An incapacitating piezoelectric projectile comprises a projectile body housing a piezoelectric element, at least one electrically conductive contact surface, and a means for coupling said piezoelectric element to said at least one electrically conductive contact surface. Projectile is arranged so that an impact will cause the piezoelectric element to discharge an electrical shock to the target through the at least one electrically conductive contact surface, thereby incapacitating the target. The projectile is particularly suitable for use in a method of instantly incapacitating human and non human targets.