ChrisFry
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Small Impact Tool Options
By Chris Fry
For years I have carried one form or another of small impact tool as part of my Every Day Carry Gear. Small impact tools (SIT) offer a force multiplier and option for carry of a tool in non-permissive environments such as municipal facilities, hosptials and airports. Utilization and SIT training integrates well with and shares common movements with many practical empty hand combatives skills and point driven edged weapon applications. Small impact tools also provide another force option that can be utilized depending upon the circumstances of the situation. Remember, pulling a folding knife out of your pocket and striking with the closed folder is a viable application of non-lethal force but in many jurisdictions it will still be construed as you pulling a knife. Some ladies whom I've worked with were not comfortable carrying or the thought of deploying an edged weapon but took to the suggestion of a small handheld impact tool rapidly, without hesitation.
Some Small Impact Tool Considerations:
•Whatever tool you choose to EDC it must be readily available. Like pepper spray or OC, a "keychain" kubotan is of no use buried at the bottom of a purse or backpack.
•Many traditional kubotans, palm sticks and keychain devices are VERY overt in my humble opinion. These types of SIT could possibly draw unwanted attention from friends and co-workers or provide information about your possible level of preparedness to potential assailants.
•Some commonplace SIT's seen today include the newest trend and flood of "Tactical Pens" and tactical flashlights into the market. Both offer excellent dual purpose applications.
•While pens and flashlights are applicable consider that TSA and commercial security companies are more aware than ever of these items and their potential uses; be aware of this and plan accordingly. A standard sharpie marker, firm metal pen, wooden stylus or letter opener stowed in your carry-on serves the purpose without giving away your situational preparedness or holding you up. Although I like collecting gear and tactical items I do my best to not carry them openly when traveling and attempt to blend in as best I can. The highly visible pocket clips found on folding knives, tactical flashlights and tactical pens can be a target indicator to some.
•If traveling or working in a non-permissive environment, consider carrying a SIT in the same location or general area as your primary EDC personal protection tools (firearm, folding knife or fixed blade knife). This will facilitate easier access and deployment of the SIT without having to add another motor skills to be trained such as accessing from an off body location or breast pocket etc.. Carrying the SIT in the same pocket as your folding knife for example provides commonality of movement when accessing and drawing either tool.
Conclusion:
A tool is better than no tool when it comes to personal protection. Criminals do not hesitate to use any items they can to commit their intended crimes. Research and consider integrating a small impact tool into your own or a loved ones personal defense profile. Remember that any tool requires the proper software and an understanding of justifiable use and proper, effective application, so get some training.
By Chris Fry
For years I have carried one form or another of small impact tool as part of my Every Day Carry Gear. Small impact tools (SIT) offer a force multiplier and option for carry of a tool in non-permissive environments such as municipal facilities, hosptials and airports. Utilization and SIT training integrates well with and shares common movements with many practical empty hand combatives skills and point driven edged weapon applications. Small impact tools also provide another force option that can be utilized depending upon the circumstances of the situation. Remember, pulling a folding knife out of your pocket and striking with the closed folder is a viable application of non-lethal force but in many jurisdictions it will still be construed as you pulling a knife. Some ladies whom I've worked with were not comfortable carrying or the thought of deploying an edged weapon but took to the suggestion of a small handheld impact tool rapidly, without hesitation.
Some Small Impact Tool Considerations:
•Whatever tool you choose to EDC it must be readily available. Like pepper spray or OC, a "keychain" kubotan is of no use buried at the bottom of a purse or backpack.
•Many traditional kubotans, palm sticks and keychain devices are VERY overt in my humble opinion. These types of SIT could possibly draw unwanted attention from friends and co-workers or provide information about your possible level of preparedness to potential assailants.
•Some commonplace SIT's seen today include the newest trend and flood of "Tactical Pens" and tactical flashlights into the market. Both offer excellent dual purpose applications.
•While pens and flashlights are applicable consider that TSA and commercial security companies are more aware than ever of these items and their potential uses; be aware of this and plan accordingly. A standard sharpie marker, firm metal pen, wooden stylus or letter opener stowed in your carry-on serves the purpose without giving away your situational preparedness or holding you up. Although I like collecting gear and tactical items I do my best to not carry them openly when traveling and attempt to blend in as best I can. The highly visible pocket clips found on folding knives, tactical flashlights and tactical pens can be a target indicator to some.
•If traveling or working in a non-permissive environment, consider carrying a SIT in the same location or general area as your primary EDC personal protection tools (firearm, folding knife or fixed blade knife). This will facilitate easier access and deployment of the SIT without having to add another motor skills to be trained such as accessing from an off body location or breast pocket etc.. Carrying the SIT in the same pocket as your folding knife for example provides commonality of movement when accessing and drawing either tool.
Conclusion:
A tool is better than no tool when it comes to personal protection. Criminals do not hesitate to use any items they can to commit their intended crimes. Research and consider integrating a small impact tool into your own or a loved ones personal defense profile. Remember that any tool requires the proper software and an understanding of justifiable use and proper, effective application, so get some training.
