In 2023, nine cases of incidents involving the discharge of firearms were reported in Japan. Although figures fluctuated from year to year, this continued a general downward trend after the decade-high number of 32 gun shooting incidents reported in 2014. Seven people died from gun shooting incidents that year. Gun control Gun possession for general citizens in Japan is strictly regulated under the Act for Controlling the Possession of Firearms or Swords and Other Such Weapons enacted in 1958. According to the act, gun possession is only allowed for hunting and shooting sports purposes. The only firearms permitted for ownership are hunting rifles, shotguns, other hunting guns, and air guns. It is required to undergo numerous procedures to obtain a gun permit, such as providing a resume and a medical certificate from a psychiatrist, attending classroom lectures and technical training, and passing exams. Applicants must repeat similar procedures every three years to renew the permit. As of 2022, about 183.5 thousand guns were owned with licenses among citizens across the country. The number of confiscated weapons in 2022 amounted to 321 pistols, 35 hunting guns, and 10 air guns. Killing of Shinzo Abe Ex-Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, the longest-serving prime minister in Japanese history, was shot and killed in July 2022. The incident marked the first assassination of a former Japanese prime minister since 1936. The suspect used a homemade gun created with DIY store materials. Following the incident, experts suggest tightening the security system for politicians and regulations for handmade or modified guns.

In 2023, seven people died after being shot in Japan. Three of the victims were part of an organized crime group. That year, there were nine incidents of discharging firearms reported in Japan, of which three cases were related to crime syndicate groups.

In 2023, there were nine incidents of discharging firearms in Japan, five of which involved firing pistols. This represented a decrease compared to 22 gun shooting incidents in 2017.

In 2022, 35 hunting guns and 10 air guns were confiscated in Japan for possession without a license. In Japan, gun possession is only permitted for hunting and shooting sports purposes after a strict examination.

Japan crime rate per 100K population for 2021 was 0.23, a 9.93% decline from 2020.

• Japan crime rate per 100K population for 2020 was 0.25, a 0.12% increase from 2019.
• Japan crime rate per 100K population for 2019 was 0.25, a 4.12% decline from 2018.
• Japan crime rate per 100K population for 2018 was 0.26, a 9.48% increase from 2017.

Intentional homicides are estimates of unlawful homicides purposely inflicted as a result of domestic disputes, interpersonal violence, violent conflicts over land resources, intergang violence over turf or control, and predatory violence and killing by armed groups. Intentional homicide does not include all intentional killing; the difference is usually in the organization of the killing. Individuals or small groups usually commit homicide, whereas killing in armed conflict is usually committed by fairly cohesive groups of up to several hundred members and is thus usually excluded.

In 2022, approximately 0.7 homicide cases were recognized by the police per 100,000 inhabitants in Japan. The murder rate in the country did not fluctuate in the observed period.

In 2021, the police in Japan recognized approximately 27.85 thousand assault offenses. That year, the number of clearances for assaults was around 23.31 thousand. According to Japan's Penal Code, an assault offense refers to assault cases in which suspects' acts of violence did not result in physical injury to victims.

In 2022, the police in Japan recognized 11 offenses of unlawful assembly with dangerous weapons. That year, the number of clearances for assemblies with weapons was 12 cases. According to Japan's Penal Code, an unlawful assembly with dangerous weapons refers to multiple people assembling with weapons to jointly harm the life, body, or property of another person.

In 2022, the police in Japan recognized around four thousand intimidation offenses. That year, the number of clearances for intimidation was about 3.4 thousand. According to Japan's Penal Code, an intimidation offense refers to an act of intimidation using a threat to harm life, body, freedom, reputation, or property.

Number, percentage and rate (per 100,000 population) of homicide victims, by racialized identity group (total, by racialized identity group; racialized identity group; South Asian; Chinese; Black; Filipino; Arab; Latin American; Southeast Asian; West Asian; Korean; Japanese; other racialized identity group; multiple racialized identity; racialized identity, but racialized identity group is unknown; rest of the population; unknown racialized identity group), gender (all genders; male; female; gender unknown) and region (Canada; Atlantic region; Quebec; Ontario; Prairies region; British Columbia; territories), 2019 to 2023.

In 2023, Japan recorded no execution of death sentences. 15 executions were reported in 2018, the highest number in the last decade.

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Self Defense Products Market Size 2025-2029

The self defense products market size is forecast to increase by USD 937.2 million at a CAGR of 6.8% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is witnessing significant growth due to escalating personal safety concerns and increasing government initiatives aimed at ensuring the safety of citizens. Key components of this market include steel knives, electrical weapons, LED tactical flashlights, and self defense sprays made of substances like titanium and salt. Market trends indicate a rise in demand for high-quality, durable self defense tools, such as those made of stainless steel and other materials. However, the market also faces challenges, including the proliferation of fraudulent and counterfeit products. These substandard items pose a risk to consumers and undermine the credibility of legitimate product manufacturers.
As a result, there is a growing need for stricter regulations and quality control measures to ensure the authenticity and safety of self-defense products. Moreover, the advent of e-commerce platforms has transformed the way self-defense products are bought and sold. Consumers can now easily access a wide range of self-defense tools online, making it essential for manufacturers to establish a strong online presence and optimize their e-commerce strategies to stay competitive. The market is driven by increasing safety concerns and government initiatives, with key components including steel knives, electrical weapons, LED tactical flashlights, self-defense sprays, and plastic-based products. Plastic components are increasingly being used for various self-defense tools, such as lightweight, durable handles and holsters, contributing to product accessibility and affordability.

What will be the Size of the Self Defense Products Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market encompasses a range of non-lethal solutions designed to deter or incapacitate attackers during instances of violence or social unrest. Factors driving market growth include urbanization, changing lifestyles, and increasing awareness of personal safety. Technological advancements, such as AI and machine learning, have led to the development of innovative products like stun guns, tasers, and electroshock weapons. However, product liability concerns and social stigma surrounding these devices may limit market penetration. Political instability and social unrest in various regions contribute to the demand for self-defense products. Martial arts instruction and training courses remain popular offline channels for learning techniques, while online retail platforms offer convenience and accessibility.
Durability, non-fatal options, and ease of use are key considerations for consumers. Misuse and potential for misinterpretation of products can result in legal consequences. Self defense products cater to various needs, including temporary blindness from pepper spray, tactical gloves, folding knives, and projectile solutions. Strict laws and regulations governing the sale and use of these products vary by region.

How is this Self Defense Products Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Distribution Channel

  Offline
  Online


Product

  Folding knives
  Tactical gloves
  Pepper sprays
  Stun guns
  Others


Material

  Metal
  Polymer and plastic
  Chemical-based


End-user

  Law enforcement
  Civilians
  Security personnel
  Military and defense


Geography

  North America

    Canada
    US


  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France
    Italy


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America



  Middle East and Africa

By Distribution Channel Insights

The offline segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market encompasses a range of tools and techniques designed to enhance personal safety and security. Offline distribution channels remain significant in this market due to consumer preferences for tactile experiences and immediate access to products. Brick-and-mortar establishments, such as shops and sporting goods outlets, offer expert advice and product demonstrations, instilling confidence in customers. Additionally, offline companies adhere to local regulations and age restrictions, ensuring responsible sales of self-defense equipment. The products include pepper sprays, stun guns, personal alarms, and other safety gadgets. In 2024, market leaders continued to prioritize offline distribution channels, recognizing the importance of in-person interactions and local regulations.

This market caters to various demographics, including women, seniors, kids, and beginn

The police in Japan cleared 814 homicide cases in 2023, excluding unfounded or unpunishable cases. 268 murder cases involved the use of kitchen knives, followed by 69 cases using other types of knives.

In 2022, the police in Japan cleared 181 homicide cases that involved suspects and victims who were acquainted. In 15 cleared murder cases that year, suspects and victims did not know each other.

In 2022, the police in Japan recognized around 1.3 thousand extortion offenses. That year, the number of clearances for extortion was 936. According to Japan's Penal Code, an extortion offense refers to an act of obtaining property from a victim using a threat.

In 2023, the number of male prisoners sentenced to death in Japanese penal institutions amounted to 99 inmates. There were no execution during the year.

In 2022, the number of female inmates sentenced to death in Japanese penal institutions amounted to eight. The figure remains the same from the previous year, representing the decade highest.

In 2022, no defendant received a final judgment of death sentences at a court in Japan. Eight people were sentenced to death in 2013, the highest number in the last decade.

In 2023, 17 people received a final judgment of a life sentence in prison at a court in Japan. 28 people were sentenced to an indefinite prison term in 2014, the highest number in the last decade.

In 2022, the number of male prisoners sentenced to death in Japanese penal institutions amounted to 98 inmates. This number marks a decrease from 2013, when it peaked at 124 death sentences for male prison inmates.