The Top 5 Pepper Sprays

To help you feel safe and secure no matter your environment, pepper spray is a great option. The compact and portable designs are easy to take on-the-go to give you a little bit of added protection. With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which ones are reliable. Learn more about our top five pepper spray recommendations and choose which one makes the most sense for your needs.

Mace Brand Self-Defense Triple Action 3-in-1 Formula

A 3-in-1 Spray That's a Triple Threat

This strong formula is police-strength protection for when you really need it.

Best Overall

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This unique pepper spray contains a mix of both pepper spray and tear gas that will cause tearing, shortness of breath, and UV dye that can identify any attacker. The container has up to 20 bursts and provides protection from up to 12 feet away. The finger-grip design makes it easy and accurate to use quickly, and the flip-top ensures safety and helps you avoid accidental use.

Pros:

Police-strength pepper spray
100% TSA and FAA compliant
Made in the USA

Cons:

Only contains 20 bursts

SABRE RED Pepper Gel Spray for Runners

A Pepper Spray Specifically Designed for Runners

Take this spray on-the-go while you run along roads, trails, or paths.

Best for Runners

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This pepper spray is built to last. With a four-year shelf life, it is a maximum-strength formula that is guaranteed to stop anyone in their tracks. The lightweight canister is light and easy to carry while you exercise and you can feel confident running anywhere with this as your self-defense. The non-intrusive gel has an adjustable hand strap so you can always feel protected and sprays up to 12 feet and has 35 bursts.

Pros:

Four-year shelf life
Made in the USA
12-foot range

Cons:

Gel instead of spray

POM Pepper Spray Flip Top Pocket Clip

Law Enforcement-Grade Pepper Spray for Safety

This design has a flip-top and clip for easy access, always.

Most Versatile

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This pepper spray is the strongest formula available for civilians. The stream is both powerful and accurate so that it’s effective and easy-to-use. The POM clip makes it easy to carry and clip onto pockets, purses, or armbands so you always have it when you need it. Plus, choose from a wide range of colors so you can pick a style that both suits you and keeps you safe.

Pros:

Strong pepper spray formula
Versatile clip attachment
Several color options

Cons:

Only contains 20 bursts

POLICE Magnum Pepper Spray with UV Dye and Flip Top

A Four-Pack of Effective Pepper Spray

This police-style pepper spray is perfect for personal safety.

Best in Bulk

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This pepper spray includes four 3-oz. canisters so you have enough protection when you need it. The pepper spray is a 17% OC Oleoresin Capsicum solution that is both non-toxic and non-flammable so it’s safe to carry with you in any scenario. The top has a safety closure to prevent accidental discharge and the solution also includes a UV dye to help with subject identification.

Pros:

17% OC Oleoresin Capsicum solution
Non-toxic and non-flammable
Made in the USA

Cons:

Container size is hard to conceal while carrying

SABRE RED Lipstick Pepper Spray for Women

A Discreet Pepper Spray You can Easily Conceal

Made to look like a tube of lipstick, this pepper spray is subtle but powerful.

Most Discreet

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This pepper spray has a four-year shelf life, so you can count on it for up to 12 bursts. The compact lipstick design is discreet and doesn’t draw attention when you stash it in your purse, backpack, or pocket. The cap prevents you from accidentally discharging the product, and the formula is so powerful it is trusted by major police departments across the country.

Pros:

Discreet design
Projects up to 10 feet
Cap prevents accidental discharge

Cons:

Only contains 12 bursts

Frequently Asked Questions

Does pepper spray expire?

Yes, pepper spray expires. Most pepper spray will last about two years. Over time, the aerosol in the canister loses pressure and makes the spray ineffective.

Does pepper spray hurt?

When pepper spray is used, it causes burning, redness, and inflammation on the assailant. It can affect sensation in the eyes, nose, mouth, and sometimes also the throat and skin.

How long do the effects of pepper spray last?

Pepper spray works immediately and the effects can last, on average, for about 20 to 90 minutes. Depending on the specific spray and its strength, the effects can sometimes last for up to 24 hours.