Since 9/11/2001, the number of Americans concerned with the potential deterioration of society has increased significantly. From the all-out Doomsday Prepper Survivalist with a fully stocked retreat, to the average family man trying to make ends meet, concern for the stability of our government and ecosystem have rightfully led us to be better prepared for catastrophe.
Firearm sales and Right-to-Carry permit applications have skyrocketed in recent years. But what about the individual who is concerned with current trends, but is opposed to the use of lethal self defense? Or what of the Concealed-Carry individual who wants to have a non-lethal option? Many folks (the author included) maintain a Concealed Weapon License, but have a spouse who is neither trained nor comfortable with a firearm. How do we ensure that our wives are safe? Fortunately, there are several options available for non-lethal self defense, both to protect those not willing or able to carry, and to provide back-up alternatives for the armed citizen. These should be "must-have" options for any Prepper's Bug-Out-Bag, and are certainly worthy of consideration for anyone concerned with current events on planet earth.
Pepper Spray: Pepper Spray is an aerosol compound containing the active ingredient oleoresin capsicm, commonly referred to as O.C. This very effective self defense mechanism is sold in a multitude of shapes, sizes and concentrations. Very inexpensive, concealable and effective, pepper spray is ideal for a lady's handbag or keychain. Have several of these handy! Although currently legal in all states, there are restrictions. Purchase from a supplier who understands the legal limitations of your state.
Stun Guns: Stun guns are very high voltage/low amperage devices capable of disabling an attacker for several minutes. Ranging in voltage from 100,000 to over 1 million, stun guns work by making an attacker's muscles spasm rapidly, completely disabling his motor control. The resultant twitching depletes the muscular blood sugar and converts it to lactic acid, making it so that his muscles have no energy to operate. These devices excel in a close-quarters defense situation, where there might be a risk of splashback from pepper spray. The sale or possession of stun guns is restricted in some states, so here again, know your supplier.
ECDs: An Electronic Control Device (marketed under the trade name TaserR) functions similarly to a stun gun, but allows the shock to be delivered to an attacker who is some distance away. These devices shoot out 2 darts attached to 15 feet of wire. 50,000 volts travel over the wires and override the central nervous system providing incredible takedown power. In police studies, TaserRs have been shown to have a higher instant incapacitation rate than a 9mm hand gun. Sales are significantly more restricted, with a background check required for activation of the device.
Whether your concern is to arm yourself or your spouse, provide every possible tool for your retreat plan, or to complement your everyday carry, all of the above products deserve your consideration. At the risk of sounding repetitive, make sure you deal with a supplier who understands the restrictions for your home state. Good on-line sites offer this information, as well as a wealth of informative articles, in addition to discounted pricing on self-defense items. Be as prepared as you can be.
Brad George is President of She's Safe, Inc., a company committed to providing, not only a comfortable shopping experience for anyone looking to improve personal security, but providing education to customers seeking the facts before deciding to buy pepper spray or any other self defense device.