Re: LEO\'S & Security folks: How effective is pepper spray?
<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by brightnorm:
I'm in my mid-sixty's, not in the greatest health, and I live in a city with the strictest gun laws in the country. I mean STRICT!
My self-defense options seem to be very limited; even my ability to "run like hell" is impossible due to back injuries.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by brightnorm:
I'd be grateful for any other ideas you might have for me.<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>
Well, given your situation, especially the issues regarding running away and the inability (due to local laws) to use more effective defensive force, I'd me somewhat hesitant to use OC spray with the worry that it might further aggravate an attacker. In those cases normally you would use the opportunity while they are (hopefully) partially incapacitated to beat feet.
I would also think similar things about using a light as a blinding tool, although I see the blinding tool as more useful used in conjunction with a firearm.
If you decided to still use a flashlight in this way, I'd consider getting something like the SF M6 and get as much effectiveness as possible (same for the OC spray for that matter).
Well, luckily, due to the restrictive laws in your area, at least criminals do not have firearms. (Ok, ok, I know that was flamebait, but I think it's stupid that someone who is physically disadvantaged can't use the tools that compensate. Not to mention the right of people in general to defend themselves).
Ok, let's get back to trying to be constructive.
My thinking turns to concealable body armor. The main point being that they don't know you have it. Even if they decide to shoot you for your pocket change, it would seem you have a much larger chance. I understand you can get them with stab resistance as well which sounds useful.
http://www.bulletproofme.com/
In conjunction with that, I would consider having some cash on hand that I would give up as an appeasement. I wouldn't argue, just do it.
I'd also consider having a second level plan, perhaps a stun gun.
In any case, a cell phone sounds like a must. You probably want to make sure it is concealed as well so you don't lose it in the process.
Some sort of noise maker like a air horn might be of use. I'm not sure I'd count on people to come running, but at least they might feel a little conspicuos.
In all, I think this is a highly personal decision and I should point out that I'm not a LEO, or expert.
Hopefully some of the other people here can provide some additional insight.
-john