Non-Firearm EDC item: Pocket Partner brand tactical pen

https://ift.tt/2NRLcRS far I'm pretty impressed. So called "tactical pens" aren't new. Tons of companies make them. S&W, Schrade, Gerber, etc. Theirs seem to run between 20-40$, and I couldn't begin to tell you why.I picked this one up for about 14$ on Amazon. As you can see in the pics, it's pretty simple. There's a blunt end, a pointy end, and a nice textured grip surface. Same shape and size as any regular pen. Stick it in a pocket or clip it to your shirt, etc. For you active duty military folks who keep a pen in the placket of your BDU's, this would fit fine. It looks fairly discreet, especially in blue or light grey. (Too many of the tac pens try too hard to look all tactical and shit, black oxide finish, aggressive knurling, excessive branding -looking at you S&W. This should be an item that people wouldn't notice.) For self defense it works as a kubaton, or well, just a sharp pointy stick. If you know how to use it, its an excellent weapon of opportunity. Its made of "aircraft grade" aluminum so its pretty light, but definitely very strong. You won't have to worry about breaking or bending it. Twist the cap off and... umm its a pen. Its comes with one cartridge refill, but it uses the same plain old cartridges as any bic zebra ink pen. You pick up more at and old target for probably 2$ a pack.  The cap is screw threaded so it stays in place when you're using it for... non pen things. What I REALLY like:The blunt end.Some of the tactical pens have an ultra pointy metal studded "glass breaker" tip.I don't like that. I specifically looked for one like this with a blunt end. The regular pointy end of this would probably work fine for breaking anything short of a car's front windshield anyways.  The great part about the rounded tip is two fold.First, If you have to seriously defend yourself and do some damage with the pointy end, if gives you some good grip options. You can go it point down like a hammer fist and have a nice round place to go thumbs over.Or, you can go point up/point forward, and the blunt end seats firmly but comfortably against the heel of your palm.  Second, the blunt end gives you a lesser force option. Its a perfect shape for pain compliance techniques.Stiff jab to the ribs, cramp/frog to the bicep/forearm/pec, etc. Wedge it against any number of bony pressure points, (think: collar bone, behind/under the jaw)Point is, the round end is perfect for delivering that instant "STOP. NOW. Comply with my instructions." level pain without actually injuring someone. via /r/CCW https://ift.tt/2wPJzgm