Protect Yourself: Sourcing Defensive Tools in Uncertain Times
I wish there wasn’t a need to write this article at all, but unfortunately, we are in a space and time that’s uncharted. Reviewing what we’re seeing in Minnesota currently, in 2026 (as this is being written), we feel compelled to serve the community by taking the time to research defensive items.
DISCLAIMER: We are sharing these items purely for educational purposes. We are not promoting anything to anyone; we are simply offering links to items that readers could potentially purchase to make themselves feel safer during their day-to-day activities, and we should not be held liable for anything that any reader chooses to do with these items, should they choose to purchase them.
DISCLOSURE: We are including Amazon links. These links do not generate any commission. While we know what attachments Bezos/Amazon come with, and we understand that you may not want to purchase these items through Amazon, we hope you can at least get an idea of what you’re looking for and then source that item in the most ethical way you see fit. And for those who can’t find what they’re looking for elsewhere? Remember Luthen Rael from ‘Andor’ in his Season 1 speech:
EMERGENCY WHISTLE
For use to draw attention to yourself or to get the attention of others in times of emergency, this particular whistle we found comes with a chain that you can wear around your neck, and goes up to 120db (loud). It is lightweight, and depending on which finish you choose (3 finishes), it could potentially blend in with your wardrobe, or you can put it on your key ring. (AMAZON)
3-1 PEPPER GEL, SEATBELT CUTTER, WINDOW BREAKER
For those who’ve heard of pepper spray, there are some benefits to pepper gel. According to the listing’s infographic, the gel helps to minimize any blowback if you’re in the wind; it’s safer to use indoors and around others in immediate proximity. It also only affects who it connects with, and it becomes sticky, making it harder for the attacker to wipe it off. If you source another item, make sure it has UV-marking dye so that if you can get help, the recipient is still marked. (AMAZON)
ANTI-FOG GOGGLES – FITS OVER GLASSES
These goggles are to protect your eyes from any projectiles, and they fit over multiple styles of prescription glasses. Fog and scratch resistant. A note from the listing says, “VENTED FOR SPLASH PROTECTION AND AIRFLOW — Indirect D3 and D4 vents help keep these anti-fog goggles clear while sealing out splashes and fine particles; ideal as lab goggles, dust goggles, science goggles, or chemical splash goggles. During long sessions, the vents help maintain steady clarity without that stuffy, sealed-up feeling.” Keep in mind that with the ventilation, something like this may not protect you directly from assorted gases that could be dispersed. That would require a gas mask or respirator, which we are not qualified to advise on. We do, however, recommend these goggles to attempt to protect you from projectiles: thrown, shot, or otherwise. (AMAZON)
ARM COVERS WITH THUMB HOLES
While it’s cold as we’re writing this, depending on how long this goes on, this may be needed in the warmer months. If you are tattooed, we strongly urge you to cover your ink as best as you can so you’re not as easy to identify. These sleeves will help you cover any arm tattoos while having cooling and UV protection. (AMAZON)
ESCAPE BRACELET
You never know who could slap a pair of handcuffs on a person, and if that person has the legal right to do so. This is for those moments. Coming with a handcuff key and a window breaker, this is a great thing for you to have, even if you’re heading to a music festival or traveling where you can’t carry other deterrent items. (AMAZON) (BATTLBOX WEBSITE)
LEGAL POCKET KNIFE
Touted in the Amazon listing, this knife is:
- Excellent gift for all men from young boys to grandpas. Unique choice for your husband, dad, father in law, stepdad boyfriend, brother, grandpa, papa, groomsmen, son, uncle, nephew, cousin, boy, best friend, or any family member. Cool gift for boss, coworker, college, student, employee, retirement. Great for guy, hunter, welder, hiker, teen, or neighbor. It also fits police, fisherman, traveler, military, navy, truck drivers, camper, marines.
If it’s good enough for grandpa, it’s good enough for us! And it is legal in all 50 states, according to the listing. Isn’t that great? (AMAZON)
OTHER PPE SUGGESTED FROM SOCIAL MEDIA
Social media has offered other suggestions for protecting yourself at protests, including an infographic circulating that shows Hong Kong’s protest gear from 2019. Their listing includes:
- a yellow construction helmet to protect against rubber bullets and tear gas canisters
- a broad face covering to counter facial recognition
- a backpack to hold snacks, water, a change of clothes, tools, and personal first aid
- a gas mask (research what filters are needed)
- clothing that is not identifiable (plain, non-branded, many choose black)
- umbrella for protection against weather or pepper spray
- heat-resistant gloves if you have to handle a gas canister
Practice protest wisely, err on the side of caution, or be firm in your choices when attending an event such as this.