Although many programs offer victim services, few exist to help people with physical limitations prevent an attack in the first place. If you have physical limitations, it is possible to protect yourself adequately.
With proper knowledge, training, and guidance, you can avoid becoming a victim. Whether you want to learn more about firearms, basic self-defense, or non-lethal weapons, this article covers everything you need to know.
Disclaimer: Ammo.com is not a legal website. We do not provide legal advice. It’s best to reach out to an attorney or local officials with questions concerning the legality of self-defense in your jurisdiction.
Self-Defense Tips for People with Disabilities
Having a disability does make you a greater target. In fact, people with disabilities are four times more likely to be victimized than those of any other demographic. Between 2017 and 2019, people with disabilities were victimized at higher rates than any other demographic: 83.3 per 1,000. (Source)
A disability doesn’t mean you’re powerless, though. Similar to most aspects of functioning with limitations, it simply means that the right mindset, tools, and skills may be necessary to thrive.
Before teaching you about weapons, let’s talk about basic prevention. After all, we want to avoid threats when we can, so follow these tips to minimize risk.
Report Highlights: Self-Defense Tips for People with Disabilities
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Situational awareness - Making it obvious that you’re aware of your surroundings deters threats, and gives you time to react should someone try to harm you.
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Have a plan - Knowing where exits are and how to contact someone for help can save your life should you need to flee or find yourself in a dangerous situation.
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Prepare for a worst case scenario - We can’t always avoid dangerous situations. Train for these situations based on your specific needs and capabilities.
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Don’t be an easy target - Don’t trust anyone who hasn’t earned it, and make it obvious that you aren’t meek or timid.
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Arm yourself - Explore self-defense tools that you can use to protect your life.
Can a Physically Disabled Person Get a Gun Permit?
Yes. Someone who is physically disabled can get a gun permit in all 50 states, as long as they can safely operate a firearm and are not an otherwise prohibited person.
Although state laws vary, none have laws that specifically prohibit people with disabilities from obtaining a gun permit as long as they can safely operate a firearm. In 29 states, anyone can carry open and/or concealed without a permit, as long as the individual is lawfully allowed to possess a firearm.
Some states require training and additional background checks before issuing permits, but physical limitations won’t directly stop you from acquiring one.
Here are legal reasons why people (whether disabled or not) are legally restricted from purchasing, possessing, or carrying firearms:
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A previous felony conviction or fugitive from justice
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History of drug or substance abuse
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Mental illness that resulted in a court-ordered stay in a mental health facility
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Has been deemed mentally incompetent
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Non-citizens present in the United States unlawfully
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A dishonorable discharge from the United States Armed Forces
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Someone’s who’s subject to a domestic violence-related restraining order
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Convicted of a crime related to domestic violence
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Minors and adults who are too young to possess a firearm per their state’s laws
Whether you obtain your concealed carry weapon (CCW) permit or have the option of exercising constitutional carry, be sure to research where you can lawfully carry your firearm. Some states have restrictions on carrying in hospitals, government buildings, educational institutions, churches, or parks. Some private businesses also have restrictions.
CCW Suggestions for People With Disabilities
Standard concealed carry firearms include semi-automatic pistols and revolvers. Semi-automatics are newer technology featuring high-capacity magazines, whereas revolvers are simpler to operate and often preferred by novice shooters.
If you’re unsure of which is right for you, this section will help!
Semi-Automatics
Semi-autos are magazine-fed firearms with a lot to offer most shooters. Although loading magazines, chambering cartridges, and maintenance are generally more challenging than revolvers, there are accessories and techniques to overcome those challenges.
Despite loading and chambering (racking the slide), we recommend this firearm type to individuals with vision impairments (due to the availability of more optics) and those with limited hand or wrist strength (as semi-autos generally require less force to squeeze the trigger than modern double-action revolvers). Modifications and accessories, such as slide rackers and magazine loaders, may be necessary. Still, the light trigger pull, comfortable design, and customizability all make semi-automatic pistols superior to revolvers in many cases.
Revolvers
Revolvers are far less complicated than semi-automatic firearms, but they aren’t without their drawbacks. They’re easier to load and maintain, but generally considered more difficult to fire.
Revolvers are notorious for having a heavy trigger pull. That presents hurdles for people with weak hands, arthritis, or other physical limitations. A gunsmith may be able to reduce the weight of a revolver’s trigger pull. Alternatively, you can purchase a Ruger LCR, which leaves the factory with a notably light trigger pull.
Small Calibers
Don’t fall victim to thinking a smaller cartridge (commonly referred to as “calibers”) is always better for shooters with disabilities. Smaller cartridges like the .22 LR, .38 Special, and .380 ACP are great because they have less recoil – but they may not be powerful enough to reliably stop an attacker.
Cartridges with more stopping power, such as 9mm, .357 Magnum, and .45 ACP, have greater stopping power, but will do you no good if their stronger recoil prevents you from hitting the target.
Smaller cartridges are better than a sharp stick, and if that’s all you can handle, it’s a great option. Larger cartridges are more effective, but your firearm may need new grips, a compensator, or other modifications to mitigate recoil.
Concealed Carry Basics for People With Disabilities
Carrying a concealed firearm is the best option for self-defense (provided that you’re physically capable and lawfully permitted to do so). Although guns can seem intimidating at first, many disabled people have empowered themselves – and you can too!
Selecting a weapon that suits your needs, training, and becoming knowledgeable is easy when you have guidance. The following sections will walk you through all these aspects of self-defense.
Best Handgun for People With Disabilities
Choosing a handgun is a personal decision. We typically recommend selecting one that you feel confident firing, maintaining, and carrying regularly.
Certain features, designs, and accessories can make a big difference to those with physical disabilities, especially those who have reduced hand strength, arthritis, or impaired vision. The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ is an excellent option for those who want a semi-automatic, while the Ruger LCR is best for those who prefer a revolver.
The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ is a user-friendly, reliable, and affordable semi-automatic firearm for people with disabilities. Designed for those who need functionality, the M&P Shield EZ has an easy-to-rack slide, which makes chambering rounds easier when you have limited hand strength or dexterity.
The grip safety adds extra security without complicating operation (the firearm will not discharge unless the grip safety is depressed). Furthermore, the grip’s design also makes this compact pistol more comfortable to hold, and its enhanced trigger makes it easy to fire.
Those with vision limitations will benefit from the M&P Shield EZ’s optics-ready design. Attaching a red dot makes target acquisition much easier, and you can grasp the optic while racking the slide for added ergonomics!
Why We Chose It:
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Easy-to-rack slide - Necessary for loading your gun, and ideal for reduced strength or mobility
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Optic-ready - Supports red dot sights for targeting and assists with racking the slide
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Ergonomic grip - Designed for comfort and control
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Grip safety - Adds a passive layer of security that doesn’t interfere with function
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Compact and lightweight - Easy to carry and maneuver
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Available in 9mm or .380 ACP - Choose based on your recoil and stopping power preferences
Recommended Modifications:
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Add a red dot sight to enhance target acquisition and further assist with slide manipulation (perfect for one-handed shooters and those who have reduced hand strength).
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Purchase a magazine loader (e.g., the Maglula Uplula) to help fill up magazines.
The Ruger Lightweight Compact Revolver (LCR) is a dependable and thoughtfully designed revolver with a lot to offer people who have reduced hand strength, limited dexterity, or any other reason to require simplicity and ease of use.
Unlike other revolvers, the LCR has a smooth and light double-action trigger thanks to Ruger’s patented cam control system. This reduces the effort needed to fire the gun and makes it easier to stay on target between shots. With no hammer to cock or slide to rack, the LCR eliminates two major challenges for disabled shooters.
The LCR’s lightweight frame makes it easier to carry, draw, and hold steady, and its ergonomic grip is contoured to help you control the firearm without straining your hands.
Why We Chose It:
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No slide to rack - Ideal for users with limited hand strength or dexterity
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Light and smooth trigger - Requires less strength and effort than most double-action revolvers
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Ergonomic grip - Makes controlling the firearm more comfortable for those with arthritis or weak hands
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Simplicity - No safeties, levers, or complex mechanisms to manipulate while loading, maintaining, or firing
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Available in multiple calibers:
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.22 LR (very low recoil)
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.38 Special (mild recoil, but more stopping power)
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9mm (moderate recoil, but more stopping power than .22 LR)
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.357 Mag (high recoil, but more stopping power)
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Recommended Modifications:
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Upgrade the grip to increase comfort and reduce recoil for sensitive hands
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Use speedloaders to simplify reloading for those with limited dexterity
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