The Use of Pepper Spray

posted on February 28, 2012
2012228143246-pepperblaster_m.jpg

In regard to my Unarmed Defense blog, questions were asked about my thoughts about pepper spray, and why I was not carrying any when visiting Las Vegas for SHOT Show.

My thoughts on pepper stray are simple: Any tool that can be utilized to keep body and soul safe should be considered and used if that is your best option. Up until recently, my wife carried a Kimber PepperBlaster in her purse. The reason she doesn’t still have it is because it had a use by date, which had expired, and I decided to kick it off in my in-law’s backyard in South Carolina over Thanksgiving.

The PepperBlaster sent both shots the promised 12 to 14 feet, which really is all I can say about it since no one would let me hit them with it, including myself. I cannot testify to its strength, but believe that it would stop the average attacker.

Now as to why I wasn’t carrying pepper spray in Vegas? That is a simple question. Taking pepper spray onto a plane requires the same hassles of traveling with a gun—must be in checked luggage and declared—or possibly more if it is pressurized. If I was going to go through that, I might have well have carried my Kimber.

I don’t carry pepper spray because I carry a gun. In most places that I can’t carry a gun, I can’t carry pepper spray. However, I would love to know, without taking a shot of it, what being hit with pepper spray is like. Can anyone describe that feeling?

Latest

Lonewolf Slide Horman
Lonewolf Slide Horman

Review: Lone Wolf's Alphawolf Caliber-Conversion Slides 

For owners of .40 S&W-chambered Glocks, Lone Wolf's Alphawolf caliber-conversion slides are an easy way to update the design.

Vista Outdoor Advises MNC Capital To Increase Offer Price

Vista Outdoor announced discussions with MNC Capital (MNC), the company that made a $2.9 billion unsolicited offer earlier this year.

Rifleman Review: Taurus G3 Tactical

In recent years, Taurus has fully fleshed out its polymer-frame, striker-fired pistols, culminating in the third-generation G3 series available in several configurations. One of the more-recent introductions in the line is the G3 Tactical, which incorporates a number of desirable features.

Winchester Engages Members Of Congress

Winchester Ammunition recently hosted legislators and outdoor industry representatives at a special event in Washington, D.C.

New For 2024: PTR Industries PTR 63

PTR Industries, known for its roller-delayed platforms, has a new 5.56 NATO-chambered model out for 2024 that takes STANAG magazines. Here are the details on the company's new PTR 63.

Montana Rifle Co. Re-Opens Under New Ownership

Grace Engineering Corp., based in Memphis, Mich., announced it has acquired the assets and rights of Montana Rifle Co., which closed its doors in 2020 after more than 20 years in business.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.