"Mastering Close Quarters Combat: Essential Primer for Your Successful Fighting."

 

Introduction

 

What is it?

If you have ever studied martial arts or a real combat art, that is, you know that you spend at least 1/3 of your training time in close quarter combat. Every natural, real-world warrior must understand the necessity of having these skill sets to prevail in a fight. Ah, but wait, there are three areas of unarmed combat!

Long-distance fighting, at the very end of the reach of your arms or feet. Next, you are touching each other up close, and with or without your eyes, you are able to see your opponent's moves, weight shifts, or base movement. The next area is on the ground, where you can't expect to use your eyes in your defense at all.

A person's self-defense is defined by distance from the person to the attacker.

On the broadest scale, this is from one ballistic missile or strategic military platform to your location. In the beginning, we had our hands, then perhaps rocks, and then a spear. The spears were much like today's ballistic nuclear missiles in that they gave you stand-off range to your opponent. Today, we might think of anti-personnel missiles like drones as digital spears.

Later, there was the Atlatl, which used leverage to achieve greater velocity than a spear or a dart. Greater velocity equates to harder hitting and more kinetic energy being delivered to the target, thus creating more damage. Next were bows and arrows, and I'm sure you are getting the point.

In some cases, weapons were brought right into close quarters combat, like the knife, ax, samurai sword, and other medieval-bladed weapons. So, it comes down to distance in many ways of thinking, with the minor caveat that some other weapons are brought into a ground fight, for example. Thus, knowledge and skill sets for dealing with those types of weapons are very important for surviving a close quarters combat experience.

For this blog post, we will cover empty-handed close quarter combat, and in future blog posts, we will add weapons to this foundation. I, Master Peter Brusso, want to cover one of the most critical aspects of close quarters combat that isn't addressed by most others, and that is one of brain neurology.

Three types of Neurology

One day in the Dojo, I was doing a basic punching drill for the class. I was focusing on some fundamental concepts in a simple yet overlooked front punch we all knew about since we used one of those air-filled children's punching bags in our bedrooms. Well, or at least I did and can admit that.

You punch at the bag, which has various faces on the bag for fun, and it rotates down to the ground from your punch but then comes rushing back up at you. Now what? Well, you learned to punch at it again, but harder, if that was possible. It did develop hand/eye coordination, movement, and follow-up techniques. It was a good thing to learn to fight without knowing what it was doing.

Now, back to the Dojo (School) drill, I was showing how you punch with your front hand fist and take the weight off your front foot just before contacting the target. This places a component of your body weight into the punch.

This punch wasn't just the power you generate with your muscles and speed, but it also had another force added to it. If you didn't put your foot back down on the ground, you would fall forward onto the ground.

Thus, you are putting a force into the punch that is connected to your body movement or a two-point contact. Your rear foot and front hand are the only things holding you up from falling at the time of contact with the target.

Now, there was one Ph.D. person in the back row. A very smart man. His punch didn't look like what we were performing. He would use his rear hand to punch, for one thing, in contrast to us using our front hand. He was also doing some "Windup" hand movements, much like you might see in cartoons. Something was truly amiss here.

So, I turned the class over to another instructor and went to work with the Ph.D. I wanted to see if I could understand his behavior in this training sequence, and it was a simple one at that. I talked him through it in parts. I showed him the punch. Then, the step is followed by the extension but not extending or locking out your elbow.

I did all these things slowly. He followed each part of what I showed him. Giving him a verbal command to punch or put these things together generated an even more messed up performance. How is that possible, I thought.

I have been training since I was six years old. As of this month, I will be 71 years old. I never saw an issue like this before, and that was when I was in my late 40s. However, something came to mind that I had been taught many years back. I remembered how people learned to perform anything in life.

There are five levels of how they do that. Here, for simplicity, we will keep it to three levels, but you will see it right away. Then, I will map that into close quarters combat, at which point, there will be many things made very clear to you. You have been subject to these things without really knowing it, and when you hear this, you will do one of those, hitting your head with your hand, an AHA moment. I guarantee it unless you have been one of my students.

 

Visual, Kinesthetic, and Auditory Learners

 

Visual learners learn by watching, kinesthetic learners learn by sense of feel, and auditory learners learn by sound. You have heard people say things like, "That looks right to me," "I feel good about this path," and "This sounds good to me!" Yes, they have been telling us what their primary sense of learning or neurology they use.

So, back to that Ph.D. older student. He was a mix of two of these neurology’s. Specifically, he had 70 percent kinesthetic and 30 percent auditory neurology working and no visual at all.

Now, I'm a mix of visual and kinesthetic learners, so I reached over and grabbed his arms, physically moved his feet, and told him how it should feel to move or glide into the punch, slightly losing contact with the floor at the moment of target contact.

I had him hold onto the lapel of his Gi, or martial arts uniform, with his right hand, as this was a left-hand front punch we were attempting to perform. Now, the Ph.D. lessons have become more fruitful once I have done two things.

First, I needed to teach in his neurology, and second, he needed to start learning in his neural style.

Dummy me.

Well, that front punch… he got really good at that technique. So much so that he almost knocked out a training partner with it about four weeks after this wonderful learning event.

Later that month, I visited two other martial arts schools and saw it again. The entire school or fighting system was for those who liked to fight far away. That is a long distance, and they hated to fight close quarters or on the ground.

At another school, they specialized in taking opponents to the ground and fighting them there. These were kinesthetic warriors who hated to fight far away.

Most of their opponents in real life would be visual learners and hate to be without their eyesight. Or, to translate that, they hate to be on the ground fighting. There it was again, learning styles popping up in the martial arts world, and strangely enough, I taught the mental side of the golf game.

The learning styles are there, too. We must embrace this finding if we are going to teach close quarter combat to visuals or neurological mixes.

So, I coined a phrase about teaching warriors: Far Field, Up Close, and on the Ground. These are the three areas warriors need to fight within, and each neurology thrives in one of these three fighting worlds.

So, to be a well-rounded fighter, you need "Stand-up or far-field fighting," "Up close in the grapple, and "Ground fighting skills." Few total martial arts systems address these three various areas, but I know of a few. Most schools specialize in one of these three areas and, in most cases, acknowledge the others but don't teach you many skill sets in those areas. So, if you are a person who wants to conquer all three areas, you need to find one school or system that does that or go to various systems to gain your warrior skills.

 

Weapons in the mix

 

I said I was going to stay in the empty-hand world of close quarter combat, but I want to spend just a few moments giving the reader some important things to think about. There are two essential things that you MUST understand about close quarters combat. Most of the time, it will involve some weapon. The

traditional ones are a firearm or knife. There are others called weapons of opportunity. You must understand a few basic things about these unarmed close quarters combat martial arts add-ons in your fight.

 

How to disarm the weapon

There is something called "The Universal Law of Escapes." It has nothing to do with how powerful you are or pushing against the thumb, as some are taught. Those are power techniques.

In battle, you might not be very powerful for a number of reasons, so learning a system based on power isn't that smart. Instead, it is about angles, anatomy, and leverage.

The scope of this blog doesn't allow me to get much into this; however, if readers are interested, I can write one, that is for sure. The power of this way of thinking is that you only need to learn one technique. Yep, just one technique. The cool thing about it is that this technique applies to weapon disarms, as well. Yep, just one technique.

 

How to use a weapon

There is a misconception about weapons. We think we all know how to use a gun or a knife. The truth is that we don't. It would be best if you learned how to remove the safety from a weapon to load or reseat an ammunition magazine so it will feed rounds into the weapon.

Do you understand "Tap, slap, and rack" and use that after a disarm? Do you know the difference between the environment of a rotary gun and an automatic one?

Do you know how to use a knife? You might think you do, but can you tell me the difference between stabbing a solid blood organ, an artery, or a vein? Do you know where to find them?

These skill sets are critical for you to survive a close quarters combat situation. It means two things to a warrior. First, how fast are they going to be dead?

How fast is it until they are no longer a threat?

These two things are very different. In one case, when can you expect them not to be functional at much of a level? The second is when they will never be a threat.

For example, if you stab your opponent in the kidney, how long until they are in shock? How long before their blood pressure drops to the point their body isn't functional any longer?

Or they have a gun but can't pull the trigger. They can't reach out and stab at you or swing a machete. How long is that? How long before they succumb to their stab or cut injury from you? It is essential to know the results of your attacks in close quarter combat.

So, what do you study for Close Quarters Combat?

 

A striking and Punching Art

The first area of close quarters combat is movement, punching, and kicking. If you can focus on taking the opponent's base away, that is one of the primary strategies.

For example, if you break their legs or knees, they can't stand up to fight you empty-handed. So, destabilizing the opponent is a primary goal in close quarters combat.

These skills can come from most combat-oriented martial arts but not a sport art. In sport art, you cannot or are not allowed to kick the knees, ankles, testicles, or the like.

Footing and movement are also involved in that same strategy. In sports art, you are always indoors, on a well-defined fighting surface. This is the best condition to fight on. There are no slopes, hills, or ponds of water.

However, if you are fighting on a slope, it is best to fight downhill if you are armed with projectile weapons. This is just the opposite of empty-handed fighting.

If you have knives, then it is better to fight uphill. If both of you have knives, you can cut away at the base of the opponent, and all he can ultimately do is throw his knife at you.

If your opponent can be maneuvered so they are uphill, all they can do is kick at you. You, on the other hand, can block and punch or grapple with their legs. That grapple can lead to broken knees or ankles. You have more strategy and weapons to bring into the fight if you are fighting uphill.

Their punches cannot reach you, and they can be off balance trying to kick you. Ultimately, the uphill battle will allow you to pull them down the hill and perhaps use other environmental features or opportunities that can lead to your opponent's demise.

Stand-Up Grappling Art

A close quarters combat art that focuses on grapple and counter-grapple is the next thing to study. This can be Jiu-Jitsu, Ninjutsu, or even Judo. Let's look at the less obvious one of Judo.

Enter Judo

The history of Judo is rooted in the Japanese Samurai, who needed some martial skills if their weapons

got broken, smashed, or rendered useless. Armed warriors surrounded them, so what could a warrior do other than die or run? Enter the art of Judo.

It is claimed to be a gentle art, but it is anything other than gentle on the battlefield. Basically, you close the distance, grab or grapple with the opponent to off-balance them, or throw them onto the ground.

Now, throwing them onto the ground part sounds gentlemanly or is a part of some honor code in Budo, but it isn't. The design of the throws was: one, you throw them, so they land on their neck, and the force of their body breaks their neck.

This is the permanent end of round one of the empty-handed Judo fight.

Or two, you go down to the ground and choke them to death. One of two chokes is used to attain Judoka's goal, but that is out of the scope of this blog post.

The Art of Jiu-Jitsu

Jiu-Jitsu is an excellent art that requires skill sets. Not only does it have counter-grapple escape techniques, but it also has to grapple ways to cripple the opponent. A broken body can't form a sizeable physical threat to you. When arms, wrists, elbows, legs, knees, or ankles don't function well, they are done as a combatant. Projectile weapons might not follow this rule as much, but almost everything else does. This art also has throws or transitions to ground fighting plus chokes to the death. It also comes in two flavors, sport and combat, so you know which one to ask for when you are going to study their art.

Enter the Ninja

I must admit I am prone to Ninjutsu as I have studied it since 1982, and it does bring all these worlds

together. But I will overlook that to mention they have close quarters combat down to a fine art. They are no sports art, so they close the distance to kill you. They study that all the time, so their techniques have been proven on the battlefield for over the last 1500 years. Now, as long-distance fighters, they use weapons and not their hands or feet. However, when they do, there is no other art on the planet that uses what they do. To that end, it has many advantages over any other art.

On the Ground Fighting

MMA fighters have become more or less an excellent overall model for close quarters combat. The only thing I would say is they can't strike the eyes, throat, or groin. They are hunting for a knockout or a submission on the ground. Neither of these is highly valued on the battlefield.

Also, being on the ground should be emulating a frog in a frying pan. You want to get the job done and

get the heck off the ground because of the multiple attackers on a battlefield. It is the multiple attackers that change the equation between law enforcement and military encounters. There are a few exceptions in each, but you don't see multiple attackers in MMA.

If I get on the ground, I try to kill or maim as fast as I can, then get up. I don't mind being on the ground, and in some situations, you want to stay there and not be shot by the enemy. But, as far as more combatants come to get you, most times, it's best to get back up into the fight.

I have studied techniques used by multiple attackers on the ground, so those do exist; however, it does depend on the situation.

 

Conclusion:

 

The art of close quarters combat is an absolute necessity for any serious martial artist or self-defense enthusiast. As we’ve learned, you’re not just teaching techniques; you’re teaching the differences of ranges, your learning style, and how you will survive on the battlefield.

 

Key takeaways:

1. There are three areas to be considered: Far Field, Up Close, and on the Ground.

2. Finding your neurological learning style (visual, kinesthetic, Auditory) is significant for training and usage.

3. The fighter that has an edge will require knowledge of far-field combat, close quarters, and ground fighting—in addition to using your environment to your advantage.

4. Weapons Awareness & Disarming are integral aspects of close combat training.

5. Martial arts provide different strengths in ground combat – from striking arts to grappling systems such as Judo and Jiu-Jitsu.

6. Combat situations on the battlefield or street can sometimes be different from competitive MMA in terms of multiple threats and rapid, decisive responses.

Always remember that proficiency in close combat is only achieved with time and practice. It would be best if you learn far-field, up-close, and ground techniques tailored to realistic combat situations. From martial arts gurus to novices, your route to becoming a master of close combat is continuous and developing.

In training, always focus on the efficient, everyday exercises that work with your personal learning style and physical limitations. Stay informed, stay prepared, and most importantly, stay safe.

PS This blog post is important for the Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Special Operations, The Army, police, security units, or teams. It should be a core component of tactics, entry, counter home invasion, or even if you make entry through a window or a door. This kind of thinking and strategy should be the main content in training manuals and elements, and anything less for the warrior fighter would be false counsel. Hand combat, or as some call it close quarters battle, is a main component to the survivability of our current warfighters. It's a must-have, and it should not just be given some afterthought. Stay safe!

  

Master Peter Brusso

Pdws.biz is the home of the Defenders' self-defense weapon.

“Safety Keychains for Women: Compact Protection for Everyday Carry, Part 2"

Beyond Keychains: Compact Self-Defense Options

Tasers

Ah, Tasers, I have a lot of history with this weapon. I worked with the inventor of the modern Taser, Jack Cover, and I fondly remember his first large-scale gun. It was tested in Hawaii; now get this, his

test subject was… a Buffalo! Yep, those huge creatures that you usually see in Yellow Stone Park. Well, the weapon was a two-stage type of gun.

First, it fired the two darts to hit the Buffalo, who didn’t seem even to care that there were two small darks stuck to their hide. Then, pulling the trigger back to the next level was to apply the electrical charge.

What happened when a nine-volt battery hit the Buffalo was nothing short of astounding. It plopped down to its stomach and shook with the electrical pulse hitting it. No harm done, though. When Jack let up on the trigger, the Buffalo looked around, surprised, and then just stood up. The entire day went like that, and needless to say, I was very impressed with the stopping power of these new non-lethal tools at the time.

At the end of the test day, I must say no animals were harmed, as we had a veterinarian there with us to examine the Buffalo, and we gave them a meal of their favorite treats. On the way out of the Hawaiian ranch, I think I heard one say, "Come back soon; we will keep the light on for you all." Well, perhaps not, but they were excited by the treats.

I did develop a few of my own Tasers, too, so I’m very familiar with the technology. But, for self-defense, I think they can be an excellent way to go. There are some issues that you must embrace with them; however, they are usually covered in training classes with the Taser. In short, what you want is a multiple-shot taser that also can be reloaded quickly. Also, if you run out of Taser dart cartridges, then by flipping off the empty or spent dart cartridges, you have a touch Taser or stun gun.

How they work is straightforward. A nine-volt battery electrical signal is modulated or made into a particular waveform that interferes with the body’s natural neurological signal. Then, this waveform is sent through a series of voltage amplification transformers to yield a very high voltage. For civilian models, this is usually around 50,000 volts. For military or law enforcement, it can be as high as 80,000 volts or higher in some cases.

When you pull the trigger, you send the modulated nine-volt battery signal into the amplifying transformers, and you also fire the darts out of the Taser. These darts pull a very thin wire with them, and once you hit the target, the electricity flows from one dart to the other. The body or skin is in between the two darts, and that is what people feel. The signal and voltage flowing between the darts are what interrupt the body’s standard electrical signals. 

Legal considerations: You must, like all self-defense weapons, check the local laws to make sure you can carry or use them. Also, if you plan to travel to other locations, you need to check their laws as well.

Pros and cons of everyday carry Self-Defense Weapons.

Cons first: The first issue is keeping them charged and checking them before you put them on your body. If you find one that isn’t fully charged, you leave it on the charger and start your day without your EDC or everyday carry. This is not a good thing.

Some people don’t respond to these weapons. It’s rare, but it happens, so you must have another self-defense tool to back you up. We have spent a fair amount of time on self-defense weapons, so remember the onion approach.

Your self-defense strategy must be layered, and to that end, you must carry other weapons for backup. Also, remember the distances that other self-defense weapons work in, and layer your protection accordingly. Think of a person coming at you who starts at 21 feet and runs at you. Tasers have that

range covered well, but if they fail, you need a backup Self-Defense weapon. Also, an FYI: there are two ways to defeat the Taser in the field. I don’t want to discuss this and give the bad guys instructions on how to neutralize a Taser, but it exists.

Next, Pepper Gel keeps you covered up to eight feet away from you unless there is heavy rain or gale-force wind.

Next, batons, knives, and finally, something like a Defenderself-defense weapon. It’s your last line of defense, and it is made to work in close quarters.

Pros: The Taser range is impressive, and they come in multiple-shot models, too. They have a good reputation and can work to psychologically deter some attackers. They are relatively inexpensive compared to a gun, and they are usually non-lethal.

As mentioned earlier, they are non-lethal, easy to use, compact, and portable. These are essential features to consider while in the field. Models offer other features, making them a very versatile option. They are generally legal to use, as well. They also have a lower risk of collateral damage compared to other self-defense weapons like guns.

The Byrna gun

The Byrna gun is similar to a Taser, but it’s a chemical weapon and can be a kinetic weapon, too. It shoots Pepper powder balls that burst on contact with the bad guy or anything hard. It is a powerful way to deploy Pepper (chemical) powder on the would-be attacker. It is also non-lethal, and that is a good thing.

The effective range of a Byrna Gun is super impressive! It can accurately shoot out to 60 feet! That’s crazy good, as your onion just got a lot larger, haha. It shoots kinetic, Pepper, or inert slugs.

Therefore, while the Byrna’s range is a significant advantage over many other less-lethal options, it’s crucial to consider these factors when assessing its practical self-defense capabilities. Aiming for center mass within the 60-foot effective range is recommended for optimal results.

You need to check the legal status of carrying the Byrna with your local laws, as well as wherever you plan to travel while you carry the Byrna.

Choosing the Right Self-Defense Weapon

 The title is a bit misleading as you need more than one self-defense weapon. Remember the layered approach, so you need to cover the distance from 21 feet to up close and personal. The critical factors across all distances are ease of use, concealability, personal comfort level, training, cost, environmental conditions, and legal restrictions.

Let’s talk about environmental issues because many people don’t think like that. If you live in Alaska or icy places, electric self-defense things don’t always work very well. In addition, if you are in the rain all the time, the same thing can be true with electrical self-defense solutions; well, they don’t work too well.

The Byrna is a CO2-fired device, and it might be reduced in capability if you live in high-altitude areas. The manufacturer can help you with that, but all this is true for scorching places like the deserts of the world. Things are affected by your environment, so you must consider that when you are choosing your various self-defense weapons to cover the 21-foot standing nose-to-nose with your attacker.

I don’t usually do this, but here is what Claude has to say about CO2-powered weapons:

“Certainly! I'd be happy to share some thoughts on how altitude affects CO2 gas cylinder cartridges used in devices like Byrna guns or BB guns. This is an essential consideration for the performance of these devices.

 Here's an overview of how altitude affects CO2-powered devices:

1. Pressure Difference:

   - At higher altitudes, the atmospheric pressure is lower.

   - This creates a greater pressure difference between the CO2 in the cartridge and the outside air.

   - Initially, this might seem beneficial, as it could lead to higher muzzle velocities.

2. Temperature Effects:

   - Higher altitudes generally mean cooler temperatures.

   - CO2 is sensitive to temperature changes; cooler temperatures reduce the pressure inside the cartridge.

   - This can counteract the potential benefits of the lower atmospheric pressure.

3. Gas Expansion:

   - As the CO2 is released, it expands rapidly, causing cooling (the Joule-Thomson effect) [9].

   - At higher altitudes, this cooling effect can be more pronounced due to the lower ambient pressure.

   - This can lead to faster cooling of the cartridge and potentially reduced performance over time.

4. Shot Consistency:

   - The combination of these factors can lead to less consistent performance.

   - Initial shots might be more powerful, but subsequent shots could see a more rapid decline in power.

5. Cartridge Lifespan:

   - In theory, you might get slightly more shots per cartridge at higher altitudes due to the lower ambient pressure.

   - However, this could be offset by the more rapid cooling of the cartridge.

6. Accuracy:

   - Changes in projectile velocity can affect accuracy, especially at longer ranges.

   - Users might need to adjust their aim to compensate for these changes.

Practical Considerations:

- For Byrna guns or similar self-defense tools, these effects are likely to be less noticeable in typical use scenarios (short range, few shots fired quickly).

- For target shooting or recreational use of BB guns, users might notice more significant effects, especially if shooting over longer periods or at longer ranges.

- It's advisable to test the device at the altitude where it will be used most frequently to understand its performance characteristics.

- Storing CO2 cartridges at a consistent, moderate temperature can help maintain more predictable performance.

In conclusion, while altitude does affect the performance of CO2-powered devices, the practical impact for self-defense tools like Byrna guns is likely to be minimal in most scenarios. However, users should be aware of these factors, especially if they live or frequently travel to high-altitude areas.”

Also, I could counsel you to seriously consider what is legal to own, carry, and use where you are going to carry or deploy these weapons. If not, you might find yourself in jail with the bad guy.

Conclusion

Women face an array of threats, and if they are seeking effective and accessible self-defense options, this blog post covers many options for their perusal. The range of self-defense weapons was heavily considered, as was the effectiveness of each weapon. Everything from close-quarter combat weapons to the Byrna gun with an impressive 60-foot range was introduced to the reader in Part 1 and Part 2 of this blog post.

You must embrace the onion or layered self-defense concept and realize it’s not just one choice for your safety. We covered everything from the revolutionary Ivan key chain, the new panic buttons connected to the Internet, and many other weapons as well.

We’ve highlighted the importance of considering factors such as ease of use, environment, legality, and effectiveness when selecting the right tools for your needs. While no single weapon offers a foolproof solution, a layered self-defense strategy, coupled with situational awareness and training, can empower women to protect themselves confidently.

Remember, personal safety is a priority, and these compact tools can provide an added layer of security

in an unpredictable world. By staying informed, proactive, and equipped, women can take control of their safety and navigate daily life with greater peace of mind.

Thank you for reading this important blog post! Make sure and visit the Defenders website at https://pdws.biz

Master Peter Brusso

 

Appendix

Violence Statistics in the U.K.

https://www.hse.gov.uk/statistics/causinj/violence/index.htm

Guesswork on stats

To scale up the U.K. statistics to estimate what America might be experiencing, we can use a combination of population ratio and other relevant factors. However, it’s important to note that this will be a rough estimate, as many factors influence crime rates, and reporting methods can vary between countries.

Let’s start with the basic population ratio:

1. U.K. population (2021 estimate): 67.2 million

2. U.S. population (2021 estimate): 331.9 million

3. Population ratio: U.S. is approximately 4.94 times larger

Using this ratio as a starting point:

U.K. statistic: 288,000 people experience violent attacks at work

Scaled up to the U.S.: 288,000 x 4.94 = 1,422,720

UK statistic: 41% sustain injury (118,080 people)

Scaled up to the U.S.: 118,080 x 4.94 = 583,315

However, this simple scaling doesn’t account for differences in:

1. Work culture and employment rates

2. Reporting practices

3. Legal definitions of workplace violence

4. Social and economic factors

A more accurate estimate might consider:

1. Comparing violent crime rates overall between the two countries

2. Looking at workplace safety statistics from U.S. sources

3. Considering differences in industries and job types between the countries

As a very rough rule of thumb, you might say:

“If the U.K. experiences 288,000 violent attacks at work annually, the U.S., given its larger population, might experience over 1.4 million such incidents. Similarly, if 118,000 people sustain injuries from these attacks in the U.K., the number in the U.S. could potentially exceed 580,000.”

But it’s crucial to emphasize that this is a very rough estimate and should be used cautiously. For accurate statistics, it’s best to refer to official U.S. sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

--

American stats from Claude

I apologize, but I don’t have the ability to search for or access current statistics beyond my last training data from 2022. However, I can provide you with some statistics from reliable U.S. sources that were available up to that point. Here are some relevant figures from reputable sources:

1. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data for 2019:

   - There were 20,870 cases of intentional injury by another person in the private industry workplace.

   - This equates to 1.7 cases per 10,000 full-time workers.

2. National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) data for 2019:

   - An estimated 1.3 million nonfatal violent crimes occurred against persons age 16 or older while they were at work or on duty.

3. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA):

   - OSHA estimates that about 2 million American workers are victims of workplace violence each year.

4. National Safety Council (NSC):

   - In 2019, assaults resulted in 20,870 injuries and 454 fatalities in the workplace.

U.K. statistic: 288,000 people experience violent attacks at work

Scaled up to the U.S.: 288,000 x 4.94 = 1,422,720

UK statistic: 41% sustain injury (118,080 people)

Scaled up to U.S.: 118,080 x 4.94 = 583,315

These statistics provide a general picture of workplace violence in the United States up to 2019-2020. However, it’s important to note that definitions of workplace violence can vary, and not all incidents may be reported.

For the most current and accurate statistics, I would recommend checking the websites of these organizations (BLS, NCVS, OSHA, NSC) or contacting them directly. They typically update their data annually or bi-annually.

--

Perplexity

According to the available statistics, workplace violence is a significant issue in the United States:

Nearly 2 million American workers report experiencing workplace violence each year [1]. Of these incidents:

- Workplace violence results in 18,000 serious injuries annually [1].

- Approximately 579,000 nonfatal violent crimes occur in the workplace each year [1].

- One in five people who experience workplace violence require time off from work to recover [1].

Specifically for injuries:

- Nonfatal injuries from workplace violence result in an average of 3 days away from work for recovery [1].

- Workplace violence incidents have led to an average of 500,000 employees missing three or more days of work annually [1].

It’s important to note that certain sectors face higher risks:

- Over half of workplace violence incidents occur in healthcare settings [1].

- Healthcare workers report the highest rates of injuries from workplace violence, with a nearly 50% increase between 2015-2019[2].

- Workers in the healthcare sector make up around 50% of all victims of workplace assault in the nation [2].

These statistics highlight the prevalence and severity of workplace violence in the United States, particularly in sectors like healthcare where workers face elevated risks of violent encounters on the job.

Citations:

[1] https://wifitalents.com/statistic/work-place-violence/

[2] https://abc11.com/health-care-workers-attacks-on-the-job-doctors-emts-nurses-hospital/12371248/

[3] https://www.axios.com/2023/08/10/escalating-violence-americas-hospitals

[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jk6IpMO4ItU

[5] https://abc11.com/nurse-attacked-patient-duke-emergency-room-multiple-injuries/12575609/

[6] https://www.aast.org/resources-detail/workplace-violence

[7] https://www.forbes.com/sites/heidilynnekurter/2019/11/24/healthcare-remains-americas-most-dangerous-profession--due-to-workplace-violence-yet-hr-1309-bill-doesnt-stand-a-chance/

[8] https://www.nsc.org/workplace/safety-topics/workplace-violence

--

Perplexity 2

Based on the available statistics, a significant number of women in the United States experience various forms of violence, including sexual assault and rape, each year:

Sexual Violence Statistics

- On average, there are approximately 463,634 victims (age 12 or older) of rape and sexual assault annually in the United States [4].

- In 2022, about 442,754 women were raped or sexually assaulted in the U.S., an increase from the previous year [5].

- It’s estimated that there are over 433,000 cases of sexual assault or rape annually in the U.S. among people ages 12 and older [3].

Prevalence and Risk Factors

- Over half of women (53%) report experiencing some form of sexual violence in their lifetime [3].

- One in five women in the United States has experienced completed or attempted rape during their lifetime [1].

- Women ages 18-24 who are college students are 3 times more likely than women in general to experience sexual violence [4].

- The highest risk years for sexual assault are between the ages of 12 and 34 [3].

 

Reporting and Perpetrators

- Only 310 out of every 1,000 sexual assaults are reported to the police, meaning more than two out of three go unreported [3].

- Eight out of 10 victims know the person who raped them, with perpetrators including acquaintances, family members, or current or former romantic partners [3].

It’s important to note that these statistics likely underrepresent the true extent of violence against women, as many incidents go unreported. Additionally, while this data focuses primarily on sexual violence, women also experience other forms of violence such as domestic abuse, physical assault, and stalking.

Citations:

[1] https://www.nsvrc.org/statistics

[2] https://bjs.ojp.gov/content/pub/pdf/FEMVIED.PDF

[3] https://www.charliehealth.com/post/sexual-assault-statistics

[4] https://rainn.org/statistics/victims-sexual-violence

[5] https://www.statista.com/statistics/251923/usa-reported-forcible-rape-cases-by-gender/

[6] https://www.savacenterga.org/statistics

[7] https://now.org/resource/violence-against-women-in-the-united-states-statistic/

[8] https://rainn.org/statistics/scope-problem

 

Perplexity 3 violent street attacks

Based on the available data, I can provide some insights into street attacks and violent crimes in the United States over the past few years, focusing on robberies, violent attacks leading to major injury, and homicides. However, it’s important to note that the data doesn’t specifically isolate “street attacks” as a category, so we’ll look at relevant violent crime statistics:

Robbery

- Robbery rates have been declining in recent years. In 2022, there were approximately 323,000 reported robberies in the United States  [1].

 Aggravated Assault

 

- Aggravated assault, which often leads to major injuries, has seen fluctuations. In 2022, there were about 1,095,000 reported cases of aggravated assault [1].

Homicide

- Homicide rates increased significantly in 2020 but have shown signs of decline since then:

  - There was a 30% increase in homicides from 2019 to 2020, the largest single-year increase since 1960 [4].

  - In 2022, the homicide rate decreased by 9% to 6.3 per 100,000 people [4].

Carjackings

While specific national data on carjackings is not provided in the search results, it’s worth noting that this crime has been a growing concern in many urban areas.

 Overall Trends

- Violent crime rates, including those for street-level crimes, spiked significantly in 2020 but have shown signs of decline since then.

- In the first half of 2023, murders in 30 large American cities declined by 9.4% compared to the same period in 2022 [4].

- Despite recent declines, violent crime rates in many cities remain higher than pre-2020 levels. For instance, in the first half of 2023, homicide rates were still 24% higher compared to the first half of 2019 [4].

It’s important to note that these statistics represent overall trends and may not capture the full picture of street-level attacks. Local variations can be significant, and some cities may experience different patterns than the national averages suggest.

Citations:

[1] https://www.statista.com/statistics/251923/usa-reported-forcible-rape-cases-by-gender/

[2] https://home.chicagopolice.org/statistics-data/statistical-reports/

[3] https://www.sanfranciscopolice.org/stay-safe/crime-data/crime-dashboard

[4] https://counciloncj.org/homicide-trends-report/

[5] https://bjs.ojp.gov/content/pub/pdf/FEMVIED.PDF

[6] https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/homicide.htm

[7] https://www.unodc.org/documents/data-and-analysis/gsh/Booklet1.pdf

[8] https://wifitalents.com/statistic/work-place-violence/

Perplexity on personal alarms

Based on the search results provided and my knowledge, there isn’t clear statistical data or documented cases specifically showing personal alarm keychains saving lives or stopping attacks. However, there are some relevant points to consider:

1. Effectiveness as a deterrent: Personal alarms are designed to startle attackers and draw attention, which could potentially deter an attack. The loud noise (often 120-140 decibels) is meant to disorient assailants and alert others nearby.

2. Anecdotal evidence: While not scientific data, customer reviews often mention feeling safer with these devices, suggesting they provide a sense of security.

3. Expert recommendations: Personal safety experts and organizations often recommend personal alarms as part of a broader safety strategy, indicating some level of perceived effectiveness.

4. Limitations: The search results note that personal alarms have limitations. They may not be effective against multiple attackers or if an assailant is wearing earphones/earplugs.

5. Lack of comprehensive studies: There doesn’t appear to be robust scientific research specifically on the effectiveness of personal alarm keychains in real-world attack scenarios.

6. Complementary tool: Personal alarms are generally recommended as one part of a broader personal safety approach, not as a standalone solution.

While personal alarms may have potential benefits, there’s a lack of concrete data proving their effectiveness in stopping attacks or saving lives. They’re likely more of a deterrent and attention-drawing tool rather than a guaranteed method of protection. More research is needed to assess their real-world impact on preventing or stopping attacks definitively.

Citations:

[1] https://pomsafe.com/personal-alarm-keychain/

[2] https://www.stunster.com/blog/how-effective-are-personal-alarms/

[3] https://www.amazon.com/Rechargeable-Personal-Keychain-Emergency-Security/dp/B0CKPYN23Y

[4] https://www.tbotech.com/are-personal-alarms-really-effective.htm

[5] https://us.empoweredbyashley.com/blogs/news/how-effective-are-personal-safety-alarms

[6] https://www.garbo.io/blog/personal-safety-alarm

[7] https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-gear/tools/personal-safety-device-backcountry-effectiveness/

[8] https://counciloncj.org/homicide-trends-report/

[9] the Joules-Tomson Effect: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joule%E2%80%93Thomson_effect

END

Safety Keychains for Women: Compact Protection for Everyday Carry

 

Part 1

 

In a world where personal safety is increasingly uncertain, some say knowledge is power, but that isn’t quite true. Power is knowledge but in action! It’s not good enough to be knowledgeable about a subject, but you must use it.

Before we dive into the tools and strategies for self-defense, let's take a moment to understand the reality of the threats we face. The following statistics paint a sobering picture of violence in modern America:

 

The Numbers Don't Lie: A Snapshot of Violence in Modern America

 

Workplace Violence: An Epidemic in Plain Sight

- Nearly 2 million American workers report experiencing workplace violence each year [1].

- Shockingly, healthcare workers bear the brunt of this violence, accounting for 50% of all workplace assault victims [2].

Sexual Violence: A Pervasive Threat

- One in five women in the United States has experienced completed or attempted rape during their lifetime [3].

- Alarmingly, more than two-thirds of sexual assaults go unreported, with only 310 out of every 1,000 incidents being reported to police [4].

Violent Crime Trends: A Rollercoaster of Concern

- While recent years have seen a slight decline in overall violent crime rates, they remain significantly higher than pre-2020 levels [5].

- The year 2020 saw a dramatic 30% increase in homicides, the largest single-year spike since 1960. Since then, rates have decreased but remain elevated [5].

 

Personal Safety Tools: The Jury Is Still Out

Despite their popularity, there is a lack of concrete data on the effectiveness of personal alarms in preventing attacks [6].

- However, safety experts often recommend personal alarms as part of a comprehensive personal safety strategy [6].

These statistics are highly alarming and underscore a crucial truth: the need for personal safety measures has never been more critical. As we explore various self-defense options, keep these numbers at the top of your mind. They're not just figures on a page; they represent real people, real dangers, and real reasons why we must take our safety seriously.

Now, let's delve into the world of safety keychains and other compact self-defense tools that can significantly improve your personal security.

The importance of personal safety for women

Criminals see women as the easiest potential targets for a variety of crimes. Just some of these crimes

are robbery, violent attack, homicide, sexual assault and rape, domestic violence, stalking, human trafficking, Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), honor killings, forced marriage, online harassment, and cyberstalking. As you can see, there is a comprehensive set of crimes that the bad guys look at women to attack.

When I was researching this blog post, I was shocked at the wide range of crimes directed at women. I’m sure you were a bit shocked, too, when you read that list. So, why is it necessary to start a very encompassing program of teaching our American women to protect themselves?

The reason is simple: If we don’t do it, who will? Do you want your daughters to be faced with these types of crimes? Your mother, perhaps? Or even your grandmother, let alone your wife.

This blog post might start a great discussion that might spread across the nation. Hey, let’s band together and kick this thing off. Start talking about that list of crimes and see if we can’t get some interest in starting a buzz across the country.

I know that when I was in my martial arts school, I met many women who came to the school to learn how to protect themselves from their husbands and boyfriends. I said, “What?”

Yes, they explained why they wanted to learn to defend themselves and their children. I admit I was at a loss to see how widespread the problem had become, and then now, with so many attacks on women occurring every day on the streets, homes, and many other places. This isn’t right.

So, the first part of my starting the buzz is to take some weapons that women could use, currently available, primarily legal, and that depends on where they are in the country, then look at the pros and cons.

In this blog, I have chosen the self-defense keychain, as I have one for sale, but what I went through to design one was crazy. Most of the self-defense keychains out there—well, I don’t think well of them, so I must be careful here—but needless to say, I do think a lot about mine, the Ivan Keychain.

I’m also going to look at a multi-shot taser, as I have a lot of experience in that technical world. I don’t own a Byrna gun, but I like the way they are going. To that end, I’ve been a weapons guy for many years, and I know a thing or two about CO2-powered weapon systems. Mine used N2 gas, but I understand working with gas systems and their problems.

I have used Kubotan for many years, and I first learned about its predecessor, a “Yawara stick,” during my Ninjutsu training. Ninjas use pressure points often, so that gives me good insight into the Kubotan, its history, developer, and current state with law enforcement.

I will cover Pepper spray keychains as I have been writing about Pepper spray, but not fused with a keychain. Designing my Ivan Keychain defender required me to look into the whole keychain industry, so I feel confident that I can bring some insight into that topic. I also have my preferences between Pepper Spray and Pepper Gel and will discuss that here, too. Bypass that section if you have read some of my other blogs that deal with that exact topic.

There is an exciting new push to cross jewelry, cell phones, and personal attack safety! Yep, it’s bound to happen, and personally, I like what I see. However, it does have its start-up curve. Physical defender makers like me have been doing this for many years, and as a start-up company (key chains integrated with the Internet, they will need some time to get it “bulletproof.” So, let’s get started on this great self-defense adventure.

 

Traditional Safety Keychains

Kubotan Keychain

The Kubotan isn’t really a key chain, but it was a martial arts tool first and then became a significant

tool for law enforcement. Then, I have seen this happen more than once in my 60-plus years in the martial arts. Every martial arts tool or weapon that gets adopted by law enforcement, within time, gets outlawed for the general public. It happened in California that the Kubotan is now a felony to own or use. A simple six-inch stick of wood or plastic is now a felony weapon. Also, a martial arts weapon called a Tonfa is now known as a PR-24 in the law enforcement world and is now a felony to own or use.

The Kubotan is a bit problematic for women’s self-defense because it is illegal in many states in the United States. Here is that question answered by Google’s AI, Gemini:

Gemini-generated content begins here: “Unfortunately, there isn’t a single, definitive source that provides an exact count of U.S. states where a Kubotan is considered a felony weapon. Laws regarding self-defense tools can vary significantly between states, and some may have specific statutes addressing Kubotan’s while others may classify them under broader weapon categories.

However, based on various legal resources and online discussions, it’s estimated that around 10-15 states consider possessing or carrying a Kubotan a felony offense. Some states may have restrictions on Kubotan ownership or carry, even if it’s not explicitly a felony.

It’s crucial to emphasize that carrying a Kubotan in a state where it’s considered a felony can have serious legal consequences. If you’re considering carrying a Kubotan for self-defense, it’s absolutely vital to research the specific laws in your state and jurisdiction to avoid any legal issues.”

And here is Gemini on a tonfa or PR-24 with the law enforcement community:

“While tonfas (or PR-24s) are less commonly addressed in state laws compared to batons, they typically fall under the same legal category as batons or clubs.

Therefore, in states where batons are legal to own and carry, tonfas are generally also legal.

However, there are a few exceptions and nuances to consider:

California: California explicitly prohibits the carrying of expandable batons, and this prohibition may extend to tonfas due to their similar design and function.

Other Restrictive States: Some states, such as Massachusetts, New York, and Washington D.C., have restrictions on carrying batons in public, and these restrictions might also apply to tonfas.

Important Considerations:

Local Ordinances: Even in states where tonfas are generally legal, local ordinances might impose restrictions or require permits for carrying them. It’s crucial to check with local law enforcement or legal counsel to confirm the specific regulations in your area.

Intended Use: It’s also important to consider the intended use of a tonfa. If it’s being used for martial arts training or demonstrations, it’s less likely to be an issue. However, carrying a tonfa in public for self-defense could potentially attract more scrutiny from law enforcement.

Recommendations:

Research Local Laws: Always research the specific laws regarding tonfas in your state and locality before purchasing or carrying one.

Consult Legal Counsel: If you’re unsure about the legality of tonfas in your area, it’s best to consult with a legal professional for guidance.

Overall, while tonfas are generally legal in most states, it’s essential to be aware of any potential restrictions or limitations to avoid any legal complications.”

You can see that we must be careful when choosing self-defense options for women in America, and much of this applies to all of us. A Kubotan is likely illegal in many parts of America, so let’s move on to another type of Keychain. “End Gemini generated content.”

 

Alarm keychains

Alarm Keychains have been around for quite some time now. I did some research to find if some hard

facts or data were showing these things actually terminated an attack. Although there isn’t any data from the government to show that, I found, with the help of “Gemini,” that many stories were reporting a positive outcome.

Gemini generated content begins here: “There is anecdotal evidence suggesting that personal alarms, including those in keychain form, have helped deter attacks or summon assistance in dangerous situations.

News reports and testimonials: Several news stories and online testimonials describe instances where personal alarms have startled attackers, causing them to flee or alerted bystanders, leading to intervention and assistance.

Studies and surveys: Some studies and surveys suggest that personal alarms can be an effective deterrent, particularly in situations where attracting attention is key.

However, concrete data and statistics on the effectiveness of personal alarms, particularly in preventing or stopping attacks, are limited. This is due to factors like:

Underreporting:  Many incidents where a personal alarm is used successfully might go unreported, as the attacker may flee before any official report is made.

Difficulty Isolating Effectiveness: It can be challenging to determine whether the alarm alone deterred the attack or whether other factors played a role.

Conclusion of alarms:

Personal alarms, including keychain alarms, can be a valuable tool for personal safety, mainly when used in conjunction with other self-defense strategies and situational awareness.

The loud noise they produce can startle an attacker, create a distraction, and potentially attract attention from bystanders.

While there’s no guarantee that an alarm will stop an attack, it can increase the chances of getting help or creating an opportunity to escape.

Ultimately, the effectiveness of a personal alarm depends on various factors, including the specific situation, the attacker’s mindset, and the surrounding environment. They’re not a foolproof solution, but they can offer an added layer of security and peace of mind.

It’s important to remember that personal alarms are just one tool in a comprehensive self-defense strategy. It’s always best to combine them with other tactics, such as self-defense training, situational awareness, and avoiding risky situations whenever possible.” End of Gemini content.

So, for me, it comes down to a personal choice. Does the use of one of these tools hurt? Perhaps, but that would be in a minimal number of cases. As long as a personal alarm is used in conjunction with something more directly capable of stopping a violent attack on a person, then I have to say, “Why not.” If it makes you feel more secure, then you will psychologically project that power, and thus, a potential attacker might “Sense” that and leave you alone. That happens more often than not.

Now, this is not a spoiler alert, but the single-use panic button on a key ring that screams at everyone around you; some more high-technology options are coming into existence. It will be fascinating to watch how that plays out. More on that later in the blog post.

Pepper spray keychains

As I’m a large advocate of Pepper Gel, if the key ring you have is equipped with Pepper Gel and not Pepper Spray, I’m all for it. Pepper spray is far more susceptible to being redirected by the wind than

pepper gel. Also, when you use Pepper Spray, it tends to stay in an enclosed volume, and you get the Spray on you, too. There might be times when you want that, but that would be by decision, not an accident. It’s bad enough you must deal with some form of violence on you, but then to add insult to injury is not a good strategy at all.

Another issue is that if you have a car that requires you to put the car key into an ignition, then your Pepper anything, including an Ivan self-defense Keychain, is pretty much useless to you. It would be best if you had another self-defense tool to use on the bad guys. This is precisely why I suggest you have a layered approach to your self-defense. Have another choice of self-defense tools ready to use with you in the car like a Blur of Darkness Defender. Once the keys are in your hands, you can use what is on the key ring for your self-defense.

Personal safety apps with keychain triggers

Now, this is a fascinating new revolution in the self-defense industry. I was doing some research and working with some AI programs to hunt out the number of attacks in the USA. I first found the UK statistics, and I was shocked. From that point on, I had my favorite AI, Claude.ai, calculating the number of attacks in the USA based on the population of the UK stats. It was mind-blowing, and later, I found those USA stats and Claude’s calculations were very close to the reported numbers. It also showed which profession was attacked the most, and that was also mind-blowing.

The New Exciting New Twist to Panic Alarms

This consists of a standard panic button approach: You can fire off the loud-sounding panic alarm many of us are aware of, but it then accesses your phone! A particular app then takes over sending your SOS and GPS to various locations, which will bring help to your location! This is a crazy good game-changer, in my humble opinion.

Relying solely on panic alarms for personal self-defense is similar to counting on winning the lottery.

There is a chance you could win if you play, but the odds are not in your favor—not at all. Personal safety requires that you be more comprehensive than simply carrying a panic alarm.

So, these new apps have some great features. Here is a list of them:

-          Emergency SOS is sent.

-          Loud alarm: This is just like the regular panic button, but the bad guy(s) don’t know that you have sent your physical location data to others, like the police.

-          Discreet Activation: The stealth mode is suitable because the bad guys don’t know what will happen to them next.

-          Two-way communication: Some apps allow for this type of connectivity, which is a bit of a mixed bag. However, the feature of providing changing data on the situation is a huge plus, and with a little practice, you can learn to talk to the bad guys but update the authorities who can hear you.

Some other features are more specific to helping against home invasion, so keeping abreast of the technology and capabilities would be wise counsel. Here is a list of benefits that are worth noting:

-          Convenience and Accessibility: The communication device is always on your key ring, which, as I have pointed out, goes almost everywhere with you. This device makes it easier to activate in a panic than fumbling with your phone.

-          Rapid response to your signal: The ability to send instant messages for help to the police, fire, and to your emergency contacts list is priceless. It also lessens the time for emergency services response, too. In a critical situation, your attention needs to be on the “Now,” the last thing you want to do is take your eye off the ball. It would be best if you were centered on fighting and surviving the attack until help arrives or the bad guy(s) decide that they don’t want whatever you have. The blood and pain given by your personal choices in your self-protection will speak for themselves.

-          The app makers quote the loud sound of the panic alarm as a deterrence to your attackers. I would suggest that the jury is out on this one feature of alarms. There is no hard evidence that the alarms do anything to deter or accelerate an attack. However, if it might help, why not use it.

-          Peace of Mind: Priceless at a time of attack. When you are calm and collected, knowing help is on the way, and now you need to deal with just one thing, that is the attack; this coolness will shake up the attackers. It might even stop the attack before it gets started.

I have two success stories with the Defenders, Self-defense weapons, that show this happening. Just the resolution that my clients were ready to fight with their defenders scared the attackers away. Why? My clients were prepared to defend themselves; that peace of mind and focus scared the would-be attackers. Couple that with when they saw the Defender 1, not knowing what it was, they were not willing to find out and ran away.

The Companies with The New Direction

Here is a list of some of the apps that you can use to start exploring this emerging combination of technology.

-          InvisaWear

-          Revolar

-          SafeTrek

There are a number of drawbacks to this approach, and I’ll list some of them for you to think about:

-          - App compatibility with your smartphone

-          - Battery life

-          - Connectivity: Are you in a no-cell reception area?

-          - Subscription fees

 

Innovative Keychain Self-Defense Tools

 I have been looking to develop some small self-defense weapon that is small yet fully featured for protection and can fit on a keychain. Well, after years of design, I came up with the Ivan Keychain. Here is a list of design features.

-          Compact size: Obviously, it fits on a Keychain, so it is compact but provides a huge dose of deterrence for the poor bastard on the opposite end of this weapon.

-          Durable Material: Made up of strong, lightweight clear acrylic.

-         It has an ergonomic design: it fits in your hand with ease and provides a secure grip. Plus, it comes with an industrial key ring, so it won’t break apart, spilling your valuable keys all over the attack area for others to pick up. Yes, your valued keys to your life are on your key ring. When we were testing various designs with standard key rings, many failed and broke apart, thus spilling the keys everywhere.

This didn’t sound like a bad thing until you really examined what it meant. I didn’t want to sell something that would fail easily. You would need to really work at getting our ring to fail. These are things that engineers worry about at night when we are designing things, Haha.

-         It’s not considered Brass Knuckles! Yes, anything where you need to put your fingers into areas on the self-defense tool, such that you can use the tool, is considered “Brass Knuckles” and is a felony in all fifty states! Yes, the “Cat Key Chain” is one where, by design, you put your fingers into holes on the tool to use it. That is a felony weapon. Good luck defending yourself in a court of law with that tool.

-         Striking points: Yes, the Ivan has some very nasty, sharp, and highly effective points that you use to strike, attack soft tissue, or even the anatomy of your attacker. For example, their eyes, face, throat, and punching to hit arteries if you are inclined.

-          Digit slots: There is a place where you put your thumb and forefinger to hold the tool in your hand. Couple this with the industrial-strength key ring plus keys, and you can hold onto the Ivan with ease. It is also designed so that when you have it in your hand, there is no wrong way to hold it.  However you hold it, the symmetry of the tool allows you to use it no matter which way you grabbed the Ivan.

-         Non-Lethal: It is a non-lethal self-defense tool by design, which reduces the legal concerns of using it to defend yourself or even carrying it with you.

-         Stealth: It looks like an ordinary keychain but with a funny-looking piece of acrylic on the ring. It doesn’t draw any attention, and its stealthy feature is an excellent benefit to your self-defense capabilities.

The Ivan’s effectiveness in a self-defense situation is crazy good. Here are some of the features that make the Ivan so good to have in an attack:

-          Accessibility: The mere fact that it is attached to your key ring makes it ready to use in most cases. We have discussed the odd case nowadays of your keys being in a vehicle’s physical ignition. Otherwise, the Ivan is ready to go to work for you when you need it the most. It will be in your hand on the way to the car, coming out of the car, and going into your home or a business. It will be ready to defend you.

-          Force Multiplier: It enhances your natural striking ability to become something from Hell itself. It hurts like HELL! To that end, it does a lot of damage to the attacker(s) such that they either don’t want to attack you anymore or can’t attack you due to their injuries.

-          Target Areas: When you target the face, throat, joints, hands trying to grab you or are on your body, and their eyes, well, you will deliver devastating wounds on the attackers. With wound creation comes devastating pain, too. This creates one of two possibilities. First, from the injury, you can escape the attack, or Second, they are so damaged that they stop the attack and move away from you. Either way, you win.

-          Psychological Deterrent: The presence of Ivan in your hands or knowing that you have a high-speed self-defense tool gives you this edge. The attackers can sense this as they want to attack psychological victims and not Rocky Balboa!

-          Low learning curve: It takes almost no time to learn how to use it. It is intuitive, and thus, it takes less time to learn how to use it effectively than other self-defense tools on the market.

-          Distance Management allows you to have a minor advantage in applying the Ivan to an attacker at arm’s length. Make no mistake about it: You are in close-quarters fighting, but with the Ivan, you have a bit farther reach to them. That is, if they are empty-handed.

-          Versatility: In addition to striking targets, you can control attackers by using the Ivan on sensitive pressure points, such as pushing them down to the ground or moving them out of your way so you can run. As my best friend always says, “You have options,” and he is right. So, the Ivan gives you options you wouldn’t have without the tool.

-          Legal to Carry: Yes, it is legal to carry in all states as it isn’t a bladed weapon; it isn’t used to bludgeon someone or shoot them. It can be carried in areas where knives or other weapons are prohibited.

One must remember that the effectiveness of any self-defense tool depends on the user’s training, situational awareness, and ability to act under stress. Ivan offers free online training. Proper training and practice will achieve maximum effectiveness.

Unbelievable

 In searching for how many violent attacks happen on the street, I found out what profession gets attacked the most. You will be shocked at the findings. Let me tell a bit of the story about getting these statistics. I have all of them in the “Appendix,” and to that statement, I have never seen a blog post with an “Appendix” section.

I worked with Claude.ai, Gemini, and Perplexity to help find the data I was looking to expose. Here are some of them:

There are 2 million American workers reporting workplace violence each year! Of these, there are

18,000 serious injuries annually, too. In addition, approximately 579,000 nonfatal violent crimes are occurring in the workplace each year. Nonfatal injuries from violence average three days away from work to recover. The workplace incidents have led to over 500,000 employees missing three or more days of work annually! Now, the crazy stuff begins.

The data show that it is essential to note that only specific sectors face high risks of attacks. Now, who would you think faces the highest risks of attacks? Police? Federal officers? The border patrol? The military? NOPE. It’s in health care workers! The highest of all are healthcare workers—especially home healthcare workers, as they are alone on their jobs.

Gemini data begins here: “Healthcare workers report the highest rates of injuries from workplace violence, with a nearly 50% increase between 2015-2019 [2].”

“Workers in the healthcare sector make up around 50% of all victims of workplace assault in the nation [2].” Gemini data ends here.

Now, I have used home healthcare services in the past, and many have said they were going to “sketchy” places and working in dangerous situations. Alone, nighttime, unsafe housing areas, and the like. To think that they are the most dangerous jobs to have in America is nuts, at least to me. Here, they are coming to help people get better medically, and they represent 50% of all the attack victims in America. That is crazy, and it shows that the bad guys always look for vulnerable targets first.

I don’t know about you, but this was shocking to discover. What are we doing for all these healthcare workers to protect them? In hospitals, they have guards, most unarmed, but that is a start. However, home nursing is the highest, and they have nothing to protect themselves other than some situational awareness! Now, that in itself is one of the primary things in our self-defense arsenal, but we need to get more tools to keep them safe. At least, that is my humble opinion.

Citations:

[1] https://wifitalents.com/statistic/work-place-violence/

[2] https://abc11.com/health-care-workers-attacks-on-the-job-doctors-emts-nurses-hospital/12371248/

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Conclusion of Part 1

 As the data shows, it is clear that we provide some form of cohesive protection for our women, especially in the Healthcare Industry. I have examined various types of self-defense products and shared not only my findings but also my opinions of these tools. I have covered personal alarms, Kubotan’s, the Ivan Self-Defense key ring, Tasers, and the Byrna gun. All can be important to one's overall Self-Defense strategy. I have also made comments on legal status of these tools, however, as most of you know that I’m not an attorney, so you must check your local laws for a tool's viability to use in a Self-Defense situation.

The new emergence of the panic button and its connection to the Internet shocked me. It’s about time someone did this for our Self-Defense industry! The alarming statistics on workplace violence, particularly the healthcare worker stats, were crazy to find. This fact underscores the urgent need for effective, accessible self-defense tools, training, and situational awareness familiarization. It's shocking to realize that those dedicated to caring for others are often the most vulnerable to attacks.

In the next part of this blog, we'll explore specific self-defense items on our list and their legal considerations. We'll also discuss how to choose the right safety keychain for your needs.

Remember, the goal isn't just to react to danger but to empower yourself with knowledge, tools, and confidence. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we'll continue our journey towards enhanced personal safety for women.

Your safety matters. Let's continue this essential conversation about what is out there for your safety.

and how to make some decisions. Let’s all work together to create a safer world for us and a painful one for the bad guys who make bad choices in life.

Master Peter Brusso

PDWS.biz 

End of Part 1

Appendix

 

Violence Statistics in the U.K.

https://www.hse.gov.uk/statistics/causinj/violence/index.htm

Guesswork on stats

To scale up the U.K. statistics to estimate what America might be experiencing, we can use a combination of population ratio and other relevant factors. However, it’s important to note that this will be a rough estimate, as many factors influence crime rates, and reporting methods can vary between countries.

Let’s start with the basic population ratio:

1. U.K. population (2021 estimate): 67.2 million

2. U.S. population (2021 estimate): 331.9 million

3. Population ratio: U.S. is approximately 4.94 times larger

Using this ratio as a starting point:

U.K. statistic: 288,000 people experience violent attacks at work

Scaled up to the U.S.: 288,000 x 4.94 = 1,422,720

UK statistic: 41% sustain injury (118,080 people)

Scaled up to the U.S.: 118,080 x 4.94 = 583,315

However, this simple scaling doesn’t account for differences in:

1. Work culture and employment rates

2. Reporting practices

3. Legal definitions of workplace violence

4. Social and economic factors

A more accurate estimate might consider:

1. Comparing violent crime rates overall between the two countries

2. Looking at workplace safety statistics from U.S. sources

3. Considering differences in industries and job types between the countries

As a very rough rule of thumb, you might say:

“If the U.K. experiences 288,000 violent attacks at work annually, the U.S., given its larger population, might experience over 1.4 million such incidents. Similarly, if 118,000 people sustain injuries from these attacks in the U.K., the number in the U.S. could potentially exceed 580,000.”

But it’s crucial to emphasize that this is a very rough estimate and should be used cautiously. For accurate statistics, it’s best to refer to official U.S. sources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

--

American stats from Claude

I apologize, but I don’t have the ability to search for or access current statistics beyond my last training data from 2022. However, I can provide you with some statistics from reliable U.S. sources that were available up to that point. Here are some relevant figures from reputable sources:

1. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data for 2019:

   - There were 20,870 cases of intentional injury by another person in the private industry workplace.

   - This equates to 1.7 cases per 10,000 full-time workers.

2. National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) data for 2019:

   - An estimated 1.3 million nonfatal violent crimes occurred against persons age 16 or older while they were at work or on duty.

3. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA):

   - OSHA estimates that about 2 million American workers are victims of workplace violence each year.

4. National Safety Council (NSC):

   - In 2019, assaults resulted in 20,870 injuries and 454 fatalities in the workplace.

U.K. statistic: 288,000 people experience violent attacks at work

Scaled up to the U.S.: 288,000 x 4.94 = 1,422,720

UK statistic: 41% sustain injury (118,080 people)

Scaled up to U.S.: 118,080 x 4.94 = 583,315

These statistics provide a general picture of workplace violence in the United States up to 2019-2020. However, it’s important to note that definitions of workplace violence can vary, and not all incidents may be reported.

For the most current and accurate statistics, I would recommend checking the websites of these organizations (BLS, NCVS, OSHA, NSC) or contacting them directly. They typically update their data annually or bi-annually.

--

Perplexity

According to the available statistics, workplace violence is a significant issue in the United States:

Nearly 2 million American workers report experiencing workplace violence each year [1]. Of these incidents:

- Workplace violence results in 18,000 serious injuries annually [1].

- Approximately 579,000 nonfatal violent crimes occur in the workplace each year [1].

- One in five people who experience workplace violence require time off from work to recover [1].

Specifically for injuries:

- Nonfatal injuries from workplace violence result in an average of 3 days away from work for recovery [1].

- Workplace violence incidents have led to an average of 500,000 employees missing three or more days of work annually [1].

It’s important to note that certain sectors face higher risks:

- Over half of workplace violence incidents occur in healthcare settings[1].

- Healthcare workers report the highest rates of injuries from workplace violence, with a nearly 50% increase between 2015-2019[2].

- Workers in the healthcare sector make up around 50% of all victims of workplace assault in the nation[2].

These statistics highlight the prevalence and severity of workplace violence in the United States, particularly in sectors like healthcare where workers face elevated risks of violent encounters on the job.

Citations:

[1] https://wifitalents.com/statistic/work-place-violence/

[2] https://abc11.com/health-care-workers-attacks-on-the-job-doctors-emts-nurses-hospital/12371248/

[3] https://www.axios.com/2023/08/10/escalating-violence-americas-hospitals

[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jk6IpMO4ItU

[5] https://abc11.com/nurse-attacked-patient-duke-emergency-room-multiple-injuries/12575609/

[6] https://www.aast.org/resources-detail/workplace-violence

[7] https://www.forbes.com/sites/heidilynnekurter/2019/11/24/healthcare-remains-americas-most-dangerous-profession--due-to-workplace-violence-yet-hr-1309-bill-doesnt-stand-a-chance/

[8] https://www.nsc.org/workplace/safety-topics/workplace-violence

--

Perplexity 2

Based on the available statistics, a significant number of women in the United States experience various forms of violence, including sexual assault and rape, each year:

Sexual Violence Statistics

- On average, there are approximately 463,634 victims (age 12 or older) of rape and sexual assault annually in the United States [4].

- In 2022, about 442,754 women were raped or sexually assaulted in the U.S., an increase from the previous year [5].

- It’s estimated that there are over 433,000 cases of sexual assault or rape annually in the U.S. among people ages 12 and older [3].

Prevalence and Risk Factors

- Over half of women (53%) report experiencing some form of sexual violence in their lifetime [3].

- One in five women in the United States has experienced completed or attempted rape during their lifetime [1].

- Women ages 18-24 who are college students are 3 times more likely than women in general to experience sexual violence [4].

- The highest risk years for sexual assault are between the ages of 12 and 34 [3].

 

Reporting and Perpetrators

- Only 310 out of every 1,000 sexual assaults are reported to the police, meaning more than two out of three go unreported [3].

- Eight out of 10 victims know the person who raped them, with perpetrators including acquaintances, family members, or current or former romantic partners [3].

It’s important to note that these statistics likely underrepresent the true extent of violence against women, as many incidents go unreported. Additionally, while this data focuses primarily on sexual violence, women also experience other forms of violence such as domestic abuse, physical assault, and stalking.

Citations:

[1] https://www.nsvrc.org/statistics

[2] https://bjs.ojp.gov/content/pub/pdf/FEMVIED.PDF

[3] https://www.charliehealth.com/post/sexual-assault-statistics

[4] https://rainn.org/statistics/victims-sexual-violence

[5] https://www.statista.com/statistics/251923/usa-reported-forcible-rape-cases-by-gender/

[6] https://www.savacenterga.org/statistics

[7] https://now.org/resource/violence-against-women-in-the-united-states-statistic/

[8] https://rainn.org/statistics/scope-problem

Perplexity 3 violent street attacks

Based on the available data, I can provide some insights into street attacks and violent crimes in the United States over the past few years, focusing on robberies, violent attacks leading to major injury, and homicides. However, it’s important to note that the data doesn’t specifically isolate “street attacks” as a category, so we’ll look at relevant violent crime statistics:

Robbery

- Robbery rates have been declining in recent years. In 2022, there were approximately 323,000 reported robberies in the United States  [1].

 Aggravated Assault

 

- Aggravated assault, which often leads to major injuries, has seen fluctuations. In 2022, there were about 1,095,000 reported cases of aggravated assault [1].

Homicide

- Homicide rates increased significantly in 2020 but have shown signs of decline since then:

  - There was a 30% increase in homicides from 2019 to 2020, the largest single-year increase since 1960 [4].

  - In 2022, the homicide rate decreased by 9% to 6.3 per 100,000 people [4].

Carjackings

While specific national data on carjackings is not provided in the search results, it’s worth noting that this crime has been a growing concern in many urban areas.

 Overall Trends

- Violent crime rates, including those for street-level crimes, spiked significantly in 2020 but have shown signs of decline since then.

- In the first half of 2023, murders in 30 large American cities declined by 9.4% compared to the same period in 2022 [4].

- Despite recent declines, violent crime rates in many cities remain higher than pre-2020 levels. For instance, in the first half of 2023, homicide rates were still 24% higher compared to the first half of 2019 [4].

It’s important to note that these statistics represent overall trends and may not capture the full picture of street-level attacks. Local variations can be significant, and some cities may experience different patterns than the national averages suggest.

Citations:

[1] https://www.statista.com/statistics/251923/usa-reported-forcible-rape-cases-by-gender/

[2] https://home.chicagopolice.org/statistics-data/statistical-reports/

[3] https://www.sanfranciscopolice.org/stay-safe/crime-data/crime-dashboard

[4] https://counciloncj.org/homicide-trends-report/

[5] https://bjs.ojp.gov/content/pub/pdf/FEMVIED.PDF

[6] https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/homicide.htm

[7] https://www.unodc.org/documents/data-and-analysis/gsh/Booklet1.pdf

[8] https://wifitalents.com/statistic/work-place-violence/

Perplexity on personal alarms

Based on the search results provided and my knowledge, there isn’t clear statistical data or documented cases specifically showing personal alarm keychains saving lives or stopping attacks. However, there are some relevant points to consider:

1. Effectiveness as a deterrent: Personal alarms are designed to startle attackers and draw attention, which could potentially deter an attack. The loud noise (often 120-140 decibels) is meant to disorient assailants and alert others nearby.

2. Anecdotal evidence: While not scientific data, customer reviews often mention feeling safer with these devices, suggesting they provide a sense of security.

3. Expert recommendations: Personal safety experts and organizations often recommend personal alarms as part of a broader safety strategy, indicating some level of perceived effectiveness.

4. Limitations: The search results note that personal alarms have limitations. They may not be effective against multiple attackers or if an assailant is wearing earphones/earplugs.

5. Lack of comprehensive studies: There doesn’t appear to be robust scientific research specifically on the effectiveness of personal alarm keychains in real-world attack scenarios.

6. Complementary tool: Personal alarms are generally recommended as one part of a broader personal safety approach, not as a standalone solution.

While personal alarms may have potential benefits, there’s a lack of concrete data proving their effectiveness in stopping attacks or saving lives. They’re likely more of a deterrent and attention-drawing tool rather than a guaranteed method of protection. More research would be needed to definitively assess their real-world impact on preventing or stopping attacks.

Citations:

[1] https://pomsafe.com/personal-alarm-keychain/

[2] https://www.stunster.com/blog/how-effective-are-personal-alarms/

[3] https://www.amazon.com/Rechargeable-Personal-Keychain-Emergency-Security/dp/B0CKPYN23Y

[4] https://www.tbotech.com/are-personal-alarms-really-effective.htm

[5] https://us.empoweredbyashley.com/blogs/news/how-effective-are-personal-safety-alarms

[6] https://www.garbo.io/blog/personal-safety-alarm

[7] https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-gear/tools/personal-safety-device-backcountry-effectiveness/

[8] https://counciloncj.org/homicide-trends-report/

Bonus Thoughts

I did look at many reviews on stun guns, and I found a big difference in the stun gun offered. There were some weapons offered at regular price, and then a sale price! It’s worth shopping around for a defense keychain, or perhaps defense keychains for your family; most sites I saw had new arrivals, free shipping, and a good refund policy, and most places took American Express, and even one I saw took Diners Club card! There is also a bit of DIY with offering a keychain kit and another defense tool. Some had, but we didn’t cover a self-defense flashlight. There was also a “defense key,” which was made into a self-defense weapon. Some of the defense flashlights came in pink and blue colors. I’m not sure if I will announce a tactical flashlight in bright colors.

The other thing to review is the crime statistics, especially from the United Kingdom. I found the statistics first, and I was sure they were wrong. However, when we looked at the USA statistics, it validated the United Kingdom findings.

I also ran into a ton of types on the federal government pages like: policy shipping policy, full page refresh, and it was easy to see why we might not trust our Government, as they can’t get webpages correctly with normal English. Well, perhaps that is what they call double-speak. Haha. Make sure to check out our blog page for Part 2 of this blog topic.