Whether you’re out and about or enjoying an evening at home, you want to feel safe and protected at all times. Having a self defense weapon on hand can make all the difference when it comes to keeping you and your loved ones safe from harm.
The most effective self defense weapons are practical and easy to carry. They’re discreet, non-lethal, and can be used without fear of legal repercussions.
Stun Guns and Pepper Spray
A stun gun can help you to temporarily disable an attacker. It works by pressing two prongs into the attacker and then pushing a button to discharge a strong jolt of electricity. However, it does not work well on drunk or drugged attackers and is best for close-range attacks.
Tasers
Besides being a powerful deterrent, tasers can be used to disarm an assailant and break their hands. They’re also lightweight, cheap and easy to carry on your key chain, making them a good addition to any EDC (everyday carry) bag.
Personal Alarms and Whistles
If you’re in a situation where you can’t physically defend yourself, a personal alarm can provide a loud noise that will cause the attacker to run away or draw backup from nearby people. A whistle is another great option for getting attention from a distance, especially if you’re in the woods or in a place where it’s difficult to hear.
Knives
A knife is a nifty weapon because it’s useful for so many things, and can be a life-saver in certain situations. But they can also be dangerous if you don’t have the right training or know how to use them correctly.
They’re not the best choice for every situation, so it’s worth taking a bit of time to learn how to use them. It’s a smart idea to take a self-defense course to help you to understand what a knife can do and how to use it effectively.
It’s also a good idea to carry a tactical flashlight and paracord so you can light your way out of danger should you find yourself in a sticky situation. The only problem with this is that you may accidentally blind the attacker, which could make it harder to escape.
You should also be aware that some of these weapons are not legal to own in the United States. Check your state laws before you buy a self defense weapon online, or if you’re buying it from someone else.
As a general rule, self defense weapons can only be legally used when they put an individual in a reasonable and immediate fear of bodily harm. The threat must be made with words and cannot be a matter of a general disagreement or emotional conflict.