Do you carry protection when running?

connorsludge

Very timely topic. I've been running in my neighborhood at night for years. It is a safe neighborhood in a very safe town. Two years ago I was attacked by a man who made it very clear that he would hurt me if able. I did not have any kind of protection on me (I hadn't ever thought it necessary) and was saved only because a car passed by.

Since then I've always carried pepper spray while running. On Sunday I was approached a second time while running on a busy, well-lit street (I also changed my route as a result of the first attack). I asked him to leave me alone several times (he was on a bicycle) and when he did not listen, I notified him that I was armed and he should leave before he was incapacitated.

It worked! Lesson learned: even very safe places can be dangerous. All it takes is one person to hurt you.

Ed: I'd also like to let everyone know that I don't consider myself as living in fear. I consider myself a little wiser for having ventured out in the world. The conventional wisdom is that women shouldn't run alone, especially at night. But I get fit so that I can be independent, connected to nature, and confident in myself. I've tried running in the gym and it depresses me. I don't have a running partner despite my efforts. Most of all, I don't think that I should be confined to treadmill runs, watching Oprah and reading a magazine while I run just because I am a woman. I'm resigned to the very occasional harassment involved with running and don't mind taking action to prevent harm to myself. So there. :P

doubglass

I used to carry pepper spray when I lived in another neighborhood. You MUST be downwind to use it. It is easy to spray yourself.
With less aggressive dogs all you need is a squirt gun with vinegar or lemon juice.

idahopacker

Most of the time I conceal a Ruger LCP .380 pistol. On outdoor adventures I also pack either a Springfield Armory XDM .40 S&W pistol or Taurus .41 magnum revolver.

Dragonwolf

Given that your stated fear of the US is on our lax gun laws and wild animals, and that you also stated that you meant that the entire country is more dangerous than some of the safer parts of the UK, it's kind of hard to read it any other way than "I've seen on the TV that the US has wolves and cougers and bears, so that must be how the entire country is and everyone's in daily peril for their lives for one reason or another." The John Wayne reference was in regard to the fact that the media likes to misrepresent a lot of things and that people (yes, even other Americans) seem to think that such fiction is actually what the more gun-toting areas are like. Ironically, one of the country's most dangerous cities (DC) is a gun-free zone.

What is your issue, exactly, with where I would consider dangerous enough to want to carry something to defend myself? I'm confused about why people seem to have taken offence to me saying that?

I'm not saying 'everyone's in daily peril'. I'm saying the risks, though relatively minimal in some areas, would be high enough for me to think about carrying a defensive form of protection.

I am not a two-year-old child who stereotypes or blindly believes what she sees on TV, so I'm struggling to see why people are using that as an 'argument' for why I should feel safe if I lived in the US and went running?

My responses may have come off a little more harsh than intended, and for that I apologize, but I still find your responses more than a little...odd, for lack of a better word right now.

You are stereotyping the entire country. You didn't say that you'd consider more protection if you were in a more dangerous area, you specifically said that you "would undoubtedly carry something purely defensive" if you were in the US or some of the sketchier parts of the UK, and the US specifically because of our "lax gun laws and wild animals", meaning that you equated the entire US basically to the ghettos of London (or worse, maybe, because we allow guns!) or the African Serengeti. Your statements have made no concession to the fact that a) the entire country isn't like that (and hell, most of country isn't like that), and b) that many/most of our towns and cities are at least as safe as your equivalent cities and towns. You had to get that impression from somewhere, and most people get it from the media. If that's not where you got that impression, then I'm geniunely curious as to where you did, because it's so far from the truth that it's kind of sad (yes, we have large animals that you don't have, but unless you run around with meat strapped to you and are upwind of a den, the odds of running across one in the vast majority of the country are extraordinarily small).

mjf0461

I choose not to carry my 9mm due to the fact I usually have my 2 large dogs with me. 1 is a blue pitt weighing in at 88 lbs and the other Italian Mastiff that weighs in at 148 lbs. Neither will allow anyone to approach me without the signal. Being a former cop, I do have the option to carry my gun, just decided as of yet not necessary..

ryno0618

If I'm running the country roads or woods around my home I carry a Ruger LC9. Very compact, very light, easy to pack in a pocket or holster for running. I carry this due to wild animals, dogs, and crazy meth heads. I have a CCW permit.

When I run around town, park, etc I don't carry a concealed firearm. No need, its safe in my town.

runnercheryl

You are stereotyping the entire country. You didn't say that you'd consider more protection if you were in a more dangerous area, you specifically said that you "would undoubtedly carry something purely defensive" if you were in the US or some of the sketchier parts of the UK, and the US specifically because of our "lax gun laws and wild animals", meaning that you equated the entire US basically to the ghettos of London (or worse, maybe, because we allow guns!) or the African Serengeti. Your statements have made no concession to the fact that a) the entire country isn't like that (and hell, most of country isn't like that), and b) that many/most of our towns and cities are at least as safe as your equivalent cities and towns. You had to get that impression from somewhere, and most people get it from the media. If that's not where you got that impression, then I'm geniunely curious as to where you did, because it's so far from the truth that it's kind of sad (yes, we have large animals that you don't have, but unless you run around with meat strapped to you and are upwind of a den, the odds of running across one in the vast majority of the country are extraordinarily small).

So you're telling me that it's NOT legal to carry firearms or weapons of some description in all states? If that's the case, I take back what I said.

I also believe I HAVE said that many/most of your towns or cities are at least as safe as our equivalent towns or cities. Or at least, not said otherwise. The fact is, if I believe there's a higher than absolute minimal chance of someone carrying a weapon, whether that's in a UK town or in the US, I would want to carry something to defend myself.

In most parts of the UK, that is the case. In my neighbourhood, I would say not. In the US, again, I would consider it the case because it is legal for people to carry weapons. In fact, even in this thread it's clear that many people do. And I should clarify that I am FULLY AWARE that this thread is a tiny representation.

Likewise, I'm not saying that the risk of being attacked by a wild animal is insanely high in the US, but again it is higher than running around in the neighbourhood I currently live in. If wolves, lions and the like suddenly began appearing in the vicinity of my neighbourhood, I would again reconsider my decision to go out unprotected.

FrostyBev

I almost always have my .32 or my .45 on me. Better to have it and not need it then need it and not have it. It doesn't matter if I'm on a mountain trail, running around the neighborhood, running with a friend in a bigger city or just headed to dinner.

After having worked in law enforcement for many years I found that "Murphy" is a ***** that springs up in surprise all the time. I don't carry out of fear, I carry out of being prepared. Many years ago I took an oath to protect those that can't or won't protect themselves and I live by that oath today.

Protection can be provided easier when armed.

ChickieDoodle

I carry pepper spray and a gloc 27. I tried and hated the fanny pack then found this and love it: http://www.pistolwear.com/ProductDetail.jsp?LISTID=ia1321496070781
I don't live in fear, I live in reality and realistically, if the bad guy has a gun and all I have is pepper spray them I'm in bad shape. There are also wild boars here and pepper spray is not going to stop them.
I have a conceal and carry permit and my husband and I practice shooting and drills from an attacked position. There are some MMA moves you can learn that don't require strength but, mechanics to get you out of being pinned. If you've ever been attacked, you know it can happen very quickly. I also run with a partner when I can.

Chris_acc_can

Hmmm... I guess I'm thankful I don't live in the USA. Being Canadian I don't understand the need to carry a weapon at all, unless your intentions are bad to begin with. I also live in a urban area so there is no wildlife to fear. I have never seen a gun, other than in a holster for a cop and mase is illegal to purchase (although I have seen it once in 27 years)

I just fail to see the positive that can come from carrying a weapon. What if you can't draw your weapon quick enough, what if you miss your target, what if your target jumps you from behind, whiat if you are attacked by multiple indviduals, what if you target is able to unarm you and use the weapon against you, etc...

Animal generally don't attack unless provoked and most are smart enough to attack prey from a vulnerable position (IE: from the side or back), rendering you concealed weapon useless.

There are way too many negative outcomes to suggest carrying a concealed weapon is safe. I just think choosing a safer place to run will always be safer than the false sense of security a weapon can offer.

FrostyBev

Hmmm... I guess I'm thankful I don't live in the USA. Being Canadian I don't understand the need to carry a weapon at all, unless your intentions are bad to begin with. I also live in a urban area so there is no wildlife to fear. I have never seen a gun, other than in a holster for a cop and mase is illegal to purchase (although I have seen it once in 27 years)

I just fail to see the positive that can come from carrying a weapon. What if you can't draw your weapon quick enough, what if you miss your target, what if your target jumps you from behind, whiat if you are attacked by multiple indviduals, what if you target is able to unarm you and use the weapon against you, etc...

Animal generally don't attack unless provoked and most are smart enough to attack prey from a vulnerable position (IE: from the side or back), rendering you concealed weapon useless.

There are way too many negative outcomes to suggest carrying a concealed weapon is safe. I just think choosing a safer place to run will always be safer than the false sense of security a weapon can offer.

This is a common attitude of victims, regardless of what country you live in.

I train with my concealed weapon. The only negative I can see is not being prepared to defend myself or others regardless of the threat.

I'd rather be a Lion then a Lamb.

Dragonfly1996

Nope. Live in one of the nicer neighbourhoods in the UK so I feel completely safe...and we have no terrifying wild animals. Don't see this guy eating me:



If I lived in the US, or any of the rougher parts of the UK, I'd undoubtedly carry something that was purely defensive.

OMG this little guy is so cute!!!!

Sorry completely off base there but I also live in a rural part of the UK & don't carry any protection. Pepper spray is illegal over here & I wouldn't want to carry it anyway. I don't agree with carrying weapons but that's how most people in the UK are brought up. I say most as there are a minority in cities that think otherwise! BUT I am also lucky to live in a good part. Having said that we do have a few dodgy people about, as with anywhere, so I don't run with headphones & stick to roads where there are more houses, always run facing the traffic & if it's dark stick to roads with street lights & wear a hi-vis top.

Am glad I don't have to worry about some of the stuff u guys do Inc wild animals so well done for going out still & doing ur runs & agree u probably need something to make u feel safer :flowerforyou:

FrostyBev

I carry a Colt Combat Commander lightweight in a fanny pack along with an extra magazine. All loaded with Wilson Combat 230 gr XTP ammo.

The gun is not my first option as I am proficient in krav maga.

My basic strategy is:
1- outrun it and get away
2- failing 1 then go to hand to hand
3- if I feel option 2 is not viable for any number of reasons then its time for the pistol

I believe in escalation of force.

^^ This! Except I carry a Keltec .32 or an XD .45. Defensive tactics and Jujitsu are my first options.

iLoveMyPitbull1225

I take my pitbull with me running or walking because he looks tough.

But if it came down to it.....id probably be in trouble.

However, if you dont feel safe, don't go alone, or don't go in the dark. Carry a cell phone.

viki1123

I'm ordering bear mace. After talking with a few people, it is apparently the mother of all maces. There was an attempted rape on the trail I run on last week. Luckily, the girl got away.

Thank God she got away.

Good for you, ordering bear mace. ORDER ALL THE MACE.

ItsCasey

I have a CHL, and I carry everywhere I am legally allowed to do so. Even when I'm in my own home, my Ruger .380 LCP (I call her Black Betty) is within arm's reach, just in case someone really stupid decides to try to break in. I live in an affluent area. I don't feel unsafe. That doesn't mean I shouldn't be prepared. The minute you drop your guard is the minute you make yourself less safe. I refuse to put my safety in someone else's hands.

tropaze

My father in law carries this huge axe handle when he goes running. That's his protection, if you've ever seen a guy like him no explanation needed.

supertracylynn

Seat belts.
Umbrella.
Condoms.
Shoes.
Sunscreen.

There are many forms of protection. It is beneficial to be prepared.

slyder432

I'll surprise 'em!!

viser_haut

I hadn't even thought about it and I set off for my runs at midnight! I have a rape alarm here at Uni... might have to start taking it with me!

slyder432

I have a CHL, and I carry everywhere I am legally allowed to do so. Even when I'm in my own home, my Ruger .380 LCP (I call her Black Betty) is within arm's reach, just in case someone really stupid decides to try to break in. I live in an affluent area. I don't feel unsafe. That doesn't mean I shouldn't be prepared. The minute you drop your guard is the minute you make yourself less safe. I refuse to put my safety in someone else's hands.

A woman and a gun....I am in love!!

lizzzylou

Nope. Live in one of the nicer neighbourhoods in the UK so I feel completely safe...and we have no terrifying wild animals. Don't see this guy eating me:



If I lived in the US, or any of the rougher parts of the UK, I'd undoubtedly carry something that was purely defensive.

I think that is the cutest thing I've ever seen!!!!

i agree!! i was just going to post that

kandy221

I run with a gun, live in the country, long stretches with no houses & my husband is military-enough said

stellaskies

yeah, I bring my husband.

I only sprint around the neighborhood if I'm alone. It's a pretty nice area of town with lots of kids and people walking outside so I don't have too much to worry about, but I am still very paranoid when it comes to attackers.

idahopacker

I have a CHL, and I carry everywhere I am legally allowed to do so. Even when I'm in my own home, my Ruger .380 LCP (I call her Black Betty) is within arm's reach, just in case someone really stupid decides to try to break in. I live in an affluent area. I don't feel unsafe. That doesn't mean I shouldn't be prepared. The minute you drop your guard is the minute you make yourself less safe. I refuse to put my safety in someone else's hands.

This is the best reply I have read yet. Thank you.

nammer79

Nope. Live in one of the nicer neighbourhoods in the UK so I feel completely safe...and we have no terrifying wild animals. Don't see this guy eating me:



If I lived in the US, or any of the rougher parts of the UK, I'd undoubtedly carry something that was purely defensive.

but they grow up to look like this
http://hagiblog.files.wordpress.com/2011/01/critters_2_01.jpg?w=640

jules0516

If I lived in the US, or any of the rougher parts of the UK, I'd undoubtedly carry something that was purely defensive.

Question: do you think that the entire US is dangerous?

I was thinking that too, lol! I live in the 3rd safest city in the nation so no, I bring no protection and walk by myself during the day/evenings (while pregnant) and don't even think twice about it. Maybe I should though, for that .000001% chance something might happen. I DO have an extremely sharp knife that is hidden inside of a lipstick container..

Before everyone gets bent out of shape..US or UK or anywhere else..no one is 100% safe these days..doesn't matter if you are in the 3rd safest city or the worst...bad people aren't confined at city limits..

lucythinmint

I live in West L.A. and I had a friend ask me this just the other day.

I don't. I lived in Vegas before and I didn't there. I have been told I should and that it would be safer for me but I stay to the nice areas around my house and don't go out at night.

I am a tall thick girl and feel if they want to attack, let's scrap.

(being the only girl in my family may have made me a little too sure of myself :drinker: )

runnercheryl

Nope. Live in one of the nicer neighbourhoods in the UK so I feel completely safe...and we have no terrifying wild animals. Don't see this guy eating me:

If I lived in the US, or any of the rougher parts of the UK, I'd undoubtedly carry something that was purely defensive.

but they grow up to look like this
http://hagiblog.files.wordpress.com/2011/01/critters_2_01.jpg?w=640

Time to start wielding a large metal pole!

ttaylor68913

I'm ordering bear mace. After talking with a few people, it is apparently the mother of all maces. There was an attempted rape on the trail I run on last week. Luckily, the girl got away.

HOLY NUTS! take a self defense class!