Why Pepper Spray?
Pepper Spray is a great means of self defense that everyone should consider carrying. It is non-lethal and legal in all U.S. states (check exceptions and regulations). It inflames, causes coughing, choking, nausea, and dilates the eyes causing temporary blindness while not causing permanent damage. The typical range is about ten feet. Pepper spray used properly during an assault could save your life. Spray into the eyes of the attacker and get the heck out of there.
Pepper Spray protection against 2 and 4 legged creatures
Not only is pepper spray effective for protection against 2 legged creatures, but it is also good insurance against the 4 legged variety. This morning I happened upon an article about a Montana bear attack at a popular campground that unfortunately killed one person and injured two others. The story goes on to site instances where pepper spray had been used to ward off bear attacks. The story reminded me of the times when we’ve camped in northern California where we’ve seen our share of black bears (which pale in comparison to the danger of Grizzly or Brown bears). I had always been prepared while out in the wilderness areas by carrying a can of pepper spray for bears. Fortunately I’ve never had to use it.
Pepper Spray protection for women
It is even more important for women to carry pepper spray since they are targets for rape and can be more easily overpowered by a male attacker. My wife carries pepper spray in a recommended manner while walking to or from her vehicle. She has a perfect size fairly small canister attached to her key chain and while walking to the vehicle, lets say from a store that she just left, she holds the keys by the canister itself. It makes for a natural way to hold the key set. Many women will wait to take their keys out of their purse until they get to the vehicle. Wrong. The keys should be out before exiting the store (or wherever). One should walk confidently while simply being consciously aware of what is around them as they walk. Far too many people appear narrowly focused and oblivious to their surroundings as they walk and could easily be surprised by a predator.
Pepper Spray configurations
Pepper spray comes in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and formulas and is available from a wide range of manufacturers. One could begin over analyzing what is the best mixture, size, release method, etc., but in my opinion simply taking the first step and buying some, is the best thing that you can do. It is easy to order online, just search for it.
Pepper spray canisters are designed with different spray patterns which include stream, foam, fog, and gel. The most common pepper spray discharge is probably the stream pattern as it can be aimed directly. The fog pattern can be effective when trying to incapacitate more than one target at a time, however you may experience some blow-back yourself since it is a fog. Just move away or backward as you spray. Foam or gel discharge seem to me to be a very good choice since the wind or blow-back will not be an issue.
An important thing to remember is that pepper spray does have an expiration date. It will not suddenly lose its effectiveness but it apparently will not be as potent over time. So, be aware to check and re-order if necessary, else be caught in a bad situation without protection.
Pepper Spray use-case scenarios
Think a bit about how you will intend to carry it or keep it. Then choose the right style for the purpose in mind. For example, as I mentioned, the key chain variety is one style that suits its purpose. Another use-case is hiking in the woods or bear country. For me, a canister with a belt clip is perfect for that scenario. Another use-case for us is in our vehicles. Typically there is a small canister within reach while inside the vehicle. In this case, instead of a darker color canister (so as not to be obvious), we chose bright yellow so it could be quickly and easily found during the heat of the moment. Another use-case may be to carry concealed in a pocket, so something small or shaped in a way that is more comfortable will be desirable. There are plenty to pick from, so just give it a moments thought and then go ahead and order yourself some protection.
Pepper Spray laws
In today’s world of increasing regulation and laws that thwart personal self protection, I believe that pepper spray is still legal in all 50 U.S. states, although there are some regulations pertaining to its purchase, possession, and use. Remember to check the laws in your country, state, or city before carrying. Based on a bit of online research, I believe that pepper spray is prohibited in all of Asia, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Belgium, Denmark, Italy, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom, and Canada.
soucre:http://modernsurvivalblog.com/security/pepper-spray-a-self-defense-weapon/
Showing posts with label Information. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Information. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Pepper Spray 101
A good article I found about pepper spray(s)
Defense sprays are the most popular personal self-defense product available today. They are economical, easy to carry, simple to use, require no long-term training and are extremely effective. Often erroneously referred to as Mace (a specific manufacturer) or tear gas (one of the side effects), self-defense sprays were initially developed for use in law enforcement. Pepper sprays, as they are more commonly referred to today, have become enormously popular for use by the public for personal self-defense.
A major advantage of using pepper sprays is they are non-lethal and impose no long-term physical effects on an attacker. This is not the case with the use of a firearm, which employs deadly force and potentially has significant legal and psychological ramifications for the user. Here are the most important considerations regarding the purchase and application of pepper sprays:
1) Purpose:
Pepper sprays, like most non-lethal self-defense products, are designed to create a barrier between the victim and an attacker, thus buying precious moments to escape.
2) Formulation:
Pepper sprays come in three basic types of chemical formulations:
CS - orthochlorobenzalmalonigtrile
CN - alphachloroacetaphenone
OC - oleoresin capsicum
Sprays containing CS & CN are considered old school, not as effective as OC, have a delayed effect of up to 30 seconds, are often ineffective against individuals on drugs or who are psychotic, sometimes take days to wear off, are considered possible carcinogens, may cause toxic reactions and/or long-term reactions. CS & CN sprays are not reliable and therefore are not recommended.
OC sprays contain a natural chemical derived from hot pepper plants. They work instantly by dilating the capillaries in the eyes, causing temporary blindness. When inhaled, OC will also cause immediate inflammation of the lung tissue, resulting in uncontrollable coughing. Either or both conditions are extremely disabling even for those on drugs or who may be psychotic. The effects of OC dissipate quickly and cause no permanent damage or long-term side affects.
3) Strength:
Generally, the strength of a pepper spray is measured by the heat-generating capacity of the hot peppers used in the formula by the manufacturer. This capacity is indicated in Scoville Heat Units (SHUs). It's important to note that different hot peppers produce varying levels of SHUs. As an example: standard bell peppers produce 0 SHUs, Jalapeno peppers will generate up to 5,000 SHUs and Habaneros peppers up to 300,000 SHUs. Also important to realize is a 10% concentration of Jalapeno pepper spray will not be nearly as effective as a 1% concentration of Habaneros pepper spray. OC, in its purest form, has a heat rating of up to 15 million SHUs. Chemists have determined that an SHU rating over 4,000,000 will likely cause tissue damage. Pepper sprays containing formulations exceeding this range are considered excessive and are not recommended.
4) Delivery:
A carrier agent is required to suspend the OC in solution and assist in delivery from the pressurized pepper spray container. Highly recommended and most commonly used today, due to its dispersal qualities, is a carrier called HFC 134A.
Spray patterns and dispersal density determine the size of the droplets sprayed at the assailant. The smaller the air-borne droplets, the more efficiently they will disburse into the eyes and lungs. Pepper sprays offer three types of spray patterns: stream, mist and fog. The fog and mist models deliver the smallest droplets but have a short range of only 4-8 feet and can be easily affected by wind if used outdoors. The stream sprays have a range of up to 15-20 feet and are less likely to be blown back at you by a wind or breeze. Fog or mist sprays are recommended for home defense use and stream sprays for outdoor applications.
5) Size and Capacity:
The size of a pepper spray device will correspond with its capacity. Capacity is generally measured by the number of ounces of spray material in the container which determines how many shots or seconds it will fire. Pepper spray models come in sizes varying from the smallest at only 1/2 oz. (which may provide up to 20 half-second bursts) to larger 16 oz. canister-style units. The smaller sizes are easy to carry on a key chain, in a purse, pocket or belt holster, while the larger units are primarily designed for autos and home defense.
Summary:
Pepper spray devices represent one of the best self-defense choices for persons reluctant to use a firearm but interested in increasing their odds of escape and survival in the event of a serious confrontation. Regardless of age, sex, social status, employment, location, lifestyle, daily routine or physical abilities...you are at risk of being the victim of a crime. It makes sense to take the steps necessary to confront the risks that we face every day. Pepper sprays are excellent self-defense tools that are affordable and effective. Be prepared! Refuse to be a victim! Feel safe. Be safe. Be armed!
Source: Ross, Stu "Guide to Choosing the Pepper Spray That's Right For You." Guide to Choosing the Pepper Spray That's Right For You. 23 Feb. 2010 EzineArticles.com. 8 Nov. 2011.http://EzineArticles.com/3809144
Defense sprays are the most popular personal self-defense product available today. They are economical, easy to carry, simple to use, require no long-term training and are extremely effective. Often erroneously referred to as Mace (a specific manufacturer) or tear gas (one of the side effects), self-defense sprays were initially developed for use in law enforcement. Pepper sprays, as they are more commonly referred to today, have become enormously popular for use by the public for personal self-defense.
A major advantage of using pepper sprays is they are non-lethal and impose no long-term physical effects on an attacker. This is not the case with the use of a firearm, which employs deadly force and potentially has significant legal and psychological ramifications for the user. Here are the most important considerations regarding the purchase and application of pepper sprays:
1) Purpose:
Pepper sprays, like most non-lethal self-defense products, are designed to create a barrier between the victim and an attacker, thus buying precious moments to escape.
2) Formulation:
Pepper sprays come in three basic types of chemical formulations:
CS - orthochlorobenzalmalonigtrile
CN - alphachloroacetaphenone
OC - oleoresin capsicum
Sprays containing CS & CN are considered old school, not as effective as OC, have a delayed effect of up to 30 seconds, are often ineffective against individuals on drugs or who are psychotic, sometimes take days to wear off, are considered possible carcinogens, may cause toxic reactions and/or long-term reactions. CS & CN sprays are not reliable and therefore are not recommended.
OC sprays contain a natural chemical derived from hot pepper plants. They work instantly by dilating the capillaries in the eyes, causing temporary blindness. When inhaled, OC will also cause immediate inflammation of the lung tissue, resulting in uncontrollable coughing. Either or both conditions are extremely disabling even for those on drugs or who may be psychotic. The effects of OC dissipate quickly and cause no permanent damage or long-term side affects.
3) Strength:
Generally, the strength of a pepper spray is measured by the heat-generating capacity of the hot peppers used in the formula by the manufacturer. This capacity is indicated in Scoville Heat Units (SHUs). It's important to note that different hot peppers produce varying levels of SHUs. As an example: standard bell peppers produce 0 SHUs, Jalapeno peppers will generate up to 5,000 SHUs and Habaneros peppers up to 300,000 SHUs. Also important to realize is a 10% concentration of Jalapeno pepper spray will not be nearly as effective as a 1% concentration of Habaneros pepper spray. OC, in its purest form, has a heat rating of up to 15 million SHUs. Chemists have determined that an SHU rating over 4,000,000 will likely cause tissue damage. Pepper sprays containing formulations exceeding this range are considered excessive and are not recommended.
4) Delivery:
A carrier agent is required to suspend the OC in solution and assist in delivery from the pressurized pepper spray container. Highly recommended and most commonly used today, due to its dispersal qualities, is a carrier called HFC 134A.
Spray patterns and dispersal density determine the size of the droplets sprayed at the assailant. The smaller the air-borne droplets, the more efficiently they will disburse into the eyes and lungs. Pepper sprays offer three types of spray patterns: stream, mist and fog. The fog and mist models deliver the smallest droplets but have a short range of only 4-8 feet and can be easily affected by wind if used outdoors. The stream sprays have a range of up to 15-20 feet and are less likely to be blown back at you by a wind or breeze. Fog or mist sprays are recommended for home defense use and stream sprays for outdoor applications.
5) Size and Capacity:
The size of a pepper spray device will correspond with its capacity. Capacity is generally measured by the number of ounces of spray material in the container which determines how many shots or seconds it will fire. Pepper spray models come in sizes varying from the smallest at only 1/2 oz. (which may provide up to 20 half-second bursts) to larger 16 oz. canister-style units. The smaller sizes are easy to carry on a key chain, in a purse, pocket or belt holster, while the larger units are primarily designed for autos and home defense.
Summary:
Pepper spray devices represent one of the best self-defense choices for persons reluctant to use a firearm but interested in increasing their odds of escape and survival in the event of a serious confrontation. Regardless of age, sex, social status, employment, location, lifestyle, daily routine or physical abilities...you are at risk of being the victim of a crime. It makes sense to take the steps necessary to confront the risks that we face every day. Pepper sprays are excellent self-defense tools that are affordable and effective. Be prepared! Refuse to be a victim! Feel safe. Be safe. Be armed!
Source: Ross, Stu "Guide to Choosing the Pepper Spray That's Right For You." Guide to Choosing the Pepper Spray That's Right For You. 23 Feb. 2010 EzineArticles.com. 8 Nov. 2011.http://EzineArticles.com/3809144
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