Non-Lethal Weapons

All non-lethal weapons work on the basis of disorienting or incapacitating an opponent so the defender has time to get away. When the attacker has a disability or illness or is under the influence of drugs, including alcohol, a non-lethal weapon can have fatal effects. All are available in models that fit easily into pocket or purse.

For all weapons training is needed for effective use. Training is needed in drawing the weapon for use and use of the weapon itself. You have to know the capabilities and limits of the weapon.

Weapon	Advantages	Disadvantages
	Can use against multiple attackers One type or another is legal in all U.S. states Available in models disguised as something else, like a pen Effective range of 6 to 25 feet depending on the model Practice sprays are available	Need to hit the head of the attacker to be really effective, for that reason cone sprays are better Spray can be deflected by the wind, for that reason stream and gel types are better Disguised models are illegal in some states. All but the gel types could be self-defeating indoors Two to five year shelf life Possible negative impact on others in the spray area
	Temporarily blinds the attacker A proper tactical flashlight can be used is a kubotan for striking Weather independent Effective beyond 25' Can be used as a regular flashlight Easy to practice using the light	Most effective in darkness Must target the eyes The batteries have to be checked. Newer models have lithium batteries which have long self-lives.
	COMBINES THE ADVANTAGES OF PEPPER SPRAY AND HIGH INTENSIY FLASH LIGHT Police models have been highly effective Pepper spray used is legal in all states Inert practice sprays are available	Must target head and eyes. Must check age of pepper spray and operation of the batteries.
	Always ready to go Excellent for attacking pressure points and inflicting pain without serious injury. Do not need batteries or propellant. You may be able to carry tactical pens and saji bo in places that you would not be able to carry kubotans	Must be within arm's reach of the attacker. Requires more training for effective use than any of the other non-lethals listed here.
	Very effective at disabling an attacker Some models are disguised as something else, like a cell phone Rechargeable models are available.	Must be within arms reach of the attacker Disguised models are illegal in some states. The batteries have to be checked. Newer models have lithium batteries which have long self-lives. Training is difficult to get
	Can apply to targets out of arm's reach Practice batons are available Always ready to go Some models can be fitted with small LED flashlights Some models are stun batons and some have stun & flashlight functions Expandable models are easy to carry Escrima training is applicable to use of the baton.	Batons are illegal in many states except for the police
	May be a deterrent in itself Practice knives are available Always ready to go	Serious to deadly wounds can be inflicted Must be within arms reach of the attacker Knife laws vary by community and are applied capriciously
	Can be used when attacker is at some distance, Attracts attention to your situation Easy to practice with	Most effective if backed up by another weapon such as a stun gun or spray. Two to five year shelf life