List of Self Defense Weapons
- CS (Orthochlorobenzalmalonitrile)
- CN (alphachloroacetaphenone)
- OC (Oleoresin Capsicum)
CS / CN pepper sprays are irritants and cause stinging and tearing. They can take 5-30 seconds to take effect and may not be effective against those who are drunk, on drugs, psychotic or for some reason cannot feel pain. These types of pepper spray are basically tear gas and if someone is determined can fight through it.
OC pepper spray has a different chemical makeup and causes inflammation. The attackers eyes instantly swell shut and even if they managed to get them open them would be temporarily blinded because their capillaries will be dilated. Additionally, airways become inflamed and the assailant will double over coughing and only have life sustaining breathing.
Benefits: OC pepper spray is extremely effective if you are able to get a clear shot in the attackers face. You are able to create distance between you and your attacker. Also, you do not have to physically defend yourself.
Cons: Missing. If you miss then you risk the attacker closing the distance and getting a hold of you.
Stun Gun - A powerful self defense weapon that delivers an electrical charge to the person you touch with the two prongs at the end of the stun gun. Stun guns come in different sizes and voltage levels. The higher the voltage of your stun gun the more kick it will deliver to your assailant.
Stun guns quickly immobilize your attacker by momentarily disabling the body’s nervous system. However, due to the stun guns low amperage it does not do permanent damage.
Choosing the right Stun Gun. There are a lot of options for stun guns and there really isn’t a right answer. Simply consider your needs when determining size, amperage and the look. There are some stun guns that are disguised as cell phones or other objects.
Benefits: Highly effective and quick at immobilizing attackers.
Cons: most require your assailant to be within close range.
Collapsible Baton – The collapsible baton or telescopic steel baton is a very effective and deadly self defense weapon. One should be cautious before deciding it is necessary to use this weapon. It is perfect for offensive and defensive moves and packs a lot of punch.
Most police officers are issued collapsible batons in place of old billy clubs. Batons are convenient due to their small size while collapsed and how quickly they are deployed. With a flick of the wrist your baton is immediately expanded and will not collapse while you need it.
This baton can be kept in a purse, car or boot easily. If you strike an assailant with this weapon it will surely do damage regardless of where you strike and will make them think twice before continuing.
There are 3 different sizes of telescopic steel batons available and you can choose simply based on your preference or needs. You can choose from 16, 21, or 26 inch models.
Benefits: Convenience and Power.
Cons: Requires a physical confrontation, relatively close distance and strength.
For all weapons, realistic, live, scenario-based simulation training is essential. If you’re going to carry a weapon, you have to learn how to properly carry, deploy, move-with, and retain it, as well as the relevant use-of-force law in your jurisdiction.
For instance, for pepper spray, the following video commercial programs provide guidelines for good training:
http://demibarbito.com/OCSpray.html
http://www.paladin-press.com/detail.aspx?ID=1417
Kelly McCann also has a couple good videos on collapsible baton training.
Jesse,
Again good points. I think that when choosing which weapon you will carry you have to consider what you feel comfortable with and if you have the knowledge needed to use it.
There isn’t a magic bullet that says just because you are carrying mace that you aren’t going to have any problems. You need to practice and know how to use it properly.
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