A Personal Safety Weapon To Consider: The Self-Defense Keychain

I use a generic term, "Self-Defense Keychain," to describe this device but you may have heard of it by more popular, commercial names such as "Kubaton" or "Persuader Keychain." Because, "Kubaton" is the most popular, I'll use that term interchangeably with the one I use.

The Kubaton is a light-weight metal, plastic or wooden dowel. It's about five inches long and one half inch in diameter. The shaft of this weapon is usually knurled or grooved so that it doesn't slip in your hand. On one end of the Kubaton is a ring or two holding a cluster of ten to fifteen keys.

Recently, manufacturers have attempted to enhance the Kubaton with sharpened ends, telescoping tubes, spikes, enclosed canisters of pepper spray and even hidden knife blades. I won't get into these additional "bells and whistles" and will limit my recommendation to the basic model consisting of a shaft, key rings and keys.

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The self-defense keychain is discrete, unassuming, and convenient to carry. If used properly, it can dramatically increase the odds of surviving and escaping from a serious, life-threatening assault. I discuss the keychain during my self-defense seminars because it stands up nicely to the seven evaluation questions.

I prefer to discuss and provide information about the keychain but hesitate to make blatant recommendations about it, or any other device or weapon. I believe that the decision about whether to carry a personal safety device, and which one you carry, is YOUR decision. I prefer that you evaluate and analyze the "pros and cons" for yourself. This article is to assist you in that process process.

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SEVEN EVALUATION QUESTIONS

If you missed the last issue of the Protective Strategies Self-Defense Newsletter (December 2000) I'll review the seven Personal Safety Device Evaluation Questions:

1. Is it legal?

2. Will I carry it all the time?

3. Will it be immediately available when I need it?

4. Do I have legitimate confidence in my ability to use it?

5. Is it as effective as it has been held out to be?

6. Could it be taken away and used on me?

7. Am I physically, mentally and emotionally prepared to use it?

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1. IS IT LEGAL?

In most jurisdictions that I am aware of, the Kubaton is legal. It can be purchased over the counter in security, martial arts and sporting goods stores. I found several online merchants selling them for $5 to $25 dollars. Because they have a utility function (to hold your keys) they can be legally carried.

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In Canada, the Kubaton is neither a restricted nor a prohibited weapon. It is therefore legal to carry providing it is not used for illegal purposes. They are also available across the U.S. However, if you are considering carrying a Kubaton, you might want to make your own enquiries to confirm if they are legal in your jurisdiction.

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2. WILL I CARRY IT ALL THE TIME?

This is the beauty of the self-defense keychain. What is the most common thing that you carry in your hand when coming or going from your vehicle, home or workplace? Your keys! Because you carry your day-to-day keys on the self-defense keychain, it is likely that you will have it in your hand more than any other object. This increases the odds that, if you are attacked, it will be in your hand and ready to go. This is a huge benefit when considering a personal safety device or weapon.

3. WILL IT BE IMMEDIATELY AVAILABLE WHEN I NEED IT?

Again, the self-defense keychain is likely to be ready to go when you need it most. It's not enough to have a Personal Safety Device in your possession. It won't do you much good in your purse, pocket or vehicle. If you keep your keys on the keychain, it is a simple matter of establishing a habit of carrying it in your hand whenever you leave your home.

4.DO I HAVE CONFIDENCE IN MY ABILITY TO USE IT?

There are a number of "SILLY" techniques associated with the Kubaton. They include fancy wristlocks, takedowns, releases from holds and other elaborate techniques that just won't stand up in the stress and chaos of a real-world confrontation. Even if they did work (which they don't) they would require extensive practice and training to become competent.

Secondly, in a stressful encounter, only simple, large-muscle actions can be performed effectively. For that reason, a practical self-defense system must be simple and have as few techniques as possible. The system that I teach, for example, consists of three basic striking methods that are natural and consistent with what one would conceivably do during a combative situation.

Because the Kubaton is a hard object, it concentrates and intensifies the striking energy that is transferred into the assailant. Even with minimal training, a keychain strike is far more likely to incapacitate a violent assailant than an empty-handed response.

5. IS IT AS EFFECTIVE AS IT HAS BEEN HELD OUT TO BE?

When used properly, the self-defense keychain is a devastating weapon with potential to seriously injure and incapacitate a violent attacker. For that reason, it should only be used in situations where you reasonably believe the attack is serious and life threatening. You must also believe that you don't have less forceful alternatives available to protect yourself.

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WAIVER - Because of the potential consequences of using a personal safety weapon, I need to be clear that I provide this information for educational purposes only. How you use the information is up to you. Refer to my disclaimer statement at: http://www.protectivestrategies.com/disclaimer.html

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6.COULD IT BE TAKEN AWAY AND USED ON ME?

The honest answer to this question is, "yes." ANY personal safety weapon: a knife, pepper spray or a shoe for that matter, can potentially be taken away and used on you in the same fashion you intended to use it on your assailant.

However, the general consensus amongst my seminar candidates is that the benefits of having one outweigh the possibility of losing it. A benefit of the self-defense keychain is that the assailant may not recognize it as a weapon and, if he did gain access to it, wouldn't think to use it as one.

It is important to consider the potential of being disarmed when carrying a personal safety weapon. Acknowledge the possibility of dropping or losing it and do everything you can to prevent it from falling into the hands of your attacker.

7. AM I PHYSICALLY, MENTALLY AND EMOTIONALLY PREPARED TO USE IT?

This is a question only you can answer. Don't just buy a self-defense keychain, attach it to your keys and carry it around expecting that you will magically resort to it if you are ever attacked. A basic, self-defense response system should be learned and practiced when adopting this device.

Developing competence does not require thousands of repetitions and hours of training. However, you should spend some time learning how to prepare and grip the weapon as well as how and where to strike an assailant for maximum effectiveness.

Ideally, you should seek out instruction from a competent self-defense keychain instructor. However, if the system is simple enough (as mine is) I believe you can teach yourself the basic skills you need from a manual.

The keychain basics are simple and not hard to learn. Using the keychain will intensify the destructiveness of your response to a violent attack and increase the potential of escaping death or serious injury. Learn the basic concepts (mental preparation). Practice the basic strikes (physical preparation). The only thing left is to develop the emotional resolve to do whatever it takes to protect yourself and survive!

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CONCLUSION

Whether you decide to explore the issue of the self-defense keychain further; whether you decide to buy and carry one, is entirely up to you. I can provide you only with information to assist you with that decision making process but ultimately you must take full responsibility for your personal safety and draw your own conclusions about what is and isn't right for you. If you've read this far, I'm sure you'll make a wise choice.

Take care, train smart and stay safe,

Randy LaHaie

====================== So What? ==========================

Now that you have this information, what good is it to you? Before we get into that, let me be clear on a VERY IMPORTANT POINT. I am NOT an advocate of carrying a weapon or device as a "PRIMARY" self-defense strategy. A PSD is a piece of the overall puzzle but not nearly as effective as developing a comprehensive and balanced personal safety strategy.

Your "BRAIN" is your primary tool for staying safe. Your mental, physical and emotional development determines your ability to avoid and detect danger and to deal with it effectively if it does arise.

Fighting back... especially with a weapon, should be considered a last resort, not a first, and especially not the only one you have! If you must fight back, the keychain will help, but don't lose sight of the need to explore and develop the other components of self-defense that will have a greater affect on your ability to stay safe.

The keychain is just one more tool in your "self-defense tool box." Keep Looking for and developing other skills, knowledge and response options. That's why we say one "STUDIES" self-defense. It's an on going process. We can't buy it, borrow it or carry it in our pocket. Don't forget that.

================== Self-Defense Quote ====================

"Remember: it's not the weapon that counts so much as how you use it. Even the most commonplace or seemingly harmless item becomes an efficient weapon when directed toward the vulnerable parts of the human body. Household weapons are often at your fingertips, so use them!"

Al Marrewa

The Feminine Warrior

A Woman's Guide to Verbal, Psychological and Physical Empowerment

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Randy LaHaie is the president of Protective Strategies and has been teaching reality-based self-defense for over 30 years. He is the author of several "Toughen Up Combative Training Guides" (http://www.ToughenUp.com)

Subscribe to his FREE SELF-DEFENSE NEWSLETTER at http://www.ProtectiveStrategies.com

Self Defense Products for Personal Protection

Self Defense Products for Personal Protection

Self-defense refers to actions taken by a person to stop another person from causing harm to one's self, one's property or one's home. Self-defense is also a commonly understood legal term in United States law used to classify an act of violence as being justified against an unjustified assailant, and therefore deserving of little or no punishment.

While the debate regarding the use of firearms continues, other types of non-lethal self defense weapons are available for your protection. There are a number of self defense devices that you can legally use to protect yourself against an assault. Defense products like a stun gun, pepper spray, or personal alarm when used correctly can give you the tactical advantage of surprise. However, these products are not intended to permanently overpower the assailant so don't wait around waiting for police to arrive. Make your escape quickly and report the attack immediately. You will want your story to be heard first.

Before you buy a self defense product, check with your local laws regarding any legal issues. If the product is illegal in your state then you could end up in jail. Furthermore, only use the self defense product when you are being assaulted and your safety (or life) is at stake. Using it to intimidate someone may also be considered against the law. Your rights concerning self defense and the weapon you use will differ from state to state. However, the law is quite consistent in determining that you have a right to defend yourself against physical attack. While avoiding a dangerous situation is certainly best, it is not always possible. If you are put into a situation where you are forced to use a self defense weapon, always cooperate with the police by providing honest and complete information. Make sure you give them the details of the situation and the self defense weapon you used.

There are numerous self defense products that are legal in most states. These comprise of personal alarms, tasers, stun guns, pepper spray, tear gas, and batons, but each are subject to state laws. These devices are legal to own in most states. Some states require a permit to carry and/or use a few of these items. Each state has its own laws, which clearly defines the guidelines for owning, carrying and/or using a self defense product.

Do you find yourself inundated by the number of self defense products available? Enroll in a self defense program through your community center or local community college, and ask your instructor what he or she recommends. You can also do a lot of your own research by researching the internet, self defense books & videos to see what is suggested. When begin shopping for a self defense product, ask questions and decide what you feel most comfortable using for protection.

If you are uncomfortable carrying a self defense weapon, a good alternative might be a long, sturdy flashlight. This is not truly a weapon so you decrease your chances of facing legal problems due to carrying a concealed weapon. Carrying this with you may come in handy in a dangerous situation where sometimes just shining a light in a would-be attacker's eyes may be enough to scare them away. If that doesn't work, you may be able to use it as a weapon by hitting an assailant with it. Some flashlights come with alarms that can be set off during an attack. A great advantage of using a flashlight as a self defense weapon is that it can be easily carried in your car or in a tote bag and converted to a weapon when needed.

Self Defense Products for the Home

The most essential self-defense products for the home are ones that stop a burglar before they enter the home. A number of perimeter defense products discourage possible invaders before they enter your home.


Motion, infrared alarms and lights are the first line of defense. One of the best alarms on the market are the "auto dial" phones. These phones have a motion alarm that triggers an automatic dial of any number you choose. Some even have a recording device that records the intruder.
Door wedges and bars are also used to stop most intruders. These wedges brace against doors and windows, preventing intruders from opening the entrance to your home.
A high risk home might use battery operated and wireless alarms that call the police. You can even purchase a motion sensor alarm that dispenses a UV dye, marking intruders so police can identify them later.
Wireless alarms have become more popular recently because they are simple to operate, affordable, and portable. Apartment residents can easily use wireless, battery operated alarms and they can take it with them when they move. Just be sure to keep fresh batteries in them!

Learn about personal security options in your area by talking to local law enforcement. Many people don't take this extra step, but by talking to the experts on crime, you can find out what works best to keep criminals from turning you into a victim. Get advice on a range of personal safety equipment including a personal safety alarm, lock or other self defense weapons. Your personal safety is just as important to your local law enforcement as it is to you.

Patricia Deiparine lives in Mercer Island, Washington and is the proprietor of Northwest Safety Products. Her company provides personal safety devices and wireless security alarms. [http://www.NWSafetyProducts.net]

Personal Self Defense

Personal self defense products are easy to use, affordable and, most importantly, effective. The key to finding the right personal self defense product is knowing how they work and determining which product you feel most comfortable using. The self defense weapon is great for home defense, a personal self defense weapon, women's self defense, personal self defense or personal safety

Defense of self and the very idea of self is progressively diminished by objectifying them into non-existence, rather than enlarging them beyond the bounds of the individual ego. Defense of what belongs to oneself, as one's works or reputation.

Pepper spray stun lets you be prepared for any situation. Pepper spray stuns to protect yourself in dangerous situations.

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Stun Master Stun Gun use high voltage and low amperage to temporarily disable an attacker for several minutes. Stun guns and pepper spray have also been widely requested by locksmiths, real estate agents and people who jog or bicycle ride in their neighborhood or the park. Stun Guns offer you the peace of mind that you are able to protect yourself with non-lethal force, without worrying about the legal complications that more lethal forms of self defense can cause.

Mace is the perfect item to buy for a loved one. Mace Pepper Gun Sprays 7 blasts up to 25 feet to disable your attacker. Mace Canine Repellent Mace Canine Dog Repellent Pepper Spray Mace brand Muzzle canine repellent is an excellent product for defending against attacking dogs. Mace pepper spray keychain is Michigan approved. Mace(TM)Defense SpraysMace(TM) Defensive Sprays come in a variety of models and formulas. Mace pepper spray and tear gas does not directly cause permanent harm.

Women who never return from the Mall, Market or Work, If they only had a GUN, A STUN GUN. Women must reclaim their natural ability to be physically dangerous in order to achieve true freedom. Women do indeed need to learn to allow themselves to take care of themselves. Women will find a can of pepper spray a to be a great safety accessory.

The UFO Alarm is the most versatile home or personal alarm on the market today. Protect yourself with the cell phone stun gun. Pepper spray stuns to protect yourself in dangerous situations.The shocking story is that many lawmakers are trying to make it a crime for honest citizens like you and me to carry personal self defense weapons.

Article written by Cliff Sturtivan, Cliff recommends [http://www.myselfdefense4you.com] for all your self defense products all at competitive prices.

The Truth About Personal Self Defense Weapons

Sorry I haven't written anything for a while folks, but these days it seems like there's more on my to-do-list then there is time to do them. In fact, my daily travels are what inspired me to sit down and write this letter today.

It seems like everywhere I go these days, I get asked the same questions about self defense weapons. Are they legal? Should I carry one? Do they really work? (And assuming they really do work for self defense)... How do I know which one is really going to work for me?

The truth is, there really is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. It's a personal question, which has a personal answer for each individual. So I'm going to do what I can to help clear some of the fog on this topic, and we'll start with a simple definition for the term "self defense weapon".

Self-defense: The act of defending one's person or interests from harm by the use of physical force or argument.

Weapon: Any instrument or device used to inflict harm on another, either for attack or defense.

So for the purpose of this article, we'll consider a self defense weapon to be any instrument or device used to defend yourself from physical harm or attack... Simple enough.

Personal defense weapons come in many shapes and sizes. In fact, just about anything you use to defend yourself could be considered a self defense weapon. So rather than creating a list of self defense weapons (which is practically endless), I'll just go over some of the concepts that are common for all of these devices.

First let's talk about what a self defense weapon is NOT...

A self defense weapon is NOT an animate object with a mind of its own. In other words, it doesn't think for itself, and it doesn't sit there coiled up, waiting for the opportunity to strike at someone. A self defense weapon is a tool, no more. And being a tool, what it does depends entirely on what you do with it. A weapon can be very useful for keeping you safe. However, you've got to remember a few certain things...

1. A SELF DEFENSE WEAPON IS NOT MAGIC.

Once you have a weapon, it doesn't mean you're automatically safe. So, don't go walking into a bad section of town, in the middle of the night, carrying a big handful of money. And don't flip off the local gang leader just because you have a weapon in your pocket

2. YOU NEED TO LEARN HOW TO USE YOUR SELF DEFENSE WEAPON.

And even more important, you need to have confidence in your ability to use it. Just having a weapon doesn't mean it'll be any help at all. This is actually a big problem among the uninformed; Military and law enforcement research confirms that people who lack confidence in a technique or device will not resort to it in a stressful situation.

Many people have been seriously hurt in violent encounters with a personal self defense weapon right in their hand. In the stress of the moment, they didn't think to use it or doubted its' ability to impact the situation. Perhaps they were afraid that it would only make matters worse.

So if you're thinking of carrying a personal self defense weapon, make sure you're prepared to learn how to use it. And practice to become skillful with it. You also need to be prepared to use the device aggressively on a predator, to protect yourself. Never carry a Personal Safety Weapon with the intent to "bluff" your assailant. This is one sure way to have your weapon taken away and used against you. So if you are not prepared to use it decisively, don't carry it!

3. WEAPONS DON'T WORK IF YOU AREN'T HOLDING THEM.

You've got to keep your eyes open and pay attention, and you need to know how to carry and use your weapon of choice, cause if you don't, you may not get a chance to use it. A gun doesn't help if it's still in its holster, and a pepper spray or a stun gun isn't too useful if it's still in the bottom of your purse or in the kitchen drawer at home when you get attacked. So when you carry a weapon for self defense, make sure you can get to it quickly if the need arises.

People seldom leave their homes thinking, "Gee, I think I'll go out and fend off a mugger, or a rapist today!" What happens to most self defense weapons is the novelty wears off and they're quickly forgotten, then they find their way to the bottom of a purse, the glove box of your car, or the back of a kitchen drawer. They won't do you much good there! So ask yourself, is the device you are considering something practical enough to carry with you all of the time.

4. NOTHING WORKS 100% OF THE TIME.

Over-inflated claims and quick-fix promises are everywhere in the self-defense business. Many gadget salespeople and wannabe self-defense experts exaggerate the benefits and capabilities of their systems and products.

You need to understand, and acknowledge the limitations of a self defense weapon, and have a back-up plan. Keep in mind that nothing is ever 100% effective all the time. Even a gun is only 99% effective. Sometimes people get shot, but they still don't go down. Yet, I don't know anyone who would say a gun isn't effective.

So knowing that nothing works 100% of the time means no matter what self defense weapon you decide to carry, you should still have a back up plan for defending yourself... just in case

5. THERE ARE LAWS ABOUT WEAPONS...

Lots of laws. Starting primarily with laws about guns, the use of guns, carrying a gun, etc. but there are also laws about stun guns, pepper spray, knives, batons, etc. Mostly having to do with when weapons may be used, and under what circumstances.

Do what you can to learn the laws about weapons in your area, but more importantly, use a bit of common sense. Pulling a gun on a guy because he cut you off in traffic is a no-no, and shooting someone in the face with pepper spray because they took the last donut at the meeting is not using good judgment. So when learning to use your self defense weapon, also learn the laws regarding the weapon, and when you can and can't use it legally.

So there you have it, a few basic truths about self defense weapons.

I could go on for another half hour about personal defense weapons, and never run out of things to say, but this article has already passed the one thousand-word mark, so I'll end it here. The bottom line is, if you're going to carry a weapon for self defense, make sure you know how to use it, and are prepared to use if the need arises.

Until next time, Stay safe and stay alive.

Steve / NASP

SA Rubin is the owner of North American Security Products, LLC. A company dedicated to providing you with the means to protect and defend yourself against crime. For more information on Self Defense Weapons visit www.naselfdefense.com where you'll find a complete line of self-defense weapons and Personal Security Products