Pepper Spray FAQ
What is Pepper Spray?
Pepper spray is a lachrymatory agent. This means that it makes the eyes tearful. Pepper spray is based on an oil known as oleoresin capsicum (OC). Capsaicin, the inflammatory agent in the oil, is the same chemical that makes chilli peppers hot. But in pepper spray, it is present at a much higher concentration. A pepper spray is used for personal safety to protect ourselves from assailants.
What is oleoresin capsicum (OC)?
Oleoresin capsicum (OC) is the content taken from a pepper placenta near to its stem. Although OC is the active ingredient used in most pepper sprays, the percentage of OC within the formulation does NOT indicate the strength of a pepper spray. It merely measures the amount of red pepper contained in the pepper spray.
White Eastern’s Pepper Spray
Capcaisin: 1.45%
Nitrogen / Freon: 13%
Alcohol: 28%
Distilled Water: 57.5%
What are capsaicin & capsaicinoids?
Oleoresin capsicum (OC) is comprised of several different capsaicinoids. There are five major capsaicinoids that provide the “hotness” of a pepper and capsaicin is one of the strongest and also the most important among the five. Thus, the percentage of the total capsaicinoids is the most important, not the OC percentage.
Civilian and law enforcement pepper sprays range from 0.18% to 1.33% major Capsaicinoids.
How long will most products last?
All aerosol products will eventually lose pressure over time. Most pepper sprays last for only two years from their manufacture date.
How far do most products fire?
Depending upon the wind, most pepper sprays using a cone/mist spray fire from 6 to 12 feet (2 to 4 meters). Pepper sprays using a stream spray pattern fire 8 to 12 feet (3 to 4 meters). Cone delivery products deploy approximately 10 feet (3 meters).
How long should I fire the pepper spray at the attacker?
It is recommended that the canister be fired until the attacker is incapacitated and once the attacker is stopped, we must escape immediately and call the police or shout for public attention. If the canister is used, whether finished or not, it is always recommended to replace a new unit.
At what temperature should I store my pepper spray?
Do not leave your pepper spray in any area that may exceed 45° C or drop below 0° C. Excessive heat or cold may cause the can to leak or burst.
Can I keep my pepper spray inside my car?
Yes, you can. But we strongly recommend you to avoid direct exposure of sun to your car for long hours.
What do I do when my pepper spray expires or is empty?
Your pepper spray does contain chemicals and should be disposed of.
I want to buy for my daughter who is studying overseas. Can she use it in that particular country?
Here, we provide the information of the legality of possessing and using pepper spray in Malaysia and Singapore only. For the other countries, we are afraid that you might need to check in their particular government regulations site. We are sorry for the inconvenience.
Malaysia: Use and possession of pepper spray for self-defense are legal.
Singapore: Travellers are prohibited from bringing pepper spray into the country, and it is illegal for the public to possess.
Not too sure which type of Pepper Sprays to choose? Read here.