It started on the trail

Hi Friends,

I’m Karen — co-founder of Overland Defense and I want to tell you about my self defense story.

Fourteen years ago, I never imagined I’d become passionate about personal protection. I didn’t grow up around guns. In fact, they made me nervous. But when I met my husband — a lifelong gun enthusiast — I decided to learn. I practiced at the range until I felt confident. I thought I was ready to protect myself and my family if I ever needed to.

Then one night on a remote trail changed everything. We were camping miles from anyone when a group appeared nearby and started firing shots into the dark. My heart raced. My hands shook. Were they just messing around? Were we in danger? I couldn’t tell — and I couldn’t even steady my hands enough to reach for my firearm.

That night, fear won.

The next morning, I looked at my husband and said, “I need another way to protect us — something I can handle, even when I’m scared.”

That’s when we found Byrna. The Byrna less than lethal launcher changed my relationship with safety.

Later, when another tense situation arose, I reached for my Byrna — and for the first time, I didn’t shake. I was calm. Ready. In control. That’s when I realized what true confidence feels like.

Now, this has become my mission.

I’ve spent the past year sharing my story across the country, helping others discover that they don’t have to live in fear — there’s a better way to feel safe.

Thank you for being part of the Overland Defense community — for caring about safety, family, and freedom the way we do.

Stay safe + stay confident,
Karen (Co-Founder, Overland Defense)