Everyday Items You Can Use for Self-Defence (That You’re Probably Carrying Right Now)
Self-Defence Starts with What You Have
You don’t need to carry weapons to defend yourself. In fact, some of the best self-defence tools are already in your backpack, purse, or pocket. With the right mindset, ordinary objects can become effective tools to distract, deter, or escape an attacker.
👜 1. Keys
Held correctly, a key can be used to strike vulnerable areas like the eyes, throat, or hands. Avoid the “Wolverine-style” between-the-fingers grip—instead, hold it like a dagger for more control.
🔑 Bonus: Add a whistle or personal alarm to your keychain for extra deterrence.
💧 2. Water Bottle or Travel Mug
A full bottle adds serious weight. Swinging it with momentum or using it to jab can give you time to escape.
💡 Metal bottles can be especially effective and durable.
☂️ 3. Umbrella
Pointed tip umbrellas (especially long ones) can be used to thrust, parry, or create space between you and an attacker. Think of it as a long-range defensive tool.
🖊️ 4. Pen or Stylus
A sturdy metal pen can be used like a kubotan—jab to soft targets (neck, eyes, hands), or hold it in your fist to reinforce strikes.
✍️ Tactical pens are even better and often legal to carry.
🧴 5. Perfume, Deodorant, or Hand Sanitizer Spray
A well-aimed spray to the eyes can stun or temporarily blind an attacker, giving you time to run. Alcohol-based sanitizers also sting on contact with eyes or open wounds.
🧠 Think of it as emergency pepper spray.
📱 6. Your Phone
If you can't fight, use it to call for help or activate a loud emergency alert. Some phones also have SOS features you can trigger discreetly.
📲 Set up emergency shortcuts ahead of time (like 5 quick presses of the power button).
👟 7. Your Environment
Walls, furniture, doors, curbs, and even sand or gravel can be used to create barriers or trip hazards. The more you think tactically, the more tools you’ll find around you.
🔚 Conclusion: Awareness + Creativity = Protection
Self-defence isn’t about having a weapon—it’s about using what you’ve got. Every item around you can be a tool when combined with awareness, quick thinking, and the will to act.
💬 What’s in Your Bag?
Have a favorite improvised self-defence item? Tell us in the comments or tag us in your post @OnGuardEverywhere.
