Whenever firearms aren't an option, I'm a big fan of OC spray (pepper spray). I've gone through some training with it where we had to, "feel" what it was like and it is NO fun. There's always the naysayer who brings up the 1 in 1 million case where a dude hopped up on PCP isn't fazed but since it attacks the mucous membranes it usually doesn't matter much how tough or numb a guy is. Aside from the intense discomfort, breathing becomes difficult as does the subject's ability to see. There's also the psychological issues of disorientation while all these unpleasant things are happening. I think it's a great option especially for females to level the playing field as the size of the perp no longer matters. Plus, you don't have as much of the mental issue of taking a person's life. I always told my 5' tall, prim and proper mom that if you feel you may need it, use it, it's not permanent. It's better than letting the unknown threat get close to you.