Pepper sprays are undoubtedly an excellent form of self-defense. They are portable, non-poisonous and non-toxic. Below we have listed the guidelines for choosing a pepper spray that will surely help you understand what makes these sprays effective, or not. If you are interested in purchasing your very first pepper spray for self-defense, take a look at these golden points.
Illuminating Mace and Pepper Spray
Mace is the popular manufacturer’s name. The original product first came out in the year 1965 which was mainly made of tear gas irritant and was eventually finished as it was ineffective in stopping people that were highly drunk or mentally ill. Mace has only single product “Triple Action” which includes tear gas as one ingredient while other products are mostly pepper spray-based. Speaking of pepper sprays, they are made with an active ingredient that forms hot peppers-oleoresin capsicum. OC is an effective irritant and a fiery agent. Coming in contact with skin or eyes, it can cause temporary blindness, high burning sensation, swollen breathing passages, and breathing issues. The effect lasts about 20-45 minutes.
The concentration of the Active Ingredient
The effectiveness of pepper sprays is primarily based on two numbers. Firstly, the heat of the pepper spray’s active ingredient (OC) is articulated in Scoville Heat Units. Secondly, the concentration of OC in that product. A pepper spray with high Scoville Heat Units and a greater percentage of OC will have long-lasting effects.
Expiry date
No matter if you are buying a pepper spray with 0.5 or 16 ounces, the propellant in the container reduces over time. If you are using your pepper spray after three years, it may not have any effect on your bad day when you need the spray to protect yourself. Always pay attention to the expiry date. Most products from reliable manufacturers have a printed expiry date on pepper spray container so you will know exactly when the time limit is over. Generally, you will need to replace your pepper spray after two years.
Size of Canister
After you understand your state’s laws, you must think about what size of pepper spray you need. Sizes of pepper spray usually determine how much can be dispensed and for how long. Keychain canisters typically hold a half ounce of pepper spray. They are handy and you can spray with a distance of 2-5 feet and holds 5 seconds of spray time. Small canisters are more likely to lose pressure quickly in comparison to the larger ones. 2-ounce canisters are large and can perfectly fit in your hand or purse. This is an effective solution that can hold up to 30 seconds of spray time. Also, this is the most recommended pepper spray size. Lastly, if you are looking for a spray that can keep the propellant pressure even longer then a 3-ounce container might be the right choice for you. Though for home defense, you can even buy up to 16 oz. canisters.
Nozzle Access and Timing
Timing and nozzle access is a very crucial factor to consider. You must be able to access and deploy your pepper spray in less than 2 seconds. Therefore, opt for a design with the conveniently accessible nozzle. Fumbling in your purse for too long can actually risk your life.
Patterns
Pepper sprays are available in a limited spray pattern. Make sure to choose a pattern based on setting and distance. For instance, whether you need it for indoor or outdoor.
Stream: Make sure your pepper spray shoots in a narrow and long straight line. Precision is a critical factor to unrest the attacker in the first go and this spray pattern is an ideal option for this purpose.
Foam: Its considered the best indoor pepper spray design. It takes somewhat more time to effect and has a relatively less respiratory impact.
Gel: If you are traveling outdoors in windy settings, you will find few gel-based OC formulas that shoot long and straight.
What Are You Protecting Yourself from?
You will find a wide range of pepper sprays and your choice will primarily depend on what you are protecting yourself from. If you want to defend yourself from a human attacker, then consider buying a human pepper spray. On the other hand, if you intend to protect yourself from an animal then be sure to get the corresponding pepper spray. Different pepper sprays are manufactured for different purposes, therefore, you must think for what purpose you are buying this self-defense weapon.
How Will You Want to Carry It?
Since pepper sprays are available in various styles, you must think about how you will carry them. If you find it convenient to carry it on your keychain, then make sure to get a keychain pepper spray. On contrary, if you want to keep it in your purse then pick an appropriate size pepper spray for your purchase. Though you can always find various holsters for large size pepper sprays.
Do You Know How to Safely Use Pepper Spray?
Last that you must not forget, prior to buying a pepper spray make sure you understand how to use the product safely. It’s important to educate yourself on the effects of pepper spray and other considerations on testing or use of the spray.
Conclusion
Once you have considered these guidelines and done your research, you are ready to purchase your pepper spray. Let’s help one another to learn from personal experiences. What brand do you suggest and why or do you have an interesting story to share? Please let us know in the comment section below, we would love to hear your stories and preferences on this.
