OC-Trainer
Member
- Joined
- Dec 17, 2014
- Messages
- 567
A quick search on THR showed no shortage of improvised weapon/tool/device threads over the years. Lots of good info in those, but I thought we might try something a little bit different. A budget improvised defensive tool thread with specifics (brand, model, style etc). A cheat sheet, if you will. Bang for the buck items that get the job done.
The "Big 5" - cane, flashlight, pen, padlock, umbrella are frequently recommended items when a defensive tool is needed for a restrictive environment; and rightly so. Each adds useful primary AND secondary functionality. That said, some will 'perform' better than others in that secondary (defensive) roll. So the more specific the better when giving your recommended item(s). Here's an example:
Let's say you wanted to go with the padlock/bandana combo for use on a college campus with a very restrictive weapons policy. I personally would recommend the Master Lock Speed Dial 1500. No key to lose, anti-shim, and most importantly, it can be used without looking at it. Great for low/no light situations and because it can be used by feel, it enables you to remain more alert and aware of your surroundings while using it. Increased situational awareness is always a good thing in my book. Another quick example - A stainless steel Klean Kanteen (with a nice handle) is going to open a coconut much better than a plastic Nalgene... just saying. So when you are in the market for a new bottle, pick the one that will let you hit a home run, if need be, and not a single.
Only guidelines for this exercise:
• Must be budget-friendly - under $50 seems about right
• Must have a utilitarian use - This is essential
• The item's use/necessity must be plausible, considering both you and your environment.
A word about availability - A recommendation that is easily acquired and/or available is also a plus (but not essential). Even though it has never been easier to order something online, with today's shipping logistics - where 2-day shipping is the norm - there still is something to be said about being able to pick something up locally or immediately. Just in case grandma borrowed your one-of-kind tactical flashlight and you now need to stop and pick up another on the way to the airport.
So, what are you go-to items?
The "Big 5" - cane, flashlight, pen, padlock, umbrella are frequently recommended items when a defensive tool is needed for a restrictive environment; and rightly so. Each adds useful primary AND secondary functionality. That said, some will 'perform' better than others in that secondary (defensive) roll. So the more specific the better when giving your recommended item(s). Here's an example:
Let's say you wanted to go with the padlock/bandana combo for use on a college campus with a very restrictive weapons policy. I personally would recommend the Master Lock Speed Dial 1500. No key to lose, anti-shim, and most importantly, it can be used without looking at it. Great for low/no light situations and because it can be used by feel, it enables you to remain more alert and aware of your surroundings while using it. Increased situational awareness is always a good thing in my book. Another quick example - A stainless steel Klean Kanteen (with a nice handle) is going to open a coconut much better than a plastic Nalgene... just saying. So when you are in the market for a new bottle, pick the one that will let you hit a home run, if need be, and not a single.
Only guidelines for this exercise:
• Must be budget-friendly - under $50 seems about right
• Must have a utilitarian use - This is essential
• The item's use/necessity must be plausible, considering both you and your environment.
A word about availability - A recommendation that is easily acquired and/or available is also a plus (but not essential). Even though it has never been easier to order something online, with today's shipping logistics - where 2-day shipping is the norm - there still is something to be said about being able to pick something up locally or immediately. Just in case grandma borrowed your one-of-kind tactical flashlight and you now need to stop and pick up another on the way to the airport.
So, what are you go-to items?
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