Thugs are rarely trained and often on controlled substances. Not like the sophisticated gentlemen we have here on the forum!
If you don't have any training in self defense, get some.
Stay out of areas that the thugs are in.
Keep the homestead well lit and have two big dogs in the yard.
Have plenty of ammo.
A man asked "Sir, why do you carry a 45?"
He replied "Because they don't make a 46."