There are many things that can be used for self protection besides a gun, Bug spray to someones eyes does a awful terrible thing to eyeballs, Mace, Pepperspray, a spray bottle with bleach, or other chemicals that stink to high heaven and disorient the attacker, Ive been on the road for almost 10 years in OTR and in some really bad areas, if you dont go in the places these punks lurk, you usually wont run into them, If someone wants to hijack your truck and theres a gun pointed at your head thru the window its better to let them have it THEN BE DEAD...Ive never wanted or needed to carry a gun anywhere but Hunting, Ive faced down some dudes and kept myself away from trouble by using my head, not a bullet.
You are correct, there are many other options for self protection. Hell I would argue that one form of self protection is Situational Awareness - If you are aware of your surrounding and react accordingly you should never end up with that "gun to your head" Not that it can't happen, you can help your odds!
As for the pepper spray / bug spray... good in theory and may help, but frankly if your met with an aggressor packing a gun...well I'm sure you've hear the saying... don't bring a knife to a gun fight.
Another point.... You have kept yourself out of many situations using your head and not bullets..... that's the best way to handle every situation. Bullets do not fix situations and guns do not fix situations - The gun is for protection when you, your family and loved ones need it.
In closing, I do respect your choice to not want or feel you don't need a gun. Please respect the rights of those who choose to carry and abide by the laws and RIGHTS this country was founded on.
Good Day.