I seem to recall some research that recommended true Tear Gas-based sprays over only pepper-based sprays. Of course, it costs more.
Here's the original
Mace
7. What are the different "Mace" formulations and how do they work?
Triple Action is a blend of OC Pepper, CN Tear Gas and UV Ultra-Violet dye. This formula combines the coughing, irritation and watery eyes of Tear Gas and the eye-shutting, "burning" effect of Pepper to disorient an attacker. The spray should be aimed at the face of an attacker.
PepperGard and Pepper Mace are 10% OC Pepper solutions with UV Ultraviolet dye. Pepper Sprays cause the eyes of an attacker to slam shut, create an intense burning sensation to affected areas and disorient an attacker. The spray should be aimed at the face of an attacker. Pepper Foam is a 10% OC Pepper formulation with UV Ultra-Violet dye that sprays in a thick foam. The foam acts to "blindfold" and disorient an attacker and cause the same "burning" and closing of the eyes as traditional liquid pepper sprays. The spray should be aimed at the face of an attacker.
9. Are Mace Sprays legal in my city or state?
Though legal in all 50 States, a number of cities and states have specific regulations pertaining to the purchase, possession and use of Aerosol Defense Sprays. If you have a question you should contact your local Mace retailer or Police Department. Aerosol Defense Sprays are meant for defensive purposes only are can only be sold to or used by persons 18 years of age or older.
Geez...I recommend the Mace BEAR spray.
Bear Pepper Mace 260 grams - Great news for true outdoor enthusiasts! Now you can protect yourself against possible bear attacks, with safe, humane Pepper Mace Bear Spray. This powerful Magnum Fogger sprays up to 30 feet! 260 gram unit empties in approximately 5.4 seconds. Order number 80346
I used to carry around some of the original stuff. The "Triple Action Personal Model" design is pretty good. First, it comes with a keychain, so if you put your keys on it, it'll always be handy. Especially in a deserted parking lot at night. Second, it's compact enough to shove in your front pocket (although it is a bit bulky). Third, and most importantly, the flip-top trigger guard prevents accidental use. I carried this thing around in my pocket for over a year, and never had it go off accidentally. Fourth, the sprayer fits easily and intuitively in your hand. Nothing complicated to remember in an emergency. Fifth, it doesn't have an exterior carrying case to fumble around with.
IMHO, having
something in an emergency is better than having nothing. Not only that, but I think the psychological effect of having a defensive weapon is a major plus, especially for women. It reminds the person carrying it to be alert, and gives her another option besides just running and screaming.
"So is that a can of Mace in your pocket, or are you just glad to see me?"