Small Stun Gun Is Just the Beginning

Small stun gun ownership is a great place to start for anyone who wants to improve his or her level of safety. However, no matter what you choose to carry, there is no substitution for some clear thinking and prior planning.

• Get to know your weapon. Be able to handle it with confidence even if your eyes are closed or you are in the dark. Be so familiar with it that you know which button does what and you know the power levels remaining.

• Figure out a way to carry your stun gun so that it is easy to reach, grasp, and use. That means that a holster on your belt is handy, but only if you can reach it smoothly and quickly. A carrier that clips inside your briefcase is a good idea, but would you have to stop, open the case, reach inside, and get the unit before you were actually ready to use it against an oncoming threat? Same question holds for tucking a stun gun inside a cavernous purse. You need to be able to find it quickly without even looking or it will be of little use.

• Keep your weapon in good shape. Don’t drop it. Test it periodically. Check the batteries or drain the rechargeable batteries before fully charging them again (see manufacturers’ maintenance instructions).

• Just like with firearms, don’t draw the weapon unless you’re actually ready, willing and able to use it. Hesitation could cost a life – yours. Think about this step. Get a clear picture in your mind of exactly what you are willing to do.

Taking the time to do a little thinking, practicing, and planning can make an enormous difference when the chips are down. Do yourself a favor. Do like the Boy Scouts recommend: Be Prepared!