I'm a little (petite) chick, I've been taking off into the woods alone for hours since I was young, about 15 years experience, let's say. In my youth I always took along a slender branch, 2/3my size. Anything that made a great whipping noise in the air. Easy to carry and strong enough to strip bark/cut grasses with a good lash. My favorite weapons are my tools. Especially if they are natural tools. My favorite 'go to' has always been a strong and pointed walking stick- we have snakes, bears and cougars. I've since adapted to carrying a small knife, so practical you shouldn't leave without one- ya know, for the killing and raping- bahahaha, alright, jk on that one- in all seriousness though, never underestimate the use of the right stone. Find a good sized one that fits comfortably in your hand, yet large enough to protect you hand from whatever you may be crushing. I generally use stones like this to pound stakes/thick cut branches into the ground. Good to keep in arms reach at camp.
Your fire poker is lethal, and the fire/smoke tends to deter preditors- we have coyotes, too.
Stealth is pretty key. Observe your surroundings closely, heighten your senses.
