how effective is pepper spray for self-defence

[ak27]

hello guys, I am considering buying my friend a pepper spray for SD. But, I have never actually handled one and hence am clueless about it's effectiveness. Please enlighten me on this.

[Hammerhead]

Self - Defense against WHO / WHAT / WHERE / WHY / WHEN

I recommend a good treadmill for self - Defense - Haji

[ramtiger]

I recommend a good treadmill for self - Defense - Haji

[varunik]

I dont think pepper sprays are of any use.
Considering that it'll take time to bring out the bottle.

If your friend is a male, then Mantis b-1 key chain is a good tool, as men keep keys in pockets.

If its for a female then, pepper sprays are the worst option, i feel. It'll take time to bring the bottle out of a purse.
For women, I feel simple but clever things are good like a pointy but hard pendant or a hair pick or bracelet.
Thing is they are easily accessible and no one will know that you've something like that.

Self defence, as said above should be avoided. But it cannot always be avoided.
In those cases, common sense is the best tool. Simple things like a pen are deadly objects. Its just apply mind and use any thing as a weapon. Dont hesitate at that time while using them.
Frankly, I wouldnt care if I I kill a guy to save myself

[pradeep.kumar]

Self defence, as said above should be avoided. But it cannot always be avoided.
In those cases, common sense is the best tool. Simple things like a pen are deadly objects. Its just apply mind and use any thing as a weapon. Dont hesitate at that time while using them.
Frankly, I wouldnt care if I I kill a guy to save myself

Well said Varunik!!

[ak27]

@Hammerhead: So,what do you suggest HH, carry a treadmill in your purse and hurl it at the perpetrators?!!
On a serious note, I completely agree that running away is the best way of protecting yourself, but what if the thug manages to spend an extra few minutes on the treadmill! So, i was just looking for a means to slowdown the goon before taking it to your heels. Something that takes the attacker by schock and gives us a few more seconds to run.

@varunik: A few nice points there varunik, but hardly helpful as I already have a solid understanding of self defence and it's application(atleast I think I do).

What I wanted to know was:
1. what is the effective range of the spray?
2. for how much time would the target be immobilized?
3. how much time would it take, on an average, to deploy it?
4. what factors determine the answers to the above questions?

FYI, it's for a girl 21years old.

thank you

[pradeep.kumar]

ak27,
This is what I got from wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pepper_spray#Effects
Pepper spray is an inflammatory agent. It causes immediate closing of the eyes, difficulty breathing, runny nose, and coughing.[4] The duration of its effects depends on the strength of the spray but the average full effect lasts around thirty to forty-five minutes, with diminished effects lasting for hours.

For more details refer the wiki link please.

[Rajat]

@ ak27

1. what is the effective range of the spray?

Depends on which company and specifications of what you are using. Typically it is the most effective at 1-2 feet possibly 3 depending on the compression. So you have to be close enough. BTW it is not really a spray (misty spray like from a perfume bottle). It is rather a "stream" similar to what you will get from a shaving foam canister. This is generally true but depends on what you are using.

2. for how much time would the target be immobilized?

Depends on how tough and determined the other person is; how well you aim it on the persons eyes, nose, mouth; the strength of the pepper spray in terms of scoville units; usually for a couple of minutes to a few minutes, enough to give you a head start.

3. how much time would it take, on an average, to deploy it?

How fast can you draw a gun and fire? Pretty fast if you ask me. Practice.

Ok about 3-5 seconds if you are prepared and more if you fumble.

4. what factors determine the answers to the above questions?

The defender, the means of defence, the method of defence and the assailant.

5. FYI, it's for a girl 21years old.

This is the reason I answered. Do whatever is needed to keep her safe and protected.

[CKAY]

A very good pepper spray can immobilize a person for about 8 to 10 minutes very effectively . I think this is enoughtime to seek help or get away from the situation . Some pepper sprays claim to be effective for upto 30 minutes but I doubt it .

JK

[ak27]

Many,many thanks Rajat.

Thanks for the info pradeep.

Thanks JK, yes many claim that it works for more than 30 mins, but as Rajat has pointed out I think it depends on how well it's deployed and how tough the assailant is
regards,
aditya kona

[goodboy_mentor]

please do share several other means by which she can protect herself.

Avoidance of isolated locations or route or time which has potential for trouble. If possible go with a group of responsible and trustworthy people preferably from her family. Keep the family periodically well informed about everything over mobile.

[Priyan]

Pepper spray has different effect on different people it. Some has more tolerance to it. For example, my parents used to put Naga Jalakia pepper in my eyes for my wrongdoing when I was a kid, thanks to them I developed tolerance for pepper spray. Also the eve teasers and other young guys looking to assault ladies move in a group so pepper spraying might get one into trouble. The best self-defense is to avoid confrontation as much as one can and practicing on a treadmill.

[dev]

Priyan what was the mischief that needed such strong medicine? I can't imagine doing this to one's child, pretty strong medicine from my point of view. We were just given a few tugs on the ear and a resounding slap or two .

[mundaire]

We were just given a few tugs on the ear and a resounding slap or two .

What no belt/ cane/ footruler?! Uncle was too easy on you boys

[captrakshitsharma]

i even remember a garden hose and a hockey stick once...