Abstract: An apparatus including a handheld tool having a pair of jaws at one end operated by an air cylinder and linkage for penetrating engagement with the animal's skull. The linkage is coupled to jaws intermediate the pivoted and distal ends of the jaws. A current flow is imparted to each jaw. Control means includes a tool mounted switch which closes relay means in a control box to initiate timer operation for a selected period during which a solenoid air valve pressurizes the tool cylinder. During this period a transformer provides increased voltage to the tool jaws and to a mat on which the animal stands. A tether on the tool is automatically retracted at the end of an electrocution cycle.

Abstract: Disclosed is a stunning gun for meat animals including beef, buffalo, horses, veal, and the like comprises: a hand held pneumatic housing having a pistol grip and an actuating trigger; a forward animal contacting safety and release, arming portion; valve mechanism operated by the trigger's actuation; and a pneumatic airline supplying air under pressure to an extensible and retractable piston and needle assembly. Upon the admission of air under pressure behind the piston, a needle attached thereto is caused to move from its starting retracted rest position through an opening in the front or muzzle of the gun to penetrate an animal's skull, depositing a charge of air into the animal's skull, stunning it for slaughter. Air passages are arranged in connection with valves in the housing to cause the needle and piston to retract automatically to the starting position after the stunning operation is completed.