Can you trust a folding knife in a self defense situation?

[MechAndy]

Jim Rockford used a roll of quarter in his hand.
We used to call that doing a “Rockford”.
Nothing nice about it.

I was to dirt poor to have an extra roll of quarters so I carried a 1” piece of round metal (round stock) about 4 inches long when I needed to.

[ShouldIMoveOrStayPut...?]

Originally Posted by ComeCloser

A metal rat tail comb is almost an ice pick.

Kids in NYC have used screwdrivers as weapons.

A can of peaches in a shopping bag makes as decent mace.

Historically, Asians have not been allowed to own weapons but have been quite adept at finding defensive uses for everyday items including their own bodies.

Please seriously note: ANYTHING that can be taken away from you can also be used against you.

Yes, screwdrivers are are a way for kids, gang members, etc. to attempt to circumnavigate the law. Hopefully they will not be deemed illegal here in New York State because I use them frequently for their original intended purpose, and not being able to carry them/have them in the car or truck, etc. would be a major PITA....

Good point that any defense item can be taken from you and something to always remember in deciding whether or not to use a given item in a self defense situation.

The can of peaches reminds me of a movie scene where Sean Penn is in prison or reform school and he buys a bunch of soda cans from a dispenser and wraps them in a shirt, great use of utilizing items available in your immediate environment to counter a threat.

[ComeCloser]

Originally Posted by ShouldIMoveOrStayPut...?

The can of peaches reminds me of a movie scene where Sean Penn is in prison or reform school and he buys a bunch of soda cans from a dispenser and wraps them in a shirt, great use of utilizing items available in your immediate environment to counter a threat.

Didnt see the movie, but I was feeling menaced coming home from the store one evening to the point that I wondered what I had to use for a weapon - I had peaches, lol. Thankfully, I didnt have to test it out, but it felt like it might do some serious damage.

Im reminded - you might not need a weapon at all. In the city you can start cursing, yell, run out in traffic and jump on top of someone's car if need be.

In short, make a scene. Draw attention. The guy whos car you jump on probably wont be too happy, but who ever is threatening to you might not want the attention and move on.