Without the option the pistol gave me, I would have been forced to close with a man not in his right mind, and he. or I would be dead. Since I knew I could stop him, and keep her safe, it gave me time to talk to him, and pull him back down from wherever he was. Me carrying a handgun saved at least one life that day!

Be aware, that no matter how good you are, in a blade fight, you will be cut, usually more than once. So if you go that route, be prepared to stop bleeding. You are right, if you decide to do that, get VERY good at it, to stay alive!

A Bow is a serious tool also, and you might look at a wrist rocket slingshot. The other thing to consider, is what they went to in England; a high pressure large bore air rifle is a possible choice. I saw a motor driven, clip fed crossbow on youtube that looked serious. So there are creative options.

That said, go after your politicians to at least allow licensed concealed carry! Or study to be an armed guard...or both.

:)