Byrna CL
Byrna Technologies Inc. · Pistol · In Production · 2025
Also known as: Byrna Compact Launcher
Overview
The Byrna CL is a compact CO2-powered less-lethal self-defense pistol that fires .61 caliber kinetic and chemical-irritant projectiles. Introduced by Byrna Technologies in 2025 as the world's most concealable less-lethal launcher, it is roughly the size of a compact 9mm handgun yet delivers projectiles at around 400 feet per second from an 8-gram CO2 cartridge. It uses a five-round detachable magazine, fiber optic sights, a red-dot-ready top slide, a loaded chamber indicator, and an under-barrel Picatinny rail.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 368 g (13.0 oz) |
| Weight (loaded) | 400 g (14.1 oz) |
| Action Type | Gas Operated |
| Trigger Type | Double Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Muzzle Velocity | 122 m/s (400 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 30 J (22 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 18 m (20 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | None |
| Frame Material | Polymer |
| Slide Material | Polymer |
| Barrel Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte |
Calibers
- .61 Caliber Less-Lethal · primary — also known as .61 cal, Byrna .61 projectile, 15.5mm less-lethal
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Manual Safety, Loaded Chamber Indicator
- Features: Co2 Powered, Fiber Optic Sights, Red Dot Ready Slide, Under Barrel Picatinny Rail, Pull Pierce Co2 Technology
Variants
- Byrna CL-XL - Extended
Production
Production years: 2025-present
Announced April 16, 2025; sold as consumer less-lethal self-defense products, not a military firearm.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Notes
Marketed as roughly 38% smaller than the Byrna SD and 44% smaller than the Byrna LE while claiming to match the LE's performance. Byrna projectiles are available in kinetic (solid) and chemical-irritant (OC/CS) forms. A larger-capacity Byrna CL-XL launcher was released alongside it.
Background
Byrna Technologies rose to prominence selling non-lethal self-defense launchers directly to consumers, positioning the CO2-powered CL as a discreet alternative to a concealed handgun for personal protection.