How to Identify the Best Pepper Spray

Buying the best pepper spray on the market is not as easy as you may think, not only because every manufacturer claims that their product is the best, but also because there are different formulations on the market.

Pretty well all the pepper spray products on the market today contain the same active ingredient, Oleoresin Capsicum (commonly called OC), which is extracted from hot chili peppers in the Capsicum family. OC is an inflammatory agent that affects the mucous membranes in the body, particularly those in the eyes, nose and throat. The effects can cause temporary blindness, or at very least an intense burning sensation that forces the eyes closed, together with promoting an inability to breathe normally. Shortness of breath combined with involuntary choking and coughing, inhibits mobility. These effects are usually severe enough for any victim to either take control of the situation by defending themselves, disabling the attacker, or by escaping the scene of the crime.

Some pepper sprays are oil-based and others are water-based. Different types contain varying percentages of OC. Some are prepared with gel, and others are made so that when the canister or pepper spray gun is activated, the ingredients come out in thick foam that covers the assailant’s face and forces the person to keep his or her eyes closed.

So how do you determine which is the best pepper spray?

First of all it needs to work. So look out for proven products made by companies that have been around for years – like Mace. Also look out for testimonials from people who have used the products and lived to tell the tale. Don’t rely on comments from people who have never actually used pepper spray. And weigh up what people say. Do a bit of research to find out exactly how self defense pepper spray works rather than accepting claims at face value. Visit companies web sites to see what information they provide on different formulations. Be selective.

Even though certain products are produced for use by the police and other law enforcement agencies, some of these are suitable for personal use. If the cops trust the product, why shouldn’t you? So investigate these possibilities. More on self defense weapons

You also need to be sure that the product you choose is non-toxic and non-flammable. Check whether there is a sell-by and/or use-by date on the packaging.

There are numerous articles on the Internet giving advice about which self defense pepper spray and which pepper spray gun is best. While many are really useful, be careful that the article is not simply written to promote a particular product. Be wary if the article single out one product only as the best pepper spray on the market. Also be wary if an unknown brand name is bandied as the best. And watch for spelling errors and nonsensical states. These are often a sign that the writer hasn’t got any idea what he or she is writing about!

Price should not be a factor near the top of your list of priorities. But do compare prices between stores, because some add a bigger markup than others.

At the end of the day, the best pepper spray will be the one that saves your life. More personal alarm options. You may also want to buy stun gun devices. More on personal safety training