10 Forgotten Self-Defense Gadgets From the Past
History is full of clever — and sometimes bizarre — self-defense gadgets that have since faded into obscurity. From concealed weapons disguised as everyday items to ingenious tools designed for personal protection, these forgotten relics now command impressive prices among collectors and history buffs. Here are 10 self-defense artifacts that offer a fascinating glimpse into the past while also doubling as valuable gems today.
1. Cane Guns
These disguised firearms were the ultimate hush-hush weapon of the 19th and early 20th centuries. Crafted from fine wood and metal, they typically housed small revolvers or single-shot mechanisms, which were activated by a hidden trigger. Favored by affluent gentlemen, detectives, and even gangsters for their discreetness, cane guns can command thousands of dollars at auction. In 2022, an E. Remington & Sons cane gun with a “dog’s head” handle sold for $8,813 at auction.
2. Hatpin Daggers
Long before pepper spray, women in the Victorian era wielded these sharp, dagger-like hatpins for both fashion and self-defense. Some were even designed as retractable blades to be used in close-range combat. Today, ornate versions, especially those featuring gemstone handles, can fetch high prices thanks to their elaborate craftsmanship. That said, even plain ones can command hundreds of dollars, like this silver hairpin dagger and sheath that sold for $400 at auction in 2022.
3. Whistle Rings
These ingenious rings doubled as jewelry and personal alarms, thanks to a tiny whistle built into the band that was used to scare off attackers or call for help. Popular among women in the early 1900s, especially those traveling alone, they’re now hot commodities among vintage collectors and historians. Depending on condition and provenance, whistle rings can bring in big bucks at auction.
4. Apache Revolvers
This brutal (though very cool looking) French weapon from the late 1800s combined brass knuckles, a folding knife, and a small revolver into one compact tool. Used by Parisian street gangs and pirates, it was as much a status symbol as a weapon. Due to its rarity and notoriety, surviving examples, especially those in good condition, can sell for upwards of $5,000. In 2014, an engraved silver Apache pinfire revolver sold for nearly seven grand ($6,900 to be exact) at auction.
5. Sword Canes
A sleeker alternative to cane guns, these concealed walking sticks were favored by aristocrats and duelists in the 19th century. Some even had spring-loaded mechanisms for quick deployment. Antique models, especially those with custom engravings or rare materials, are listed for anywhere between a couple hundred to close to a grand. One sold for $225 at auction.
6. Pocket Pistols
Small but deadly, pocket pistols (also known as derringers) were the preferred carry guns of the 1800s. Their pocket size made them popular among gamblers, lawmen, and outlaws alike. Authentic models, especially those linked to famous figures or events — like the Philadelphia Deringer, used by John Wilkes Booth to assassinate Abe Lincoln) — can sell for several thousand. A set of three American pocket pistols sold for $1,175 at auction in February 2025.
7. Push Daggers
Worn like a brass knuckle with the blade sticking out between the fingers, these push daggers were used for close-quarter combat. Favored by sailors, street fighters, and even Confederate soldiers during the Civil War, these blades were known for their brutal efficiency. Today, authentic examples from the 19th century can sell for over a grand; one sold for $1,400 at auction.
8. Trench Knives
Designed for hand-to-hand combat in the trenches of war, these knives typically featured knuckle-duster handles and deadly triangular blades for maximum impact. Original military-issued trench knives, especially those with unit markings, can sell for thousands of dollars, depending on model and condition. In 2024, a pair of these knives from World War I sold for $2,233 at auction.
9. Lipstick Pistols
A Cold War-era spy gadget, these tiny, single-shot pistols were disguised as lipstick tubes and commonly used by intelligence agents (and apparently every female villain in James Bond films). Rare and intriguing, they’re now museum-worthy pieces that also fetch high prices at auction. Just take this “kiss of death” lipstick gun that sold for £1,500 (about $1,900).
10. Belt Buckle Knives
Popular among cowboys and outdoorsmen in the Wild West, these buckles concealed a small folding blade that could be used for self-defense or emergencies. Many were custom-made, and surviving originals are rare. Today, authentic belt buckle knives, especially those with provenance, can sell for hundreds of dollars.