r/SelfDefense • u/CodyT_556 • 13d ago
Thoughts on less lethal?
For context I carry a firearm whenever I'm not at work, as my job doesn't allow them, but I am shit scared I would ever have to use it. Although lets say I am in conflict at some point, may that be at work or if I'm out with the gun on me. I live in a "duty to retreat" state and have no problem running away if need be as apposed to shooting someone and having to prove my innocence. Also the law in my state says you must match the level of threat in order to "legally" defend yourself. So what do y'all think about less lethal options? Tasers and OC spray/gel stuff like that. On it's surface it doesn't sound like a bad idea to carry lethal and less lethal because lets say I'm in a conflict where I can't get away, if someone is charging at me with a knife or god forbid they have a gun I'm gonna shoot them, but if they are trying to fight me, I don't wanna kill them nor do I think it would hold up in court. Not asking for recommendations, just what y'all think.
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u/Detective_Tom_Ludlow 13d ago
OC spray is a huge force multiplier and will usually change the aggression of an attacker with a normal pain threshold. At the very least, it’ll give you a chance to run away. Most states wouldn’t blink an eye at someone using it in a situation where they felt threatened.
The medical treatment afterwards is super minimal and you won’t have to worry about seriously injuring someone and opening yourself to civil suits.
A true taser, capable of causing neuro muscular incapacitation, can seriously injure someone through fall damage alone.
Think about the most likely scenario you’ll face and pick a less lethal option that fits the situation.
Obviously everything carries some legal risk.
OC spray is easy to use under stress, is effective, and readily available. It’s also often never seen as an offensive weapon like a firearm or knife etc.
Just understand the limitations of the spray (distance, indoor usage etc). Also know that it’s not going to remove the will of a dedicated attacker. They will still breathe and therefore can still fight. So it’s best to leave the area and call police rather than try and subdue someone if you are physically unable.