>>2414008Swift feet and keen awareness are your best defense. Just get the hell out in any sketch situation. Don't fight lurks, you don't know what foulness they're carrying around in their bloodstream.
If you insist on a weapon, you should consider what happens if you get caught with said weapon by authorities. A gun will land you in trouble the fastest. Heavy tools like hammers, crowbars, or wrenches are also bad, as these would be considered breaking and entering tools, even if you had no intent to use them to gain access. Common recommendation I've seen is to carry a big Maglite-type flashlight—it has a legitimate purpose for you as an explorer, but also has enough weight to pack a wallop if used as a club. You might consider mace or a pocket knife as well (but not a multitool, again from the B&E perspective it looks bad). You should know the weapon/knife laws of where you live before choosing something for defense.
Hobos want to be left alone. Remember that. They are scared of you and want to be left alone. They don't want people intruding upon where they sleep. Fucked up shit happens to the homeless on the streets, and they're not looking to become a victim. They'll try to scare you first so you fuck off and leave them be. I've seen it suggested you can try and be friendly if you get the opportunity, by offering food or smokes in exchange for passage/info about the area. (Don't offer money.) Up to them if they want to be friendly though.
>other dangerous peopleGangs? Junkies? Pot farmers? Cultists? Get the fuck out of there. Just get the fuck out. Apologize if they seem capable of listening, and get the fuck out. Watch your back.
