Don't underestimate good improvised weapons. All else being equal, the guy with the bat/cane/chain/brass knuckles will always have the advantage. Even that boiling hot cup of coffee can give you a momentary advantage. Empty-handed fighting is a worthwhile skill, but I'd only rely on it as a last resort when no other weapon is available.I hope that no one is taking any of these gadget ideas as serious counter measures in a life or death defensive situation. Most of these gadgets sound great in an offensive situation where some one has the time to prepare for a strike. If someone attacks with highly motivated and premeditated malice than I don't think any of us could actually reach any of these gadgets never mind implement them. Methods of close quarters, hand to hand strategies work well when properly learned. Your hands are probably the last thing you will rely on in a really bad situation so it makes sense to learn how to use them.
I hope that no one is taking any of these gadget ideas as serious counter measures in a life or death defensive situation. Most of these gadgets sound great in an offensive situation where some one has the time to prepare for a strike. If someone attacks with highly motivated and premeditated malice than I don't think any of us could actually reach any of these gadgets never mind implement them. Methods of close quarters, hand to hand strategies work well when properly learned. Your hands are probably the last thing you will rely on in a really bad situation so it makes sense to learn how to use them.
Of course, you can't add pointy nails to the end of rebar like you can with a bat. Life is full of compromises...
Raid Yard Guard, also known as "Bee-Bopper". The newer versions spray out about 20 feet.
Most people I know at work and on campus drag around some kind of bag. The newer thing is to have one of the messenger bags like the timbuk2 There are some neato pen pockets in the front panel to hold my stuff. I'm able to carry both in the bag, slung over one shoulder I have quick access if I need it and I never need to show anyone else in the office that I have a light and a stick of OC in my bag.This situation brought to mind how vulnerable we are coming out of work (and I do suspect this guy will be back).