12 best cartridges for self-defense

The use of various methods and means of self-defense has long acquired the status of an important skill that can not only protect a person from minor injuries and other consequences, but also in special cases save lives. The most common means of self-defense in emergency situations are cartridges with a damaging substance. In everyday life, they are called gas or pepper, depending on the “filling” contained inside.

On the shelves of specialized stores you can find hundreds of types of this tool, different not only in composition but also in the type of spraying. To solve such an important issue of personal security, we selected for you the 12 best cans for self-defense, capable of destroying a potential enemy in an instant. The choice was based on three main criteria:

• the degree of effectiveness of the tool in the application;
• the results of tests conducted by reputable publications and professionals in the field of self-defense;
• compliance of the price with the declared characteristics.

Every applicant who is on the best list is able to guarantee you reliable protection.

The best spray cans for self defense

A classic balloon, when you press a key that sprays a volatile aerosol cloud of an injurious substance into the air. They are good because they can affect several targets at once during spraying. Another method of application is the creation of an improvised veil, which is capable of winning a few saving seconds in the event of a chase.

4 Hot pepper 65 ml

This is one of the oldest developments of the company "Tehkrim", specializing in the production of self-defense. Gas spray "Hot pepper" was produced since 2009 and was popular. And in 2012, has undergone significant changes in both the external design and construction, and in the formulation of the stimulus. Capsaicin became cleaner, and the sprayed liquid, respectively, is more intensely colored, the contact patch is larger (up to 60 cm at a distance of 2 m), and the spraying in air is smaller. The developers decided to change in the direction of increasing and pressing force of the feed button. As a result, improved safety and efficiency of use, and the upgraded tool still receives positive feedback.

Advantages:

• the presence of two sizes of cartridges - 25 and 65 ml;
• comfortable grip and proper location of the thumb on the descent;
• thin spray, no side spray;
• long shelf life (36 months);
• updated design, no fakes.

Disadvantages:

• not suitable for repelling a pack of dogs.

3 Shock (65 ml)

The shocking effect of this gas cartridge will not leave a single chance to the sudden opponent. The name was chosen perfectly: the extract of hot pepper, falling on the skin and mucous membranes, can cause a burning sensation of such strength that the attacker (who himself suddenly becomes a victim) loses orientation in space and is on the verge of a strong shock. This is not unfounded - in the network you can easily find the effectiveness tests presented in the video format. Alas, “Shock” has one small drawback - its average price is about 25 percent higher than the cost of competing funds.

Advantages:

• instant and long-lasting action (severe irritation of the skin and mucous membranes persists for about 30-40 minutes);
• volley with a large dispersion spot (easy to handle with multiple targets).

Disadvantages:

• high price.

2 Pepper 11-A (65 ml)

One of the most "zaboristy" compositions for effective self-defense. Manufacturers note that the effect of pepper mixture in this barrel corresponds to the one-time use of 30400 chili peppers. Like it or not, it is not known, but users are also very positive in their statements. Many who have tried in practice “Pepper 11-A” unanimously declare its effectiveness both against aggressive animals and against violent individuals of the human species.

Advantages:

• contact with the skin and mucous membrane of the eyes causes an acute burning sensation (corresponding to an exorbitant portion of chili pepper);
• it is effective both for counteraction to animals, and to man;
• convenient bottle shape and spraying key.

Disadvantages:

• A powerful sprayer breaks up the contents into a fine slurry, which can have a detrimental effect on the user.

1 Torch 2 (75 ml)

Gas spray based on a mixture of tear gas (5%) and extract of hot pepper (95%). Despite the aerosol type of spraying, the range of damage is an impressive three meters - according to this indicator, the spray can become on a par with gel and jet means of self-defense. This result was achieved due to an increase in throughput and a slight processing of the feeder, relative to the earlier GB “Fakel”.Thus, it is possible to hope not only for the effect of the damaging substance, but also for the power of the produced cloud of suspension, which (except for jokes) is capable of knocking a person down.

Advantages:

• due to the significant spraying distance, it can also be used against the wind (streams do not knock a stream);
• effective composition that causes burning, coupled with tear exposure;
• one bottle is enough for three-second spraying in maximum mode.

Disadvantages:

• not detected.

The best gel spray for self-defense

This type of cartridges differs from the other two in that it throws into the air not suspended particles and not a directed jet of irritant, but a gel-like sticky mass with dissolved irritants. They stick to the skin, cover the eyes and respiratory tract, causing itching, as well as interfering with normal visibility and breathing. This is the most effective means of self-defense, which completely disorients the enemy.

2 Gel jet fighter

For obvious reasons, it is not allowed to use aerosols in a car, subway or indoors. However, an aggressive attack can occur in any of these places, so it would be good to protect yourself with a gel spray of domestic production from the new series - “Fighter”. Due to the thick and viscous consistency of its contents is not sprayed, and closes the senses. In addition to the direct irritant effects of pepper capsaicin, an unusual remedy may scare the attacker, which allows you to win a few crucial minutes.

Advantages:

• can be held at any angle (even upside down) - this does not affect efficiency;
• allows the use in a wide range of temperatures, as well as with a powerful side wind (from ‒20 to + 50 ° and up to 6 m / s);
• range of use increased to 3 m - it is not required to allow the malefactor too close;
• the products are certified in Russia, which means that their use is incapable of causing irreparable harm and thus creating problems with law enforcement agencies.

Disadvantages:

• using the gel can not cope with multiple opponents at the same time;
• It is better to use as an additional means of self-defense, and not as the main one.

1 C360 (100 ml)

A very worthy representative spray cans with gel content. Unlike jet and aerosol dispensers, it behaves more efficiently: the gel is made using hot pepper extract. Getting on the skin, it envelops the affected area and begins to act immediately, irritating the skin and mucous membranes. It is also not easy to clear out of him, so the likelihood of continued pursuit or aggressive actions is very small. Effective, inexpensive and, most importantly, safe.

Advantages:

• acts at any angle of inclination of the cartridge (360 °);
• gel contains hot pepper extract;
• sticky substance can effectively neutralize the enemy (whether it is an animal or a man);
• the optimal cost available to any consumer (slightly higher than standard aerosols).

Disadvantages:

• are missing.

The best spray cans for self defense

The name speaks for itself. Unlike aerosol sprays, this type of sprays emit into the air a thin directional jet of a damaging substance that acts stronger than a cloud of caustic suspension. They can be used against the wind, because the jet does not get off and does not form the smallest particles that hang in the air. The main disadvantage is the impossibility of affecting several opponents at the same time, as well as creating a striking veil.

3 Pfeffer Ko Jet

Like the older model of the line - the gas spray Pfeffer Ko Fog - Ko Jet was developed for the needs of the German police, so they both have characteristics that exceed ordinary civil defense equipment. The main advantage of the gel option is its exceptional range: it is able to eliminate the threat from a distance of up to 6 m. At the same time, it has all the advantages over the gas one - the absence of a respiratory effect, the possibility of being used indoors, the reliability of work in the wind or during rain.

Advantages:

• the high quality of the pepper irritant and the rapid deprivation of the ability to display physical aggression;
• instant evaporation of the liquid in case of contact with clothes and temporary damage to the mucous tissue of the eyes and nasopharynx;
• comfortable body, reliable high flow valve and clip for attaching to a belt or pocket;
• universal volume - 40 ml will be enough for several applications, while the cartridge is quite compact and fits comfortably in your hand.

Disadvantages:

• inconvenient for girls - they will not wear it on a belt, and a clip prevents them from carrying in a bag;
• rarely found on sale in the Russian Federation.

2 Black (65 ml)

Some questions may arise regarding this ranking position, since the Black gas canister is a combination of jet and aerosol spray type. However, this combination is only for the benefit of the tool - the effect of the application is very good. According to users, it is convenient to use it both at long range against one aggressor, and at close range, if there are two or more targets. Thanks to the action of pepper and tear gas, whose action (when hitting the target) is at least half an hour, ensuring security is a matter of one keystroke.

Advantages:

• composition with tear gas content;
• the combined action of the two types of spraying (jet and aerosol);
• the possibility of creating a poison curtain of the active substance;
• high range (up to three meters).

Disadvantages:

• There is a chance to get into the zone of action of a caustic cloud.

1 Sword (65 ml)

Spray can of jet type, capable of causing significant damage to a potential aggressor. Despite the obvious affiliation with the jet means, there is some dispersion of the volley (in the documentation the spray method is indicated as “wide jet”). It contains in its composition capsaicin (read: extract of hot pepper) and “Lilac” - a very kind name for a fighting irritant (0.38% in content). Together with the three-meter range, the Sword is a very formidable tool of self-defense, and, moreover, at a very affordable price.

Advantages:

• contains irritant, used in the actions of the military and the police;
• jet ejection range is three meters;
• low cost;
• efficiency does not depend on weather conditions.

Disadvantages:

• with high concentration may be harmful to health.

The best means of self-defense in non-standard execution

The use of a gas protective aerosol should be carried out taking into account several factors: the possibility of bringing the vehicle into a “combat” position, the direction and strength of the wind, the presence of other people in the area where the substance is sprayed, the danger of air contamination in the confined space and microscopic droplets falling on themselves. Manufacturers are constantly working to prevent possible problems, and offer consumers new-form spray cans and with new content, so that each of them can choose a model to fit their needs.

3 Keychain Kontrol-AS (Anti –dog) 18 ml

As you know, the best gas spray - the one that is in the hand in case of force majeure. Conversely, the top tool itself will not help if it is hidden in the depths of a purse or purse. In this regard, the hardest thing is for girls — there is usually no place for protective equipment in the pockets of their outfits.With a miniature key-ring, the problem of where to put it so that it is always at hand disappears once and for all. Control-AS resembles a tube of lipstick with a length and diameter of 8 and 2.5 cm, and due to the presence of a carabiner at the bottom it can be attached to the bag handles, which does not arouse suspicion and ensures accessibility at any moment.

Advantages:

• compactness and ease of wearing;
• range of application reaches 2.5 m (up to 4 m under favorable conditions);
• the possibility of creating a gas barrier;
• active substances - the composition of plant extracts;
• high stopping effect.

Disadvantages:

• a legal ban on the use in the attack of people - the composition is not universal, and is intended solely to scare animals, for example, dogs, wolves, bears;
• one-time - 18 ml is only enough for a few "pshik", the effect of which will last no more than 5 minutes.

2 Spray Anti-Beast 650 ml

Not only hunters and fishermen face wild animals, but also farmers, tourists and residents of remote settlements. To protect against them, we advise in advance to stock up on a gas cylinder Anti-beast with a spray type spray. It contains a liquid saturated with plant extracts, the smell of which is extremely unpleasant for animals and causes them to retreat away from its source. A volume of 650 ml is enough for 40 short presses, so there is no need after each use to order a new means of self-defense. Due to the form resembling a small fire extinguisher, it is convenient to use the tool for both girls and men, but due to its size it is better to transport it in a car.

Advantages:

• effectively discourages aggressive animals of small and medium size - foxes, dogs, wolves;
• Does not harm animals, even in the case of a direct hit;
• convenient for transportation by car and use outdoors;
• windproof, effective range - up to 5 m.

Disadvantages:

• there is no reliable data on the effectiveness of the use in the attack of a large predator, for example, a bear;
• it is ineffective to use when attacking people - according to reviews of volunteers who have experienced the effect of spraying a liquid on themselves, it does not cause a burning sensation and only smells faintly.

1 PA-2 aerosol pistol 65 ml

In appearance, this pepper spray resembles a pistol of an unusual shape - its handle and barrel are reduced in order to lighten the weight and carry it in a pocket or a special holster. To purchase and use it does not require permits, because, despite the form factor, it remains a gas cartridge with the active substance, approved for use by ordinary citizens. The model has a very powerful spray: for 1 sec. she shoots more than 10 g of irritant, which instantly penetrates the skin pores, affects the nerve endings and causes the attacker a strong painful shock. This does not cause any harm to his health, but for 20-30 minutes. deprives him of any ability to continue an attack.

Advantages:

• a very simple design that does not require unlocking, triggering, etc .;
• speed and trouble-free use - the PA-2 has no batteries, it cannot jam the cartridge and a misfire happens;
• Accurate shooting skills are not required - the barrel-pistol is a continuation of the hand, so the aiming is intuitive;
• reusable - used pepper spray can be replaced by a new one.

Disadvantages:

• the lack of a psychological effect - to scare the attacker with such a pistol will not work.

How to choose a can for self-defense

In addition to the types of spraying (which were described in detail above), when choosing an effective cartridge for self-defense, attention should be paid to a number of key parameters:

Type of damaging substance. The contents of the bottle - the basis of self-defense.Spray can contain hot pepper extract (most common), tear gas or suffocating gas (in low concentration). However, the most common combinations of the two types of substances.

The volume of the bottle. The most common cans of 25, 65 (75) or 100 milliliters are found. The smaller the bottle, the more convenient it is to carry with you, but a limited amount of the substance may not be enough to eliminate several potential targets.

Spray range (salvo). The ability to keep the aggressor at a considerable distance can predetermine the entire course of events. The larger this component, the higher the likelihood of minimizing the risks to your own health (or life).

Price. Saving on a means of self-defense is not the best idea. Low price may indicate a low concentration of the damaging substance. However, not always the high price is an indicator of quality. This is the most independent parameter that requires a detailed study of the composition.

The presence of mechanical damage. Before buying, make sure the absolute integrity of the bottle and especially the spray bottle (spray button). Often, it is mechanical damage that causes the failure of the cartridges, which leads to dire consequences.

Popular vote - which brand of cans for self-defense is the best
We vote!

Torch

Pepper

Shock

S360

Sword

Black

Fighter

PA-2

Anti –dog

Anti-Beast

Ko Jet

Saber red pepper

Total votes: 3604

Vote results