Pepper Spray Information Page

Pepper Spray informational page containing questions and answers pertaining to pepper spray usage and pepper spray laws.

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We cannot ship pepper spray orders to New York or Massachusetts (please use ALTERNATE shipping address. We can ship Bear Spray to New York.)

What is pepper spray / defense spray?

The defense sprays protectmefirst.com carries are humane and effective. These self defense sprays contain OC Pepper, Tear Gas, Ultraviolet Dye, or any combination of the three. They are an effective means of non-lethal self defense for people concerned with safety and security. Used by police departments, security agencies, and individuals concerned with security and self defense. Recommended by the American Security Institute.

Pepper spray (also known as OC spray (from "Oleoresin Capsicum"), OC gas, or capsicum spray) is a lachrymatory agent (a chemical compound that irritates the eyes to cause tears, pain, and even temporary blindness) that is used in riot control, crowd control and personal self-defense, including defense against dogs and bears. It is a non-lethal agent that can be deadly in rare cases. The American Civil Liberties Union claims to have documented fourteen fatalities from the use of pepper spray. The active ingredient in pepper spray is capsaicin, which is a chemical derived from the fruit of plants in the Capsicum genus, including chillis. Long-term effects of pepper spray have not been effectively researched.

The HPLC (High Pressure Liquid Chromatography) method is used to measure the amount of capsaicin within pepper sprays. Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) testing is also used to measure the hotness of pepper spray, but this is a subjective test, which changes from person to person and does not measure the actual chemical percentage within the product.

A synthetic counterpart of pepper spray, pelargonic acid morpholide, was developed and is widely used in Russia. Its effectiveness compared to natural pepper spray is unclear and it has caused some injuries.

Pepper spray typically comes in canisters, which are often small enough to be carried or concealed in a pocket or purse. Pepper spray can also be bought concealed in items such as rings.

What are the effects of pepper spray / defense spray?

To achieve the desired effects, a defense spray must be aimed towards the face of the aggressor. The general effects of most defense sprays are disorientation, eyes slamming shut, restricted breathing, uncontrollable coughing, blindness, and intense burning sensation. Effects generally last 20 to 30 minutes. As the different formulations work differently depending upon what chemical compounds are used, please see "How do some of the different formulations work?" as well to see what effects your specific formulation will induce.

WHAT IS MACE™ SPRAY?

Mace™ is a brand name. Don't get Mace™ confused with Pepper Spray. Mace™ is a registered trade name for the brand of defense sprays manufactured by Mace™ Security International. A Mace™ brand defense spray either contains OC pepper, tear gas or both. Therefore, PepperGard®, Pepper Foam®, Triple Action®, Muzzle® and Double Action® are Mace™ products containing pepper spray, tear gas or both.

WHAT IS PEPPER SPRAY MADE OF?

Pepper spray is a derivative of Cayenne pepper. The oils are extracted from the pepper using a high-pressure process. This process leaves you with the active ingredient in pepper spray known as OC or OleoResin Capsicum. The pure pepper extract is then diluted with an inert ingredient that reduces the SHU or Scoville Heat Unit to get it down to a useable SHU for pepper spray. SHU is a unit of measurement that determines how hot something is. The rating goes from 1 million SHU up to 5 million SHU. 1 million SHU is detectable on the palette in concentrations as little as 1 part per million or 1 drop of OC in 1 million drops of water. All of our sprays are 2 million SHU and in much higher concentrations than 1 part per million.

Can I use my pepper spray after the expiration date?

Like any pressurized aerosol device, over time the unit may not spray as far as expected, if at all. Mace Brand defense sprays (and some other brands as well) have an easy to find expiration date on the unit. We recommend replacing your spray after the expiration date to ensure that the spray is ready to save your life should you ever need it. If you have a spray that does not have an expiration date, please be sure to see "What if my pepper spray doesn't have an expiration date?" as well.

WHAT DOES SHU MEAN?

Scoville heat unit (SHU) is a term used to measure the 'hotness' of pepper spray. For example, one pepper spray might be 500,000 SHU while another is 1,000,000 SHU, which means the pepper spray is twice as hot.

Is Pepper Spray is a non-lethal weapon?

Pepper spray is a non-lethal weapon designed to spray into the face of an attacker. Pepper spray affects the mucous membranes, causing capillaries in the eyes to instantaneously dilate to the point of temporary blindness. Tissues lining the bronchial tube also swell, making it difficult for the attacker to get extra oxygen. A blast of pepper spray affects the eyes, throat, nose and lungs, with the effects lasting up to 90 minutes.

Because pepper spray is an inflammatory substance, it affects even those who might not register pain, like psychotics, drug addicts or inebriated individuals. It's also effective against an attacking animal, and is carried by many mail carriers. This benefit has become more relevant as newly developed neighborhoods encroach on rural land, creating clashes between people and wildlife. Joggers who take rural trails near their homes can benefit from carrying pepper spray.

Pepper spray is made from hot cayenne peppers. The active ingredient is called oleoresin capsicum (OC). Sprays that are made with 2-10% of OC incapacitate faster than higher concentrations. Some sprays also include an indelible dye to mark the attacker.

Hot cayenne peppers, like jalapenos, chiletpins, and habaneros, are chili peppers. All of these peppers contain an alkaloid called capsaicin. Capsaicin is tasteless and odorless, but just 1 part per ten million can be detected by humans in the form of heat.

Capsaicin is produced in a gland just below the stem of the pepper. This spot is about 16 times stronger than any other part of the plant. The active ingredient in pepper spray is derived from this area.

The power or heat value of capsaicin is expressed in Scoville Units which can be determined through a test called high-performance liquid chromatography. While a bell pepper rates a zero on the heat scale, a jalapeno hits the 8,000 mark and a habanero jumps to 350,000. Good pepper spray rates somewhere around 5,300,000 on the heat scale, beat only by pure capsaicin at 16,000,000.

While pepper spray is an inflammatory agent, Mace and tear gas are irritants, and do not fall under the same laws as pepper spray. Pepper spray is legally purchased over the counter in most states and comes in various size canisters, some small enough to hang on a key chain.

If you have any questions about the legality of pepper spray in your state, contact your local police department.

What is OC?

It is the strongest OC formula allowed by law. Non-toxic and non-flammable. Effects last for 20 to 90 minutes. Units can be fired many times and have a range of 8 to 20 feet, depending on model.

OC is a derivative of HOT CAYENNE PEPPERS and is the newest defensive spray agent. It is not an irritant like the tear gases, but an inflammatory agent. Contact with mucous membranes (eyes, nose, throat and lungs) will cause IMMEDIATE dilation of the capillaries of the eyes, resulting in TEMPORARY BLINDNESS and instant inflammation of the breathing tube tissues, cutting off ALL BUT LIFE-SUPPORT BREATHING. OC will not deteriorate with age and unlike the tear gasses, WILL NOT CAUSE LASTING AFTER EFFECTS.

One of the biggest misconceptions about defense spray is that the higher the percentage, the hotter and better it works. In most cases this could not be further from the truth. Most of the best, fastest incapacitating sprays in the world are from 2%-10%.

The lighter the fluid, the faster is penetrates the membranes. The percentage has nothing to do with the actual SHU or "hot" in the spray. Also, thicker sprays can inflame the skin area more and last longer with this unnecessary inflammation. A good spray will put the attacker down and out allowing you to escape or take control of the situation.

What else can you tell me about OC?

O.C. (short for oleoresin capsicum) is the oily extract produced by distilling hot red peppers of the Capsicum genus. It is comprised primarily of; (1) carotenoids, the red pigment found in many vegetables, (2) vegetable oils and (3) capsaicinoids, the compounds responsible for pungency.

There are over 15 capsaicinoid compounds found in O.C. The one primarily responsible for the "heat" or pungency is Capsaicin. The other capsaiciniods, while comprising a larger percentage of the O.C., are relatively inert with respect to pungency.

What is the difference between pepper spray and Mace or tear gas?

Mace is a brand name for a tear gas product. Tear gas, both CS and CN are synthesized chemicals that are known as "lacrimators".

A lacrimator is a substance that produces profuse tearing. Lacrimators, such as tear gas, are not effective against animals. Tear gas can also cause severe blistering of the skin and permanent blindness.

In short, tear gas has a very high level of toxicity whereas our pepper spray is totally non-toxic.

A ews report stated that OC based pepper sprays actually attract bears. Is this true?

First of all, you must remember that pepper sprays are designed to be used defensively as an attack deterrent, not as as an animal repellent.

When sprayed on objects as a repellent, it will not only NOT keep animals away, but will contaminate the object with pepper and render it virtually unusable.

At what temperature should I store my pepper spray?

Do not leave your defense spray in any area that may exceed 125 degrees F or drop below -15 degrees F. Excessive heat or cold may cause the can to leak or burst.

Can I bring pepper spray on an airplane?

The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) allows one defense spray per traveler in your checked luggage only. Sprays are not allowed in carry-on luggage or at any time in the passenger area.

What is UV Dye?

UV Dye is not an active chemical in defense sprays but is more of an additive. UV Dye is highly recommended as it can assist authorities in apprehending the aggressor as it will "mark" the aggressor with a dye that can not be seen under normal lights. UV Dye is completely harmless and will generally wear off in about a week.

WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF PEPPER SPRAY?

Pepper spray is an inflammatory agent, not an irritant like Mace™. It causes immediate closing of the eyes and coughing. The length of the effects of pepper spray depend on the strength of the spray but the average full effect lasts around thirty to forty-five minutes, with mitigated effects lasting for hours.

The Journal of Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science published a study that concluded that single exposure of the eye to OC is harmless, but repeated exposure can result in long-lasting changes in corneal sensitivity. They found no lasting decrease in visual acuity.

HOW EFFECTIVE IS PEPPER SPRAY?

Pepper spray is effective in most situations, but not all. If somebody is under the influence of drugs or alcohol or has special training, (i.e. military or martial arts training) he may not be as effected as others.

Is Mace the same as Pepper Spray?

No, Mace or tear gas are irritants only, Pepper Spray OC is an inflammatory agent. Contact with mucous membranes (eyes, nose, throat and lungs) causes immediate dilation of the capillaries.

Are pepper sprays legal in all 50 states?

Defense sprays are legal in all 50 states, however a number of cities and states have specific regulations pertaining to the purchase possession and use of defense sprays. These regulations normally limit the formula that can be purchased. Please check with your local authorities if you are unsure before purchasing a defense spray. Defense sprays can not be shipped outside the United States.

Is pepper spray harmful to humans or animals?

A well formulated pepper spray should have absolutely no lasting effect on man or animal. Unfortunately, not all pepper sprays are well formulated. Some sprays still contain CFC's which are known to be harmful to the earth's ozone layer. Also, many sprays contain a substance called methylene chloride which is the active ingredient in paint stripper. Methylene chloride is a known carcinogen and has been banned for use by the EPA. Another side effect of methylene chloride is blindness if sprayed into the eyes.

How do I use my Pepper Spray?

If you have to use your Pepper Spray make sure you have distance between you and the threat if at all possible. Aim the spray at the eyes and facial region of the threat then release a 1 to 2 second burst of spray. After you have done this MOVE out of the way but keep your eyes on the threat. Pepper Spray can take a couple of moments to cause a reaction and by watching the reactions of the threat you will be able to determine if you will require another shot of Pepper Spray. Boxers have a saying "Stick and Move" well the same applies here. Just remember "Spray and Move", "Spray and Move". Once the threat is eliminated seek help and call the police.

What is the shelf life of pepper spray?

All pepper sprays should have an expiration date code stamped on a sticker placed, on the bottom of the can. To safeguard your life and insure the effectiveness of the spray, we put a three year expiration date on all of our sprays. Always check to make sure you are not carrying an expired can of pepper spray.

Is there anyplace where I cannot carry my Pepper Spray?

Yes. You cannot carry Pepper Spray on board commercial aircraft. This is a Federal crime that can carry up to a $25,000 dollar fine. It is ok to carry pepper spray in your checked baggage although it is highly advisable that you notify the ticketing agent when you check your baggage. Also since 9/11/01 you may have issues when carrying Pepper Spray into secured locations such as a Federal buildings, State buildings or anyplace where you pass through a security check point.

Will my Pepper Spray expire?

Yes. That is why we print an expiration date on every can of Pepper Spray. Usually this expiration date is 3 to 4 years from the date of purchase. Although the spray life is indefinite it does start to lose potency over time. Any use of the spray beyond the expiration date is HIGHLY unadvisable. We strongly advise you to replace your Pepper Spray every year! That way you are always assured of the potency of the spray.

What is a Scoville unit?

The Scoville unit as an archaic measurement that was used in the food industry before there was an effective method of chemical analysis. The sample in question would be diluted and given to a panel of tasters.

The number of panel members that could actually detect hotness would be counted. The sample would be further diluted and the process repeated until only a certain percentage of the panel could still detect hotness.

The measurement was then calculated by the amount of dilutant used. Of course, the ratings were totally subjective rather than objective because they would vary greatly from panel to panel as tolerance to hot food varies from person to person.

The Scoville unit is meaningless in the pepper spray business. The only true way to assess the hotness of any given formula is to have it chemically analyzed and assess the actual percentage of Capsaicin (rather than OC).

According to Government guidelines, pure Capsaicin has an SHU rating of 15 million so in order to have 3 million SHU's the product would have to be at least 20% Capsaicin(do not mistake 20% OC).

Is there an antidote or relief for pepper spray exposure?

No one has a quick and 100% effective neutralizing agent for Capsaicin. Capsaicin is the chemical agent in peppers (not the seeds) which stimulate tissue and fake the brain into thinking there is pain. No doubt the pain is real though!
Milk, baking soda paste and honey do a good job removing the sting from the fingers and face, but trace amounts of Capsaicin will remain on the fingers even after dozens of hand washings.

Advice from a Bio-Chemist at Michigan State University is to wash the hands in alcohol. Please be aware that this will only help to a certain degree.

Ultimately you will need to wait for the skin to slough off the microbes of Capsaicin.

What temperatures are safe for my defense spray?

Excessive heat or cold may cause the can to leak or burst. Therefore, do not leave your spray in any area that may exceed 125 degrees F or drop below -15 degrees F.

Are pepper sprays and defense sprays legal in other countries?

When dealing with overseas and shipping defense spray, there are less restrictions on OC pepper sprays than there are on products containing tear gas. Many foreign counties have restrictions, and so it is important to determine those before travelling to foreign countries. If someone were interested in exporting (or importing) overseas, the US government requires special permits and an export license to do so. Important information for obtaining export clearance are: Department of Commerce web site www.doc.gov ; US Export Assistance Center (206) 553-5615; Department of State-Office of Defense Trade Controls (202) 663-2714; International Trade Institute (206) 527-3732.

IS MACE™ PEPPER SPRAY LEGAL?

Laws on Pepper Spray in the United States of America differ between states.
It is legal in all 50 states, however a number of cities and states have restrictions on sizes, strengths, etc. If you have a question, it is wise to contact your local police department. Defense sprays should only be purchased by those 18 years of age or older.

Wisconsin - 10% Pepper spray without UV dye is allowed.
Michigan - 2% Pepper spray allowed. Can be combined with tear gas formulation.
New York - Defense sprays only available through licensed firearm dealer or pharmacist.
Massachusetts - Possessor must have a Firearms Identification Card (FID).

NOTE: Certain other restrictions may exist in your jurisdiction. The above list is not entirely exhaustive, but it does represent the kind of restrictions that exist. If in question, check local laws.

Can you ship Stun Guns or Pepper Spray anywhere?

No, Pepper Sprays cannot be shipped outside the continental US, which includes Alaska, Hawaii, US Territories. Pepper Sprays cannot be shipped by any other method other than GROUND. Pepper Sprays, or any type of Weapon including Stun Devices, Knives, and Batons, cannot be Shipped outside the United States.

What is the difference between Foggers and Foams?

Fogger

This pepper spray pattern is ideal for multiple attackers, crowd control, and home use. Forms a cloud of pepper that will incapacitate anyone in its area. The only draw back with this spray pattern is a significant increase in the likelihood of blow back, especially outdoors. Safe to use in a light breeze, but may cause enough blow back in a heavier wind to significantly effect the user.

Foam

Not only does this pepper spray pattern offer some of the best blow back protection, but it will also prove very useful even when the attacker is wearing glasses. It is dispersed with a consistency similar to shaving cream so even if the attacker is wearing glasses it will effectively blind them. As it is extremely sticky, the aggressor will most likely have to remove the glasses allowing for a second shot right in the eyes! The aggressor may attempt to wipe the foam off but due to the sticky nature they will simply rub the pepper deeper into their pores and eyes. Very effective.

HOW IS PEPPER SPRAY DEACTIVATED?

Though there is no way of completely neutralizing pepper spray, its effect can be minimized or stopped. As veteran chili-eaters know, capsicum is not soluble in water, and even large volumes of it will have little to no effect. It is, however, soluble in fats and oils, and detergents can be used to wash it off.

Victims should be encouraged to blink vigorously in order to encourage tears, which will help flush the irritant from the eyes. Some of the oil can be washed off the face using a degreasing, non-oily soap such as a mild dish detergent, and a fan will provide some relief.

Some "triple-action" pepper sprays also contain "tear gas" (CS gas), which can be neutralized with sodium metabisulfite (Campden tablets, used in home brewing), though it, too, is fat-soluble and could be washed off to a degree with milk, and some contain a UV "blanketing" dye (little can be done against this, but its effects are not nearly as dramatic).

How far do most pepper spray products fire?

Depending upon the wind, most defense pepper sprays using a stream spray fire ten to twelve feet. Defense sprays using a cone/mist spray fire from six to ten feet.

Should I test my pepper spray ?

YES. Unlike other weapons, you don't need much practice at using Pepper Spray,in order to be accurate enough to hit your target. You just need to be able to get at it quick enough. When you get it, read the instructions! Then take it outside and into an open area like a football field… lots of space.

Give it a quick one or two second test burst. If you have got a video camera, use it to film the action from a side-on position. You can play it back over and over and really take in how it works. What the spray looks like, how loud it is, how far it goes, how wide and thick it is, and how much it blows around. Be sure to test it with the wind behind you, so that when the spray comes out, it goes away from you - down wind. It will be safer for you and will look better on camera if there is no or very little wind.

You should test it to make sure it works. The buttons can be faulty and the canister can become de-pressurized. If this happens, the contents will have no way of being released from the can. Also, once tested, you will know that what you are lugging around with you, will actually function if you need it.
If you want more than a second or two of test time, you can buy cheaper test spray canisters that don't have any mace in them.

How do I use my pepper spray?

It's basically the same as using fly spray. If you really think about it, Pepper Spray, is a form of pest control. Hold the can out in front of you at arms length. Aim straight for the attacker's face and press the button. Be sure to hold on to it very tightly and be ready to pull it in close to your body if he reaches for it! The last thing you want, is for an attacker to take it off of you. Be very aware of this possibility!

The distance between you and the attacker will vary depending on the type and model you are using. You need to read your instructions to get this information. Better still, do the above test and use a video camera. The distance will then be clear to you. Just as it is possible to be too far away, it is also possible to be too close for achieving maximum affects in minimum time.

As a general rule, aim to spray from between 5 and 10 feet away. The effective range of most spray canisters is between 5 and 12 feet. Spraying someone from less than 5 feet away does not allow for the capsicum to disperse as an aerosol, and is likely to reduce the amount of inhalation exposure.
Although he will be helpless for a few seconds, don't hang around to find out. Leave in a big hurry, "spray and run" like mad; run so fast into the sunset that it just won't set.

Where should the spray be aimed before firing?

Always aim for the face of the attacker since this is where many of the mucous membranes effected by the pepper are located.
Aim slightly lower than you think because of the bellowing effect of the spray.

Should I take a class ?

Yes you could take a class in pepper spray defense. Police are trained to use pepper spray before they carry and use it. They know that proper training may make all the difference in a real situation… it could save their life! If you are going to carry pepper spray, take a class first! Find a class in your area and do yourself a favor… attend it! Or AT LEAST read "Tactical Use of Defense Sprays handbook" and learn how to use pepper spray properly.

The law and you Keep this in mind: Just because you have got mace pepper spray, does not mean that you can go around spraying anyone who upsets you. In the eyes of the law, it could be seen as physical assault. It could be seen in much the same way as a punch on the nose. You could be charged with assault!
You can only use mace to defend yourself against someone who you believe intends to do you PHYSICAL harm.