Under the term "defense spray," sprayable irritants are summarized, which are effective against both humans and other mammals.
General Information about Defense Sprays
In most cases, these are CS gas (tear gas, 2-chlorobenzylidene malononitrile) or pepper spray (OC gas, which stands for Oleoresin Capsicum). The choice between the two defense sprays depends on the spectrum of application and the legal situation. In addition, there is CN gas (chloroacetophenone), the old version of tear gas. CN gas is considered the oldest chemical warfare agent and was developed in the 19th century. Like CS gas, it is absorbed through the eyes and upper respiratory tract, leading to a burning sensation on the mucous membranes, in the nose and throat, and watery eyes. However, CS gas is considered much more effective (and dangerous) than CN gas and is only surpassed in effectiveness 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 can officially be used for self-defense against humans. Therefore, the usual note found on OC gas, stating that the spray is intended solely for defense against animals, is missing. The use of defense spray primarily aims to provide the attacked person with a certain level of protection, while inflicting as minimal but effective physical impairment as possible on the attacker. This is intended to ensure proportionality in defense. Compared to CS gas, pepper spray (OC gas) is considered the stronger gas, which can also have a strong effect on less sensitive individuals. Since CS gas acts on the pain center, its effect can be significantly reduced by reduced pain sensitivity, such as that resulting from alcohol consumption. Nevertheless, attackers hit by CS gas cannot open their eyes for at least five minutes.
Tips and Important Additional Information about Defense Sprays
All defense sprays have a minimum range of 1.5 meters. However, sprays are available on the market that can achieve a much higher range. High effectiveness is achieved by 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 not be 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, individuals under the influence of alcohol can tolerate a relatively high dose of the irritant before it noticeably affects their actions. When defending against dogs, it has been shown that a mixture of CN and CS gas is most effective. Therefore, some suppliers offer this mixture as a special dog repellent spray.
Questions: Defense Spray
Is Pepper Spray/Defense Spray Illegal?
Both the sale and possession of pepper spray and CS gas are allowed in Germany. However, this only applies on the condition that pepper sprays filled with irritants are only used against animals. Therefore, pepper sprays always bear the note "For animal defense only." In emergency situations (e.g., in self-defense against a physical attack), it is legitimate to use OC gas against people.
Why Do Defense Sprays Cause Burning upon Contact?
When OC gas (pepper spray) is applied, it stimulates pain-sensitive sensory cells in afferent nerve cells. As a result, there is a release of the neurotransmitter substance P, which acutely leads to membrane depolarization.
What to Do If You Get Pepper Spray on You?
If you get pepper spray on you, it is necessary to remove the irritant as quickly as possible. To do this, rinse the affected areas with cold water for 10 to 15 minutes. This will close the pores and prevent further absorption of the substance. In addition, the affected clothing should be removed. Sore skin should be treated with soap. Then rinse with cold water. The same procedure is recommended if you have been exposed to CS gas.
KH Security Pepper Gel Super Garant Professional 63 ml
TW1000 Replacement Cartridge for RSG 4 SG Liquid Jet 30 ml
