When you’re facing an attacker, you want to be able to rely on your pepper spray—but you don’t want to be caught off-guard because you didn’t read the fine print on how the spray works.
We researched and tested dozens of pepper sprays from the top self defense brands. Our best overall pick, the SABRE Pepper Spray, is effective at a range of up to 10 feet, safe for use around pets, and comes with a UV marking dye to help identify an attacker.
Here are the best pepper sprays for self defense.
Best Self Defense Pepper Spray: Editor Recommended
Our Editor’s Best Self Defense Pepper Spray Reviews
- TRUST THE PROFESSIONALS: SABRE is the #1 Pepper Spray brand trusted by police and consumers worldwide, including New York PD, Chicago PD, and U.S. Marshals; Made in the USA
- 2X STRONGER: 4 out 10 violent crimes involve alcohol use by the offender - our max strength Pepper Spray is strong enough to use against a goal oriented attacker under the influence of drugs or alcohol; Backed by our industry exclusive in-house HPLC lab
- 5X MORE PROTECTION: 42% of crimes are committed by multiple assailants - this pepper spray has 25 bursts and easiest to grasp finger grip to enhance your aim while keeping your eye on the threat and decreasing wind blowback
- FASTER ACCESS: Includes Quick Release Key Ring for immediate access to spray when seconds count; Secure and easy to use twist lock safety
- TRAINING VIDEOS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR SAFETY: In addition to your pepper spray, packaging includes links to free SABRE Pepper Spray training videos and safety tips to help maximize your personal safety
- TRUST THE PROFESSIONALS: SABRE is the #1 Pepper Spray brand trusted by police & consumers worldwide, including the New York PD, Chicago PD, & U.S. Marshals; Made in the USA.
- MAXIMUM STRENGTH: Backed by independent lab testing & SABRE’s industry exclusive in-house HPLC lab, we promise consistent, maximum strength capsaicinoid levels in every canister. Gain peace of mind, confidence, and safety when needed most.
- SPRAYS 4X LONGER: 42% of crimes are committed by multiple assailants. With total spray time of 13 sec, SABRE's ADVANCED 3-in-1 self defense spray protects against multiple threats. Formula includes max strength pepper spray, CS tear gas & UV marking dye.
- EASY TO CARRY PROTECTION: Attachment clip allows the pepper spray for women and men to be attached to pockets or the inside of a bag for instant access & discreet protection.
- TRAINING VIDEOS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR SAFETY: In addition to your pepper spray, packaging includes links to free SABRE Pepper Spray training videos and safety tips to help maximize your personal safety.
- TRUST THE PROFESSIONALS: SABRE is the #1 Pepper Spray brand trusted by police & consumers worldwide, including the New York PD, Chicago PD, & U.S. Marshals; Made in the USA
- MAXIMUM STRENGTH: Backed by independent lab testing & SABRE’s industry exclusive in-house HPLC lab, we guarantee consistent, max strength capsaicinoid levels in every canister to help give you peace of mind, confidence & safety when you need it most
- SPRAYS 3X LONGER: 42% of crimes are committed by multiple assailants- this spray has a total spray time of 10 seconds to help defend against multiple attackers
- FASTER, EASIER, & MORE ACCURATE AIM: Finger grip enhances your aim & helps keep your eye on the threat; QuickRelease Keychain provides instant access & is secure to carry on keys, bags, & purses; Twist Lock safety prevents accidental discharge
- TRAINING VIDEOS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR SAFETY: In addition to your pepper spray, packaging includes links to free SABRE Pepper Spray training videos & safety tips to help maximize your personal safety
- TRUST THE PROFESSIONALS: SABRE is the #1 Pepper Spray brand trusted by police & consumers worldwide, including the New York PD, Chicago PD, & U.S. Marshals; Made in the USA.
- MAXIMUM STRENGTH: Backed by independent lab testing & SABRE’s industry exclusive in-house HPLC lab, we promise consistent, maximum strength capsaicinoid levels in every canister to help give you peace of mind, confidence & safety when you need it most.
- GEL IS SAFER: With a maximum long range up to 20-feet, these portable pepper gel sprays in a powerful stream of gel to protect against multiple threats. Gel pepper spray resists wind blowback.
- MAXIMIZES TARGET ACQUISITION: Crossfire technology allows the pepper gel to be sprayed at any angle, even upside down, for better, more dependable and accurate protection against moving threats. Fast Flip Top safety is quicker & easier to use.
- TRAINING VIDEOS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR SAFETY: In addition to your pepper spray for women and men, the packaging includes links to free SABRE Pepper Gel training videos and safety tips to help maximize your personal safety.
- TRUST THE PROFESSIONALS: SABRE is the #1 Pepper Spray brand trusted by police and consumers worldwide, including New York PD, Chicago PD, and U.S. Marshals; The strength of SABRE stun guns are independently tested to ensure reliable protection
- 5X MORE PROTECTION: 42% of crimes are committed by multiple assailants -this pepper gel has 25 bursts to protect against numerous threats; gel does not atomize like traditional spray & deploys in a powerful stream while virtually eliminating wind blowback
- EXTREME STOPPING POWER: Stun gun delivers a painful 1.60 µC (Microcoulombs) charge to help defend against an attacker; Locate door locks in the dark with the 120 Lumen flashlight, Get multiple uses out of your stun gun with built-in rechargeable battery
- CONVENIENT AND EASY TO CARRY: Included holster makes this stun gun easy to hold and carry; Pepper Spray features convenient key ring for immediate access to spray when seconds count
- TRAINING VIDEOS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR SAFETY: In addition to your pepper spray and stun gun kit, packaging includes links to free SABRE Pepper Spray and Stun Gun training videos and safety tips to help maximize your personal safety
- TRUST THE PROFESSIONALS: SABRE is the #1 Pepper Spray brand trusted by police and consumers worldwide, including New York PD, Chicago PD, and U.S. Marshals; Made in the USA.
- 2X STRONGER: 4 out 10 violent crimes involve alcohol use by the offender - our max strength pepper spray for women and men is strong enough to use against a goal oriented attacker under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Backed by our industry exclusive in-house HPLC lab.
- 5X MORE PROTECTION: 42% of crimes are committed by multiple assailants - this 3-in-1 self defense pepper spray provides protection against multiple threats with 25 bursts delivered in a powerful stream from nozzle to the target's eyes while decreasing wind blowback.
- FASTER & EASIER TO HIT THE TARGET: Easiest to grasp finger grip enhances your aim and helps keep your eye on the threat. Includes Quick Release Key Ring for immediate access to spray when seconds count. Secure and easy to use twist lock safety.
- TRAINING VIDEOS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR SAFETY: In addition to your pepper spray, packaging includes links to free SABRE Pepper Spray training videos and safety tips to help maximize your personal safety.
- Proudly made in the USA - 1.33% MC police pepper spray maximum heat strength OC that is used and trusted by several law enforcement agencies and security personnel - Our formula is HPLC lab tested for a consistent self defense pepper spray performance. Provides strong 10-12ft range with multiple blasts.
- Running Safety Gear - Attacks happen quickly, be prepared and have quick access to your jogger pepper spray. Whether running in the park or walking alone at night, the mini jogger OC spray gives you the quick self defense option needed to protect yourself when on the go.
- Easy to use - One hand operation will bring you confidence to defend yourself when you need it. Simply twist the top actuator to the centre and press down to fire. The jogger strap comfortably stretches to fit any hand size.
- Extra Layer Of Protection - A smart pepper spray option to defend and protect yourself or your loved ones. Safety first is important and our tactical pepper spray kit will incapacitate an attacker when sprayed across the eyes and nose for a minimum 30 minutes with effects laster longer so you can get to safety.
- Personal Safety Is Important - We manufacture in small batches so you will receive a full 4 year expiration date with your pepper spray pack. Date printed on bottom of the canister. In the event you have to use your small pepper spray we will replace your sprays.
- TRUST THE PROFESSIONALS: SABRE is the #1 Pepper Spray brand trusted by police and consumers worldwide, including New York PD, Chicago PD, and U.S. Marshals; Made in the USA
- 2X STRONGER: 4 out 10 violent crimes involve alcohol use by the offender - our max strength Pepper Spray is strong enough to use against a goal oriented attacker under the influence of drugs or alcohol; Backed by our industry exclusive in-house HPLC lab
- 3X MORE PROTECTION: 42% of crimes are committed by multiple assailants - this pepper spray provides protection against multiple threats with a 10 second total spray time delivered in a powerful stream from nozzle to the target's eyes while decreasing wind blowback
- FASTER & EASIER TO HIT THE TARGET: Fastest to use under stress, the Fast Flip Top safety also helps to prevent accidental discharge for safe storage; Easiest to grasp finger grip enhances your aim and helps keep your eye on the threat
- TRAINING VIDEOS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR SAFETY: In addition to your pepper spray, packaging includes links to free SABRE Pepper Spray training videos and safety tips to help maximize your personal safety
- ✅ SELF DEFENSE WEAPON:Best self-defense pepper spray trusted by customers worldwide
- ✅ MAXIMUM STRENGTH:The pepper spray comes with 18% OC red pepper spray, 1/2 oz. compact size police grade formula for Enhanced burning and UV marking dye to help Police in suspect identification.
- ✅ LONG DISTANCE AND MAXIMUM STOPPING POWER:Up to 14 foot range with 25 burst in a powerful pressurized stream for optimum efficiency without blowback.
- ✅ DURABLE AND ACCESSIBLE:Clip it with your keychain, purse or backpack and be protected always. Available in various colors with leather case
- ✅ FIGHTSENSE LIFETIME WARRANTY: Not happy with a product, DON'T WORRY we will replace it for free
- PERSONAL PROTECTION YOU CAN TRUST: SABRE is the #1 pepper spray brand trusted by police & consumers & a leader in the personal safety category. SABRE Pepper Spray is made in USA
- MAXIMUM STOPPING POWER: SABRE's professional-grade OC Spray is backed by our in-house lab testing, guaranteeing maximum heat and stopping power in every burst and eliminating the 30% failure rate of other pepper spray brands (U of Utah study)
- PROTECTION AT A SAFE DISTANCE AGAINST MULTIPLE THREATS: Includes a SABRE pepper spray canister with 25 bursts (5X the competition) for protection against multiple threat at a safer distance
- ATTENTION-GRABBING ALARM: Ear-piercing 130dB siren is audible up to 1,250-feet; Helps deter an attacker by attracting attention from those nearby so you can escape to safety
- STAY SAFE WITH FREE SAFETY TRAINING: Feel secure with every SABRE product; Packaging includes links to free training videos so that, in the face of danger, you are better prepared to use your SABRE Pepper Spray
Best Self Defense Pepper Spray Buying Guide
Before choosing the best self defense pepper spray you should consider following options:
1. Strength: The first thing to look for in a pepper spray is its strength. Look for capsaicin percentage to determine the strength of the spray. Most pepper sprays have a strength of between 1 and 3 percent capsaicin.
The higher the capsaicin percentage, the greater the chance of causing serious harm to the attacker. However, bear in mind that the strength of the pepper spray also depends on factors such as the weather, wind speed, and the distance from which it is sprayed.
2. Spray Pattern: The spray pattern of a pepper spray is important to consider. The three main types of spray patterns are straight stream, fog, and cone.
The fog pattern resembles a shower and is the most effective. However, the disadvantage of this type of spray is that it is hard to aim and it has a greater risk of affecting you as well as the assailant.
The straight stream and cone pattern are easy to aim but are not as effective as fog. The distance at which the pepper spray can be used also depends on the spray pattern.
3. Intended Use: Pepper spray is used in many different situations. The first thing to consider when purchasing a pepper spray is its intended use.
If you intend to use the spray on a potentially dangerous animal, choose a bear or fox pepper spray. If you want to use it on a human assailant, look for a self-defense pepper spray.
Different self defense pepper sprays are suitable for different situations. For example, you can use a UV marker pepper spray to mark the assailant for identification purposes.
Other sprays contain additives such as capsaicin and UV for maximum effect. If you are looking for a pepper spray to use on multiple assailants, you can purchase a pepper spray that contains several shots.
4. Delivery Method: Depending on the type of delivery of the pepper spray, you can use it in two different ways—as a fog or as a stream. The advantage of the fog option is that it covers a larger area and is easier to aim. The disadvantage is that it has a greater risk of affecting you as well as the assailant.
The advantage of the stream delivery is that it can reach a greater distance. The disadvantage is that it affects a limited area.
What else you should know about best self defense pepper spray
1. What is the best self defense pepper spray?
The best self defense pepper spray is the one that you feel most comfortable using and that you feel will be the most effective in a given situation.
2. How does self defense pepper spray work?
The active ingredient in pepper spray is capsaicin, which is a naturally occurring substance found in chili peppers. When the pepper spray comes in contact with the attacker’s eyes, nose, or mouth, it causes a burning sensation and temporary blindness.
3. What are the benefits of self defense pepper spray?
Some benefits of self defense pepper spray are that it can help to disorient an attacker, cause temporary blindness, and make it difficult to breathe.
4. How do I choose the right self defense pepper spray for me?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best self defense pepper spray for you will depend on a number of factors, including your personal preferences and the specific situation in which you plan to use it. However, some general tips on choosing the right self defense pepper spray for you include:
- Consider the size of the pepper spray. Smaller canisters are easier to carry and conceal, but may not have as much pepper spray as larger ones.
- Think about the range of the pepper spray. Some pepper sprays have a shorter range than others, so if you are concerned about being attacked from a distance, you may want to choose a pepper spray with a longer range.
- Choose a pepper spray that is easy for you to use. Some pepper sprays require you to press a button or trigger in order to release the pepper spray, while others have a simple point-and-shoot design.
- Make sure the pepper spray you choose is legal in your state or country. Some states have restrictions on the size or type of pepper spray that can be carried, so be sure to check the laws in your area before making a purchase.
5. How do I use self defense pepper spray effectively?
There are a few things you need to do to use self defense pepper spray effectively. First, you need to point the pepper spray canister away from your face and toward the attacker. Second, you need to press the button on the canister to release the pepper spray. Finally, you need to aim the pepper spray at the attacker’s face and spray for two to three seconds.
Conclusion
On the market, there is numerous best self defense pepper spray. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best self defense pepper spray will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.