Cohutta Pines

Less-Than-Lethal Tools for Personal Defense

Many people want the ability to protect themselves but prefer options that do not involve lethal force. Modern less-than-lethal tools offer practical, effective ways to create distance, stop an attacker, and escape a dangerous situation.

This five-hour course introduces students to two of the most popular and effective personal defense options available today: pepper spray and projectile launchers. Students will learn how these tools work, when they are appropriate to use, and how they fit into a broader personal safety strategy.

During the course we will examine widely respected products from Sabre, POM, and Byrna, discussing their advantages, limitations, and best practices for safe and responsible use. Students will have the opportunity to handle training devices, practice with inert training pepper spray, and observe a live demonstration of the Byrna projectile launcher before having the opportunity to safely operate the launcher themselves under instructor supervision.

This class focuses on confidence, understanding, and responsible use, not intimidation. Students will not be exposed to pepper spray and will not experience the impact of the projectile launcher.

Topics covered include:

• Understanding the role of less-than-lethal tools in personal defense
• Situational awareness and avoidance strategies
• Pepper spray selection, carry methods, and deployment techniques
• Understanding spray patterns, distance, and limitations
• Introduction to projectile launchers and how they function
• Safe handling and effective use of Byrna launchers
• Legal and practical considerations when carrying defensive tools
• Building a personal safety plan

The class will take place indoors in a climate-controlled training facility. Please note that Cohutta Pines is in a rural location, so students should plan to remain on site during breaks. A refrigerator and microwave will be available for student use if you wish to bring food or drinks.

This course is ideal for:

• Individuals who prefer less-than-lethal self-defense options
• Anyone seeking practical and confidence-building safety skills
• Anyone who wants to better understand modern personal defense tools
• People who want the ability to protect themselves without carrying a firearm

Our goal is simple: to help you leave with knowledge, confidence, and practical skills you can apply immediately to improve your personal safety.