A Vulnerable Time

posted on March 21, 2013
rackley2015_fs.jpg (3)

A public restroom is one of the strangest places in which to stay aware. While I can’t discuss how it is with ladies, in a men’s restroom, we are practically programmed to mind our own business and keep our eyes straight forward at all times. Unfortunately, this means we’re not paying very much attention to our surroundings.

Because of this, we are leaving ourselves open to attack during one of our most vulnerable times. When standing at the urinal, you are facing a wall, and unable to see what is happening behind you. Bathrooms are also one of the few places where it is completely illegal to have any type of monitoring devices—this is a good thing considering the activities. All this combines into an almost perfect situation for an attack.

While it is nearly impossible to avoid public restrooms completely, there are a few ways to reduce the risk, without being too over the top. First, be aware of where the mirrors are located, and, if possible, use them to observe others walking in and access their danger levels. Also, many restrooms have mirrored tile, allowing you to watch a reflection of what is happening behind you and view potentially aggressive actions.

If neither is available, you can always head to a stall, where you can face the door, and have easy access to your defensive handgun. Of course, this also means that you won’t be able to move very quickly, but you also can’t be attacked from behind.

Latest

Nra Logo Blue
Nra Logo Blue

Bill Bachenberg Elected NRA President, Doug Hamlin Unanimously Reelected as NRA Executive Vice President & CEO

Today, the Board of Directors of the National Rifle Association of America (NRA), elected Bill Bachenberg of Pennsylvania as President of the NRA and Doug Hamlin as NRA Executive Vice President & CEO.

Review: Garmin Xero C1 Pro Chronograph

Garmin is a longtime provider of useful electronics for outdoor enthusiasts, including handheld GPS units, archery optics and smartwatches. Near the end of 2023, the company expanded its offerings in a fresh direction by offering its very first chronograph, dubbed the Xero C1 Pro.

The Armed Citizen® April 28, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

New For 2025: Century Arms AP51 & AP53

Century Arms has expanded its AP5 line of roller-delayed blowback firearms with the new AP51 and AP53 handguns based on the Heckler & Koch G3 and HK33, respectively.

Preview: InfernoWare Shield

InfernoWare Shield is a spray-applied coating designed to protect firearm and other components from heat and contact damage.

Charles Hiltunen Elected As 76th NRA Director

Charles Hiltunen has been elected by the members to a one-year term ending in 2026.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.