Increasingly we are finding ourselves in environments that remove our ability to protect ourselves with weapons. This is not a moral debate. We live in the world that we live in and it is our responsibility to follow the laws of our country, jurisdiction, and city. But it is also our highest priority to be in a position to defends ourselves and our loved ones should the need arise.

Historically

Open hand martial arts has been developed over centuries because weapons have been forbidden for reasons that are beyond the scope of this article to examine. Nevertheless, individuals have always needed to defend themselves from other people that intend to do them harm. Therefore, as adaptive creatures who constantly strive to overcome, we humans are very good at finding ways to accomplish our objectives. In the case of personal protection, we simply want the ability to defend ourselves.

Tools

While open hand martial arts training is incredibly useful for everyone, the use of personal defense equipment will always give an advantage. And when it comes to self preservation and protection of our loved ones and friends, we seek every advantage possible. Anyone who is intent on doing you harm already believes they have an advantage. Maybe they have a weapon or are simply bigger and stronger. Maybe they have some training. Maybe they are energized by drugs or alcohol or rage. Your responsibility is to stack the odds in your favor.

This is when personal protection self defense equipment becomes vitally important. The list below shows a few very simple pieces of equipment that could give you the advantage you need in a self defense situation.

Modern Personal Protection Equipment

Personal Alarm: The intent is to scare your attacker away before they attack you, and to alert others of your situation.

Tactical Flashlight: Use the flashlight for the light but also a tactical flashlight can be used as a striking and defensive weapon.

Keychain Baton: A metal baton keychain does not need batteries or spray and will always be effective if you know how to use it and it is within reach.

Tactical Pen: Like a tactical flashlight and a keychain baton, this is something that can be used in a wide range of self defense scenarios. Carrying a tactical pen is very inconspicuous and can often fly under the radar.

Blades: In many cases a pocket knife or blade of some form is a perfectly acceptable item to carry. Just remember that a knife (or any other item) can be taken away from you and used against you, so you must train, you must learn, you must practice, and you must use the appropriate gear.

Sprays: Red pepper spray is used from a distance and has been proven to be very effective to stop would be attackers. This gives you the opportunity to run away and call for help. Be careful not to get any on yourself!

Shock Devices: Do the research and learn how and when these can be used. As with anything, proper training and practice is required.

Walking Sticks: Simple, unassuming walking sticks can be used to fend off attackers.

Clothing: Gloves, fanny packs, backpacks, belts, vests, shoes, and other clothing can all be designed and worn with self defense and personal protection in mind.

Car / Home Kits: Every car and home should have a survival kit that includes tools for personal protection.

Firearms: The discussion about firearms is outside the scope of this website but you are encouraged to educate yourself. Know your laws, know your rights, and also know that anyone attacking you is not going to follow the law nor do they care about your rights.

Your Responsibility

PersonalDefenseEquipment.com is a website and blog dedicated to educating you about the best self defense equipment. We will always strive to be practical because that is the most important element of your personal protection. When you buy the equipment that we recommend, it is always your responsibility to learn how to use it, train, practice, test, plan, and be prepared. When you have the best protection equipment and you are prepared, then your odds of survival are vastly superior.