Self defense batons offer you a viable option to defend yourself when faced by an aggressor. An aggressor is the person who wishes to commit a crime against you and does so by exerting their physical power and control over your ability to flee. Batons enable a person to use a "less lethal" means of physical defense against an aggressor whose goal is to inflict physical harm.
There are expandable batons, side handle batons, kubatons and straight batons. Each type of baton is made to be held and used in a specific manner. Expandable batons usually feature a machined-foam hand grip and weigh approximately 20 ounces. Side handle batons usually feature nylon shafts, can be found in expandable models and weigh approximately 30 ounces. Straight batons are made from wood, polycarbonate resins, or acetate and weigh between 20 and 30 ounces.
Batons are available in a variety of sizes depending on the type purchased. Expandable batons range from 16 to 26 inches in total length when open and approximately 9 to 10 inches long when closed. Straight batons can range from 24 to 36 inches in length and cannot be closed to reduce their carrying size. Kubatons, which can be carried on a key chain, are generally 5 to 6 inches in length and may feature pointed ends.
Self defense batons are effective weapons, if used appropriately. You should be proficient with a baton before you begin to carry it on your person for personal safety reasons. If you are not proficient, the weapon could be taken from you and used against you by an aggressor. Batons can offer you a viable option in protecting yourself but also provide you with self confidence. Knowing that you could defend yourself if necessary gives you confidence that you may not have had previously.
It is not recommended that you carry multiple weapons on your person, or carry weapons that feature multiple uses. Multiple use weapons, such as a kubaton that also features pepper spray, can be difficult to maintain and expensive to replace. For the purposes of self defense, you should become proficient with one weapon, learn how to maintain it and be sure that the weapon is legally allowed for personal use in your city or state. You should be trained in the use and retention of batons prior to choosing a type of baton for personal use. Training will help you decide which type and size to purchase but also helps to ensure proficiency with the weapon.