BJ - I have an old golf club that I used to carry on walks. Just looks like you're practicing your swing now and then, but quite the weapon when needed.
As for the purse problem in your car: I found a mesh cradle-like purse holder that straps between the two front seat at the very back of your armrest if you have one. It has straps that attach to the head rest posts on each side. It has a pouch-like body. My purse sort of hangs out into the back seat area. I'm probably not describing it very well. It is black mesh with straps and I got it in one of those "as seen on tv" sections in one of the stores. It works like a charm! Might be able to find something like it in Amazon or Temu.
Evie