I’m living in a rough area for university and can’t make any modifications to the rental property, like adding locks or bolts. Guns aren’t an option here in the UK. I’ve been considering a metal baseball bat or a machete, but I’m leaning toward the bat since it seems better legally and allows more distance in a fight. I also play baseball, so having a bat wouldn’t raise eyebrows. What do you all think? Is the bat the best option? If so, what size should I go for?
A small fire extinguisher works great—it sprays to blind, can be used to bash, and is handy for fires. If you go for a bat, put a long sock over the end. It’ll make it harder for someone to grab.
Zola said:
A small fire extinguisher works great—it sprays to blind, can be used to bash, and is handy for fires. If you go for a bat, put a long sock over the end. It’ll make it harder for someone to grab.
That sock idea is genius!
Zola said:
A small fire extinguisher works great—it sprays to blind, can be used to bash, and is handy for fires. If you go for a bat, put a long sock over the end. It’ll make it harder for someone to grab.
Can’t believe I never thought of the sock trick. Thanks for this!
Zola said:
A small fire extinguisher works great—it sprays to blind, can be used to bash, and is handy for fires. If you go for a bat, put a long sock over the end. It’ll make it harder for someone to grab.
This fire extinguisher idea actually makes sense. I’m surprised how practical that is.
Zola said:
A small fire extinguisher works great—it sprays to blind, can be used to bash, and is handy for fires. If you go for a bat, put a long sock over the end. It’ll make it harder for someone to grab.
Honestly, if you’ve got a fire extinguisher and a bat, you’re already ahead in terms of defense tools.
The sock trick with the bat is a solid idea. It’ll give you a split second advantage if someone grabs it.
Yan said:
The sock trick with the bat is a solid idea. It’ll give you a split second advantage if someone grabs it.
Exactly—when they’re confused by the sock, you swing!
Yan said:
The sock trick with the bat is a solid idea. It’ll give you a split second advantage if someone grabs it.
Exactly—when they’re confused by the sock, you swing!
Batter up!
@Yan
Swing for the fences!
Yan said:
The sock trick with the bat is a solid idea. It’ll give you a split second advantage if someone grabs it.
Why not just go for a machete or something instead? It’s harder to grab in the first place.
A metal bat is a good choice. If you’re worried about length in tight spaces, consider a shorter bat or even a long flashlight like a Maglite.
Tallis said:
A metal bat is a good choice. If you’re worried about length in tight spaces, consider a shorter bat or even a long flashlight like a Maglite.
Cricket bat could work too if you want something less suspicious.
@Hartley
True, but since OP plays baseball, they’d be better off sticking with that for legal reasons.
Tallis said:
A metal bat is a good choice. If you’re worried about length in tight spaces, consider a shorter bat or even a long flashlight like a Maglite.
Adding the sock trick to the bat makes it even better!
@Tristan
I’ve seen that tip floating around for years. It’s so clever.
Tallis said:
A metal bat is a good choice. If you’re worried about length in tight spaces, consider a shorter bat or even a long flashlight like a Maglite.
Do you think I should get a full-size bat or go shorter for maneuverability?
@Drue
Depends on your build. A full-size bat gives you more reach, but it’s harder to use in tight spaces. A shorter bat or heavy flashlight might be easier indoors.
Given your situation, a bat sounds like the most practical option. If pepper spray were legal, that’d be great too.
Val said:
Given your situation, a bat sounds like the most practical option. If pepper spray were legal, that’d be great too.
Unfortunately, pepper spray isn’t allowed here, so it’s not an option.