Abstract: A baton-like device is provided with a hollow telescopic ram or bolt member which can be driven to extend out of a barrel or trunk portion of the baton. The driving force is produced by a source of gas under pressure, which in preferred embodiments, takes the form of explosive cartridges and which can be repeatedly and automatically operated in a manner similar to an automatic shot gun. The force with which the ram is driven can be modulated using a pressure by-pass or by selection of the cartridges, or both. In order to reduce the risk of a fatal impact, the tip of the ram is provided with a blunt knob which can further include an inflatable cushion like member which is supplied with air or gas as the ram is displaced out of the barrel. The knob is removable allowing projectiles such as tranquilizer darts to be launched by loading the projectile into the hollow bolt and catapulting them towards a target or targets.