Kubotan for self-defense – compact tool for everyday life, outdoors and security

Small, robust and legal – the kubotan is a tactical self-defence tool that can be used effectively in many situations. Whether in everyday urban life, during outdoor activities or in security work: if you know how to use the kubotan correctly, you gain valuable confidence in how to act in dangerous situations.

Origin and development of the kubotan as a self-defense tool

The kubotan was developed in the late 1970s by Soke Takayuki Kubota for the Los Angeles Police Department. The aim was to provide female police officers in particular with a legal and immediately available means of self-defence. Disguised as a key ring, the kubotan was intended to be worn inconspicuously and be ready for use at any time.

The idea proved effective – today you’ll find the Kubotan in many martial arts and civilian self-defense systems.

Technical features and typical designs of kubotans

A classic kubotan is made of robust metal, plastic or hardwood and measures between 13 and 15 centimeters in length with a diameter of 1 to 2.5 centimeters. This makes it sit well in the fist and protrude slightly on both sides – which is important for pressure and leverage techniques.

Many models feature finger grooves or texturing to ensure a secure grip. Other variants have rounded or tapered ends that allow targeted pressure on sensitive points. Thanks to an attachment eyelet, the kubotan can be carried on a key ring and is thus always at hand.

Don’t confuse the kubotan with a tactical pen. While it looks similar, it usually comes with additional functions – such as a glass breaker or integrated light sources.

What does a kubotan do? – Effect and advantages in an emergency

A kubotan is more than just a hard object – it is an effective amplifier for striking, pressure and leverage techniques. Especially in dangerous situations, it gives you clear advantages: thanks to its compact design, you can generate maximum effect with minimal effort. You can precisely target pain points, apply pressure to joints and tendons and gain a physical advantage – even over stronger attackers.

Because the kubotan is so discreet, you can carry it with you in everyday life without attracting attention. There is no electronics, no mechanics – just pure control through technique. If you know how to use it, the kubotan becomes a powerful yet controllable tool for self-defense.

Who is the kubotan for self-defense suitable for?

The kubotan is suitable for many target groups, especially for people who value a legal, discreet and effective self-defense tool. If you are out and about in everyday life, when traveling or hiking and want to feel safer, the kubotan offers you a practical solution. Women also benefit from its simple handling and the possibility of defending themselves against physically superior attackers.

In security services, the kubotan is particularly popular, as it can be used both de-escalatingly and effectively – without you having to rely on heavy or conspicuous equipment. Outdoor enthusiasts and bushcrafters also appreciate its compact shape and reliability. And if you practice martial arts, you can use the kubotan to meaningfully expand your techniques and transfer them to real-life scenarios.

Effective use: How the kubotan works in practice

You can use the kubotan as a pressure amplifier, leverage aid and impact enhancer. With the right technique, you can target nerve points, joints and sensitive areas – such as wrists, elbows, ribs or thighs. The effect is based not on brute force, but on precision and training.

If you use it correctly, you can free yourself from a grab, create distance or de-escalate an aggressive situation – in a controlled yet decisive way. Caution is still required: incorrect use against the head, neck or spine can be dangerous. That’s why you should acquire the necessary know-how in a professional self-defense course.

Are kubotans legal in Germany?

In Germany, the kubotan is not classified as a weapon within the meaning of the Weapons Act (§1 para. 2 WaffG). This means you may legally own it and carry it in public, including at train stations or in pedestrian zones. There is no carry ban – as of 2025.

However, note: if you use it abusively – for example without an acute self-defence situation or with excessive force – this can have criminal consequences. Therefore always pay attention to the proportionality and the legal limits of self-defence (§32 StGB).

In other countries, things are often different. In Switzerland, for example, the kubotan is classified as a weapon and prohibited. So be sure to inform yourself about the applicable legal situation before travelling.

Alternative self-defense tools with comparable benefits

In addition to the kubotan, there are numerous other non-lethal self-defense tools that can be useful depending on the situation and environment. Tactical pens, for example, combine everyday practicality with defensive potential. Pepper sprays are approved for use against animals, but their use against humans is legally restricted.

Particularly personal alarms, self-defense umbrellas or compact batons are options – especially if you find yourself in particularly unsafe situations. What always remains important: Only those who know their tool and use it responsibly can protect themselves effectively.

Where to buy kubotans and self-defense tools

Kubotans, tactical pens, pepper sprays, personal alarms and other gear for self-defense and personal protection can be found in the ASMC Unlimited Shop – professional, legal and ready for immediate use.