Self defense is perhaps the oldest concern of people, right up there with food, water and shelter. In the days of old you’d sharpen a knife or sword and keep it on your belt, or you’d take your trusted shillelagh with you when you went walking down the lane. However as technology has evolved the number of options for self defense have been enhanced. On the one end of the spectrum you still have lethal force in the form of concealed carry permits that allow you to carry firearms to protect yourself and others. On the other end of the spectrum you have what are called less-than-lethal weapons like stun guns and Tasers. Firmly on that less lethal side of the spectrum is where you find Mace and pepper spray, which are both common choices for modern men and women concerned with their safety who don’t want to worry about killing attackers.
Though sometimes used interchangeably, pepper spray and Mace are two different chemicals. Mace is a trademarked chemical spray which is made up of CS or CN, both chemicals which cause irritation to the eyes, nose and throat when inhaled. Mace is used by many police and prison officers because it vaporizes slightly and doesn’t need to be sprayed right into someone’s eyes or mouth to work. It also takes between 5 and 30 seconds to take effect, but the problem with Mace was that it had less of an effect on those under the influence of drugs or alcohol that made them less susceptible to pain. Pepper spray on the other hand is made from Oleoresin Capsicum, or OC, which comes from hot peppers. Pepper spray does need to be applied directly to face, specifically the eyes and mouth, but the effects are involuntary which means they work on everyone starting within 3 seconds of exposure. Pepper srays effects will also wear off in hours, as opposed to Mace which can linger for several days.
Generally speaking the self defense sprays that civilians buy contain pepper spray, though if the spray is bought from a security company provider it can contain Mace or a combination spray that contains both chemicals for a triple threat effect. It’s very important that you know what it is you’re carrying around in your spray, and that you test it at least once a month or so to ensure proper working. If you’re carrying around smaller containers on a daily basis, then you should probably replace them every 6-9 months to ensure a properly working can of pepper spray.
Of course as with any weapon, you have to practice with it if your pepper spray is going to be effective. Whie there isn’t exactly a bullet proof vest that will stop pepper spray like there is for stopping Tasers (it’s called Thor Shield), if you can’t pull the spray, aim properly and hit a spot with the spray then the weapon isn’t going to do you any good. So when you’re doing your tests don’t just spray the can randomly, but aim and spray to get used to the pepper spray’s function. Set up a target and let loose a stream, get your range and stay used to it. While you’re at home practice getting your spray out of a pocket or the belt holster. If you’re surprised and you fumble you could just as easily drop the pepper spray, or spray yourself in the face, just because you’re not familiar with it. If you buy a gun, you go to the gun range and learn how to fire, reload and clean it. If you buy a can of pepper spray, no matter how minor it may seem, you have to practice with it if you’re going to be able to use it. Addtionally it always pays to know when pepper spray and Mace can be used. Fortunately that part is simple; defense sprays can be used to protect yourself or someone else against bodily harm. Protecting your property, or assaulting another person with a spray is a crime. If you can keep that straight, then you’re ready to carry the spray of your choice.
“Pepper Spray/Mace,” by Anonymous at Women’s Law
“Pepper Spray and Mace Frequently Asked Questions,” by Anonymous at Four Corners Security