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How Often Are Guns Used in Self Defense?

The number of times guns are used in self defense is a topic of much debate.

While the mainstream media typically reports that guns are used in criminal activities many times more than they are used in self-defense, this is not supported by facts. The table below lists statistics for defensive gun use (DGU) compiled by Gary Kleck and Marc Gertz.

Kleck has testified before Congress that based on his research, there were 2.1 to 2.5 million DGUs annually, while only 300 thousand violent crimes involved the “use or threatened use of a firearm”^(GVA).

The number of times guns are used in self-defense every year is staggering. According to Department of Justice studies between 1987-1992, over 1 million people per year defended themselves with a firearm away from home ^(GV).

Further, the vast majority of these DGUs were never even reported to the police. On top of this, victims who use guns defensively are less likely to be injured than those who do not resist at all ^(GV).

Gun advocates often use the argument that guns are used in self defense more often than they are used to commit crimes.

However, very few studies have been done. This is because people often do not report whether they used a gun to defend themselves ^(GV).

In order for us to gain a better understanding of the number of times guns are used in self-defense and by whom, we need both sides of the issue to be open and honest about their research methods and findings. Further research needs to be done on this topic so that we can develop a comprehensive picture of DGUs and crimes committed with firearms.

Gun control advocates argue that the number of times guns are used in self defense is negligible compared to the number of times they are used to commit crimes.

This is supported by research done by the Violence Policy Center, which shows that for every justifiable homicide in the United States involving a gun, guns were used to murder 32 people ^(GV). GVA.

Department of Justice studies between 1987-1992 found that only 13% of all violent acts involved a firearm and 8% of victims resisted with a firearm away from home ^(GV). These statistics show that criminals are more likely to use or threaten an individual with a gun, whereas victims typically resist by other methods. It’s also important to note that while some people may report their DGU as a crime to authorities, others may not report it at all due to embarrassment or fear of reprisal from the criminal.

In order for both sides of the argument to be made based on facts, not just opinion, further research needs to be done into DGUs.

The truth is that nobody really knows how often guns are used in self defense.

While some claim that guns are used in criminal activities more often than they are used in self-defense, others suggest just the opposite.

The only way to get closer to the truth is for both sides of the argument to work together and conduct comprehensive studies on this topic so we can gain a more accurate picture of firearms usage.

However, there are several studies that provide some insight into the matter.

A study by Gary Kleck and Marc Gertz found that there were between 2.1 and 2.5 million DGUs annually ^(GV).

However, these numbers may be low due to the fact that some people don’t report their DGU as a crime to the authorities, while others don’t even report it at all due to embarrassment or fear of reprisal from the criminal.

The Department of Justice did several studies which show that less than 1% of victims resist with a firearm away from home ^(GV). These statistics show that criminals are more likely to use guns against an individual than victims are to resist with a gun. It’s also important to note that not all crimes involve firearms and some individuals may report their DGU as a crime to the authorities, while others may not report it at all due to embarrassment or fear of reprisal from the criminal.

In order for both sides of the argument to be made based on facts and not just opinion, research needs to be done into DGUs to gain a more accurate picture of self-defense firearms usage.

Ultimately, the answer to this question depends on who you ask and their personal biases.

The truth depends on who you ask and what research they base their answers on.

If you were to ask the gun rights lobby how often guns are used in self-defense, they would probably tell you that it happens very frequently ^(GV).

However, gun control advocates would argue that the number of times guns are used for self-defense is negligible compared to the number of times they’re used to commit crimes. One study by Gary Kleck and Marc Gertz suggests that there are between 2.1 and 2.5 million DGUs annually ^(GV), while another study looking at Department of Justice statistics shows that less than 1% of victims resist with a firearm away from home ^(GV). These numbers show that both sides of the argument are making claims based on speculation.

It’s important to note that not all crimes involve firearms and some individuals may report their DGU as a crime, while others may not report it at all due to embarrassment or fear of reprisal.

The only way for both sides of the argument to be made with facts rather than opinion is through comprehensive research into DGUs in order to get an accurate picture. Hopefully, this will provide insight into how often guns are used in self-defense versus being used for criminal activity.

Where to stab someone in self defense?

The neck has a lot of major blood vessels. It’s easy to reach, even if the person is taller than you are.

It should be noted that stabbing someone in self-defense isn’t something you can just do without any prior knowledge. If you’re planning on doing it, study some moves first! For example, arm yourself with information about different ways to use scissors in self-defense. Here are some tips on where to stab someone:

The side of the neck is an ideal place for a surprise attack because the nerves there are close together. There are plenty of small bones there too though, so don’t make long movements when stabbing them or else you could end up breaking your weapon. Stab near the center of the throat for maximum damage. People with shorter necks are easier to stab there, so try to go for them if you can.

The most common way of stabbing someone is in the front of the throat, which will most likely remove their ability to speak or breathe, but they’ll probably still have time to react before they actually die from blood loss. Stabbing just below Adam’s apple has a lot of major veins and arteries. If you aim at the side of the chin, your victim is likely going to bleed out quickly too, unless they’re wearing something thick like a scarf that would stop your weapon. This spot works well when combined with other moves, such as kneeing them while you stab them.

Another great place to stab somebody in self-defense, especially if you’re planning on leaving the scene afterward is in their stomach. This will cause them to lose a lot of blood over time and also get rid of their ability to move around easily due to shock. It’s an ideal place for stabbing because it takes a long time before anyone notices that they’ve been stabbed there. Try not to damage any vital organs though!

Some tips:

• Stabbing someone once in self-defense isn’t going to do much unless you hit something important.
• Aim towards soft areas with lots of veins close together, such as the aforementioned throat or neck.
• If you aren’t sure where exactly to stab someone in self-defense, go for the side of the chest since there are no major bones there.
• Don’t panic! If you’re scared, it’s unlikely that you’re going to hit the right spot.

Legal Self-Defense Weapons

For individuals who want to beef up their security, it is likely that self-defense weapons are some of the things they will be interested in. This is also true about people who are travelling to new places and they are not fully aware of how guaranteed their safety is. In fact, no one can deny the fact that we are usually more vulnerable when we go to places we are not familiar with.

Preparing yourself with functional weapons to defend yourself in case of any attack from criminals is important. We have given you a short list of the best equipment you should have to be able to defend yourself effectively. For example, pepper spray is one of the best self-defense weapon that anyone can have. It is not only lightweight and easy to take out, but it is also easy to conceal and you can easily get it through airport security when you have it in your checked bag. 

List of the best equipment

These tools can be helpful for your daily life, and when you are traveling to a new place. Let’s check them out!

Tactical Gloves

Tactical gloves are in essence the gloves with very hard knuckles. Tactical gloves are very useful especially if you know you are traveling to an area where you are likely to get into any form of physical danger with anyone. The knuckle area has steel shot sewn there.

Tactical gloves are only useful in instances where you engage with a physical fight with another individual or need when you need to demonstrate you are well prepared so that you can scare off someone. They can be very persuasive as the power of a punch amplifies especially when it is coupled with the tactical glove.

Also, for these tactical gloves to be useful, you must have them on. You can wear your gloves as you are walking through the unfamiliar areas during the night or when you are in an area which is known for its muggings. If you are not completely comfortable with your general ability to fight, you should remember that you should bring on other self-defense weapons apart from the tactical gloves.  The best thing about tactical gloves is that you can easily take them in your small carry-on bag.

Stun Guns

Despite the fact that stun guns are somehow excessive, they are the most useful non-lethal defense weapons you can have. They are legal self-defense weapons you can have in most states. Remember that you should not put your device in your carry-on but in your checked baggage if you are travelling. To avoid getting into trouble with the authorities, you should ensure that you are having a permit for your weapon.  

Tactical Knife

While the definition of a Tactical Knife is still a topic of debate, the general idea is that it is essentially one which is small, non-reflective, defective, and is also available to easily pull out at any time.

When choosing your weapon, you can opt for tactical knife that flips and opens and is contained in a holder on the side. The flip-open tactical knives are relatively easier to conceal while side-holder ones are generally great for quick access.    

Tactical Pens

Another great option that could effectively serve you well are tactical pens. While these pens write just like any other pen you see around, they have also been designed to do a wide range of other things.

These pens are equipped with impact edges, glass-breaking tips, and LED lights which work effectively to dissuade attackers. They do damage whenever they are used as weapons and this makes tem one of the best legal self-defense weapons one can have.    

Taser and Stun Gun – How to Choose

Teasers and Stun Guns have been used widely by police for years now, but they have also now become very popular consumer items particularly for self-defense. The larger population of the United States are actually allowed to have Teasers and Stun guns, especially in the wake of the court decisions finding which these self-defense weapons are covered under the famous Second Amendment’s right to carry guns. In most cases, there are always permit requirements as well as other restrictions on who should be able to buy Teasers and stun guns, when they can be used and where they can also be carried.

What are Taser and Stun Gun?

Teaser gun and stun gun are simply a sharp electric shock that deter and subdue attackers. They are an effective alternatives especially to traditional firearms. The good thing about stun guns is that they are compact, reusable, and affordable.

How to use equipment

Teasers are pistol-type devices which should shoot a small probes or darts attached to flexible, thin wires. Whenever the darts hit the target, there is electricity delivered via the wires. The electric beats pass between the probes that incapacitate the target by simply disrupting the neuromuscular system. The minute the probes are in place, you can deliver several cycles of electricity. Generally, consumer modes of Teasers have the capacity to hit the target from even up to 15 feet.

Stun guns on the other hand administer the electric shock on direct contact. The stun gun is usually activated by pulling a trigger. When that happens, electricity passes between the two metal prongs that are at the very end of the weapon. When these electrified prongs come into contact with the target, a painful shock is immediately delivered. The shock can stun and even incapacitate the target temporarily. 

Best stun gun to use

The best stun gun to use depends on a wide range of factors. When buying a stun gun, you should remember that there is nothing like perfect self-defense equipment that fits all. The perfect one is actually the one that is perfect for you. You should consider the following when choosing a stun gun to use:

• Situational usage

When and how do you plan to use your stun gun? For example, will you be using you stun gun while walking your dog or out on a run, or on your commute, or in your home? Do you need a weapon that you can use in a physical way like hitting and swinging?  

• Brand

Are you okay with having any type of product provided it serves your purpose perfectly, or do you prefer a particular brand name?

• Quality

Consider the quality you need. Are you looking for the top-of-the-line with a very high accurate from a long distance like 25 feet? Or are you looking for a stun gun that you can use face-to-face?

Conclusion

Now that teaser and stun guns are legal to carry and own in many states, there is no reason for you to live and walk around without a self-defense equipment. They are also affordable and easy to acquire.

Non-Lethal Self-Defense Equipment

Everyone should possess and carry at least one non-lethal self-defense equipment. This should be the case for even those who carry firearms. But why? Well, because not every conflict often calls for a lethal response. For example, a pickpocket does not deserve a bullet in their head. In some cases, a non-lethal weapon makes the best response.

Taser and Stun gun

Teaser and stun guns are now becoming very popular non-lethal weapons for not only those who carry firearms, but also those individuals who don’t prefer carrying a firearm. Stun guns can produce enough amount of electric power to drop flat even the largest man within seconds. It also has extra design features like snatch prevention.

In the event that a threat tries to take the equipment from you without your consent, the side shock plates will be able to deliver high voltage shock. In fact, you would really want that someone tries to try taking your device from you.

The ultra-sharp spike electrodes can help to penetrate the thickest of clothes and deliver very high voltage shock with great impact. 

TEASERs and stun guns use a great self-defense option for anyone looking for the best non-lethal self-defense equipment. You can legally own these weapons in 48 states.  

Exotic equipment (gloves, whip, pepperball)

There are also a number of exotic equipment that you can consider carrying to protect yourself from attackers and muggers. In most cases, most people don’t usually consider these weapons or even think that they can be effective self-defense equipment. One of them are tactical gloves, which can be very useful whenever you find yourself into some sort of physical danger with anyone. These gloves have hard knuckles.

Scissors and knives are also in this category. For example, pocket knives are usually the most practical types of knives while traveling. Also an aluminum water bottle can be another effective non-lethal self-defense device.

A whip is also another great exotic equipment to carry. A tactical whip can be a steel spring cable that has a solid striker. Self-defense whips are usually simple to use and they can strike from any direction. They can be better than knives that only have one sharp edge.

Pepper spray

Pepper spray is another effective option for self-defense as it is a very useful non-lethal self-equipment. It is a powerful substance that contain Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) – or capsaicin – a derivative of the cayenne pepper. It typically causes an excruciating burning sensation and temporary blindness in the mouth and eyes that incapacitates attackers, thereby allowing for a safe gateway.   

The good thing about pepper spray is that it is legal in all the 50 states and you are allowed to use it a self-defense weapon. It is also important to note that some states still have some strict regulations in place.

Conclusion

Whether you need to frighten an animal or fend off an assailant, an effective non-lethal self-defense equipment such as the ones mentioned here can be of great help and will help you defend yourself with confidence.

Self-defense equipment restrictions

Nearly 30 million crimes are committed in the United States alone every year. This makes it very necessary for people, including the average citizens, to have self-defense weapons in readiness for attacks they can prevent.

However, before you own any self-defense weapon, you should first of all know whether it is legal or illegal so that you can avoid being charged in court for violating the law. In this post, we will inform you what weapons are illegal and which ones are legal. A weapon can be legal in one state but illegal in another state. Some weapons require a license for you to carry them. 

What states are stun guns illegal?

Stun guns are considered weapons in the United States. For this reason, the possession of these weapons is highly regulated. There are states where you can legally acquire and own a stun gun as a self-defense weapon without violating the law. Similarly, there are U.S. States that restrict the ownership and use of stun guns by civilians.

So, what states are illegal to possess or own a stun gun? These states include U.S. Virgin Islands, Rhode Island, and Hawaii. Apart from these states, stun guns are legal for the purposes of civilian self-defense in the remaining 48 states. The ownership and possession of stun guns is legal in the 48 states provided a citizen doesn’t have any felony record. Also, minors are not allowed to own or possess stun guns in any of the U.S. States. Besides, stun guns are legal for US civilian self-defense provided it is used for self-defense only. 

Teaser guns and Stun guns are not categorized under firearms. Therefore, they are self-defense equipment that are legal to own in such states as Puerto Rico, WY, AL, AK, CA, AR, AZ, ME, LA, MA, IA, KY, KS, IN, IL, GA, ID, CO, DE, CT, FL, OH, NY, MD, MI, MT, MO, MS, NM, NE, NV, NC, NY, ND, NJ, NH, YV, SD, TN, VT, WA, VA, WI, TX, UT, SC, SD, OK, PA, and OR.

In Michigan, Illinois, and Wisconsin the possession and use of stun guns is legal but requires a license.

In what states is pepper spray legal?

Pepper spray is a legal self-defense device that you are allowed to possess and use provided you meet the legal requirements. It is legal to own and use pepper spray in all the U.S. 50 States provided one is above the age of 18 and has not been convicted of an assault or felony.

According to self-defense equipment restrictions, pepper spray is legal for any citizen to possess but in quantities less than 1/2oz. There are also certain restrictions in various states. For example, in Hawaii, pepper spray is legal with restrictions such as license requirement and less than 1/2 oz in quantity, while in Wisconsin, pepper spray is legal but should not contain more than 1.2% MC or 10% OC (oleoresin capsicum).

Conclusion

Pepper spray is a self-defense equipment that can incapacitate your attacker briefly. The active ingredient, capsaicin, typically causes pain, irritation, and swelling whenever it is sprayed on the face.

Night Vision and Thermal Technologies for Self-Defense

Night vision devices and thermal technologies are considered great for self-defense. In most cases, people get stuck when it comes to choosing between night vision and thermal technologies devices. In this article, we will look at the differences between the two.

Thermal and NV Cameras

Night vision and thermal cameras are different from each other. However, they also have some similarities that really stand out. In case you are looking for a thermal scope for whatever purpose during nighttime hours or the low-light hours, it is very important that you first weigh the differences and similarities between the two types of scopes. The choice might actually be a no brainer for someone who already knows which application they intend to use their riffle for.

Thermal and NV scopes

Many people are fans of riffle scopes and thermal imaging scopes and night vision. Most Night Vision, whether Digital, Gen 3, Gen 2+, etc, can be enhanced simply by the use of a great Infra Red torch, normally offering 70 percent plus more range than when there is no torch. A good Night Vision Scope offers the opportunity of being packed with an IR (Infra Red) torch for that same reason. An 850 nm (nanometer) Infra Red would be great for most night vision because the higher wavelengths are usually a bit less visible to an individual look at you but also tend to be far less visible to your very own night vision device. For Law Enforcement and Police work, digital is usually the biggest favorite since it allows you to effectively record evidentiary purposes. As such, digital is also the big favorite for head management, academics, etc.    

As already mentioned, the thermal and NV scopes have some similarities despite the fact that they are completely two different types of scopes. One of the similarities is that they are both effective in no-light and low-light settings.

First, it is important to mention that both of these two different types of scopes have the ability to get the job done provided there is complete darkness or when the light conditions are low. Either way, either of these two scopes will enable you to see and navigate effectively through obstacles. Both scopes can pick different types of IR lights. Thermal IR waves are picked up exclusively by thermal scopes. Night vision scopes will usually pick up either near or mid-range Infra Red wavelengths depending on what type or brand of night vision scopes used or optics used.  

Secondly, both thermal and NV scopes are great for tactical or self-defense situations or for hunting. In most cases, most of the targets will usually appear to you in no-light or low-light settings. This is trues especially if you are prowlers in the self-defense situation or when you are trying to ward off invaders or hunting. You will be at a great tactical advantage when you are hiding in the shadows and your attackers can’t see you.

In case of the differences, thermal scopes are able to pick up your targets from a distance while not all NV scopes can do so. To be precise, thermal scopes can pick up targets from hundreds of yards away. While some NV scopes will be able to do so as well, not all have this capability.

Thermal and NV systems for house defense

Both thermal and NV systems can be used for house defense. Even though some NV systems will not pick up the heat signature of the targets from a far distance, all of them can help you detect targets within a great radius within your home. Even a NV system with the ability to ick up and make targets which are situated about south of 100 yards will be great for house defense. 

Weapon optics

The effectiveness of shooting depends not only on the design, technical characteristics of the weapon, or the level of training of the shooter but also on the scope used. This is a very important part of the gun.

Along with the weapon, the sight also evolved. At first, it was only a front sight, in the 16th century a rear sight appeared, and a little later a circular orthoptic sight. Sighting optics began to be used only at the beginning of the 19th century.

Open sight

The open sight is the simplest in design. Its device is a rear sight and front sight located on the same line (differ in shape and design). The rear sight can have a fixed or fixed bar. To aim the weapon at the target, the shooter needs to visually combine the rear sight, front sight, and the target itself so that they are on the same line, exactly in the middle of the sight slot.

The advantages of open sights:

• reliability;
• low cost;
• compactness and lightweight;
• ease of maintenance, maintainability;
• the simplicity of design;
• mechanical strength;
• unlimited operating temperature range.

Disadvantages:

• at long distances, the front sight covers the target;
• low aiming accuracy, limited by vision capabilities;
• it takes a long time to train the skills.

Diopter sight

Diopter (ring or aperture) sight, although it refers to mechanical, but more precisely open. It is easier to use because the shooter needs less effort to aim, it is easier to find the desired position of the eyes, body, and barrel of the weapon.

The design of the diopter sight is a combination of an annular or ordinary hemp front sight with a special hole (a disc with a small hole 0.5 – 1 mm in diameter). This hole is scientifically called a diopter or aperture.

The rear sight disc serves as an obstacle that completely blocks the light flux in the direction of the target, and the aperture hole serves as a diaphragm. Through it, a contrasting image is projected into the lens. In this case, the shooter is forced to position the pupil exactly on the target line. This is the only possible position in which it will be visible. Aiming is intuitive.

The diopter sight provides the highest accuracy of all mechanical sights but has very low light transmission. In low light and at dusk, it is not used.

Starting with the simplest, diopter sight, the question arises of installing it on a weapon. It is most commonly used for small-bore or air rifles.

Main advantages:

1. high accuracy;
2. simplicity, reliability, mechanical strength;
3. low cost;
4. compactness and low weight.

Disadvantages:

1. narrow field of view;
2. low light transmission;
3. covers the target (except for the point of impact).

Optical sight

To facilitate long-range shooting, optics are installed on the weapon. This is a telescope with a reticle. It simplifies the aiming process, increases accuracy and the chances of a successful shot.

The tubular metal housing contains the lens and eyepiece. These are two systems of lenses, between which a reticle is installed in one of the focal planes. To obtain a straight, not inverted image, an inverting system is used.

The sight is rigidly mounted on the weapon, and the precise adjustment of the reticle position is performed by the ballistic correction mechanism. Many examples have LED lighting for hunting at dusk.

Benefits:

• high accuracy;
• the ability to see the target at a great distance;
• convenience, simplicity, and speed of guidance;
• simple and reliable design.

Disadvantages:

• small viewing angle;
• an increase in the weight and dimensions of the weapon;
• afraid of blows, mechanical damage;
• overlaps the open sight: it is impossible to take a shot at close range (except for enclosures).

Laser sight

A laser range finding rifle scopes is a compact device that forms a light spot on the target that coincides with the midpoint of impact. This makes it possible to increase the effectiveness of the use of weapons at close ranges, the speed of guidance, and the accuracy of fire.

A laser designator is not a weapon sight in the literal sense of the word, but an auxiliary sighting device that has a limited range and accuracy.

Benefits:

• simplicity and high speed of aiming;
• minimum weight and dimensions;
• simplicity and reliability of the design.

Disadvantages:

• short-range;
• the light spot of the radiation source is unmasked by the arrow;
• bright sunlight can light up the mark.

Night sight

The night vision scope enhances the image of a target that has a low brightness. It allows for accurate shooting in almost complete darkness.

Benefits of night scopes:

• high accuracy in poor visibility conditions;
• range up to 300 meters or more, depending on the image intensifier;
• relatively low weight and dimensions;
• long-term continuous work;
• high reliability (compared to digital ones).

Disadvantages:

• relatively high cost of modern models (generation 2 and above);
• snow, rain, fog, branches, and tall grass are obstacles;
• in complete darkness, and IR illumination is required;
• in the opposite light, protection against illumination is triggered.

Thermal imaging sight

A thermal imaging sight is a device that visualizes the target’s thermal radiation. It does not need external light sources, allowing you to aim the weapon in complete darkness. This uses data on the temperature of the object itself in comparison with the surrounding space.

Benefits:

• the farthest detection distances for thermal targets;
• work in complete darkness;
• can work in light, there is no flare;
• accuracy like telescopic sights;
• snow, rain, fog, foliage, and grass are not a hindrance.

Disadvantages:

• complex construction;
• high price;
• additional power supply required.

Choose your scope carefully and wisely.