Pepper Spray

OC is the oil extracted from the placenta of a pepper and the active ingredient in most pepper sprays. The OC percentage only measures how much raw pepper is in the formula, not how strong it is. Strength comes from the concentration of capsaicinoids, the compounds that cause the burning and incapacitating effect.

The percentage of total major capsaicinoids (MC), not the OC percentage. Civilian and law enforcement sprays range from 0.18% to 1.33% MC, while bear sprays range from 1.0% to 2.0% MC. Compare MC when you compare products.

Not necessarily. Civilians have access to the same maximum-strength formulations used by law enforcement agencies. Measured by major capsaicinoids, the strongest civilian sprays match the potency of top-tier agency formulations.

Independent labs test dermal, eye, and inhalation exposure, flammability, and capsaicinoid pungency by HPLC. SABRE's own QC checks crimp integrity, weight, pressure, spray pattern, range, burst count, and temperature performance. Security Equipment Corporation runs an ISO 9001 quality system, and select products are SEI certified to ASTM E3187-19.

Most keychain sprays reach 6 to 12 feet depending on pattern and wind. SABRE's powerful stream pattern reaches 12 to 16 feet. Pepper gel travels about 20% farther than a stream and reduces wind blowback.

A SABRE 0.54 oz keychain canister is rated for about 25 quick bursts, roughly 10 seconds of total spray time. That is designed to cover multiple deployments in a single incident, including more than one attacker, not separate encounters.

Only long enough to interrupt the threat and create an opening to escape. Once the spray takes effect, leave immediately and contact law enforcement. Pepper spray is a tool to break away from danger, not to stay engaged.

Replace it. After a real deployment the remaining volume and pressure may be reduced, and you want a full, reliable canister the next time you need it. A used canister can be kept for practice and then disposed of properly.

Crossfire™ pepper spray and gel deploy at any angle, even upside down, where most sprays must be held upright. Crossfire™ gel also delivers a thicker, more controlled stream that resists wind and blowback, indoors or out.

Only products approved for dogs by the U.S. EPA or Health Canada. SABRE Red Protector Dog Spray carries the maximum potency the EPA allows. Dog deterrent sprays are legal on aggressive dogs and coyotes, never on people. Shop dog sprays.

Pepper spray is legal for personal defense in all 50 states, but some states and cities regulate canister size, formulation, point of sale, shipping, or age. Rules change, so review local law before you buy or carry. See laws by state.

Never in carry-on. In the U.S., one container of 4 fl oz (118 mL) or less with a positive safety mechanism may go in checked baggage under FAA rules (49 CFR §175.10), and airlines may add restrictions. International ICAO and IATA rules prohibit self-defense sprays in all luggage.

Between 32°F (0°C) and 120°F (48.9°C). Outside that range a canister can leak or lose integrity, so never store it in a vehicle where temperatures swing past safe limits.

Many sprays on the market are rated for about two years. SABRE pepper sprays and gels are rated for four years from the date of manufacture when stored properly. Do not rely on a canister past its printed expiration date, since lost pressure can reduce range or prevent deployment.

Replace it and dispose of the old one according to local, state, and federal rules for pressurized chemical containers. Requirements vary, so follow your local waste management or hazardous materials guidance.

Some states permit in-store sales but restrict online shipment. SABRE products are carried by mass merchants, hardware and home improvement stores, pharmacies, sporting goods stores, licensed firearms dealers, and other authorized retailers. Use the retailer locator to find in-store options near you.