Whilst most participating states in the USA permit the use of pepper spray, pepper spray laws do very when it comes to self-defense. For example, the state of Indiana, Massachusetts, Hawaii, Michigan, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Rhode Island actually prohibit the purchase of pepper spray, either through the Internet or by mail. In an anomaly, the shipping of bear and dog pepper spray is legal in all of the 48 contiguous states.

Oleoresin Capsicum (OC), more commonly known as pepper spray because it is derived from chili peppers, inflames the areas where it is sprayed. To be effective, it needs to be sprayed at the eyes, nose, or mouth. It differs from other types of defensive sprays that are irritants and cause stinging and tearing.

Remember that pepper spray, if improperly used, can kill. Many countries classify this as a weapon. Breathing problems, temporary blindness and serious pain can occur if used improperly. The product is illegal in a number of countries including Canada. In the United States, there are a number of restrictions governing the amount that the canister can contain and its potency.

Pepper spray laws vary state by state in the USA. For example, in Massachusetts, only licensed firearms dealers can sell pepper spray and only for self-defense purposes. In Washington, DC, you must register with the local police agency in order to process the spray. New York State permits the sale, but only through pharmacies and licensed firearms dealers.

Some states have pepper spray laws that allow its usage with restrictions. Michigan permits only Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) pepper sprays as long as the canister contains less than 35 grams and has 2% or less of OC concentration. In Wisconsin, pepper spray for self defense purposes is legal, but cannot be stronger than 10%. California permits pepper sprays that are less than 2.5 ounces,

Pepper spray is available in a variety of different sizes, containers, concentrations and patterns. This very effective and popular deterrent should stop an assailant long enough for you to escape.

Pepper spray laws allow you to use the product legally for self-defense, if you fear a personal injury. However, you must be responsible, and not use the spray if somebody just looks threatening or is using obscene language, for example. If you do so, an assault or battery charge could be brought and you might risk criminal charges.

Within the United States, pepper spray laws dictate that it is illegal to sell the product to a minor or to a criminal, somebody convicted of a felony. It is also illegal to carry onto a commercial jetliner.