Pepper gas - how it works and types?
Pepper spray is an effective and easy-to-use self-defense tool. Its huge advantage is simplicity in maintenance - it does not require special skills or great physical strength, which allows it to be used by both women and men, regardless of age or physical condition.
If you want to learn more about the action of pepper spray, its impact on the attacker's body, and familiarize yourself with the types of pepper sprays available on the market, read our guide.
Pepper spray and its impact on the attacker
Pepper spray affects the attacker by strongly irritating the mucous membranes, especially the eyes and airways. This causes intense burning, tearing, coughing, and even difficulty breathing. The active substance of the spray is capsaicin - a chemical compound derived from hot pepper, which causes these rapid physiological reactions.
Main effects of pepper spray action:
- Immediate action - after spraying the gas towards the attacker, there is almost an immediate strong burning of the eyes, intense tearing, coughing, and a feeling of suffocation. A person treated with the gas quickly loses the ability to take further actions.
- Stopping the attack - eye irritation makes the attacker unable to open them, and breathing problems significantly complicate any physical activity. This gives time to escape or call for help.
- Duration of action - symptoms usually last from 30 to 45 minutes, although the burning sensation may be slightly longer.
- Effectiveness regardless of psychophysical state - the gas acts not only on sober individuals but also on those under the influence of drugs or alcohol, as well as on individuals with high pain resistance.
- Identifying dye— some versions of the gas contain a special UV dye, which is invisible to the naked eye but glows under ultraviolet light, allowing for later identification of the perpetrator.
Types of pepper sprays
Pepper sprays are divided into various types depending on the form of spraying – versions in the form of cloud/cone, stream, gel, or foam are available. Some models are equipped with additional features, such as dyes, sound signals, and are also produced in keychain form or intended for use against animals. The types of pepper sprays by spraying form will be described in detail below:
1. Cloud/cone
- it is one of the most common types of pepper sprays,
- creates a wide cloud-like stream (so-called "cloud"), which makes it easier to hit the attacker, so you don't need to aim accurately,
- acts quickly and effectively, causing immediate effects,
- ineffective in windy conditions, as the wind can disperse the gas, reducing its effectiveness,
- in closed spaces, it can also pose a threat to the person using the gas, as the gas can spread throughout the space.
2. Stream
- requires precise targeting of the attacker's face, which is associated with the need to have certain dexterity and training,
- effective even in difficult weather conditions – the gas stream is less subject to the wind, ensuring greater effectiveness in various weather conditions,
- does not disperse in the air, minimizing the risk of accidental contact with the person using the gas or other persons nearby.
3. Foam
- does not disperse easily, significantly reducing the risk of accidental contact with the person using the gas or uninvolved persons – this is especially important in closed spaces,
- covers a large area, increasing effectiveness in the event of a hit,
- has a relatively short range, so it is best suited for short distances,
- less susceptible to wind than a cloud, but more than a stream – making it an intermediate option regarding resistance to weather conditions.
4. Gel
- gel is released in a stream, making it easier to target a specific point, such as the attacker's face,
- effective in the wind, at low and high temperatures, as well as during rain,
- suitable for indoor use, does not pose a great threat to uninvolved persons, like a gas cloud.
How to use pepper spray?
After purchasing pepper spray, it is worth familiarizing yourself with the design of your sprayer in detail to quickly use it in case of danger. Check if the gas is not expired, as over time its effect may weaken, and in extreme cases may not work at all.
Before you start aiming at the attacker, take advantage of the element of surprise. It is best to aim at the facial area - eyes, nose, mouth. Strong burning of the conjunctiva will involuntarily close the opponent's eyes, inhaling the gas causes breathing problems and strong burning in the throat. A person treated with pepper spray also experiences a burning sensation of the skin. Important information! If you use pepper spray in the form of cloud or stream, consider the strength and direction of the wind.
Want to know how to carry pepper spray, its restrictions, and its shelf life? This and much other useful information can be found in our article: Pepper Spray – Important Information.
Pepper sprays and accessories at Militaria.pl
Our store offers a wide range of pepper sprays for self-defense. Various types are available — from gel to cone. We have products of large capacity as well as smaller, more convenient models. In our assortment, there are also sprays designed for protection against aggressive animals and even special versions with dye.
We also offer accessories for sprays, such as neutralizing wipes or holsters for their storage, which increase comfort and safety of use. The sprays offered in our store can be purchased without any permission. We invite you to read the article about the legality of pepper sprays.
