Carrying a self-defense tool is one of the smartest choices you can make for your personal safety. But here is the truth: just owning a tool does not guarantee protection. If you are not carrying it the right way or do not know how to use it, it might let you down in the moment you need it most.
After years of hearing from women, parents, and runners about their experiences, I have noticed the same mistakes pop up again and again. The good news is that these mistakes are easy to fix once you know about them.
Here are the top seven mistakes people make with their self-defense tools and how to avoid them.
1. Keeping it out of reach
Your self-defense tool should never live at the bottom of your bag. If you have to dig for it, it is already too late. Clip your pepper spray or safety alarm to your keychain or backpack strap so you can grab it in seconds. Accessibility is everything.
2. Never practicing with it
When adrenaline kicks in, your brain does not think clearly. If you have never practiced using your tool, you are more likely to fumble in the moment. Spend a few minutes pressing the button on your alarm or testing the motion of your kubaton. That muscle memory could make all the difference.
3. Ignoring the law
Every state and even some cities have their own rules about what you can legally carry. Some places allow pepper spray, while others limit the size or formula. Do your research so you do not get caught with something that could cause legal trouble instead of protecting you. For more information, see our upcoming guide on self-defense laws by state.
4. Relying on only one tool
No single tool works in every situation. Pepper spray can be affected by wind. A safety alarm is loud but might not stop someone determined. The smartest approach is layering your safety by carrying more than one option. That is why our self-defense kits bundle multiple tools together for all-around protection.
5. Believing “it will never happen to me”
We all like to think we are safe, but danger does not wait for an invitation. Self-defense tools are like seatbelts. You never plan on getting into an accident, but you still buckle up. Carrying protection is not about living in fear, it is about being prepared just in case.
6. Forgetting that tools expire
Yes, your safety gear has a shelf life. Pepper spray loses potency over time. Alarm batteries run out. Even simple tools can get worn down. Check your gear at least once a year and replace anything that is expired or unreliable. Better safe than sorry.
7. Carrying tools that look suspicious
If your tool looks like a weapon, it can attract unwanted attention or even be taken away. That is why disguised tools are becoming so popular. A key knife or comb knife looks like an everyday object but can protect you in an emergency without raising red flags.