Pepper spray is a popular means of self-defense which is available in spray cans. It is generally considered a non-lethal means of defense. The active ingredient is capsaicin. Capsaicin is a chemical derived from the fruit of plants in the Capsicum genus, including chilis. Extraction of oleoresin capsicum (OC) from peppers requires capsicum to be finely ground, from which capsaicin is then extracted using an organic solvent such as ethanol. The solvent is then evaporated, and the remaining waxlike resin is the oleoresin capsicum.
Effect of Pepper Spray
The active ingredient in pepper spray irritates eyes and skin to cause tears, pain, temporary blindness and burning. The temporary blindness and pain making pepper spray a very effective way to deter or stop any kind of physical attack and permits people using it an opportunity to escape.
Types of Pepper Spray
There are essentially four types of pepper spray products that you can use as a self defense means to increase your safety and personal protection. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Knowing the difference can help you figure out which type will work best for your own individual needs.
- Fogger products have a range of 4-8 feet when sprayed. These products are great because of the
spraying distance, but they are not very effective under windy conditions because of the very fine droplets that are sprayed. In a windy situation, you may find that the spray actually may blow back in your direction. - Stream is very effective because it can cover up to 15-20 feet, depending on the size of the canister and the amount of propellant. This type of spray is effective, even under windy situations because it sprays with a higher force, not droplets like the fogger type. A stream pepper spray is less likely to blow back in your direction. If you use pepper spray streams in an indoor setting, you may risk inhaling some of the spray or getting splashed.
- Gel is perfect for spraying in indoor settings or close quarters. However, it can cover up to 25 feet if necessary. There is no risk of splatter with pepper spray gel. It sticks to your attacker when making contact.
- Foam is similar to pepper spray gel. Again, these products are great for close quarters or indoor use. When sprayed at an attacker, the foam will coat their face, rendering them completely incapacitated for enough time for you to get away. The foam can cover a range of 6-8 feet when sprayed.
Pepper Spray for self-defense against animals
These sprays are designed to prevent you from being attacked by an aggressive dog or a bear in the woods. The concentration of the active ingredient in these producs is less than in those products designed for use against people.