Pepper spray is the most common non-lethal self-defense weapon. It works for anyone as an affordable, compact, and effective method. Pepper spray delivers a potent yet non-lethal way to subdue a criminal by targeting eyesight. The formula contains Oleoresin of Capsicum (OC) which causes nasty side effects. These side effects grant a victim several minutes to defend themselves or flee. Do not confuse pepper spray with tear gas or mace.
Lethal force is often unnecessary or illegal in self-defense.
Alternative Non-Lethal Self-Defense Methods
Other non-lethal self defense options include:
- stun guns
- tasers
- tactical flashlights
- tactical pens
- noisemakers
Consider effectiveness, legal restrictions, skill required, and psychological impact when choosing self defense weapons. Focus on immobilizing the attacker non-lethally and escaping safely.
Police and Military Use of Less-Lethal Firearms
The police and military forces implement riot control by using less-lethal weapons, but incidents where police officers accidentally killed people confirm that “non-lethal” is a controversial term. Police forces can shoot a rubber bullet and other projectiles to cause pain, but not penetrate the skin. For most Americans, non-lethal self-defense weapons present a method for deterring violent crime without fatalities. Sidearms are outstanding for self-protection when trained. However, others may feel comfortable with a non-lethal weapon, such as pepper spray, for the advantages of being non-lethal and compact.
Use pepper spray only at close range. Consider effectiveness, legal restrictions, skill required, and psychological impact when choosing self-defense weapons.