In a message dated 2/11/01 6:35:22 PM Eastern Standard Time, l.leung@JUNO.COM
writes:

<< a weapon is only a deterent when you are far enough away
 so that your attacker can't reach it. >>

That's why I sell swords and teach people how to use them as well. I normally
have at least one in either of my vehicles. Not exactly within arms reach, so
it would not have done any good. But I keep 3 knives on my person at all
times, and 2 of them I have practiced enough and am good enough that I can
pull out and have the blade shown and in use with the speed of a switchblade.
It's easy to say what one would have done in a situation like Chris had. For
me, it would depend on what kind of day I had. If I had a bad day, my first
reaction would be to take a finger or two. Although I am passive by nature, I
have a tolerance level. That kind of situation would have passed it.

--Paul--