So, ReadyNutrition Readers, in another article we presented some everyday items normally carried that can be converted into defensive weapons.  Let’s elaborate with some others that you might not readily think of as being able to be utilized in your defense.  Let’s jump right into it, as this is a time of uncertainty with civil unrest and rioting being the norm and not the exception.

These Everyday Items Can Quickly Become Improvised Self-Defense Weapons

1. The baseball bat.  For playing baseball, of course.  Throw a couple of gloves and a ball in a plastic grocery bag for that time you run into your buddies for a friendly game of ball.  And while you’re waiting…when a couple of hoodlums with knives come “sauntering” up to you, it might be a good idea to have that baseball bat handy.  My personal choice is a T-ball bat, made of aluminum, and it works. Read more on this topic here.  Once again, you have to train with it, but I guarantee you’ll be just fine with some practice.  Do they want you with knives?  I assure you, the bat will deter them…one way or another.
2. The cane. What a pleasant walking accouterment!  Something to lean on, and help you brace yourself as you walk uphill.  Oh, and remember those hoodlums we discussed in “number 1” here?  Once more, the proper training and practice will have you serving those knives up to them ala carte.  I prefer the ones made from aluminum to the wooden ones, although wood will work.  These are just pure canes, now, not “sword” canes or other specially-outfitted devices.
3. The umbrella. This one is a little riskier, for the sole reason that it must be sturdy.  They make them, but you’ll have to do some searching for the really strong ones.  As a striking or a stabbing weapon, you’ll have something to work with.  If you wish to do some special work on them, just use your imagination.
4. Walking stick. Different from a cane, due to the length.  This one (unless you’re in New York City where nothing is considered weird) you may have to be in a different setting to employ.  Nevertheless, that walking stick is really a staff, and there’s where real training will come in handy.  Get a good one that is sturdy and somewhat ornate/art-decorated.  This last feature will give you more of a cover, as unless you’re auditioning for a “shepherd” position or the lead role of “Moses” in the “Ten Commandments” remake, it’ll be hard to pass off your “staff” in an urban setting.
5. The crowbar. This one will have to stay in the vehicle.  Be smart: make sure it’s not the only tool in the back seat.  Always think ahead in that regard.  If you’re in the trades, it’ll be a little simpler for you.

With all of these examples, the crowbar and the baseball bat are the ones you’ll have to leave in the car.  The rest you can carry with you with relative impunity, with the Walking Stick being the only one that may arouse attention in an urban or suburban setting.  Your objective is not to be a Ninja: it is to be a camouflaged citizen not looking for any trouble.  These suggested weapons are to allow you to have a “distance” weapon: a tool to be able to deal with someone who wishes to hurt you.

In the following video, pay attention to the strike zones and areas on the body that will inflict the most damage to your attacker. Accurately striking in the right areas on the body will drop your attacker and give you time to distance yourself.

Now, you should practice using these items, gripping your selected tool and taking the right swings. Practice in front of a mirror and then with a heavy bag.  Know your striking areas and how to deal with an attacker who has a weapon such as a knife or a club.  Practice with a family member.  I’m not advocating violence.  Nevertheless, I am advocating taking a stand when you cannot either diffuse the situation or avoid it by withdrawing.  Still, it is better to have an option than to offer them a smile and hope for their goodwill.  There is a time to fight.  Perhaps this piece will give you an idea when that is your only option.  JJ out!

 

Additional Reading Material:

Hard Core Chicks: Eight Self Defense Tactics Every Women Should Know

Disarmed? How to Create DIY Self-Defense Tools With Items in Your Home

Fight Like Jason Bourne: 7 Key Points to Surviving a Serious Fight

6 Non-Lethal Weapons to Carry Instead of a Gun

 

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