Getting back to tools of the trade ... besides mace, a club is a very deadly weapon and much better than a knife in a altercation. Your full length tire pump could be used to 'Kick Butt" if need be.

Those Oak "Tire Checkers" sold in big road side truck stops are the best, and there are ways to have one on you, or in your panniers if you so desire :-)

You need them to check your tires don't you (you must check for dead spots)?

wll