Deadly Force Discussion

[RevJim]

 As for dogs; we are partial to "toy" Pomeranians, ours weighs 5 pounds. She doesn't know she is only 5 pounds and is (a) a great lap dog (b) barks like crazy when anyone comes to the door or she hears the doorbell. They're also good with kids.
 When I was in Ft. sill, we steered clear of Lawton, even in 1971! Usually it was some soldier robbing someone. The real creeps were the jewelry store hawkers on the sidewalks, trying to get GIs to buy engagement rings for the skanks in the GI bars, ha. I knew 4 different guys who were "engaged" to some dancer named "Candy"...she might still be there! lol. The Bear/Wasp spray is a great idea.
Out and about, her having the kids with her (or you) situation awareness and avoidance is your safest bet. One of those small boat horns is a great "attention getter" and just might buy her time to get away. Thanks for your service, I'll keep your family in my prayers Pard!

[GatCat]

Dinny, I'm not one who usually chimes in on these matters, but...
First off, I'd suggest leaving the short baseball bat on the playground. A long bladed kitchen knife ( butcher knife, thick blade ) is much more intimidating, and deadly. Hopefully find one with a hole at rear of handle to make a short loop that she can run her wrist through ( para cord works fine ). Spend some time with her using a paint stirring stick ( ruler?), teaching her short underhand jabs, standing quartering away from opponent, with weak hand forward ( grasp..push..open/close doors, etc ), strong hand ( knife ) facing forward, alongside body.
As for first weapon, I simply cannot think of anything better then something like the Ruger LCR. Something she can keep with her when she answers door, walks outside, etc. etc. A good flashlight ( like a small surefire, etc., not one of the old long kel-lite jobs.
Mostly it comes down to mind-set. She must be of the mindset that she and/or family WILL NOT be a victim.
Mark

[dougk]

Hi Dinny


I think the correct answer is, its the option that your wife is most comfortable.  I suggest you let her talk with the desk Sargent at the local law enforcement office to gain a full perspective.   They may even have a video for her to watch.


The only golden rule we have  is "Never let yourself or your kids be taken to s secondary crime scene.'


best wishes....


Doug

[FPH]

I think once she sees the need to protect your children, she will become a Moma bear and learn to use deadly force. If only protect the kids, if not herself also.

[Empty Quiver]

As for dogs; we are partial to "toy" Pomeranians, ours weighs 5 pounds. She doesn't know she is only 5 pounds and is (a) a great lap dog (b) barks like crazy when anyone comes to the door or she hears the doorbell. They're also good with kids.
 When I was in Ft. sill, we steered clear of Lawton, even in 1971! Usually it was some soldier robbing someone. The real creeps were the jewelry store hawkers on the sidewalks, trying to get GIs to buy engagement rings for the skanks in the GI bars, ha. I knew 4 different guys who were "engaged" to some dancer named "Candy"...she might still be there! lol. The Bear/Wasp spray is a great idea.
Out and about, her having the kids with her (or you) situation awareness and avoidance is your safest bet. One of those small boat horns is a great "attention getter" and just might buy her time to get away. Thanks for your service, I'll keep your family in my prayers Pard!

I have to agree that a small alert dog is very nearly as good as a big dog. Having an extra minute to access the situation can be the deciding factor. Having a weapon just out of reach is useless, and face facts momma probably is not going to carry a gat all day every day.