Only-Pepper Spray

While some might see it as a waste, it’s better to practice with a canister of pepper spray before using it.  Most pepper spray canisters are simple to use, but for a person with no experience, it can be a little difficult the first time.  When purchasing a canister of pepper spray, make sure to use at least one of the bursts to ensure that it works and to recognize the projectile range of the spray.  When aiming with any canister of pepper spray, take Wildfire pepper spray for example, it’s not essential to be right on target to be effective.  Pepper spray is designed to blanket an area, and while a direct hit will cause more damage, even a partial hit will incapacitate an attacker.  In general, it’s best to aim for an area between shoulders instead of the head, and let the pepper spray do the rest.  The optimal range also differs between various brands of pepper spray.

When an attacker is at close range, it’s best to aim the canister towards their eyes, but at longer ranges, between the shoulders is better otherwise it’s quite possible to miss.  Don’t rely on a can of pepper spray that is several years old either; take precautions to purchase a new canister at least once every two to three years. 

In some states throughout the nation, it’s illegal for civilians to carry Mace pepper spray without a permit, and in some cases, illegal all together.  It’s important to be aware of the rules and regulations pertaining to pepper spray in states of residence, as not conforming to the law can result in hefty fines and even jail time.  While some states have little to Mace regulations, others can be much more stringent.  There are several options for people living in states like Michigan that have an outright ban on pepper spray.  There are numerous safe pepper spray products that are approved for use in Michigan and other states that have bans on Mace products.  While there are bans on pepper spray for human use, bear pepper spray and pepper spray designed to repel vicious animals is often allowed, however, this pepper spray is not approved for use on humans. 

Bear pepper spray, for example, is designed to knock out a bear, and if used in excess can be fatal to a human.  Check at the state website or with a local law enforcement official before purchasing pepper spray online or bringing it in from another state.