Posted on July 6th, 2022.

What Is Pepper Spray?

Pepper spray is a chemical irritant. It’s made from Oleoresin Capsicum and might be referred to as OC. Its purpose is to burn and irritate the recipient. There are several styles and types of spray available for purchase.

It’s important when buying this self-defense tool to consider when and how you’ll be using it. There are some options that have an elastic handle to be held when jogging, walking or running. There are many that are small enough to fit on an everyday carry gear belt.

Nearly all OC spray options come with a locking mechanism now. This prevents inadvertent discharges because once sprayed, OC won’t go back in the can.

Is It a Good Self-Defense Tool?

Police officers carry pepper spray as a force alternative. OC offers another option for defense. But you need to know when you will use each weapon. For law enforcement, pepper spray is used as an intervention option. It is used when there is active resistance. For the average concealed firearm carrier, OC spray should not be what is used against a deadly threat.

If in an incident you don’t think you have the right to use deadly force, that is when you should pull out the OC. However, don’t get attached to your pepper spray. If things intensify, you will need to drop your spray and move to your firearm.

Which Should You Use?

As mentioned above, there is a variety of pepper spray options available. And the options range in more than just size. There is a mist. This creates a cloud of spray. There is a stream option, which sprays straight out usually about 18 to 20 feet.

The stream is often preferred because, although OC spray can cause a secondary reaction to those nearby, including the user, the stream is more likely to go where it is pointed. A lesser-known option is pepper gel. Similar to the stream, this is less likely to irritate others nearby. It will stick right on the bad guy.

We also recommend looking for a pepper spray that contains UV dye. This will stick to the perpetrator’s clothing even after washing. It can help authorities find your attacker in the event he or she runs away after being sprayed.

How to Use Pepper Spray

To use OC in self-defense, draw your unit, unlock the safety mechanism and spray at the eyes. In about a one-second burst, spray in a back-and-forth motion across the eyes. If you need to spray again, aim for the nose and mouth area. Stick to the face, as that is where it will cause the most irritation and enough dysfunction to allow you to escape.

Then, be sure to get off the X. Move away from your attacker. Get somewhere safe and call 911. Inform them know you have been attacked, describe your attacker and let them know you defended against him or her with pepper spray. Ask the dispatcher what they would like you to do next.

So in review, pepper spray is a great self-defense tool but not in the event of deadly force. However, if it is your only option, be sure to know how to use it. And remember, you will likely get some spray on you. But keep fighting and escaping to a safe place.

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