By Dana Benner
“The pen is mightier than the sword” is a phrase that has become commonplace in our hectic world. Usually, we think of these seven words in political terms, where human fate is at the whim of a stroke of a pen. This is especially during this time of war in the Ukraine. This article takes a different look; one where a pen can actually be used as a defensive weapon. Don’t overlook the “power of the pen”.
CRKT Williams Defense Pen
Anyone who is a student of the martial arts knows that anything, even the most mundane object, can be used as a defensive weapon. Even something as simple as a pen can inflict pain when used correctly. That is why I found it odd that when I traveled by air a year or so back, that the TSA was worried more about fingernail clippers than the numerous writing instruments that I openly carried.
I couldn’t, wouldn’t and didn’t, carry anything with a blade, so I had nothing to worry about, but I was allowed carry as many pens and sharpened pencils as I wanted. While I couldn’t hurt anyone or take over the plane with fingernail clippers, I could do some damage to someone with a sharpened pencil or a common pen. It just didn’t make any sense then and it still doesn’t now.
Gerber Impromptu Tactical Pen
Just think about it. A pencil is little more than a sharpened stick and humans have been using sharp sticks as tools and weapons for thousands of years. Pens, especially metal bodied pens, can be used to turn away an attack by a bladed weapon and the used offensively.
With enough force a pen or a pencil can break skin. There are many soft, fleshy parts on the human body that are vulnerable to such a tool. As not to give people any ideas, I will not mention those areas. Just trust me on this, they do exist.
In a defensive situation, your best bet is to always try to extradite yourself from the situation as quickly and safely as possible. With that being said, there will be those times when that is not an option. Ideally, if you have to defend yourself, it is much better to have a firearm or a bladed weapon, but there are times and places where that is not possible; like in a courtroom, a school, on an airplane or in an airport. A good pen may just be your only option. Remember your goal is defense. Don’t go nuts and try to take out all of the bd guys. Do just enough to stay alive and get away.
5.11 Tactical Kubaton
Part of my EDC is having a good tactical pen on me at all times. As a writer I need to have a good pen, or two, to pursue my trade and nobody would ever think twice about seeing me with one. If the need arises I will at least have a defensive weapon on hand.
While any pen will do in most circumstances there are some that I feel more comfortable with than others. I like a pen that has a strong, metal body. Even though there are many “tactical” pens out there, I have three that I really like and you will find me carrying one, or all of them, at any given time.
- Gerber Impromptu Tactical
I really like this pen. First, it is American made and second, it is tough. Besides being a pen, it has a glass breaking tip, just in case. The body is made of machined steel, which means it will take a beating. The Impromptu was designed in collaboration with law enforcement, so it is not only functional under normal conditions, but will also work in all weather conditions, as a rescue tool and a defensive weapon.
- CRKT Williams Defense Pen
Like all pens, this instrument will allow you to take notes, but it is so much more. Developed by former Army officer and martial arts instructor James Williams, this pen is a welcomed addition to your EDC. It is strong and light, the shell being made out of aluminum. It has a tapered body which improves grip. This design also makes it an effective defensive weapon, inflicting intense pain and injury when used as such.
- 11 Tactical Kubaton Tactical
Everyone who knows me knows that I am a big fan of the products put out by 5.11 Tactical, and this pen is no different. They body is made of tough aluminum and has an aggressive pommel grip which allows it for easy handling in a defensive situation. It can be used in all weather conditions and has a non-threatening look making it perfect for EDC. Like with everything, looks can be deceiving.
The goal is to stay alive in a potentially bad situation. Bad stuff happens all of the time. The big question is whether you are prepared for it or not? Is having a good tactical pen the answer? Not by a long shot, but in those places where you don’t, or can’t, have a firearm or knife, then a pen may just be the next best thing. They are something that I consider a vital part of my EDC.
