They are not the panacea to all self-defense problems. Neither are firearms. Ultimately, you should see the vast majority of self-defense situations and try to avoid them - awareness and avoidance - best weapons you can have to save your life.
I believe this comment to be the most accurate for this thread! so true and to the point! if your are aware then there will be no surprises. without the advantageof surprise on the attackers side you have the advantage!
there is also to much focus on what to use to defend yourself. its not that difficult nor should it be. A standard pen would work just fine or a good old fashion strike to the throat! having your focus to much on the weapon is a disadvantage, you have your whole body and should use all of it to fight for your life.
I always consistently answer that I think that the idea of a knife fight is a terrible one, and that you never know if the person you're squaring off against has more experience or skill with a blade, or if he can just overpower you and take it away from you. I'd rather shoot the son of a bitch at 21 feet than have to get up close and personal with a four-inch blade. I have some well developed shooting skills, but not knife fighting ones. Only some basic Krav Maga.
I am all about carrying a gun and it is my first line of defense. yes it would be great to shoot a attacker from 21 feet away, only if they attack you from that far away! which is unheard of. even then with that much of a lead you should run away. most attacks are up close and personal and from the side or behind. so the idea to just draw you gun is a great one, but you better train drawing from these weird positions and angles your likely to find your self in. also remember its much easier to take a gun from someone up close then a knife. have options and be aware and you will be just fine!