Captive Bolt Activators
MaxxTech Captive Bolt Activator
The MaxxTech Captive Bolt Activator is designed for efficient and humane stunning of animals prior to slaughter. Delivering a powerful gas shock without the use of bullets or projectiles, it provides reliable and safer handling for livestock operations.
Each cartridge is varnish-sealed for moisture protection, ensuring consistent firing strength and extended shelf life. Easy colour-coded flanged tips allow quick identification for correct use across different animal types and sizes.
Features
Humane Stunning - Designed for safe and effective stunning of animals.
No Bullets or Projectiles - Gas-powered activation for safer handling.
Colour-Coded Tips - Easy identification for correct cartridge selection.
Moisture Protected - Varnish-sealed cartridges for consistent performance and long shelf life.
Certified to C.I.P. - Meets standards set by the Permanent International Commission for the Proof of Small Arms.
Please note: The blue activator is no longer available. The red activator is recommended as an alternative.
Why Cartridge Colours Vary by Animal
Skull Thickness and Density
- Sheep have dense, thick skulls relative to body size, especially rams or certain breeds.
- Cattle have larger brain cavities and relatively less dense frontal bones, allowing easier bolt penetration.
- A yellow cartridge may suit a 400 kg cow but may only just penetrate the skull of an 80 kg ram.
Distance to Brain (Frontal Bone Angle)
- In cattle, the brain sits directly behind the forehead, allowing a more direct bolt path.
- In sheep, particularly horned breeds, the brain sits deeper and further back, requiring more bolt power.
In general, if unsure, it is safer to use a higher-strength cartridge. Using a stronger cartridge (e.g. red) is safer than using one that is too weak, which can lead to ineffective stunning.
Safe Use Reminder
- A secondary procedure (such as exsanguination/sticking) should always be used following captive bolt use.
- Always use the correct cartridge colour for the species and weight.
- Store cartridges securely away from children in a cool, dry place.
- Follow local regulations for humane slaughter.
Effective stunning requires reaching the brain and disrupting the brain stem to cause instant unconsciousness. Proper cartridge selection ensures reliable and humane results.
Activators Guide
| Colour | Animal | Weight | Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| GREEN | Piglets Lambs (< 1 year old) |
5 - 30 kg up to 40 kg |
Low |
| YELLOW | Sheep / Goats (> 1 year old) Pigs Calves & Cattle |
40+ kg 30 - 150 kg up to 450 kg |
Medium |
| RED | Young bulls / Cattle Large sows / Boars Rams (> 2 years) |
450 - 650 kg 150+ kg 80+ kg |
Very High |
| Green - 226308 | |
|---|---|
| Yellow - 226020 | |
| Red - 226022 |
