In the world we are facing, self-defense is almost a prerequisite – be the threat a criminal, madman or some ideological zealot bent on mayhem.
That said, some places (many, in fact,) frown upon private citizens carrying their own weapons; here is some advice for how you can approach those situations.
At the most basic level of self-defense, situational awareness can keep you out of a lot of trouble. Israelis have been living under the very real threat of terrorism for decades and the Israelis I know have a sixth sense when it comes to noticing anything out of place — people, clothing, eye contact, movement. That has to become second nature and thankfully, it can be learned, and taught.
Being aware of surroundings is important, but there may come a time when you have no choice but to physically defend yourself. A single mom I know challenges her teenage daughter every so often, “Look around and tell me what you could use as a weapon RIGHT NOW.” I’ve played this game many times myself and look for not only weapons but exits, places to conceal or cover, in the case of gunfire.
Martial arts, such as jujitsu or taekwando, are other options that will train you to defend yourself and you’ll learn how to control your own fear and aggression. Some martial arts studios offer low cost self-defense classes for women.
Along those same lines, you just gotta be in the best physical condition as possible.Remember that criminals and terrorists have watched and planned and played out in their minds over and over just how, when, and where they will attack. They’ll be looking for vulnerable people — those who are distracted (Bastille Day celebrations in Nice, for example) and if you’re in that segment of selected victims AND you can’t run or have the physical power to fight back, you may end up being another body covered with a sheet.
Tactical pens are another choice and one that I happen to know is used by many, many guys in my particular line of work. It’s a pen AND a weapon. If you have it in hand and know how to use it, it can be a handy weapon, and better than nothing. When you shop for a tactical pen, you’ll see a number of them that look like REAL weapons but if your intent is to have something handy for self-defense that doesn’t attract attention, then look for one that just looks like a very sturdy ink pen and not a pen on steroids.
Pepper spray is popular but can cause problems for asthmatics. Again, if you live outside the U.S. or are traveling to other countries, find out what is legal there before packing pepper spray, the tactical pen, a kubaton, etc.
Of all these suggestions, situational awareness is probably your best defense. Add to that common sense with all scenarios and you have enough to at least give yourself a fighting chance.
Please remember to adhere to all laws, however, as they pertain to what self-defense elements you can bring into certain venues.
For more on non-firearm self-defense, please check out Preparedness Advice.
I hate when you get put on probation for the most minor “non violent” misdemeanor and they take away every form of self defense from you including mace or stun guns or anything and you get hurt by a group of thugs. They just tell you to stay inside or pick up a rock lol.
i live and work in la ca, been carrying MACE and a taser for years and yes a mace can will stop a 6ft. crackhead……
Wow two page artical and after all that reading you just say pen and mace
Used to work in a FedEx warehouse that didnt allow anything in your pockets even phones,so I ordered a metal detector friendly boot knife and a mostly plastic folding knife disguised as a credit card that fits in wallets,both were 3.99$ off Amazon,responsible adults should never be disarmed.
hey kori some lady just called and asked if u lived here
A 6 inch round piece of wood about 1/2 inch thick known as a Kubotan is a handy weapon to know how to use and is easily carried or made as required from any tree .
I live in the uk a knife crime is massive at the moment so your only aloud to carry 3 inches and under and you need a dam good reason to be carrying it or you will get ya collar felt other than that its a dye spray or rape alarm
Huh? That’s weird I don’t know anyone besides you guys. Did you get a name?
Everything is a weapon if you’re paying attention to the situation
ill always have guns I don’t care what the traitor gov says
2nd amendment. Cold dead hand.
Knives also very effective
schreder r
Always strapped.
Send this info to the UK and other countries. I will fight for my second amendment RIGHT to bear arms. All Americans should buy,learn to use, and carry a gun…so much$#%&!@*would just go away!
Swiss Army to be exact. One I open my wine, I will gouge your eyes out with that cork screw thingy.
It might just be an anxiety thing, but whenever I’m out of my house, I’m always thinking about that. I don’t even live in a dangerous place either… I think it is the best first line defense you can have, be a step ahead of your potential opponent
What exactly do you mean “not allowed to have a weapon”? Not allowed?!?! NOT allowed??! Who the$#%&!@*is going to “not allow” me?
Wasp Spray sprays up to 30 Ft. and is real nasty stuff
Take Hillary’s secret service detail’s guns away and give them these spray cans.