Whilst most participating states in the USA permit the use of pepper spray, pepper spray laws do very when it comes to self-defense. For example, the state of Indiana, Massachusetts, Hawaii, Michigan, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Rhode Island actually prohibit the purchase of pepper spray, either through the Internet or by mail. In an anomaly, the shipping of bear and dog pepper spray is legal in all of the 48 contiguous states.

Oleoresin Capsicum (OC), more commonly known as pepper spray because it is derived from chili peppers, inflames the areas where it is sprayed. To be effective, it needs to be sprayed at the eyes, nose, or mouth. It differs from other types of defensive sprays that are irritants and cause stinging and tearing.

Remember that pepper spray, if improperly used, can kill. Many countries classify this as a weapon. Breathing problems, temporary blindness and serious pain can occur if used improperly. The product is illegal in a number of countries including Canada. In the United States, there are a number of restrictions governing the amount that the canister can contain and its potency.

Rules governing pepper spray vary across the United States, and state-by-state. For example, New York has pepper spray laws which permit the sale through pharmacies and licensed firearms dealers. Massachusetts has licensed firearms dealers to sell pepper spray for self-defense purposes. In the nation’s capital, you must be registered with your local law enforcement agency to possess the spray.

Some states have pepper spray laws that allow its usage with restrictions. Michigan permits only Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) pepper sprays as long as the canister contains less than 35 grams and has 2% or less of OC concentration. In Wisconsin, pepper spray for self defense purposes is legal, but cannot be stronger than 10%. California permits pepper sprays that are less than 2.5 ounces,

Pepper spray is available in a variety of different sizes, containers, concentrations and patterns. This very effective and popular deterrent should stop an assailant long enough for you to escape.

Pepper spray laws allow you to use the product legally for self-defense, if you fear a personal injury. However, you must be responsible, and not use the spray if somebody just looks threatening or is using obscene language, for example. If you do so, an assault or battery charge could be brought and you might risk criminal charges.

Pepper spray laws throughout the United States make it illegal to sell to a criminal, defined as somebody convicted of a felony, or to a minor. The TSA also makes it illegal to carry onto a commercial airplane.

Tags: Self Defence