What is a weapon?
If you want to get technical, anything can be a weapon from the obvious firearms down to water, all can be and have been used for offensive purposes. According to most of the laws I know about, a weapon can be classified into firearms, blunt and edged weapons. There could be more than that, but I think that covers it.
Weapons are tools. Yes, a firearm’s use is limited by the fact that you shoot what you are aiming at and a hole appears, but I would rather use a firearm to bring down a large Buck or Bear than go one on one with a knife.
Bow and arrow technology has progressed to the extent that an arrow can go just about as far as a bullet, and without the sound. Again, it is a purely offensive thing, but it does take more skill to use, and as such, the person on the shooting end of the bow is more likely to be sure what they are shooting at.
Another purely offensive weapon is the air gun. Many varieties are available at this point, from the BB air rifles that moms are always denying young boys in movies to the paint ball guns used in current war games. If you played paint ball, you would know that it is not just fun and games. You can get hurt. Using air guns can be dangerous if you do not know what you are doing, and sometimes if you do.
Knives are tools in the broadest sense of the word. They can be used to kill and maim, yes, but they can also be used to cut branches for marshmallow roasting, cut thread for your sewing project and be a welcome weight on your belt when you are hiking. Knives can be used to do so much more than be weapons. At least with a knife, you know it is loaded.
Anything at hand can be used in an offensive manner, even fashion. If you are in a position that you need to defend yourself, use everything you can. Do not think that only a firearm will work. A stiletto heel is a great ‘defensive’ weapon. If you have a belt, you have a range weapon. And don’t forget the stereotypical purse. Ouch.
The best way to defend yourself is to not get into situations where you need to defend your self. Think ahead, and consider the consequences of your actions.