My first concern would be if you're driving a rental. Don't leave anything in the car unattended, including your rental contract -- it contains personal information plus you need it to show the cops if stopped or go through a DUI checkpoint in lieu of registration and insurance card. Rentals are targeted on Oahu no matter where you park.
Next would be leaving what EDC you choose in the car when in court. The courthouse parking area is probably less risky, but it's still something to consider. If you can place "it" in a bag and check it with courthouse security, then pick it up as you leave, that would be ideal.
i'd personally opt for a baton (not taser type) over a knife. More stand-off distance. A knife requires you be close enough to be hit, grabbed or stabbed, too. I'd want to maintain distance with the threat. A Taser is useful when you see you can't stop the threat with a defensive posture, but until you deploy it, it's not that intimidating.
According to the reviews, that stun baton is only good if you are close enough to touch the target and shock them. It will break (plastic) if you try to use it for striking. Something to consider. I'd prefer a Taser with probes that maintain that distance, but if facing more than one person, you can only stop one of them with it unless it's the kind that also has contacts for stun gun application.
Do all the typical things we warn tourists about:
- Don't go to areas you don't know if they look shady
- Don't go to bars alone
- Don't go strolling down the street at 2AM
- Don't flash cash
- Try not to dress like a tourist
- Carry a throw-away wallet with $20-40 bucks and maybe an expired license in it. Keep your current ID, credit/debit cards, rest of your cash, etc. in another wallet. If someone "asks" for your wallet, they won't get all your important items.
- Always be aware of your surroundings, and pay attention to anyone who appears to be paying attention to you
The list goes on, but mainly use common sense so you don't find yourself in need of defensive weapons.
I know some people carry whistles or air horns (in purses) to get others' attention.
A cane or walking stick can appear very innocuous but be pretty effective if needed.
As for sprays, they do sell them on Oahu. It might not be the brand or type you prefer, but buying at a local gun store here can avoid the air travel restrictions. Before you leave for home, make sure to donate it to a nearby homeless person.
