When you want to go non-lethal for personal self-defense, a stun gun is a viable option for you. However, you first have to carry the device just about everywhere you go without attracting attention to what you’re wielding. Well, Streetwise solved both problems with its ingenious Stunbrella. This device offers the conveniences of a traditional umbrella, with the added bonus of an integrated stun gun. With the Stunbrella within my grip, I tested its practicality, functionality, and ease of use under sunny and not-so-sunny skies.
Discreetness is King!
The Stunbrella’s box was loaded with graphics depicting its many functions. But once I removed it and gave it a look-over, it was highly unremarkable, which was a good thing. Not letting anyone know you’re carrying a self-defense weapon has many advantages. First, passersby won’t get spooked by it and possibly cause problems for you, and second, it gives you the element of surprise during an attack. From its traditional length, pure black color, handle, tip, and wrist cordage, nothing about the Stunbrella announced it as anything other than a typical umbrella. I was confident I could walk down the street with the Stunbrella without attracting anyone’s curiosity.
Ease of Use
Definitely, the star of this umbrella is its stun gun-like functionality. The unit is charged via the included USB-C charging cable and reached full power in about???. hours once I plugged it in. The Stunbrella features an integrated safety switch at the base of the handle to prevent accidental discharge. Once charged, I hit the activation switch, and the Stunbrella came alive with a loud crackle and a flash of blue electricity. The stun gun activated quickly and smoothly, without a delay.
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This is especially important when your life may be on the line. The unit offered a large shock area (nearly 3 inches), so it allows you some leeway in the precision and accuracy of your strikes. I was also surprised that its stun-gun mode operated just as well when the umbrella was open as when it was closed. Overall, I was quite impressed with its stun-gun capabilities, and when threatened, the ominous, intimidating crackling sound may be enough to deter a wannabe assailant.
Non-Stun Applications
Aside from its exemplary self-defense practicality, the Stunbrella offers other useful functions. For example, it’s a fully functional umbrella. Its outer design is not just for discretion; it also protects two adults from unexpected rainfall. The material was durable and repelled water like a beast (trust me, South Florida can dish out the rain.) Additionally, its long 40-inch reach can double as a walking stick while keeping an attacker at bay when traversing city streets or more rugged terrain.
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My Final Thoughts?
As hard as I tried, I was hard-pressed to find any negatives with this device. It functioned properly as both a traditional umbrella and a stun gun. There were no indications of ineffective electronics, sticking mechanical parts, or low-quality fabric. The Stunbrella includes a carrying sleeve with a shoulder strap and retails for just under $100.00 (pricing may vary). My advice is to buy one now and walk with confidence through shady neighborhoods and under dark, cloudy skies.
