Self-Defense: How To Protect Yourself Without A Gun
When it comes to protection, a lot of people would prefer guns. Any attacker would feel easily threatened when there’s a gun pointing at them. Unfortunately, not everyone can easily own guns. There are firearms and law regulations that you have to follow if you want to buy and keep one. There’s also the risk of self-harm.
But, what if you can’t afford to own a gun? How can you protect yourself?
There are actually a lot of things you can use for self-defense and most of these things are already inside your home. As a guide for staying safe, here a quick list of the items you can use to protect yourself.
Knife
Aside from guns, the knife is probably the next weapon you’ll have in mind. It’s light, easy to carry around and even to conceal. If used properly and carefully, you can use it to quickly disarm your opponent.
There are several types of knives you can use for self-defense. You can go for a small pocket knife or pick a larger one with a fixed blade. For your security, however, it’s best if you can stick with a folding knife that features a serrated blade which you can open and close quickly.
Pepper Spray
Pepper sprays make a great self-defense weapon. They contain around 20% capsicum which is irritating to both eyes and skin. With this, you won’t even have to use the spray directly into your attacker’s eyes. You can spray it from a distance and you’d still get enough time to run away. Pepper sprays can cause permanent eye problems, like blindness, so be careful when using them.
Another thing you have to keep in mind is the condition in which you are using them. Rain, for example, can make them less effective. The potency of their active ingredients can decrease, too. Most of them can last for 2 to 4 years from the time of manufacture.
When looking for a good pepper spray, choose foam sprays as they have less risk of self-infliction.
Tactical Flashlights
Tactical flashlights can give you time to run or attack.
When you shine the ultra-bright light from one of these flashlights, your attacker won’t be able to see anything but light. And even if you turn off the lights, it will take a few seconds before your attacker can see properly again. This will buy you enough time to escape.
A flashlight that is durable and sturdy also makes a great weapon for hitting your attacker, especially if it gives you lots of reach.
Tactical Pen
You can use any pen for your protection, given that it’s durable enough to be used for stabbing. However, for extra safety, you might want to invest in tactical pens. They are made with durable materials and their ends are extra sharp. You can use these pen to hit your attacker’s most vulnerable spots, like the face, neck, arms and the area between the eyes.
The nice thing about tactical pens is that they don’t really look like weapons at first glance and you can conveniently store one inside your pocket or purse. Just be extra careful that you don’t accidentally injure yourself with its sharp end.
Car Keys
If you own a car, you won’t probably leave home without your keys. This makes them a convenient weapon for self-protection. And since they won’t inflict any lethal harm, you can use them without holding back or thinking twice.
The problem, however, is that you may need to use more force in hitting your attacker. You have to make your move in such a way that you’ll surprise the other person. Hit him hard on the face and with the pointy end.
You can also attach keychain knuckles. They offer discreet and portable protection and a bit more force to protect yourself.
Belt
Your belt might not be the first object that can come to your mind when you think about protection, but it can actually work well for self-defense. It’s discreet and well hidden and you can easily reach for it when needed.
To use your belt for defense, wrap one of its end over your fist and use the other one to hit your attacker, preferably the buckle end. Aim it towards your attacker’s softer parts, like his back, stomach and face.
How To Pick The Right Weapon For Self-Defense
For better protection, it’s a good idea to choose your weapon well. Although you’re not really anticipating to be in a dangerous situation all the time, there’s no harm in being prepared.
As a rule of thumb, your weapon of choice must fit the following criteria:
- It should be small enough to fit your purse or pocket.
- It should be durable and strong enough to withstand force.
- It should provide good grip and shouldn’t be easy to slip off of your hand.
- It should be something you can actually use. If you don’t have the skill to use the weapon, pick another one you are more comfortable using.
After selecting your weapon of choice, be familiar with it and spend time learning how to use it to your advantage. You can watch videos, read online instructions or take classes if you have to. Most self-defense classes are affordable and don’t take too much time.
Make your weapon easily accessible, especially if you’re in an unsafe or unfamiliar place. Prepare a self-defense plan so you’ll know exactly how to respond to an attack. It can also help build your confidence in defending yourself.