If you need something that can knock tires or anything else in an emergency, this is fine. The wood is hard and I think it's hickory - DIFFERENT and keeps ticking! It won't break in half even if you try bouncing it up and down the curb (unless you weigh 500 pounds - but even then, I doubt it). As other reviewers point out, if you plan on using it as a self-defense tool, you should know your state's laws. I have rather small hands and the handle might be a bit thick for my hand; However, theβ¦