top of page
Writer's pictureGil Peleg

Top 5 self-defense tools that can be worn on the body or in a women's bag: in Israeli Krav-Maga

Updated: Jun 16, 2022

In this article, we will look at: What does a tactical Krav-Maga class include? What are the tactical self-defense risk assessment strategies? Why is it necessary to study different means and weapons for self-defense? What outdoor or indoor protection skills do you need to survive? What is the top 5 most common tactical self-defense gear that can be worn on the body or in a women's bag? What is pepper spray? What types of stun guns are there? What is a tactical pen? What is the use of keys for self-defense? What types of training knives and protective equipment are used in Krav-Maga training? What types of real assault knives are there? What types of tactical pen, stun gun, and pepper spray are there?

 
Warning!
The concepts presented here are for illustrative purposes only. Before attempting any technique discussed or presented in this article, seek professional training from a reputable instructor.
 

What does a tactical Krav-Maga class include?

Tactical Krav-Maga classes include intense exercises specifically designed for outdoor and indoor self-defense, where the basics of street and combat training, both physical and mental, are taught: Increased cardiopulmonary endurance and explosive strength; Psychological awareness of stressful situations; Combat positions; Weak spots; Visions of combat and blocking in an efficient and tactical manner; Use of cold and hot weapons - a knife, a pistol, and a stick; Fight at zero distance - including wrestling exercises, standing and on the ground; Releases from grips and suffocation while standing and on the ground; survival techniques; Using items from everyday life such as newspapers, women's bags, mobile phones, keys, and more... Training scenario for individuals and teams for the security forces; operational driving; Operational shooting and more... Tactical self-defense courses for various areas, focused on: Employees of law enforcement agencies - military and police; For - hospitals, firefighters, municipal institutions, airports, and law-abiding citizens. There are self-defense security specialists who give advice on how to prevent future scenarios in the institutions mentioned above and assess the risks of their occurrence in the future... According to Mark Fesler (6th Dan in Krav-Maga), “In Krav-Maga, students prepare for situations and extreme scenarios taken from real everyday life, which are written in the blood of innocent victims of an attack,” and adds: “Every state and organization in accordance with their own laws and codes of conduct... therefore "It is important to tailor Krav-Maga training to the specifics of the state or institution, whether in a civil or professional setting".


What are the tactical self-defense risk assessment strategies?

The main core of minimizing security risks is the construction of: a program for a comprehensive assessment of security risks; Modeling of possible scenarios of robbery or terrorism depending on the geographical location and in the field of activity of the organization. When the main goal is to identify weaknesses in the security chain and develop effective strategies and tactics to reduce the risk of attack, robbery, or terrorism. When the cost of hiring experts in the field is negligible compared to minimizing the risks of an attack, robbery, or terrorist attack that can be prevented in the future. In the risk assessment strategy, great importance is attached to the structure and its geographical location; Access control systems, i.e. modern technologies used in security programs, such as alarm systems, camera directions, emergency actions, and risks associated with insider threats. An organization that cares about the future of itself and its employees invests financial resources in developing or modifying outdated contingency plans. That is, emergency situations must be consistent with the risks, the environment of the organization, and with its employees.


Why is it necessary to study different means and weapons for self-defense?

In Israel, every citizen (male and female) is required to do military service. In military service, they learn tactical combat and tactical self-defense at different levels depending on the type of service they are supposed to do. When there is military personnel who are engaged in servicing combat units and those who are actually fighting. As a result, divided into different levels of self-defense training. Most civilians who have served in the Israeli army are familiar with the basics of tactical self-defense. Many of them, having familiarized themselves with Krav-Maga, turn it into a way of life in civilian life. That is, they understand the importance of knowing the issue of tactical self-defense even in civilian life... when the threat can lurk anywhere if it is work; On the street on the way to work or at the university; in a bar, at a disco, etc. The purpose of this article is to provide you with information about the different types of weapons that you carry on your body or in a women's bag that you can use for your self-defense or the self-defense of your loved ones.


What outdoor or indoor protection skills do you need to survive?

Using a tactical pen for self-defense
Using a tactical pen for self-defense

In tactical self-defense, great importance is attached to psychological preparation in situations of distress. That is if we get into stress, then most likely we will lose the battle. At the heart of tactical training is to avoid aggression and escalation of events. Talk to the attacker, let him feel that you are not a danger to him and want to part with the world; sometimes it's better to apologize than get into a street fight that could end up in the hospital or worse. But this is not always possible; when there is a clear intention to attack, one must defend oneself. For this purpose, the use of any means that are in your hands and can help you get out of trouble is welcome. It's always better to be prepared for the worst-case scenario in which you have to defend against one or more attackers with the clear intention of harming you; To rob you, etc. The strategy for defending against one intruder is completely different from several. When it comes to dealing with multiple attackers, it is recommended to defend and attack while standing. For this reason, a narrow range of skills has been developed in Krav-Maga, including the ability to neutralize the enemy while standing with and without weapons: in Krav-Maga, punches, elbows, kicks, and knees are practiced. Techniques are familiar from martial arts such as Karate, Muay Thai, Kung Fu, etc. However, sometimes it is necessary to use self-defense tools to increase the chance of survival in case of multiple attackers. For the purpose of tactical self-defense, they are taught to use small items that can be carried on the body or in a woman's bag, such as keys, mobile phone, bag, pen, pencil, credit card, newspaper, tactical pen, stun gun, pepper spray, etc. Special courses focus on tactical self-defense, with attention being paid to common scenarios that have occurred and scenarios that may occur. Instructors bring trainees to the level of animal instincts. When there is no compromise in speed, determination, strength, and power when performing this or that exercise.


What is the top 5 most common tactical self-defense gear that can be worn on the body or in a women's bag?

Krav-Maga has developed unique methods to make the most of everyday items available for self-defense, i.e. self-defense at any moment. Our immediate environment is replete with various items that can be used such as stones, sticks, chairs, newspaper, pens, etc... In general, the use of available items in Krav-Maga falls into two main categories: immovable objects such as a door, heavy table, and more...; And in particular items that can be moved, such as a rolled-up newspaper, a flashlight, keys, a bag, and more... which are mainly used for offense and defense. In addition, there are self-defense tools that can be purchased specifically for this purpose, such as a knife, pepper spray, a shock gun, a tactical pen, and more... In this article, we raise awareness of the everyday items that a person wears on the body, or in a women's bag for tactical self-defense. In future articles, we will discuss other objects mentioned above.


A set of non-lethal protective equipment that can be worn on the body or in a women's bag:

What is pepper spray?

Pepper spray: This is a strong enough substance that can be used as an effective defense even against bears. The security forces use it in the army and police against rioters who are not armed with hot or cold weapons but still pose a danger to others. Its inflammatory effect causes swelling and closure of the eyes, making further attack impossible. However, it has several disadvantages. When the jet is fired at the attacker's face, some of it will likely hit you. People with difficulty breathing are at risk. Also, because pepper sprays are made from chemicals that can't withstand high temperatures or cold, they expire over time. Note: Using milk is an effective method of helping a person affected by pepper spray, but it is not an immediate remedy. Whereas, the use of water may aggravate the condition without neutralizing the active ingredient.


What is a shock gun?

Shock Gun: A great replacement for pepper spray as it can work even in inclement or rainy weather. The security forces use it in the army and police against the rioters. Even the appearance of an electrical flash can be enough to frighten intruders without using it. It's definitely not pleasant to get thousands of volts of electricity and be immobilized. So, what types of shock guns are there? Modern models of such devices are similar: a flashlight, lipstick, mobile phone, gun, and other disguises. Experts promise that this appearance allows you to produce the effect of surprise and win extra time. Most devices use external contacts that you need to press against the body of the enemy and press the power button. This is the direct way of working. But there are models that shoot with needles. Thus, there is no need to contact the attacker. In principle, there are shock devices with three different levels of intensity: with low intensity, it is possible to intimidate an attacker. The average power allows you to disable the attacker for up to 5 minutes. And finally, the strongest strikes the attacker until he loses consciousness for a long time. The first option is only recommended for threats. It is likely that against a serious bully, such a tool can only piss him off. Thus, the scope of low-power devices is small.

Attention! There are legal aspects and legal restrictions on the purchase and wearing of these devices in each country. It is also recommended to take a short training course in the use of such devices.


A set of protective equipment, weapons that can be worn on the body or in a bag and which can be deadly:

What is a folding tactical knife?

Knife: The simplest weapon that can be found almost anywhere, and in fact everyone has at least a few, be it a military knife or a regular kitchen knife. A folded tactical knife can be bought at any gun shop and is the most dangerous. In a closed/crowded space, a knife can be more dangerous than a gun. When the special functions of the folding knife are: Quick opening; It has a serrated blade with an ergonomic handle.

Attention! From a legal standpoint, you should be aware of the existing legal restrictions on buying and carrying a knife for self-defense, and there may be different rules and restrictions anywhere in the world. It is also recommended to take a basic Krav Maga training course in order to effectively use the knife in extreme attack situations for self-defense.


What is a tactical pen?

Tactical Pen: This is an effective survival item and it is important to clarify that learning how to handle a tactical pen requires deep study and practice. Is it possible to learn the techniques required to use a tactical pen without frontal learning? It is possible with the help of training videos and theory. However, in order to work out contact with the opponent and scenarios similar to reality, it is advisable to do this with friends in the training room and under the supervision of a qualified coach.


What is the use of keys for self-defense?

Keys: This is an effective self-defense tool that everyone has in their pocket or in a woman's purse. They can be used as stabbing daggers. However, it is worth noting that they are not as sharp as a dagger/real knife, but with sufficient force, they can deal significant damage. In the hands of a skilled person, they become deadly weapons for self-defense. Israeli Krav-Maga has a short tactical training course that includes the effective use of keys on the streets and indoors. According to Mark Fesler (6th Dan in Krav-Maga), “Almost anything can be used as a weapon in an emergency; folded newspaper; a bunch of keys; a regular pen, etc”. In our lessons, there are chapters on self-defense with household items that you can improvise with, including a regular pen and not necessarily a tactical one.

 

What do they wear in Krav-Maga?

According to the history of the formation of the Combat System, it was intended for the security forces of the State of Israel, so formal clothes were uniform (military uniform). Although there are schools that teach in black Ninjutsu-Style pants and a black T-shirt, it is usually necessary to wear Martial arts shoes as well. Important note! Women’s and men's equipment in this method are absolutely identical. The following is a recommended list of clothing when training Krav Maga:








What does the training equipment of the Krav-Maga trainer include?

Following the history of the method, great importance is attached to the formation of functional muscles. On the one hand, it is necessary to work on speed and agility in movement, and on the other hand, to develop muscles to increase strength and power. To succeed in this task: Need to work with small weights, many reps in each set; Also combine with strength training, it is advisable to consult with a trainer so as not to damage the muscle ligaments; It is recommended to work with a wrist expander and rubber for dynamic loading; With heavy training rope; a lot of reps on a heavy and light boxing bag; With a punching bag, etc ... It is imperative to practice throwing, choking, blocking, kicking and punching. Punches and knees on the trainer's abdomen may only be performed with suitable and safe belly protectors! In the tactical training of Krav-Maga, rubbery equipment is used like knives, padded sticks, etc... One needs to use equipment that has passed strict safety tests. When signing up for a club, check if their gym floor is well protected and if there is a suitable protective pad against falls, throws, etc. Below is a list of the recommended trainer equipment when teaching Krav-Maga:

How important is personal protective equipment when practicing Krav-Maga?

Good schools understand the importance of protective equipment when teaching martial arts in general and in combat in particular. Demonstrations and battles are not allowed without appropriate protective equipment! These are usually inexpensive shields compared to the physical damage they prevent. Also, there is no insurance without protective equipment! When striking a punching bag, be it a jab, cross, hook, or uppercut, boxing gloves should be used. It is recommended for full contact to use a body protector that maintains the integrity of the ribs. Also, shields for the head, teeth, groin, and legs are recommended.

It is very important to practice Krav-Maga using rubber training knives and even more important during training to wear appropriate protective equipment: such as glasses designed to protect the eyes; a body protector; a Head guard against receiving an unwanted blow. The following is a list of recommended equipment for knife defense studies in Israeli Krav-Maga:

With what equipment is it recommended to practice Krav-Maga at home?

To learn Krav-Maga, one needs to practice the same thing, many times over. This is not a theoretical area compared to other martial arts where one can learn from a trainer by watching directly through a computer. So practice and interaction are of the utmost importance. Although, it is worth it and even recommended to work at home on punches and kicks, strength training, etc. For this purpose, it is possible to purchase minimal personal equipment that does not take up much space at home. Prepares physically for classes in the section. It also improves the following parameters: Strength, flexibility, cardiopulmonary endurance, and more.

Using a yoga mat, abdominal muscles can be improved; Training weights are to improve muscle strength; Using an adjustable strength bench can strengthen chest muscles by lifting weights; A free-standing punching bag is a perfect solution for punching and kicking improvement at home ... Below is a list of recommended equipment for home exercise:






Home training is recommended to be performed under the supervision of a certified trainer. It is recommended to avoid exercising alone at home!

How important is cardiopulmonary endurance in Krav-Maga workouts?

First of all, this is health, and secondly, in a battle that does not end in a short time, the one who has cardiopulmonary endurance wins. To improve cardiopulmonary endurance, it is recommended to take brisk walks, combined with running, to increase and decrease the pace. These runs can be done outdoors, on the coast, on a Treadmill, or on a Home spinning bike. Recommended: Wear suitable shoes while running, and document and monitor your calorie burn and heart rate with your Smartwatch. Also, with the help of this it is very easy to see improvements in cardiopulmonary endurance, In fact, all your actions are recorded using a computer, and there is a training history. The following is a list of recommended personal equipment for home workouts, for developing cardiopulmonary endurance, and for monitoring and controlling progress:







Home training is recommended to be performed under the supervision of a certified trainer. It is recommended to avoid exercising alone at home!

What types of real assault knives exist?

Warning!: Real and dangerous combat knives have been attached below, do not use them for training purposes! Do not use them to intentionally hurt someone! They are for illustration only! That is, to recognize existing threats and be prepared for them! The following is a list of real attack knives for illustration only (there are dozens of different types of attack knives):





What are the recommended books to read, on the subject of knives?

Dear friends, if you are reading this article I guess you like the subject of knives. As a result, I will share with you a number of books on this subject that I have personally read and been very impressed with. You will ask and rightly so, why are they not only about an Israeli Krav-Maga? My answer is simple, I believe that for survival any self-defense technique is good! As much as it is applicable and useful! In our Facebook Group, we are talking about applicable self-defense, and what is good about it is that the method has no meaning at all, but the application of realistic exercises for effective self-defense! As a result, the books are also from different fighting methods regarding knives. I hope you will enjoy them.







 

Summary: Top 5 self-defense gear that can be worn on the body or in a women's bag

In this article, we looked at what tactical Krav-Maga classes include what are the risk assessment strategies for tactical self-defense; Why is it necessary to know various means and weapons for self-defense, and what are the skills of protection on the street or in an enclosed space for survival; What they are - Top 5 common tactical self-defense tools that can be worn on the body or in a women's bag: pepper spray, types of shock weapons, tactical pen, keys, and a folding knife. We also saw what types of training knives and protective gear are used to train Krav-Maga; What types of real assault knives exist; What types of tactical pen, stun gun, and pepper spray are there.

 

Written by Gil Peleg.

Professional consultant in Krav-Maga Mark Fesler.

 

Dear friends, I invite you to read more about applicable Self-Defense in our Group below:

Dear friends, SUBSCRIBE to the Fitness Warriors Club's blogs page, and be the first to read new articles on the issues of Self-Defense:

Amazon's affiliate program - Fitness Warriors Club is participating in Amazon's affiliate program through the Website & through professional blogs where there are links to products marketed on Amazon. Fitness Warriors Club is not responsible for any economic and operational activities related to this program as for the refund of any payments regarding this program. All these issues will be settled with Amazon.







Commentaires


bottom of page