I would not use it every time someone got smart with me. Like I said I leave late at night, nice bike, bars around the area, and not the greatest area. Someone at sometime is going to try something stupid, I know its just a matter of time. I don't "show off" when I leave work that way I don't draw any extra attention to myself. I will just keep checking out the area and put my helmet on last like I have been. That way I can use it if I need to.