There are alternatives to bashing bad guys over the head. Kimber's PepperBlaster is an advanced, dual-shot self-defense tool that delivers near pharmaceutical grade oleoresin capsicum--a very powerful irritant--at 90 mph.

Said irritant is propelled by pyrotechnics, a fact sure to get the attention of the less-civilized among us, and is effective to 13 feet. Its effect is instantaneous and lasts about 45 minutes.

The PepperBlaster's body is ergonomically designed, works equally well for right- or left-handers and features a safety tab to shield the trigger from accidental discharge. $42.