In today’s world, it is necessary to take precautions to ensure your personal safety. One of the most effective ways to protect yourself against an attacker is through the use of self-defense weapons. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for you. To help, we’ll discuss some of the more popular self-defense weapons used.
Pepper Spray
Pepper spray is a popular, non-lethal, self-defense weapon. It contains a chemical compound called capsaicin, which causes a burning sensation in the eyes, nose, and throat. This weapon is easy to use and can be carried in a pocket or purse. It is also relatively inexpensive, making it an affordable option for many people. However, a disadvantage of pepper spray is how easy it can be to disable yourself with a simple shift of the wind. If you’ve incapacitated yourself at the hands of an attacker, you’ve done their job for them.
Stun Guns
Stun guns are close proximity, self-defense weapons, meaning you must have physical contact with the aggressor. Stun guns have prongs that when contact is made, passes a high-voltage, electrical current through the attacker’s body. The electrical current overwhelms the muscles causing them to spasm and become momentarily disabled. Further, it gives the attacker a sense of imbalance and a dazed mental state. You can give a warning shot with a visual electrical spark, and a menacing crackling noise when the button is pressed.
To immobilize, or incapacitate an attacker, push the stun gun into the assailant, and push the button to activate it. It can be used for as long as the button is being pressed, and comes in many shapes such as:
However, my favorite is the Runt Stun Gun. It comes equipped with a wrist strap attached to a disabling pin. If you wear the wrist strap properly, and an attacker is able to take your stun gun from you, it removes the disabling pin from the device rendering it inoperable. This keeps the attacker from being able to use your weapon against you.
Tasers
TASERs are meant to be used at a distance, and they require more skill and accuracy to be efficient. They’re usually larger, heavier and bulkier that stun guns, as well as more expensive. When the trigger is depressed, two barbed electrodes shoot out of the TASER. Assuming both projectiles hit their target, the barbs hook into the attacker. Both barbs MUST hit the target for the TASER to have an effect. The current creates a disconnect between the brain and the muscles resulting in the loss of voluntary muscle control. If a TASER is your choice, training and practice is highly recommended.
Kubotan
The Kubotan (Kubaton) is a personal protection keychain. It’s a simple, yet effective force multiplier with some advantages over other self-defense tools. The kubotan is durable, and easy to carry with a keychain attached for convenience. It has a hard, pointed tip that can be used as an aid in escaping an assailant, or as a glass breaker during emergencies. It can also be used for strengthening the fist when punching, for applying to pressure points, or for stabbing soft tissue. The Kubotan is usually 5.5 inches long, and constructed from strong, hard, solid, materials.
Self-Defense Keychains
The Brutus Dog Keychain, and the Cat Keychain are harmless looking, self-defense keychains. They’re easy to grip, and easy to use. Clutched in the palm of your hand, the eyes are finger holes that fit most fingers, and the ears are spikes to effectively strike your attacker. The Brutus keychain is made of impact resistant ABS plastic, and the cat keychains are made from durable metals. They’re compact, lightweight, and discreet. These self-defense keychains are designed to keep you safe and confident, are easy to carry, and can usually fit in your pocket. The keychains generally measure around 3.5″ x 2.5″, and are available in several colors.
Conclusion
Self-defense weapons can be useful tools in protecting yourself from potential harm. Each weapon has its advantages and disadvantages, therefore it’s essential to choose the right one based on your personal preference and your level of comfort with the weapon. It is also important to remember that these weapons are only effective if used correctly, and it is always best to avoid dangerous situations whenever possible by practicing situational awareness.
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