How to Choose the Best Self-Defense Flashlight

One of the most rewarding training activities I participate in these days is figuring out how to use all kinds of random and everyday items for self-defense purposes. After more than two decades learning and teaching martial arts, one thing I know for sure is that just about anything can be used as a weapon. From broomsticks to lightbulbs to house keys, there’s always an interesting way to wield what you have on hand. One extremely common and practical item that everyone has or should have in their home, place of business, car, purse, backpack, and/or briefcase is a flashlight. So as a self-defense minded individual, I believe it’s important to own and know how to use a self-defense flashlight.

Of course, the functionality of any flashlight as an illuminating device is paramount. You’ll want to make sure it has enough luminous flux, battery life, and versatility to be useful in your particular situation. But when it comes to using a self defense flashlight as a weapon, there are a few other elements to consider as well. Here are some important features to keep in mind when searching for the best self-defense flashlight for you.

Grip 

Using a flashlight in any normal scenario doesn’t test your grip strength
very much. But try striking an object with it as hard as you can, and see how difficult it is to retain the unit. That’s why, when it comes to flashlight self-defense, the grip on a flashlight is pretty important. You’ll want to make sure it has some brittle lining or grip grooves, like the Streamlight tactical flashlight,  so it won’t easily slip from your hands when striking. Also, make sure the diameter of the grip fits well with your hand size. You may even want a smaller light, like a tactical pen flashlight, so you can totally engulf the handle for all kinds of maneuverability. If you can’t fully wrap the grip with your hand and fingers, chances are it will eject from your grip when striking. 

Weight

When choosing the right self-defense flashlight, you’ll also need to consider the weight of the unit. Unless you’re using a tactical pen flashlight for jabbing purposes, you’ll need a unit light enough to swing and maneuver quickly, yet heavy enough to inflict damage with only one or a few blows. This will depend on your own personal hand and arm strength. Additionally, you’ll want to assure the weight distribution of the flashlight works as a wielding unit. A baton flashlight is an excellent example of a weight-oriented unit made for swinging purposes—thicker and heavier at the top, and skinner at the base. Model this concept when choosing a flashlight for self-protection.

Design & Material

When it comes to material, definitely stay away from plastic. You’ll want a flashlight made from high-grade aluminum alloy or metal. Most tactical flashlights will be made from strong material by default, so you should be fine if you go tactical. Just don’t pick up a cheap flashlight at the local supermarket and hope it stays intact during a fight. In terms of design, length DOES matter when it comes to weapons. Again, unless you’re handy with a pen flashlight, you’ll have an easier time defending yourself with a long-range weapon than a shorter one. I always say, the more distance the better when it comes to self-defense weapons unless you’re extremely well-trained in short-range weapons. Try the baton flashlight, for example, or even just a solid, stainless steel flashlight that’s at least 10-inches in length. The only thing you have to worry about when it comes to longer weapons is that it may be easier for an attacker to intercept the weapon because of its length; so hold tight and guard the weapon with your free hand whenever necessary. 

Weaponry Features

Finally, we, of course, need to consider the features of a tactical self-defense flashlight that are specifically designed for protection. That means spikes, hooks, evidence traps, and electric currents. Do you want a spiked flashlight, with the ability to jab and inflict damage in both directions? Do you want a DNA catcher penlight, designed with scrapers to capture DNA evidence during an attack? A great option is the flashlight stun gun, so you have two weapons in one—a wielding weapon and an electric current. And of course, as mention earlier, there are the baton flashlights—great for maneuverability, distance, weight, and general self-defense purposes. The options are many and your choices must be based on your particular abilities, strengths and weaknesses, and the scenarios in which you’re most likely to use a flashlight for self-defense. 

Whatever flashlight you choose for protection, make sure you practice, practice, practice with it. Rehearse withdrawing it from your pocket or belt, striking heavy bags with it, maneuvering and running with it, and make sure the grip, weight, and other elements of the flashlight fit with your particular fighting abilities and movement. For a variety of great self-defense flashlights, check out a tactical flashlight from The Home Security Superstore today.

Good luck and stay safe!