Certainly not to be confused with the effectiveness of a handgun. knife, or even a cane, but my favorite "non-weapon/weapon", is a simple plastic comb. Usually the cheap, unbreakable black ones that bend easily are the best. The kind that has a large "tooth" on either end. Hold it so that one end sticks about half-way out of your hand, with your index finger along the "spine". If someone grabs you, you can dig the large end tooth into their hand or forearm, or their ribs, or rip it across their face/eyes. This will absolutely slice their face open, creating a lot of blood to scare or blind them. I usually wear painter jeans with a thigh pocket, and I always have a comb in there, even though I don't need it for my hair. No cop or judge in the world would question you carrying or using this. Again, this is no substitute for a real weapon, but it's cheap, effective in a lot of situations, and "safe" for you.
