In today’s world we are more concerned with teaching women how to defend themselves instead of teaching people not to abuse women. Many women are concerned with what types of self-defense weapons are the best for them to use.
Lots of people carry pepper spray without thinking about the consequences of how it can hurt them more than their attacker in a fight. In fact, pepper spray is one of the worst self-defense weapons to use because of its short shelf life and the potential of hurting yourself. For example, if the wind is blowing in your face then you’re going to end up macing yourself and then still get attacked. Plus, it is nearly impossible to use mace without having secondary effects on yourself. Here are three alternative weapons to carry instead of pepper spray, BUT remember, carrying any weapon can still be dangerous. An attacker can take the weapon and use it against you if you’re not holding on to it tight enough or not using it properly.
The absolute BEST self-defense weapon we can arm ourselves with is our own body. Taking a self defense class is extremely important, or even at least knowing a few simple tactics to defend yourself. In a situation where you are being attacked, fight first and fight dirty. There are no rules in defending yourself. Kick them in the crotch, scratch at their face, bite and poke at their eyes and throats. You are more important than fighting by the rules. Also, when you can run away and call the police don’t stick around to see if they’re okay.
- Carbon Fiber Baton- It is small enough to fit in a purse or pocket and extends when you need it to. It also has a handy wrist strap. These are great because they can do a lot of damage even if you’re not that strong because of the strength of the material. They are also fairly inexpensive compared to many other self-defense weapons.
- A Taser- These are great to stun your attacker but they won’t be incapacitated for very long after the initial shock. Tasers don’t actually work like they do in the movies where they get tased, shake violently, and then fall down and not be able to move. They are a way to stun an attacker to give you time to run away.
- A small hand gun- These are only for people who are comfortable with carrying a gun and have had extensive training with using one. DO NOT CARRY A GUN WITHOUT ENSURING YOU HAVE THE PROPER TRAINING.
Even with these alternative weapons, a good self -efense class is your best option at defending yourself while effectively damaging your attacker. Below are some links to self-defense classes as well as places to purchase the batons, effective Tasers, and information on gun safety. Your local police department and military units are also great resources for learning unarmed self defense and weapon safety. Unfortunately we live in a dangerous world so you need to be prepared to protect yourself!
http://dps.utah.edu/campus-safety/r-a-d-class/
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Smithwess-SWBAT12B-12-in.-Collapsible-Baton-Black-w-Nylon-Sheath/28827914