Kubotan-The Self-defense Keyring

The Kubotan is a self-defense tool designed by a Japanese man by the name of Takayuki Kubota. It was developed as a self-defense device (I’m intentionally avoiding the word weapon) for use by police officers in Japan, often for riot control. You can learn the basics of using a Kubotan very quickly, and do not need to be an expert martial artist to use one.

The Kubotan is a short stick of about 6 inches or 15 centimetres in length. It can be made from plastic, metal or wood; with ridges along the middle; and a flat, rounded or pointed tip at one end. It usually has a hole at the other end for a keyring. Kubotans are used to amplify pain on nerve points without causing permanent damage to an assailant. Applying pressure with the Kubotan as a tool on certain points on the body allows you to control an attacked to aid your escape from a dangerous situation.

Kubotans are easy to obtain, and are not illegal to own or carry (as a keyring) in most countries. However, technically it is a weapon, so it is worth checking the laws in your country. There are variations that double as a torch or other useful devices, and therefore less likely to attract the wrong attention from law enforcement agencies.

I strongly suggest completing a training course to use a Kubotan rather than use a book so that you receive proper tuition and don’t damage yourself or someone else. And again, do check the law in your country if you intend to carry one of these. It’s better to not get on the wrong side of the law!