-lethal options in riot management contribute significantly to the region’s demand for less lethal ammunition.

Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific holds nearly 19% share, with rising adoption by military and law enforcement forces in countries facing civil unrest and security challenges. Expanding budgets and modernization initiatives further support regional growth.

Middle East & Africa
The Middle East & Africa contribute around 8%. Increased demand stems from riot control, counter-terrorism operations, and the growing use of less lethal systems in areas with frequent conflicts and protests.

Latin America
Latin America represents approximately 5% of the market. Strong adoption by law enforcement agencies for crowd control and civilian safety, alongside efforts to curb rising unrest, drives demand in this region.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Less Lethal Ammunition Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers

• Operational Effectiveness
• Training and Education
• Technological Advancements
• Humanitarian Concerns and Public Perception

• Legal and Regulatory Frameworks - The evolution of stricter regulations and increased legal scrutiny surrounding the use of lethal force represents a significant paradigm shift for law enforcement agencies and military forces worldwide. Heightened awareness of human rights and the sanctity of life has propelled governments and international bodies to establish comprehensive legal frameworks governing the use of force in various contexts. Compliance with these standards has become paramount, not only for upholding moral and ethical principles but also for avoiding legal repercussions and public backlash. This has spurred a growing demand for non-lethal alternatives to traditional ammunition, leading to a surge in market growth within the less-lethal weapons industry.
  In response to mounting legal and regulatory pressures, law enforcement agencies and military forces have increasingly turned to non-lethal options to fulfill their operational requirements. Non-lethal ammunition, such as rubber bullets, bean bag rounds, and chemical irritants, offers a middle ground between verbal warnings and lethal force, providing personnel with effective tools to de-escalate situations while minimizing the risk of fatalities or serious injuries. By integrating these alternatives into their arsenal, organizations can enhance their capacity to manage crises, maintain public order, and safeguard human rights, aligning with both international standards and domestic laws governing the use of force.
  The growing emphasis on compliance with international norms and domestic legislation has reshaped the landscape of less-lethal weapons procurement and deployment. Government agencies and defense contractors are investing heavily in research and development to innovate new technologies and enhance the effectiveness and safety of non-lethal ammunition. Collaborative efforts between policymakers, human rights advocates, and industry stakeholders are driving initiatives to establish clearer guidelines and best practices for the use of less-lethal weapons in various operational scenarios. The market for non-lethal ammunition is experiencing unprecedented growth, with projections indicating continued expansion as regulatory requirements and societal expectations continue to evolve.

Restraints

• Cost Considerations
• Legal and Liability Concerns
• Risk of Misuse or Abuse
• Limited Effectiveness in Certain Situations

• Training and Familiarity Issues - The successful integration of less-lethal ammunition into the operational practices of law enforcement agencies and military forces hinges on comprehensive training programs tailored to the unique challenges and complexities of these weapons. Proper training is essential not only for ensuring the safe and effective use of less-lethal options but also for minimizing the risk of unintended consequences or misuse. Delivering such training poses significant logistical and resource challenges. Developing and implementing training programs that cover the full spectrum of less-lethal weapons, including their capabilities, limitations, and appropriate deployment scenarios, requires a substantial investment of time, manpower, and financial resources.
  Officers and military personnel may encounter resistance or reluctance to embrace less-lethal options due to their familiarity and comfort with traditional lethal weapons. Years of training and experience with firearms may engender a sense of confidence and proficiency that is not easily replicated with less-lethal alternatives. There may be a natural inclination among personnel to default to the use of lethal force, particularly in high-stakes situations where split-second decisions are required. Overcoming this mindset requires not only comprehensive training but also a cultural shift within organizations that emphasizes the value of de-escalation techniques and non-lethal tactics in conflict resolution. Addressing training and familiarity issues necessitates a multi-faceted approach that encompasses not only technical proficiency but also mindset and behavioral change.
  Training programs must be designed to instill confidence and competence in the use of less-lethal ammunition, incorporating realistic scenarios and practical exercises to reinforce skills and decision-making abilities. Ongoing reinforcement and retraining efforts are essential to ensure that personnel maintain proficiency with less-lethal options over time. Organizational leadership plays a critical role in promoting a culture of compliance and accountability, fostering an environment where the use of less-lethal force is seen as a preferred and responsible approach to managing conflicts and maintaining public safety. By prioritizing training and familiarity with less-lethal options, law enforcement agencies and military forces can enhance their operational effectiveness while upholding the principles of proportionality and restraint in the use of force.

Opportunities

• Technological Innovations
• Expansion into New Markets
• International Market Penetration
• Training and Education Programs

• Increasing Demand for Non-Lethal Options - The increasing demand for non-lethal options in law enforcement, military, and civilian contexts reflects a broader societal shift towards more humane and proportionate approaches to conflict resolution and public safety. Heightened awareness of human rights, coupled with mounting concerns over the disproportionate use of force by authorities, has catalyzed a growing demand for alternatives to traditional lethal weapons. Non-lethal ammunition offers a viable solution to mitigate the risks associated with lethal force while still enabling personnel to effectively manage volatile situations and maintain order. This demand is not limited to government agencies but extends to private security firms, humanitarian organizations, and individuals seeking self-defense options that prioritize safety and minimize the likelihood of fatalities or serious injuries.
  For manufacturers and suppliers of less-lethal ammunition, this increasing demand represents a significant business opportunity to capitalize on the expanding market and cater to the evolving needs of end-users. By developing innovative products that balance effectiveness, safety, and compliance with regulatory standards, companies can differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape and establish themselves as trusted partners for law enforcement agencies, military forces, and other stakeholders. As governments and international organizations prioritize the adoption of non-lethal alternatives through policy initiatives and procurement mandates, manufacturers stand to benefit from a steady stream of demand and a more favorable regulatory environment conducive to market growth.
  To effectively capitalize on the increasing demand for non-lethal options, manufacturers and suppliers must remain agile and responsive to evolving market dynamics and end-user requirements. This entails investing in research and development to innovate new technologies and improve the performance and reliability of existing products. Companies must prioritize collaboration with end-users, regulatory bodies, and industry partners to ensure that their offerings align with emerging standards and best practices governing the use of less-lethal force. By demonstrating a commitment to safety, effectiveness, and compliance, manufacturers can not only capture a larger share of the market but also contribute to broader efforts to promote human rights, reduce violence, and enhance public trust in law enforcement and security practices.

Less Lethal Ammunition Market is rapidly evolving as companies strive to enhance their presence in the security and defense sectors. The market is characterized by increasing competition and shifting strategies, as players focus on delivering innovative solutions. Key players are forming partnerships to enhance product development and expand market share.

Market Structure and Concentration
The Less Lethal Ammunition Market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with a few dominant players and several small to medium-sized companies. The market share distribution reflects a trend towards consolidation, where large players are pursuing mergers and acquisitions to leverage growth and technological advancements in ammunition development.

Brand and Channel Strategies
To establish a competitive edge, brands are focusing on brand positioning and targeted marketing strategies. Companies are investing in channel strategies such as direct sales and online platforms, enhancing distribution. These strategies are driving customer engagement and fostering greater brand loyalty in a highly fragmented market.

Innovation Drivers and Technological Advancements
Innovation is the key driver in the Less Lethal Ammunition Market, with technological advancements shaping future product offerings. Manufacturers are focused on integrating smart technologies and improving safety features to meet evolving security needs. These innovations contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of less lethal ammunition in various law enforcement applications.

Regional Momentum and Expansion
The Less Lethal Ammunition Market is experiencing significant regional momentum, particularly in emerging markets. Companies are expanding their reach by establishing local production units and forming regional partnerships to capture market share. This expansion is driven by the demand for enhanced security and law enforcement solutions across different regions.

Future Outlook
Looking ahead, the Less Lethal Ammunition Market is set for significant growth, driven by ongoing innovation and increasing demand for non-lethal weapons. Companies will continue to explore new technological advancements and strengthen their market positions through strategic collaborations. The future outlook indicates a strong push towards sustainable and safe solutions in ammunition technology.

Key players in Less Lethal Ammunition Market include:

• Rheinmetall AG
• Safariland, LLC
• Chemring Group Plc
• Combined Systems, Inc.
• Federal Ammunition
• NonLethal Technologies, Inc.
• AMTEC Less-Lethal Systems, Inc.
• Lightfield Ammunition, Corp.
• Winchester Ammunition, Inc.
• Security Devices International, Inc.
• Mace Security International, Inc.
• Condor Non-Lethal Technologies
• Verney-Carron S.A.
• Brenneke Ammunition GmbH
• Trust Eibarres SA

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Market Share Analysis
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis