Carrying a firearm isn’t for everyone, and even for those who do, there are times and places where a gun isn’t an option. While less-lethal tools like pepper spray or tear gas can be effective, they can be prohibited in some areas. And using pepper spray indoors can quickly contaminate an entire room or building.
Though other defensive options, like civilian Tasers or empty-hand techniques, exist, those come with their own challenges. Tasers can be expensive and are limited to a single shot, and not everyone is physically able or emotionally prepared to strike another person in self-defense.
Having spent many years teaching women’s self-defense, I’ve seen firsthand that some students want to protect themselves but hesitate to use force. For those interested in a non-lethal way to draw attention that could deter an attack, the Byrna Banshee personal safety alarm is a great option.
The Byrna Banshee Personal Safety Alarm
Personal safety alarms are electronic devices that emit a loud shrieking sound. It’s a simple way to draw attention, which will deter most attackers. Unlike pepper spray or tear gas, a personal alarm doesn’t require aiming, physical strength or even close contact.
Because stress often compromises fine motor skills, the best personal safety alarms aren’t bulky or difficult to operate. Byrna, known for kinetic/OC/CS projectile launchers, developed the Banshee personal safety alarm to be easy to operate.
The Banshee includes a flashing LED light and is simple to activate with a ring pull-pin system. Pulling the pin straight out automatically activates a 130-decibel shrieking alarm. The pin is also the off switch when reinserted. It can be reused multiple times.
The alarm is loud enough to turn heads so others know someone needs help as well as disrupt an attacker’s focus. The Byrna Banshee personal alarm will emit the sound until the pin is inserted to deactivate or the battery runs out.
Byrna Banshee Alarm Specifications
Sound output: 130dB (equal to hearing a military jet take off from 50 feet away)
Durability: Water-resistant
Power source: Two replaceable CR2032 batteries
Light source: Low power consumption/high intensity LED strobe light
Weight: 1.09 ounces
Length: 4 inches
Width: 1 inch
Price: $19.99
The Banshee is incredibly easy to carry due to its small size. The weight above includes the aluminum carabiner clip attached.
It’s best to keep the Banshee personal alarm outside of clothing to be easily accessible and not accidentally activated. I recommend clipping it to a belt loop or on a regularly carried bag like a fanny pack or purse.
Testing the Banshee
Before carrying any tool for self-defense, it’s best to learn how it actually performs. Though not difficult, the pin does require a firm tug.
My wife and I tested the Banshee in our backyard when the neighbors on either side weren’t home. She stood a good distance away as I pulled the pin and tossed the alarm into the grass.
Even with the alarm landing speaker-side down, the Banshee was definitely loud enough to get people’s attention.
If you have young children, be sure they know the Banshee is not a toy, especially as it also is available in pink. Once they know what it is, it wouldn’t be a bad idea for kids to carry a safety alarm while away from the house.
Byrna Banshee Personal Safety Alarm Review
The Banshee appears to be a quality product from a quality company. It’s a simple to operate, easy to carry and inexpensive self-defense option. The Byrna Banshee personal safety alarm is a great option to carry where other self-defense tools may not be allowed or as a backup.
