Equipment
Last and least on our Mindset list is equipment. Choosing a specific snub model or an appropriate aftermarket feature is only important after the issues of mindset, tactics and skills have been thoroughly attended to. I have my own theories about the ideal snub models and the important snub accessories and I will introduce and explain each of them throughout this monograph. Keep in mind though that my snub choices and preferred aftermarket accessories are not recommendations per se. My snub revolver setup addresses my personal requirements and individual skill limitations. Your self-defense needs may require an entirely different set of options.
Companion Tools
Andrew F. Branca, well known attorney and author of Self-Defense and the Law, reminds us that whenever you are carrying a handgun, it is also important to carry a less-than-lethal self-defense option. Failure to do so attorney Branca warns leaves the legally armed citizen open to an accusation that he was acting the part of the “vigilante”, the proverbial hammer that went in search of a nail. Of the several available options I am an advocate for the 2 oz can of pepper-spray as the initial less-than-lethal tool. The 2 oz OC aerosol canister is roughly the size of a D size battery. It is easy to carry and it is easy conceal (see below.) I recommend OC because it can be an effective dual level self-defense tool. In addition to actually applying the aerosol often the OC canister’s presentation alone can deter an impending assault. Few bad guys who have had prior experience with OC are in a rush for a second encounter. Remember though that OC like any self-defense tool requires competent training. Remember also that many states require proper licensing to possess OC. Always check with your local police first before carrying any self-defense tool.
JOX horizontal OC carrier with 2oz pepper spray, E2E flashlight and Delica Folding knife
The sadly discontinued JOX horizontal Pepper Pouch OC carrier was one of the niftiest options for concealing OC I have ever run across. It slipped on to the belt quickly, retained the OC in a low profile position, and permitted rapid access and return. One is always a constant companion on my belt.
A second popular less-than-lethal tool is the compact high intensity flashlight. As nationally known firearms trainer Andy Stanford has often noted, a handgun without a flashlight is only a 12-hour tool and it is the wrong 12-hours. The flashlight is invaluable for both mundane chores as well as for self-defense tasks. As a self-defense tool it lets you identify both objects and people from a distance, it can light up dark holes where trouble can hide and it can be a very effective improvised Kubotan or Yawara for those trained in either of those weapons.
A third possible companion tool is the small folding knife. A small lock-back folding knife can be both a utility tool and a self-defense weapon. When purchased in some non menacing color it is often overlooked as a self-defense weapon and can occasionally pass into an otherwise weapon free environment.
If you do opt for carrying OC, a tactical light or a small folding knife be sure to first locate a qualified defense tactics instructor. Many nationally known firearms trainers are crossed trained as OC aerosol and/or pepper spray instructors. There are also many edged weapon, knife and counter-knife instructors who offer customized one and two-day self-defense programs specifically using small (2-1/2 to 4-inch blade length) knives. The list of low light weapon skills trainers who accept legally armed civilians is short but some are available. Andy Stanford of Stiletto Alley is one notable example As companion items to your snub, a small OC aerosol, a small tactical flashlight and a small folding knife give the legally armed and properly trained citizen a remarkably flexible self-defense kit, the whole of which would fit in the palm of one hand.
