Pepper Spray and Mace Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What are the most common self-defense sprays?

• What is the difference between pepper spray and mace?

• What exactly is Mace?

• What are the limitations and benefits of pepper spray?

• Are there different strengths of pepper spray?

• Does pepper spray have a shelf-life? 

• How long does it take for pepper spray to work?

• Are there restrictions for using pepper spray or mace?

• What's the correct way to store and carry pepper spray? 

• Should I try using the spray?

• Does pepper spray work on animals? 

• Is pepper spray legal everywhere in the U.S.?

• Is there anyplace by law where I cannot carry pepper spray?

• How do I remove pepper spray?

What are the common types of self-defense sprays?

Three different chemicals are used in defensive sprays. The first two are CS and CN that make mace. These chemicals are irritants to the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. In sufficient quantities, they cause a flood of tears and heavy mucus. mace is commonly used by law enforcement in crowd control and to dislodge people from buildings.

The third chemical is OC (Oleoresin Capsicum) that makes up pepper spray. OC is an inflammatory chemical made from hot peppers. Pepper spray causes an intense burning sensation, temporary blindness, constricted breathing and mild disorientation.

What is the difference between pepper spray and mace?

The reaction to pepper spray is involuntary and uncontrollable, therefore pepper spray is effective on attackers that feel no pain. This includes psychotics, drunks and drug abusers.

Mace vaporizes to some degree. It may have an effect on an attacker that isn't sprayed directly in the face if the vapor is inhaled or drifts into their eyes. Pepper spray does not vaporize, and it does not deteriorate over time. However, it must be sprayed into the face and eyes or directly inhaled to be work.

Mace takes anywhere from 5 seconds to 30 seconds to work, while pepper spray usually takes effect within 3 to 5 seconds. Mace also takes longer to shake off and the residue can last for several days.

Since both products have limitations, a new formulation called "Triple Action Spray" is available that contain both the pepper spray's OC and either mace's CS or CN.

What exactly is Mace?

Mace has become a generic word for all types of self-defense sprays. The original Mace is a trade name by Mace Security International. They make PepperGard pepper spray, and a blended spray called Pepper Foam as well as several other sprays under the trade name Mace.

Mace brand sprays have some unique features like the finger-grip dispenser, the flip-top cap, and the "glow-in-the-dark" release buttons. Because of its leadership in the self-defense product industry, Mace brand is the most reliable and advanced sprays on the market today.

What are the limitations and benefits of pepper spray?

Pepper spray is used by nearly every law enforcement agency in the country and is an excellent personal defense product. It is non-lethal and very effective at disabling an attacker when sprayed in the face and eyes. It can be sprayed from a safe distance between you and the attacker. This allows you time to escape and call for help.

Since pepper spray is non-lethal, most people are likely to use it without hesitation. Quick action on your part can help to avoid injury and possibly save your life. Pepper spray is affordable, and generally has no or moderate legal restrictions for carrying and use.

It's a good idea to have a backup self-defense product just in case you can't put your hands on one or if the attacker lunges at you before the spray takes effect. If the attacker is too close to use a spray, a stun gun or taser is effective for incapacitating the attacker.

Are there different strengths of pepper spray?

Yes, pepper spray is rated in a couple of ways: OC% and SHU rating. The % you see listed on the package, 10%, 15%, etc., is the amount of OC in the sprayer relative to the other ingredients. However, this percentage doesn't tell you the degree of "hotness" for a specific pepper spray. The degree of hotness of OC is dependent upon the amount of capsaicin in the OC. This varies significantly from manufacturer to manufacturer. The degree of heat is measured in Scoville Heat Units (SHU) and is used to compare the strength between sprays.

The higher the SHU number the hotter the spray. A SHU rating of 2 million is sufficient to bring down a person.

Does pepper spray have a shelf-life?

Like most pressurized sprays, there's usually an expiration date on the canister. OC, itself, will not degrade over time, however the spray unit may loose its propellant over time. This is common with the smaller spray units, such as the key chain or ring sprayers because they are jostled about all the time. It's a smart move to replace the pepper spray at the expiration date.

It's a good idea to test your spray every 3 months. Of course, each time you perform a test the contents of the canister is reduced. If you have a key chain or other small canister and you test regularly, you probably will need to replace it every 9 to 12 months.

How long does it take for pepper spray to work?

It takes 3-5 seconds for pepper spray to work. The effects can last from 15 minutes to an hour based on concentration and heat rating. You should have enough time to get away and call for help (9-1-1).

If the spray contains an UV dye, that is used to help authorities in identifying the attacker, it will take about a week for it to wear off.

Are there restrictions for using pepper spray or mace?

Pepper spray or mace can be used only for protection from bodily harm and not to protect property. If you aren't attacked or threatened it is unlawful to use self-defense sprays.

What's the correct way to store and carry pepper spray?

Self-defense sprays must be kept at room temperature and not in direct sunlight. Treat it as though it was a gun and keep it away from children. Do not leave it in your car or if you have the key chain type laying in the sun during summer. High temperatures can cause the seals to leak and discharge the spray accidentally.

Place the pepper spray or mace where you can quickly grab it. In an outer pocket or coat pocket when wearing one. You should practice grabbing it and simulate spraying it. If you are in potentially dangerous situation or place have the sprayer in your hand and ready to go. Don't take chances trying to find it a purse or briefcase.

Make it a habit to carry it with you everywhere. The most seemingly innocent situation can turn dangerous in a split second.

Should I try using the spray?

Yes, you should practice using your spray. Read the instructions that come with it and look over your sprayer to become familiar with it. Go out to an open area and spray it for about two seconds. If there is a breeze, make sure it is to your back so the spray will be pushed away from you. If you can't be sure which the wind is blowing, wait for a calmer day to practice. How far does it spray? Does it come out as a stream or a foggy mist? How did the wind effect it? Could you spray it into the face and eyes of an attacker?

If you don't think you can spray an attacker, don't pull the spray out and just threaten. The attacker will take it from you and use it on you. If you pull it out, you must use it immediately. Make certain you have enough distance between you and the attacker so it can't be grabbed from your hand. Fire a 2 to 3 second burst directly into the eyes of the attacker. If the attacker is moving toward you keep backing up to maintain your distance from the attacker. And, give them another two seconds. The pocket and purse size sprayers will give you from 5 and 10 seconds of continuous fire. Once the attacker is disabled escape the area and call police. Tell the police if your spray contains an UV dye. It will assist the police to find your attacker.

Does pepper spray work on animals?

Yes, it is effective on dogs and other wild animals. To protect yourself from animal attacks, get the bear or dog spray that is specially formulated and labeled for attacks by bears, dogs, or other animals.

Is pepper spray legal everywhere in the U.S.?

Pepper spray is LEGAL in all fifty states. However, some states and cities have regulations regarding the purchase, possession and use of self-defense sprays. You should check with your local police department about any regulations your state, county or city may have.

We have a page in our website that tells you what states have regulations and what they are.

Bear spray and dog spray are legal and can be shipped to New York, Wisconsin and Michigan.

Is there anyplace by law where I cannot carry pepper spray?

Yes. You cannot carry pepper spray or mace on a commercial airplane or in your carry-on luggage. The FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) regulations allow you to have one pepper or mace pray (up to 4 oz) in your checked luggage only.

How do I remove pepper spray?

If you accidentally get pepper spray on yourself or someone else, don’t panic. Use water and a non-oil or cold cream based soap and wash generously. Stay out of the area where the spray was used and get to fresh air. A good washing and little time is all that is needed to eliminate the effects.

Take off all contaminated clothing, and flush the affected areas with cool water. Don't use warm or hot water. That will intensify the burning and inflammation. Don't rub your eyes or face. If irritation or pain persists for more than 10 minutes after the cleaning process, see a doctor immediately.

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