The term defense spray covers sprayable irritants that are effective against both humans and other mammals.
General information on defence sprays
In most cases, these are
CS gas (tear gas, 2-chlorobenzylidene malononitrile) or
Pepper spray (OC gas, which stands for oleoresin capsicum). Which of the two defense sprays should or can be preferred depends on the intended use and the legal situation. In addition, there is CN gas (chloroacetophenone), the old variant of tear gas. CN gas is considered the oldest chemical warfare agent and was developed as early as the 19th century. Like CS gas, it is absorbed through the eyes and upper respiratory tract, causing a burning sensation on the mucous membranes, in the nose and throat, as well as watery eyes. However, CS gas is considered significantly more effective (and more dangerous) than CN gas and is surpassed in effectiveness only by pepper spray.
Defense spray & German law
Defense sprays are mainly available in two types: CS gas and pepper spray. Unlike pepper spray, CS gas may officially be used for self-defense against humans. This is why it lacks the usual OC gas warning stating that the spray is only for defense against animals. The use of defense spray is primarily intended to give the victim a certain level of protection while causing the attacker as little physical harm as possible, yet still an effective impairment. In this way, proportionality in self-defense is to be maintained. OC gas is considered the stronger agent in direct comparison and can have a strong effect even on less sensitive individuals. Since CS gas acts on the pain center, its effect can be significantly reduced by a lowered pain perception, such as that caused by alcohol consumption. Nevertheless, attackers hit by CS gas are unable to open their eyes for at least five minutes.
Tips and important additional information on defense spray
All defense sprays must have a minimum range of 1.5 meters. However, there are also sprays on the market that can achieve a significantly greater range. High effectiveness is achieved through a correspondingly high concentration of the active ingredient, which is why the spray cone should be as narrow as possible. At a distance of 1.5 meters, the spray cone should also be no wider than twice the diameter of a face. Compared to OC gas, tear gas (CN and CS gas) has the disadvantage that its effect depends on the condition of the attacker. For example, people under the influence of alcohol can tolerate a comparatively high dose of the irritant used before their actions are noticeably impaired. In defending against dogs, it has been shown that a mixture of CN and CS gas is the most effective. Some providers therefore offer exactly this mixture as a special dog-defense spray.
Questions: defense spray
Is pepper spray/defence spray prohibited?
Both the sale and possession of pepper spray and CS gas are permitted in Germany. However, this only applies under the condition that pepper-spray-filled irritant sprayers are used only against animals. For this reason, pepper sprays are always labeled with the note “Only for defense against animals”. In corresponding emergency situations (e.g. self-defense during a physical attack), it is nevertheless legitimate to use OC gas against people as well.
Why do defense sprays burn on contact?
When OC gas (pepper spray) is applied, pain-sensitive sensory cells in afferent nerve cells are stimulated. As a result, the neurotransmitter substance P is released, which acutely leads to membrane depolarization.
Got pepper spray on you – what now?
Anyone who has been hit with pepper spray should remove the irritant as quickly as possible. To do this, the affected areas must be rinsed with cold water for 10 to 15 minutes. This closes the pores and prevents further absorption of the substance. Contaminated clothing should also be removed. Painful skin should be washed with soap and then rinsed again with cold water. The same procedure is recommended if you have been exposed to CS gas.
