The Bo is definitely a dynamic weapon. There are many things that can be done in concert with traditional karate/taekwondo techniques. I’m not sure how relevant it would be when up against a firearm, but compared to the other traditional kobudo weapons, I think it has the most relevance today. In a self defense situation, it would be much easier to find a substitute if you needed one in a hurry, i.e.; broom/mop handle, curtain rod, dowel rod, pole, et cetera.