11 Must-Read Self Defence Books for Stay Safe

Discover the best self defence book to boost your confidence and skills swiftly. Your ultimate guide to empowering reads in the world of personal safety.
BrandMy RatingPrice
By Capt W E Fairbairn (Author)
Best Value Option
8.8/10
By Phil Pierce (Author)
Best for Beginners
8.4/10
By Darren Levine (Author), John Whitman (Author)
Best for Self-Defense Techniques
9.2/10
By Andrew F. Branca (Author), Massad Ayoob (Foreword)
Best for Law and Legal Insights
9.6/10
By Clint Emerson (Author)
9.4/10

Best Self Defence Book

Looking to empower yourself with practical knowledge and sharpen your self-defense skills through the pages of a book? Dive into our curated list of the best self-defense books, each one packed with insights to help you stand your ground with confidence. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned martial artist, these reads promise concise, impactful lessons crafted for quick mastery.

Best Value Option: Hands Off! Self-Defense for Women

HANDS OFF!: SELF-DEFENCE FOR WOMEN
Highlights
Practical defense techniques
Easy to follow
Scientifically accurate

This book offers practical defense techniques that are easy to follow, making it perfect for quick reference in real situations. Despite its small size and simple pages, it packs a punch with scientifically accurate methods tailored specifically for women.

While the visuals are a bit outdated and the language leans old-fashioned, its affordability makes it a great value for budget-conscious readers.

If you’re seeking straightforward, no-frills self-defense tips without breaking the bank, this little guide is a smart choice.

It’s a handy, approachable resource for building confidence and safety.

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Price history for Hands Off! Self-Defense for Women on Amazon

Best for Beginners: Self Defense Made Simple

Self Defense Made Simple: Easy and Effective Self Protection Whatever Your Age, Size or Skill!
Highlights
Simple, easy techniques
Clear illustrations included
Focus on situational awareness

This book is perfect for beginners, offering straightforward, easy-to-follow techniques that anyone can grasp.

With clear illustrations and a focus on situational awareness, it empowers novices without overwhelming them with complexity.

While it doesn’t delve into advanced combat maneuvers, its emphasis on fundamental skills makes it an excellent starting point.

Plus, its compact size and engaging content make learning both quick and enjoyable.

If you're new to self-defense or want a confidence boost, this book is a gem in our eyes!

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Price history for Self Defense Made Simple on Amazon

Best for Self-Defense Techniques: Krav Maga Mastery

Complete Krav Maga: The Ultimate Guide to Over 250 Self-Defense and Combative Techniques
Highlights
Clear technique illustrations
Organized by skill level
Good for quick reference

… This book truly stands out as the best for self-defense techniques because it covers over 250 methods, offering a comprehensive toolkit for any situation.

The clear technique illustrations make it easy to follow, while the organization by skill level lets you progress at your own pace.

Although it’s in black-and-white, the visuals are effective for quick reference.

Keep in mind, it’s not a full training course—mastery still needs hands-on practice with an instructor.

Still, for those eager to learn diverse techniques efficiently, this is a solid choice.

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Price history for Krav Maga Mastery on Amazon

Best for Law and Legal Insights: Law of Self Defense

The Law of Self Defense: The Indispensable Guide to the Armed Citizen
Highlights
Comprehensive legal insights
Easy to understand principles
Useful state-specific laws

Law of Self Defense, 3rd edition, excels as the go-to resource for understanding the legal landscape surrounding self-defense.

It's especially valuable for law enthusiasts and legal professionals, thanks to its clear explanations of complex legal concepts.

The book covers state-specific laws, making it incredibly practical for developing a nuanced legal perspective.

While it may be a bit dense for absolute beginners, those willing to invest a little time will find it extremely rewarding.

Overall, this is the best choice for anyone seeking a detailed, legal-focused guide in the self-defense arena.

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Price history for Law of Self Defense on Amazon

100 Deadly Skills

100 Deadly Skills: COMBAT EDITION: A Navy SEAL's Guide to Crushing Your Enemy, Fighting for Your Life, and Embracing Your Inner Badass
Highlights
Expert insights by Clint Emerson
Interactive video content included
Broad range of combat techniques

Clint Emerson offers expert insights that are both practical and engaging, making complex self-defense techniques accessible to all.

The inclusion of interactive video content takes the learning experience up a notch, allowing users to see techniques in action and practice along at their own pace.

Covering a broad range of combat strategies, this book is more than just a read—it's an interactive toolkit.

While it mainly aims for entertainment and lacks some detailed descriptions, it’s perfect for those wanting quick, accessible tips from a credible source.

A solid choice for anyone eager to boost their self-defense confidence with a fun, engaging resource.

Be sure to also check out the best gemstone books for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for 100 Deadly Skills on Amazon

Combat Pressure Points

Combat Pressure Points: A No Nonsense Guide To Pressure Point Fighting for Self-Defense (Pressure Point Fighting Series)
Highlights
Practical techniques
Clear diagrams
Real-life effectiveness

Contemporary Fighting Arts delivers practical techniques that are easy to grasp and implement immediately.

The clear diagrams make complex moves simple to understand, which is perfect for beginners or anyone seeking quick, effective self-defense tips.

It's rooted in real-life effectiveness, giving you confidence that what you learn can be applied in actual situations.

While it leans toward the basics with some limited advanced content, its compact design and solid quality make it a great addition to your self-defense toolbox.

A reliable, no-nonsense guide that gets straight to the point.

Be sure to also check out the best selling book 2009 for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for Combat Pressure Points on Amazon

No Rules Martial Arts Self Defence Book

No Rules: Martial Arts for Survival and Self-Defense
Highlights
Real-world survival focus
Increases situational awareness
Helps mental preparedness

This book offers a strong emphasis on real-world survival, helping readers boost their situational awareness and mental preparedness — key skills for self-defense.

Its practical approach stands out, even if the content can feel a bit vague or repetitive at times.

The writing might not win any awards for engagement, but it manages to deliver solid, foundational concepts that could work in a pinch.

Perfect for those who prefer a no-nonsense, survival-focused read, even if it leaves some room for more technical detail.

Be sure to also check out the best selling book 2007 for more options! Also, here is the price history so you know exactly when to buy!

Price history for No Rules Martial Arts on Amazon

Self-Defense Handbook

The Self-Defense Handbook: The Best Street Fighting Moves and Self-Defense Techniques
Highlights
Comprehensive self-defense topics
Easy-to-understand language
Based on real street experience

It covers a wide range of self-defense topics with clear and accessible language, making it ideal for beginners and casual readers alike.

Drawing from real street experience, the scenarios feel authentic and practical.

While its section on weapons defense may not hold up in actual danger, the core principles are solid and easy to grasp.

Keep in mind, the content might lean on some familiar online tips, and it's not tailored for advanced practitioners.

Overall, this book offers a well-rounded introduction to personal safety without overwhelming the reader.

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Price history for Self-Defense Handbook on Amazon

SAS and Special Forces Self Defence Handbook

SAS and Special Forces Self Defence Handbook
Highlights
Comprehensive Self-Defense Tips
Good for Self-Teaching
Well-Packaged Delivery

Amber Books Ltd delivers a comprehensive overview of essential self-defense tips suitable for beginners and those looking to refresh their knowledge.

The book is well-packaged and easy to handle, making it a great choice for self-teaching.

While some techniques are a bit vague and might lack the firepower for real-world scrapes, its straightforward approach offers practical advice without overwhelming.

Ideal for those seeking quick, actionable tips, it’s a solid starting point, even if you eventually need more advanced training.

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Price history for SAS and Special Forces Self Defence Handbook on Amazon

Krav Maga Fundamental Strategies Self Defence Book

Krav Maga Fundamental Strategies
Highlights
Deep psychological insights
Expertise from military background
Comprehensive self-defense strategies

This book offers deep psychological insights that set it apart from typical self-defense guides, helping readers understand the mindset needed in high-stakes situations.

With expertise stemming from a military background, it delivers comprehensive strategies that are both practical and rooted in real-world experience.

While the illustrations can be a bit blurry and some language feels clunky, the content remains highly valuable—especially for those interested in Krav Maga.

Overall, it's a rich resource that balances tactical advice with mental resilience, making it a solid choice for anyone serious about self-defense mastery.

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Price history for Krav Maga Fundamental Strategies on Amazon

Spot the Narcissist

Spot the Narcissist: The Ultimate Guide to Becoming Un-Manipulatable
Highlights
Easy to understand
Practical boundary strategies
Relatable real-life examples

It's incredibly easy to understand, making it accessible to readers of all backgrounds.

The practical boundary strategies are grounded in real-life scenarios, which we found especially helpful for applying lessons immediately.

While it mainly zeroes in on narcissistic behaviors, the relatable examples keep the content engaging and relevant.

That said, it offers limited self-defense techniques and isn't solely focused on physical defense, but it excels at empowering readers to recognize and set healthy boundaries first.

Overall, a smart, insightful pick for those looking to boost their personal safety and self-awareness.

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Price history for Spot the Narcissist on Amazon

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