Self-defense sprays, such as pepper sprays and mace are some of the most popular self-defense weapons you can carry. However, very few people carry a self-defense spray and few of them know anything about how to use this weapon. The truth is that using a self-defense spray is not as easy as point and shoot. Although these products offer some great protection, there are important things you need to know before buying and using them.
Potency
You need to look at the packaging of the product you want to purchase or the description if you are buying online. Nowadays, there are two major ways that these sprays are rated. The first one is to measure a particular percentage of OC in the product. OC is the stuff that makes the spray burn. However, a high percentage does not necessarily mean that the product is effective.
Another technique used to rate self-defense sprays is SHU of the product. This is an important element as the attacker will feel it. However, a product that contains a lot of it tends to be thick and tough to disperse. Thus, you should choose a product with a certain SHU. If the spray you want to purchase does not have any rating, then you should not purchase it.
How Long It Lasts
You should note that self-defense sprays expire. Thus, they lose their potency over time. Therefore, you need to replace the product on a routine basis. If the spray you have has been around for a few years, you need to throw it and get a new one. Always check the expiration date when buying a spray. Avoid buying a product that has been on the shelf for many years.
Spray Pattern
You should note that the pepper sprays use a wide range of spray patterns. These include foam, cone, stream, and fog. Each has its advantages and applications. For instance, the stream sprays can be used at distances of up to 15 ft. However, it requires a lot of accuracy, and it has a low success rate. It is a good idea to use the cone or fog spray pattern. However, with overspray, they can affect others.
Capacity
As far as self-defense sprays are concerned, it is always better to get a high capacity. However, carrying a large canister can be a problem. Instead, you should get something that is small and discrete.