14 Chapter 13: Everyday Objects as Defensive Tools

Chapter 13

Introduction

In this chapter, we explore the concept of using everyday objects in your environment as tools for self-defense, turning familiar items into effective defensive devices. You will engage in interactive exercises and group discussions that encourage creative thinking about how common objects—such as a pen, a book, or even a bag—can aid in defending against a threat. Through scenario-based training, you’ll practice techniques for using these items to block, strike, or evade an attacker. We will also delve into the legal and ethical dimensions of self-defense, considering the potential consequences of using improvised tools and the importance of responsible decision-making. This chapter combines practical drills with reflective exercises to develop a well-rounded, mindful approach to using everyday objects in self-defense, empowering you to respond effectively if faced with a threat.

Chapter Goals

After reading this chapter, you will be able to do the following:

  1. Identify everyday objects that can be used as improvised defensive tools for self-defense.
  2. Understand the principles of using improvised tools effectively in self-defense situations.
  3. Develop proficiency in assessing the suitability and effectiveness of various objects for defensive purposes.
  4. Recognize the importance of situational awareness in identifying potential defensive tools in the environment.
  5. Demonstrate techniques for using everyday objects for striking, blocking, and creating distance from an assailant.
  6. Cultivate creativity and resourcefulness in adapting everyday items for self-defense purposes.
  7. Analyze the legal and ethical considerations associated with the use of improvised defensive tools.
  8. Understand the potential risks and limitations of using everyday objects for self-defense.
  9. Practice responsible decision-making and risk assessment when considering the use of improvised tools in confrontational situations.
  10. Reflect on personal experiences and learning outcomes to assess growth in skills and knowledge related to using everyday objects for self-defense.

What Can I Use to Defend Myself?

In self-defense, an “everyday object” refers to any commonly found or routinely carried item that can be repurposed to help defend oneself in a threatening situation. These objects are not designed or intended as weapons but can serve various protective roles, such as creating distance, blocking attacks, or distracting an aggressor. Examples include items like keys, pens, bags, umbrellas, books, or water bottles—things people often have on hand and are inconspicuous in everyday settings.

The value of everyday objects in self-defense lies in their accessibility and practicality; because they are common items, they don’t draw attention, and they can be used without special skills or preexisting knowledge of weaponry. However, their effectiveness varies widely, depending on the situation and the user’s ability to adapt the object to their defense.

When it comes to considering everyday objects for self-defense, it’s essential to remember that your safety is a top priority. While various objects can be repurposed for self-defense, it’s crucial to approach this topic with caution and responsibility. Let’s explore everyday objects in terms of the defensive function they might serve.

The image titled "Everyday Objects for Self-Defense" features six categories of common items that can be used for self-defense: projectiles, sharp objects, barriers, concealment, and distraction tools. Each category has an accompanying illustration; for example, projectiles include items like pens and bottles, while sharp objects show scissors and keys. In the center bottom, a person is depicted in a calm, meditative posture. The intent is to educate individuals on how ordinary objects in their environment can serve as tools for personal safety.
Figure 13.1Everyday objects for self-defense.

 

The image is a table categorizing various objects into "Pros" and "Cons" for their use as weapons. The categories include Coins, ballpoint pens, small heavy items (cutting or stabbing sharp objects) such as letter openers and keys, barriers like furniture, and larger objects (concealment tools), including scarves and backpacks, and distractions like flashlights and alarms. Each category lists benefits such as creating distance, close-quarters defense, or psychological disruption, and drawbacks like collateral consequences, limited effectiveness against determined attackers, or the need for physical proximity. This table aims to provide a comparative understanding of improvised weapons in self-defense situations.
Figure 13.2Pros and cons for each group.

 

Pros and Cons of Using Everyday Objects for Self-Defense

Utilizing everyday objects for self-defense offers several advantages. Improvised tools allow for creative defense strategies in situations when traditional weapons are unavailable, and, in some instances, using makeshift objects may entail fewer legal repercussions compared to carrying dedicated weapons. However, it is important to acknowledge the drawbacks. Improvised tools may exhibit limited effectiveness, particularly against certain threats, when contrasted with purpose-built self-defense tools. Depending solely on everyday objects for personal safety can instill a false sense of security, emphasizing the need to prioritize comprehensive self-defense training and situational awareness. So, while everyday items can function as makeshift self-defense tools, a well-rounded approach to personal safety entails careful consideration, encompassing awareness training and an understanding of potential risks associated with relying on improvised means. Here’s some of the pros and cons of using everyday items across different defensive strategies:

  • Projectiles
  • Pros: Items like books, shoes, or bottles can be thrown to distract or deter an attacker from a distance. This creates space, enabling you to potentially flee or seek help. The act of throwing can also catch an assailant off guard, disrupting their focus.
  • Cons: Accuracy and effectiveness vary; not everyone can quickly or accurately throw an object under stress. Additionally, the object itself might not be heavy or durable enough to cause significant disruption, and a failed throw may result in escalating the situation.
  • Cutting or stabbing sharp objects
  • Pros: Certain sharp everyday items, like keys or pens, can be used to quickly jab or create a painful deterrent at close range. They’re often small and easily accessible, which means they can be discreetly held or carried without drawing attention.
  • Cons: Effectiveness is highly dependent on proximity and one’s comfort level with using such objects defensively. Not everyone is trained to respond effectively under stress, and aiming for an effective target can be challenging. There’s also a risk that the item may break or slip, potentially harming the user instead.
  • Barriers
  • Pros: Using larger objects like chairs, bags, or desks as barriers can create a physical shield, blocking an attacker’s reach. Barriers are especially useful for buying time to escape or calling for help, and they can be improvised based on what’s available.
  • Cons: Barriers can be cumbersome to maneuver, particularly if they’re heavy or awkwardly shaped. They may not provide full protection, leaving parts of the body exposed. Relying on barriers can also backfire if the attacker is determined or has tools to bypass them.
  • Concealment and cover
  • Pros: Concealing yourself behind an object or blending into a space can make it harder for an attacker to locate you. This strategy can provide the chance to call for help or evade detection, especially in crowded or complex environments.
  • Cons: Concealment relies heavily on the environment and may not always be an option. If an assailant notices your hiding place, this tactic could fail entirely. Additionally, concealment doesn’t provide any physical protection if an attacker decides to strike.
  • Distraction
  • Pros: Throwing or dropping items, like coins, papers, or bags, can divert an attacker’s attention momentarily, creating an opening for escape. Distractions can be highly effective for breaking the assailant’s concentration without physical confrontation.
  • Cons: Distractions are often short-lived and require quick thinking and timing to be effective. If the attacker is determined, they might see through the tactic, limiting its effectiveness. Additionally, relying on distractions without a follow-up plan can leave you vulnerable.

Using everyday objects in self-defense can be practical and adaptive, yet it requires creativity and a solid understanding of the limitations of each tactic. While certain objects can enhance safety in a pinch, they should be viewed as temporary solutions, not replacements for more comprehensive self-defense skills.

Factors to Consider When Using Traditional Weapons for Self-Defense

As a self-defense instructor, I am frequently asked to recommend a traditional self-defense weapon, such as pepper spray, tasers, personal alarms, or tactical pens. Overall, I do not recommend any of them and stress the importance of using your brain, voice, and body as your most effective tools to keep you safe. Relying on your own instincts and skills provides the fastest, most adaptable defense. Here are some reasons personal skills may be more effective, as well as factors to consider if you still decide to carry a dedicated self-defense tool.

Why I Prioritize Personal Skills Over Weapons

When a threat arises, your body's natural reactions—moving, speaking, and signaling distress—are faster than the time it takes to locate, pull out, and activate a weapon. This immediate response is often critical in high-stress situations.

  • Motor skills under stress: When adrenaline kicks in, it becomes challenging to use fine motor skills, which are essential for handling small devices like pepper spray or a taser. Without extensive practice, using these tools accurately and effectively is unlikely in high-pressure moments.
  • Risk of disarmament: An assailant may be able to grab the weapon from you, especially if your body language telegraphs your intent. Once disarmed, the attacker could use the weapon against you, potentially putting you in a more dangerous situation.
  • Effectiveness against adrenalized individuals: Dedicated self-defense tools might not be effective on individuals who are highly adrenalized, intoxicated, or under the influence of certain substances, which can dull their response to pain or shock.
  • Legal and ethical responsibilities: Carrying and deploying a dedicated self-defense weapon comes with legal and ethical considerations. Misuse, even in self-defense, can lead to severe legal consequences. Knowing the laws surrounding weapon use in your area is critical, and failure to understand these nuances can result in unintended repercussions.
  • False sense of security: Relying on a device may create a false sense of security, potentially causing you to overlook key safety practices like situational awareness, de-escalation, and boundary setting. Prioritizing these skills offers a sustainable, proactive approach to self-defense, reducing dependency on external objects and increasing adaptability across different scenarios.

If You Choose to Carry a Traditional Weapon

For those who still wish to carry a traditional weapon, consider the following carefully:

  • Check the legal restrictions in your area: Laws regarding self-defense tools vary widely, so confirm that carrying the weapon is legal in your jurisdiction. Ignorance of local laws can lead to legal complications that might overshadow the benefits of carrying the device.
  • Learn how to use it effectively: Knowing how to activate, aim, and control the weapon is essential. Practice until its use is ingrained in your muscle memory so that your actions can be quick and accurate even when under stress. This includes practicing how to retrieve it quickly if needed.
  • Commit to its use in an emergency: If you decide to use a self-defense weapon, commit to using it fully. Hesitation or uncertain body language can alert an attacker to your intentions, giving them the opportunity to overpower you or take control of the weapon.

Overall, I recommend developing your skills in situational awareness, assertive communication, boundary setting, and intuition to equip yourself with sustainable, self-reliant strategies for self-defense. Traditional weapons, if chosen, require a serious commitment to legal compliance, ethical responsibility, and regular practice. However, prioritizing personal skills generally leads to greater adaptability and safety, making it an empowering, long-term approach to personal security.

Instructor Blog on Everyday Objects as Defensive Weapons

Late one night last November, a man banged on an 82-year-old woman’s door saying he felt sick. When she did not let him in, he broke down the door. She ran and hid. As he was searching for her, she grabbed a small table and surprised him by using it to strike him repeatedly. When he fell to the ground, she ran to the bathroom, grabbed a bottle of shampoo, and came back to pour it on his face. Next, she took a broom and kept hitting the intruder until the police arrived and took him to the hospital. Did I mention she was 82 years old?!

Quick thinking and everyday objects were vital to the woman being able to incapacitate her attacker and hold him in place until help arrived. She used the elements of surprise and familiarity with the surroundings to her advantage and turned the tables on the intruder. She didn’t need a gun or a knife; she grabbed everyday objects and incapacitated the intruder without knowing if he was armed.

For my readers with guns or a particular weapon hidden in your home: Think of that weapon as a last resort. For one thing, you might not be able to access the weapon when you need it to defend yourself. Never rely on one object to protect you from harm. Always be flexible in the moment!

Also be mindful that as soon as you introduce a gun or knife into a situation, you increase the risks not just for the intruder, but for you and your family. The intruder could take the weapon from you. You might accidentally injure yourself or a loved one. And if the police come onto the scene, they could even mistake you for the perpetrator.

Imagine yourself in this scenario. An intruder is breaking through your front door. How could you use everyday objects to defend yourself?

What do you have near the front door?

  • Is there something heavy enough to barricade the door or throw at the intruder? How about a table or a bicycle? Maybe there is a lamp or decorative object heavy enough to use for striking.
  • Do you keep your keys there? If so, you might use them for stabbing.
  • Maybe you have enough time to pour liquid soap on a hardwood floor, as one woman did, to cause the intruder to slip and fall as they enter. Think about how you could stop or slow down an intruder’s entry.

Next, move to the living room.

  • Think about which objects you could throw or strike with. Aim for the face with books, television controls, and other small objects that have a bit of weight to them. Your objective should be to distract the attacker or take away their vision so you can get to safety.
  • A cup or vase filled with liquid is an excellent weapon to throw in someone’s face. Hot coffee is a favorite of mine!
  • Think about objects in the room with sharp edges, like picture frames and pens. Any item with a sharp edge is effective.
  • Consider the larger objects in the room. A sofa or coffee table can be used to barricade a door. This buys you time to breathe and stay focused on how to get safe. If the attacker is already in the room, use furniture as a barrier between you and them. If you have a chance to run from the room, think about ways to shove the intruder into one of those barriers to give you more time to escape.

Next, let’s run into your home office. What could you use there to throw, strike, or barricade yourself from the attacker?

  • Laptops are excellent as a handheld barrier against strikes or grabs and they have weight and a sharp edge for striking back.
  • You probably have pens, pencils, scissors, and other sharp objects in your office, which are excellent for stabbing as well.
  • Think about the location of your desk and chair in the room. Can you use them to keep distance between you and the attacker? Can you pick up the chair and throw it or strike with it?

Now we enter the kitchen. (Yes, there are knives, and you should use them, but think about all the other things there to grab.)

  • Heavy pots and pans are excellent for striking.
  • Any food or liquid that is within reach can be thrown in the attacker’s face. If there’s something hot on the stove, use that!
  • A cutting board is an excellent tool for blocking an attacker’s strikes and grabs.
  • Think about picking up a grater and slashing it across the face. And never forget barricades.
  • Throw stools at them and move around a dining table and chairs if they are available to keep your distance.
  • But let’s talk about brooms or mops. You can use any stick-like object as a weapon—but don’t attempt to jab with it! If you do that, you essentially hand it to your attacker. You can hold a stick horizontally in front of you and to deflect strikes or advances or hold it like a baseball bat to give strikes. Be careful not to let the attacker take it from you.

By now, you might have picked up on a pattern. You want to barricade, block, throw, strike, or stab. Pause for a moment and think about your bathroom. There are so many weapons in there! Evaluate your household items for those purposes:

  • Use large, heavy objects to create distance between you and the attacker.
  • Throw smaller heavy items and things with sharp edges. At close range, counterattack with handheld objects that are sharp or hot.
  • Another effective close-range object, often forgotten, is the attacker’s clothing. Pull a hat or hood down over their eyes. If you are on the floor and they are on top of you, pull their jacket over their head. Use a necklace or tie to choke them. Don’t hesitate to use whatever you can to fight back.

Take a deep breath and let it go. Congratulations! You just went room to room with me and fought off an attacker. The same principles apply in whatever space you occupy, so look around and arm yourself.

Movement Activities

Twenty-Minute Warmup

The warmup (see Chapter 1) is to be done each week before learning or practicing physical techniques. This efficient warmup routine targets the entire body by beginning with alternating cardio movement and body weight strengthening exercises followed by a series of joint mobility techniques. Always take note of how your body is feeling before you start any form of exercise by quickly scanning your body for areas of stiffness, soreness, or pain. Modify the warmup as needed and know that simply moving your body for 20 minutes, no matter how big or small, is good for your health! Again, add sit-ups with cross palm heel strikes or plank variations.

Training Drills With Everyday Objects

  • Objects at home: Students are asked to look around their home and think about what they could and would use to defend themselves from a break in. Look for at least one projectile, cutting object, or barrier. Everyone shares their findings in a large group discussion.
  • Objects in the room: Students are asked to look around the classroom and think about what they could and would use to defend themselves and others from a threat. Look for at least one projectile, cutting object, barrier, and concealing object. Think about what’s in your bag or backpack. Could you access it easily? Everyone shares their findings in a large group discussion.
  • Playing with training sticks: Students are given one-inch round training sticks to simulate using an object for defense. How to pick up, hold, deflect, strike and defend with the object are drilled with a partner. Pads are then introduced for more realistic defense.
  • Reaction time drills with sticks: There are many variations to this game, but the idea is to place the training stick in the room equal distance from at least two students. Have the students start to walk around the room keeping distance from the stick, shout “Go!” and have students race to the stick. Whoever picks it up first must use it to defend against the other student, who becomes the threat. Call time when it is clear the student has control of the stick and the situation.

Actionable Strategies

Now that you have explored how everyday objects can serve as tools for self-defense—whether as projectiles, barriers, concealers, distractors, or cutting edges—and considered the legal and ethical implications of using such objects or dedicated weapons, you’re ready to incorporate these concepts into your daily routine. The following actionable strategies will help you apply what you’ve learned in practical and meaningful ways. Each strategy includes a specific goal and explains how it can be specific and measurable, provide accountability, and be time-bound. Use these strategies as a starting point, adapt them as necessary, or create your own to build confidence and enhance personal safety.

  • Identify defensive objects in your environment.
  • Goal: Develop the habit of spotting potential defensive objects in your surroundings.
  • Specific: Every time you enter a new space, identify three objects that could be used defensively (e.g., a water bottle, chair, or backpack).
  • Measurable: Log your observations in a notebook or digital app, noting the object and its potential use. Track this habit daily for 1 week.
  • Accountability: Share your findings with a friend or class, discussing creative ways to use the objects.
  • Time-bound: Commit to this exercise for 1 week; then evaluate how naturally you recognize defensive tools in your environment.
  • Practice using objects as barriers.
  • Goal: Enhance your ability to use objects to create distance or block an attacker.
  • Specific: Choose a sturdy object (e.g., a chair or bag) and practice positioning it between yourself and a training partner in simulated scenarios.
  • Measurable: Time how quickly you can grab and position the object effectively during practice drills, aiming to reduce your response time by 10% after four sessions.
  • Accountability: Partner with a friend or classmate who can simulate realistic scenarios and provide feedback on your technique.
  • Time-bound: Practice this skill twice a week for 2 weeks and assess your improvement in reaction time and control.
  • Carry and use a defensive everyday object.
  • Goal: Become comfortable carrying and using a practical, everyday object for self-defense.
  • Specific: Choose an item you already carry (e.g., a pen, flashlight, or water bottle) and practice defensive techniques with it, such as striking or distracting.
  • Measurable: Perform five repetitions of a chosen technique per session and track your comfort level on a scale of 1–10 after each practice.
  • Accountability: Record a short video of your practice once a week and review by yourself or share with a group for constructive feedback.
  • Time-bound: Practice daily for 3 weeks, focusing on refining your technique and confidence in using the object effectively.
  • Role-play legal and ethical scenarios.
  • Goal: Deepen your understanding of the legal and ethical considerations of using objects for self-defense.
  • Specific: Research three common self-defense scenarios and discuss the potential legal and ethical implications of using an object as a weapon in each case.
  • Measurable: Write a brief analysis for each scenario, summarizing your understanding of the risks and responsibilities involved.
  • Accountability: Share your analyses with a self-defense instructor or group for additional insights and discussions.
  • Time-bound: Complete one scenario analysis per week for 3 weeks; then review what you’ve learned and how it influences your decision-making.
  • Improve hand-eye coordination with throwing drills.
  • Goal: Enhance your ability to use objects as projectiles to distract or deter an attacker.
  • Specific: Practice throwing small objects (e.g., tennis balls or beanbags) at a target, focusing on accuracy and speed.
  • Measurable: Track your success rate by counting how many times you hit the target out of 10 attempts, aiming for an improvement of 20% over 2 weeks.
  • Accountability: Practice alone or with a friend or instructor who can track your accuracy and offer encouragement or suggestions.
  • Time-bound: Dedicate 10 minutes to this exercise three times a week for 2 weeks; then evaluate your progress.
  • Test concealment and distraction techniques.
  • Goal: Build confidence in using objects to conceal movements or create distractions in a self-defense scenario.
  • Specific: Use objects like jackets, scarves, or hats to simulate distraction techniques during practice drills.
  • Measurable: Time how quickly you can deploy the object in a simulated scenario, aiming to improve speed and fluidity over three practice sessions.
  • Accountability: Work with a training partner who can provide feedback on the realism and effectiveness of your techniques or videotape yourself executing a move and review your technique.
  • Time-bound: Practice twice a week for 1 month, focusing on making the technique feel natural and effective.

By incorporating these strategies into your daily life, you’ll build a stronger awareness of your environment, refine your self-defense skills, and grow more confident in your ability to use everyday objects for personal safety. Adjust these practices to suit your needs and continue developing your self-defense toolkit.

Key Takeaways

After engaging with this chapter, you should be able to do the following:

  1. Recognize how objects found in a person’s environment can be used as defensive tools.
  2. Understand the ethical and legal implications of using an everyday object for self-defense.
  3. Demonstrate proficiency in using everyday objects for striking, blocking, or evading a threat.
  4. Understand the pros and cons of using an object or dedicated weapon as a defensive tool.
  5. Increase self-awareness of the importance of situational awareness for self-defense and the variety of ways objects in your surroundings can be used as defensive tools.
  6. Incorporate ESD strategies into your daily routine.

Resources

Branca, A. F., & Ayoob, M. (2018). The law of self defense: The indispensable guide to the armed citizen (2nd ed.). Self Defense Education.

Christensen, L. W., & Christensen, L. (2016). Self-defense for women: Fight back. YMAA Publication Center, Inc.

Emerson, C. (2015). 100 deadly skills: The SEAL operative’s guide to eluding pursuers, evading capture, and surviving any dangerous situation. Atria Books.

Long, C. T. (2023). Transform everyday objects into powerful self-defense tools: Unlock the secrets of self-defense: Transform ordinary items into powerful weapons with improvised tactics.

Scott, R. G. (2015). California CCW handbook (2nd ed.). FPF.

Resources

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License

Stepping into Your Power Copyright © by chands. All Rights Reserved.

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