PlanetMace Blog

Limitations of Pepper Spray

Some Limitations of Pepper Spray Include:

• There is an inherent delay in the time it takes between when you discharge a pepper spray canister into the face on an assailant and the time it takes to render the attacker completely harmless. While the initial shock of the spray will surely throw off an attacker, there are about 5 seconds during which time the attacker will still have about 75% of their capabilities, which is plenty of time to attack with a knife, gun, or other weapon. Make sure that once you have deployed your pepper spray device, you are still wary of an attackers moves and be remain prepared to defend yourself against ongoing attacks: they will certainly be pissed off that they’ve been sprayed.
• Intoxicated or deranged individuals, particularly those on a mind altering substance such as PCP may be less effected by pepper spray, or may take longer to react to the effects.
• Windy conditions may make it difficult to aim the stream of pepper spray directly into the attackers face, and some mist may even trail in your direction. Do not cease spraying, as it is better for you both to be incapacitated than for your attacker to take your pepper spray from you and possibly use it against you. It is particularly important to be aware of this when you are faced with using a pepper spray self defense product outdoors, and remember that pepper spray may be more difficult to use when it is rainy or in extreme cold conditions than in an average or mild climate.
• A direct hit to the eyes and face will be far more effective than simply spraying it in the attacker’s direction. While it is very difficult to block a pepper can onslaught, it may be necessary to continue a prolonged spray to ward off an attacker, as they may attempt to shield the noxious solvent from their face and continue to approach you.