Have you ever heard the expression “Anything can be used as a weapon?” After you hear about what a tactical pen is, you’ll definitely believe it. Tactical pens are more than your ordinary everyday pen. They are full-fledged self-defense weapons and survival tools that can save your life. Whether you need to defend yourself, are stuck in a submerged vehicle, or are trying to alert someone for help, the tactical pen can increase your chances of survival.
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What Is a Tactical Pen?
A tactical self-defense pen is a writing instrument primarily that works as a viable weapon and a discrete everyday carry (EDC). Typically, these pens are made from durable materials such as anodized aluminum, steel, or titanium to withstand impact. They’re only a few inches in size and have subtle rigid handles that allow for greater grip.
Depending on the pen, there are a variety of different features you’ll see. For example, some pens are equipped with whistles to alert someone for help, and some are advertised as pen knives with fully sharpened knives attached.
How To Use a Tactical Pen
If you’re packin’ a tactical pen as your primary EDC, you’ll need to know how to use it in a self-defense or emergency situation. Many resources are available to learn how to use a tactical pen, such as pen-focused martial arts classes (we’re not kidding) and YouTube videos.
One of the most popular reasons for carrying a tactical pen is escape because you can use them to break glass. If you’re ever in a situation where you’re stuck in a car or your dog is trapped in your vehicle, you can use the pen’s durable casing to apply pressure on the glass and break it – especially useful if you’re submerged under water and can’t escape.
Many tactical pens also have lights, DNA collectors, and whistles, which can each come in handy in a wide array of situations, such as if you need to identify an attacker after the fact, alert someone for help, or find your way through a dark and dangerous area.
These pens are also great for self-defense as an alternate means to other heavy-duty weapons. They can be just enough to deter attacks (with the right approach) and provide you peace of mind.
Tactical Pen Pros and Cons
These are great self-defense and escape weapons, especially if wielded effectively, but that doesn’t mean they are guaranteed to save your life if necessary. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of using a tactical pen as your primary EDC.
Pros
First, they’re inconspicuous. More specifically, they look like pens and nothing more. This can be used to your advantage by openly holding it in your hand without looking like a threat, whereas a knife appears like a dangerous weapon and is generally illegal to hold when the blade is extended.
Second, they require less training compared to other weapons. They’re less lethal than knives and firearms, which require much more training. It’s essential to always be prepared to use your pen, so some training is necessary but not nearly as much as with other weapons.
Cons
One disadvantage of them is that they aren’t necessarily frightening on the surface. In a life or death situation, pulling out a pen may not intimidate anyone. So, even though you can remain inconspicuous with your pen, it may not always scare people off.
Top 5 Best Tactical Pens
Now that we’ve discussed what a tactical pen is, how to use a tactical pen, and the pros and cons, we can learn which pens are top-of-the-line. Here’s a brief list of the best tactical pens for sale:
1. ABP Tactical Pen
ABP Tactical
$19.99
The ABP tactical pen was released in 2017 and shipped over 10,000 times in the United States. It includes an aircraft aluminum body, reinforced steel tip, glass breaker, and DNA collector. Plus, it comes in a variety of colors. It also has a no-break pocket clip and effectively writes in all weather conditions. The ABP tactical pen-knife is a popular and valuable option with many self-defense features.
2. Smith and Wesson SWPENMP2BK Tactical Pen
Amazon
$29.86
Smith & Wesson offers a great option, and the main comment people have about it comes from the heavy-duty aluminum they use. Key features include its screw cap, pocket clip, and finger grooves. The SWPENMP2BK is approximately 5.8 inches and offers a comfortable grip for greater control.
3. The Atomic Bear Tactical Pen MTP-6
The Atomic Bear
$24.99
The MTP-6 is versatile and even comes with a tactical pen light. Features include its built-in multi-tool and tungsten carbide tip. It’s fully equipped with a glass breaker at the end of the pen and has a bottle opener if you get thirsty. All jokes aside, the MTP-6 from Atomic Bear is a solid option that comes with a 130-lumen flashlight, which some options neglect.
4. Nitecore NTP31 Tactical Pen
Amazon
$29.95
If you want to stay low-key, this is the tactical pen you need to buy. It has good features, such as a bolt-action mechanism and a high-quality aluminum exterior. It’s fully capable of breaking through glass and has a pocket clip, so you can conveniently use it. What makes this tactical pen so special is how regular it looks compared to your everyday pen.
5. Tuff Writer Operator Series Tactical Pen
Tuff Writer
$95.00
The Tuff Writer tactical pen is a bit expensive, but that doesn’t come without its perks. This option comes fully equipped with a spring steel clip and knurled body. It can handle any weather conditions and has a comfortable grip. Plus, it’s made with high-quality aluminum.
Are Tactical Pens Viable?
Yes, they are viable self-defense, escape, and hand-to-hand combat weapons. Additionally, tactical pens are versatile and could save your life in more ways than solely if you’re being attacked. It can get you out of a submerged vehicle and notify people that you’re in danger. It’s a remarkable survival and self-defense weapon overall and is worthy of being an everyday carry weapon for protection and more.
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