The upward trend in violent crime in the United States for the past four years is troubling. According to the 2018 National Crime Victimization Survey, the self-reported incidence of rape or sexual assault nearly doubled from 1.4 victimizations per 1,000 persons age 12 or older in 2017 to 2.7 in 2018. Violent crime is up 17%. The need for self-defense weapons for women is becoming more important than ever for their safety and well-being. 

Here is a rundown of some of the best and most effective self-defense weapons out there:

Pepper Spray

Inexpensive, easy to conceal and carry, and with a shelf life of 3-4 years, pepper-spray is an effective deterrent against attackers for any woman on the go. Its active ingredient is capsaicin in aerosol form, which is an inflammatory compound derived from hot peppers. When deployed, it causes burning, irritation, and temporary blindness for up to 60 minutes when it comes into contact with a perpetrator's eyes, allowing for a quick escape. This powerful companion can keep you safe, whether you're jogging, hiking, or walking home after a night out with friends. It can come in multiple mediums: spray, gel, or foam — the latter two prevent blowback from wind. Some even have a dye that can mark an attacker's face blue for up to 48 hours to help with identification. It also is an excellent self-defense tool against animals such as dogs and bears. Of course, as with any weapon, its impact and success are based on knowing how to use it correctly. Pepper spray is legal in all 50 states, but there may be some restrictions based on its size, concentration, and age a person must be to carry and use it. 

Personal Alarm

A personal alarm is typically used to attract attention and alert people nearby that you urgently need help. This small but mighty sound alarm can deter a potential or prolonged attack. A personal alarm is more a safety accessory — not a weapon — and should be implemented as part of a safety plan

Tactical Flashlight 

This innocuous, everyday product can be used as a tool and as a weapon. Using a tactical flashlight as a tool can light up otherwise dark areas, which may deter potential threats. Flashlights can also be used to see an attacker in more detail and later better identify them. A flashlight's usefulness as a weapon is twofold: they can temporarily blind a potential threat if pointed directly into their eyes. It can then be used to strike the target. Tactical flashlights used by law enforcement or military personnel use models with a luminosity of 100, but more expensive models can go beyond 4000 lumens. More lumens is not necessarily better. Flashlights with that level of brightness are dangerous. They can cause irreparable damage to a human retina, especially if they fall into the wrong hands (like in the case of children). 

Firearms

If you prefer carrying a firearm for self-defense, it's essential to understand the responsibilities and risks of owning a lethal weapon. Plenty of women own and carry guns, and personal safety is among the chief reasons for their decision. Choosing the right gun — especially as a first-time gun buyer — is a personal experience and should be done in person at a gun shop, not online. There are many options out there, so make sure to talk to a gun expert that can walk you through the process when it comes to determining your needs, which type of gun would best suit those needs, and what caliber would be best. A hands-on gun shop where you can test different guns is ideal, but not always available. Following up on your purchase with a gun safety class as well as receiving training in medical trauma or first aid are also critical. 

Self Defense Classes

There is nothing more empowering than knowing how to protect yourself from attack with nothing more than your own body. Self-defense classes help with situational awareness and preparedness at all times, physically conditioning you to be able to perform in stressful and emergency situations. Aside from keeping you in shape and increasing your reaction time in the face of unexpected events, it is an incredible self-esteem and confidence booster, two things that can help in all areas of your life. 

Let Us Help You!

First State Firearms and Accessories has a fantastic and diverse selection of self-defense weapons for women that fit safely into any budget, family, and lifestyle. Our top of the line selection will not disappoint — we guarantee it.