A Complete Guide on Pepper Spray: Safety, Use, and Law

Pepper spray is a common tool used by everyday people and law enforcement to deescalate a situation. Its primary ingredient, called Oleoresin Capsicum (OC), irritates the eyes and causes burning and pain sensations. Its inflammatory effects can cause the eyes to close, temporarily impairing someone’s vision. This temporary blindness allows officers to more easily restrain subjects and provides civilians an opportunity to escape when in danger. Pepper spray is a well-known and common self-defense tool because it’s compact, easy to use, and effective at deterring threats without causing permanent harm. 

One study in Injury Prevention, a peer reviewed journal, estimated more than 20% of women carry pepper spray as a self-defense tool on a regular basis. While pepper spray is readily available, effective and popular to carry, there are many considerations someone should take before purchasing and using it. 

What is pepper spray and how does it work?

Pepper spray is a personal safety device that causes inflammation of the eyes, skin and respiratory system when deployed. The intended purpose of pepper spray is to deter an attacker and to give people the opportunity to escape. The lasting effects of pepper spray can be anywhere between 15-45 minutes but can vary by person. 

What is the ingredient in pepper spray?

The common ingredient in pepper spray is Oleoresin Capsicum (OC), the oil extracted from a hot pepper. Although OC is the active ingredient used in most pepper sprays, the percentage of OC within the formulation does not indicate pepper spray strength. The OC percentage only measures the amount of red pepper contained in the pepper spray, not the pungency or effectiveness of the product.

OC is made up of different capsaicinoids, which is the group of compounds responsible for the spicy, pungent taste of a hot chili pepper. There are five major capsaicinoids responsible for providing the pungency or hotness of a pepper. Capsaicin is the strongest or most important of the five. Therefore, it is the percentage of the total capsaicinoids, not the OC percentage that is most important when determining which pepper spray brand you should buy.

Civilian and law enforcement pepper sprays range from 0.18% to 1.33% Major Capsaicinoids. This is often an overlooked detail when choosing a pepper spray brand.

What different types of pepper spray are available?

Pepper spray can be delivered as a stream, fog, mist and gel and the primary difference between them is the spray pattern. For example, pepper gel is a sticky substance that clings to the attacker's face and can reach a distance up to 14 ft (when using SABRE), while a bear spray pattern is more of a thick cloud or fog with a longer range (up to 40 ft when using SABRE). 

Most pepper sprays have a firing range of up to 8-14 feet. SABRE pepper spray and pepper gel boasts a range of up to 14 feet, which gives users a greater opportunity to neutralize a threat from a safer distance. Note: the most optimal distance to deploy pepper spray is between 8-12 feet to ensure the spray makes contact with the attacker. 

Pepper spray is also the key ingredient in bear spray, which has a higher concentration of Major Capsaicinoids – 2% to pepper sprays 0.18-1.33%. Bear spray also has a significantly longer range. SABRE bear and mountain lion spray can reach a distance of up to 40 feet, while some brands average about 33 feet. Pepper spray and pepper gel are exclusively for use on humans and can be ineffective against large animals, like a bear. Conversely, bear spray is illegal to use on humans.

Another consideration before buying pepper spray is the canister size. Pepper spray is available in a number of carry options, such as on a keyring, pocket-sized similar to a lipstick tube, on a bike strap, with a belt clip, and home defense models. There are also other features someone might prefer, like spray and alarm combos, fashion colors, glow-in-the-dark cases, and GPS-enabled. The canister size, carry method and other features come down to use case and individual preference. 

Where should pepper spray be held while not in use?

Pepper spray is highly flammable and should be kept away from fire and high heat, such as stored in your car during summer months. When walking or running errands, especially at night, or in crowded or unfamiliar environments, keep the pepper spray easily accessible but secure, such as on a quick release keychain, purse, or belt holster. 

How to deploy pepper spray?

The safest and most effective way to hold pepper spray is firmly in the palm of your hand, using the thumb to deploy the product. Gripping and firing pepper spray this way gives you the greatest control, accuracy and best ability to aim. 

Here is a step-by-step guide for how to deploy pepper spray safely:

1. Depending on the safety lock mechanism, either twist the safety lock with your thumb to the engage position or lift the top to place your thumb on the actuator. 
2. Extend your arm and aim for the center of the face – moving ear to ear, across the eyes. 
3. Spray in one continuous stream for maximum effect. 
4. Get away immediately. 

Practice deploying pepper spray before you need it with water-based trainers or empty canisters. Practice containers are also available on SABREred.com.

Pepper spray safety tips

Wind direction and low light can affect a user spraying pepper spray. 

If the wind is blowing toward you, move or reposition quickly to avoid potential blowback. Additionally, angle the spray slightly downward and across your body if wind is unpredictable and deliver it in quick sprays to control the direction and conserve the contents. Finally, practice adjusting your stance, such as side-to-side or slight pivoting so the wind is at your back. 

If you often run or walk at night, consider a carrying method like a reflective handstrap. For additional peace of mind, conduct a practice session in low light. 

What happens if I spray myself with pepper spray?

In the event of an accidental discharge or if some pepper spray blows back on you, remain calm and move into fresh air. As soon as it is safe to do so, remove affected clothing and wash with a mild, unscented soap. Try not to rub the eyes or skin with pepper spray as that only spreads it around. Read our full article on how to treat an accident pepper spray.

What are the laws on using pepper spray?

Pepper spray is generally legal in the U.S., however, each state may have specific restrictions, such as age requirements, size or concentration limits, prohibited areas and shipping limitations. Read our blog on state-by-state laws and always check local laws before purchasing, using and traveling with pepper spray. 

A common question is often, “When can I use pepper spray?” Personal safety sprays are the ideal tool for an unforeseen emergency. They are easy to use and help deter a potential threat at a safe distance. If you are threatened and feel your safety is in jeopardy, you have the right to use your spray. However, pepper spray cannot be used simply because there is a heated argument or you dislike someone. Be sure to clearly express why you acted with pepper spray when filling out a police report. Misuse can result in criminal charges. 

Pro tip: SABRE will send you a free replacement pepper spray if you send your police report to our customer service team.

What are other pepper spray safety tips?

Here are a few additional safety tips to ensure you use pepper spray most effectively. 

• Check the expiration date. (Learn more here)
• Read the instructions before attempting to test or use pepper spray. 
• Replace the pepper spray canister after use in an attack, even if partially full. 
• Do not store pepper spray at temperatures above 120° F (48.88° C) or below 32° F (0° C). 

Where can I buy pepper spray?

Pepper spray is available at Sabrered.com as well as other retailers like Walmart and Amazon. For a full list of store locations, click where to buy SABRE pepper spray.

Can I bring pepper spray on an airplane?

According to the latest TSA guidelines, one 4 fl. oz. (118 ml) container of pepper spray is permitted in checked baggage provided it is equipped with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge. Self-defense sprays containing more than 2 percent by mass of tear gas (CS or CN) are prohibited in checked baggage. Always check the TSA and your airline’s website before packing pepper spray. 

Pepper spray is an effective personal safety tool and deterrent against attacks. Select the product that best suits your needs and make sure it is something that fits your lifestyle. Pepper spray that is left in a box is not useful.