The world is an unsafe place and most people opt for firearms to protect themselves and their loved ones, but what happens if you are in a gun-free zone? Or for one reason or the other, you can’t carry a concealed firearm? Below are a few self-defense options you can consider ensuring that you protect yourself even without your gun.
1. Pepper Spray
Pepper spray is the most popular self-defense mechanism and comes in various forms including gel or foam. It contains chili extracts as active ingredients and works by causing eye and skin irritation as well as breathing impairment when inhaled. As you temporarily blind your attacker with the spray, you get enough time to ask for help or get away. However, you should know how to use the spray correctly to avoid being the victim of your own protective device.
If you are going for a hike or a camping trip, there are special sprays for animals like the bear and dog sprays in case you encounter wild animals. Hornet and wasp sprays are also available to ward off insects. Pepper spray that not only repels the insects but also kills them is ideal as insects like wasps may attack in large numbers.
Pepper sprays are not allowed on planes, and there are restrictions that govern its possession. The good thing about pepper sprays is that you can use it on more than one person, convenient and easy to use. What’s more, you can choose your preferred concentration depending on your needs.
2. Stun Guns and Tasers
While stun guns and tasers are normally used interchangeably to refer to an electroshock self-defense device, they are not one and the same. However, they both discharge electric volts to temporarily shock targets and cause them to lose balance and sometimes mobility.
Stun guns contain fixed prongs that must be in contact with the target to deliver electric shock and do not shoot. Civilian tasers on the other hand shoot out spear-like prongs and can be used at a distance of up to 15 feet. The darts pierce clothing and skin to temporarily shock the target causing neuromuscular incapacitation and impairing mobility.
If you can’t use a firearm, stun guns and tasers are your next best bet. Stun guns are easy to access and draw, while tasers are much safer as they don’t require direct contact with attackers. States like Hawaii and New York prohibit the sale and ownership of stun guns and tasers, so check your state’s stun-gun laws before going out to get one.
3. Tactical Pens
Tactical pens combine the functionality of your regular pen with extra features to turn it into a self-defense tool that can get you out of harm’s way. They have sharp and hard tips that can be used to stab or break the glass. Some have LED lights and can be used both underwater and upside down.
It is highly unlikely for a tactical pen to be noticed, which makes it a great option for self-defense. Due to its glass-breaking tip, it is great if you need to escape through a window, or are trapped in a car and you need to get out. When not in danger, you can still use it to write like normal pens.
4. Tactical Flashlights
When you can’t use a firearm, a tactical flashlight may be of help in keeping you safe. Unlike the regular flashlight, it produces a very strong light which temporarily blinds and disorients your target when you shine it directly on their eyes. The 4 seconds of blindness gives you a chance to get away or arm yourself better. Tactical flashlights are usually made of tough materials like aluminum and steel to avoid breaking easily, while still remaining light enough to carry around.
If you are looking for a great flashlight for self-defense, look out for at least 200 lumens of light, portability and LED light. LED lights don’t break easily as compared to incandescent ones, and they are more energy-efficient. Since most attackers thrive under the cover of darkness, a bright flashlight can scare them away and help you identify threats in dark places.
5. Personal Alarm Systems
Sometimes, you may encounter danger that you cannot handle alone and need to rely on the help of others. Personal alarm systems produce very sharp and loud alarms, enough to get the attention of those around you. The keychain personal alarm is most popular due to its small size which makes it easy to carry.
Although it may not help you defend yourself, personal alarm systems can scare your attacker, and get you help by notifying others that you are in danger. Since you will be relying on other people, personal alarm systems are best used with other self-defense tools.
6. Pocket and Tactical Knives
Pocket knives, as well as tactical knives, come in small sizes that can fit in your purse, bag or on your person. Although they are usually legal and are be lethal, tactical knives are highly regulated. You can get knives that you can flip open or the not so obvious ones for women like the comb knife.
You may need to be in close range with the attacker to use your knife, which can be dangerous. You also need to know how to draw the knife fast and safely for efficiency during emergencies. If you are traveling, pack them in your checked luggage.
7. Learn to Fight
If all you are not confident with using self-defense tool or can’t access any, learning how to fight is a great way to protect yourself. Enroll in a martial arts class and learn how to take on an attacker in a physical confrontation. It is also a great way to stay fit while at the same time honing lethal skills that can bring down an unsuspecting attacker. What’s more, you don’t have to worry about regulations and laws. Learn how to fight by learning Jiu-Jitsu, Judo or the Krav Maga, proven as an effective self-defense technique.
If you would like to own a gun or learn how to shoot for when the situation warrants it, Las Vegas Shooting Centre has you covered. Contact us today at 702-778-5872 to schedule your time!
