Don't Believe Everything You Hear About Pepper Spray

You've probably heard some wild things about pepper spray and some sound almost believable. We’re here to clear up the confusion, bust the myths, and drop some real facts so you can stay safe and informed. Let’s set the pepper spray record straight. 

Pepper spray has been around for decades, but with its popularity comes plenty of myths—some that downplay its effectiveness and others that exaggerate what it can do. The truth is, pepper spray is a proven personal safety tool when used correctly, and understanding how it really works is the key to using it with confidence. Let’s break down the most common myths and uncover the real facts behind them.

MYTH: "Some people are immune to pepper spray"

TRUTH: No one can resist it.

Even if someone is under the influence of drugs or alcohol or has encountered pepper spray before, SABRE Pepper Spray is designed to incapacitate and deter an attacker. The powerful formula forces the eyes to shut and creates intense irritation in the eyes, nose, and lungs. Even if an attacker doesn’t feel pain, their body will still react to the effects, giving you the critical window of time to escape safely.

FACT: Civilian sprays can be as strong as police sprays

Strength varies from brand to brand, but civilians can legally carry sprays just as potent as those used by law enforcement. SABRE is trusted by countless police departments and the same formulations are available for civilian use.

MYTH: "Scoville Heat Units (SHU) determine how strong pepper spray is."

TRUTH: SHUs are not reliable for spray strength

Some companies advertise the SHU of the raw pepper, not the actual formula in the canister. SHUs are based on taste testing (yep, really)—and that’s totally subjective.

The real strength indicator? Major Capsaicinoids. This is the scientific measure of the actual heat-inducing components in the spray you deploy. Always check the MC percentage to know how hot—and effective—your spray really is.

FYI: SABRE Pepper Sprays contain 1.33% MC. That’s 67x hotter than your favorite hot sauce.

MYTH: "Pepper spray doesn't work on animals."

TRUTH: It can be life-saving—for you and the animal

SABRE makes sprays specifically formulated for different threats:

• Protector Dog Spray: Helps prevent aggressive dog attacks without causing lasting harm. Designed with safety in mind—for you, your pet, and even the attacking dog.
• FRONTIERSMAN MAX Bear Spray: 50% stronger than SABRE Red and can spray up to 40 feet, giving you the distance you need to stay safe in bear country.

FACT: Pepper spray is made from real peppers 

That intense burn? You can thank Oleoresin Capsicum (OC)—a natural extract from hot peppers. The same compounds that make peppers spicy are carefully extracted and refined into a powerful self-defense tool.

FACT: You can fly with pepper spray (in checked luggage)

Before packing your pepper spray, check with the airline you’re flying to ensure pepper spray is permitted. Also, check with your destination’s local regulations surrounding pepper spray. 

According to 49 CFR Part 175.10, passengers can pack one pepper spray canister (up to 4 fl. oz.) in their checked baggage only. TSA rules can change, so always double-check before you travel.

Pepper spray is a powerful tool, but only if you understand how it works. Don't fall for outdated info or internet rumors. Stick with verified facts, choose trusted brands like SABRE, and stay prepared.

Wrapping Up: The Truth About Pepper Spray

When it comes to personal protection, separating pepper spray myths from facts is essential. Misinformation can make people underestimate or misuse this powerful self-defense tool. The reality is that pepper spray is a proven, non-lethal way to deter and incapacitate an attacker, giving you valuable time to escape to safety. By understanding how pepper spray works, how to use it correctly, and what it can and cannot do, you’ll feel more confident carrying it as part of your personal safety plan.

At SABRE, we’ve built our reputation on being the #1 trusted brand in personal safety, offering reliable and effective pepper spray products designed to help you stay protected wherever life takes you. Don’t let common pepper spray myths stop you from choosing a tool that can make all the difference in a dangerous situation. Explore our full line of pepper spray options—available on SABREred.com and partner retailers—to find the right fit for your lifestyle and carry with confidence.