How to Test Your Pepper Spray and Check the Expiration

Just as you check shoes for proper fit before wearing them and test a new pickleball racquet before playing a game, it's crucial to ensure that your pepper spray works correctly and is ready to use when you need it. Regular testing and checking the expiration date of your pepper spray are essential to ensure its effectiveness. Here’s how:

SABRE Pepper Spray with Quick Release Key Ring

Testing Pepper Spray

We recommend testing your spray once a year to ensure it functions properly. Before you begin, ensure you are in a well-ventilated area, away from children, pets, or other individuals. Here's how to do it safely and effectively:

Step 1: Read the Instructions

Always review the  product manual and how-to instructions for proper product use.

Step 2: Choose a Safe Location

Select an outdoor area that is not windy or near any individuals. An empty field or backyard is an ideal testing ground.

Step 3: Test Fire Your Spray

Aim the pepper spray or pepper gel toward the ground or a  target if you’ve set one up. Using your thumb, press the actuator to deploy a quick, 1/4-second burst. Observe the stream of pepper spray to ensure it deployed properly, and that the canister is not leaking.

Pepper Spray Expiration

While the pepper spray formula does not lose strength, all aerosol products—think hair spray—eventually lose pressure over time. Meaning if you use or test your spray after a certain amount of time, the spray may no longer deploy from the canister when the actuator is pressed. If your safety is at risk, you don’t want to take that chance. All SABRE pepper spray and pepper gels have a 4-year shelf life. After this time, you’ll need to purchase a replacement.

You can find the expiration date on any SABRE pepper spray or pepper gel printed directly on the canister or a sticker adhered to the case.