PEPPER SPRAY

In most cases, there’s no difference—pepper spray and OC spray refer to the same type of self-defense spray. OC stands for Oleoresin Capsicum, the naturally derived active ingredient that causes intense burning, tearing, and temporary eye closure.

What *does* vary is the product’s delivery system (stream, cone/fog, gel, foam), range, and overall performance. So while “pepper spray” and “OC spray” mean the same category, different formulas and spray patterns can feel very different in real-world use.

Pepper spray and Mace®-style self-defense sprays can be purchased at some sporting goods stores, licensed in-person retailers, or online retailers like The Home Security Superstore, as long as your state allows it. Shopping from a dedicated self-defense retailer can make it easier to compare spray patterns, ranges, and carry options like keychains, clips, and jogger straps.

Keep in mind that Massachusetts and New York typically require pepper spray to be purchased in-state from approved retailers. In addition, the following states enforce size restrictions on pepper spray canisters: Arkansas, California, Florida, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, and Texas.

Because laws and local ordinances can change, always confirm your state and local requirements before ordering or carrying pepper spray.

Pepper spray is legal to own and carry in all 50 U.S. states, but some states regulate details like canister size, formulation, strength, or where it may be purchased (in-state vs online). Certain locations may also restrict carry—such as secure government buildings, airports (past security checkpoints), or other posted “no weapons” areas.

If you travel frequently, it’s smart to double-check the rules for both your home state and your destination before packing or carrying pepper spray.

Pepper spray strength varies by product and is commonly described by OC percentage and/or major capsaicinoids (capsaicinoid content), which relates more directly to how intense the inflammatory effect feels. Some sprays are marketed as “professional-grade” and emphasize higher-performance formulations.

Strength isn’t the only factor that matters. Real-world effectiveness also depends on range, spray pattern, and how easily you can aim and deploy the unit under stress. Many shoppers prefer a controlled stream or gel for accuracy and reduced blowback, especially outdoors.

The effects of pepper spray typically begin within seconds and can last anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour, depending on factors like exposure level, distance, wind conditions, and individual sensitivity.

Pepper spray is designed to create an opportunity to escape and get to safety. After deploying, move away immediately, create distance, and contact help when appropriate.

Yes. Many people carry pepper spray for protection against aggressive dogs while walking or running, and there are also animal deterrent sprays designed specifically for outdoor use. These can help deter threats while allowing you to keep distance.

For outdoor use, range and control matter. In windy conditions, a stream or gel is often preferred over a wide fog pattern to help reduce blowback.

Mace® is a well-known brand name that many people use as a generic term for pepper spray. Most modern Mace® products use OC (Oleoresin Capsicum) as the primary active ingredient—similar to other pepper spray brands.

The key difference is usually the brand and product design, such as spray pattern, range, safety mechanism, and additional features like UV dye. In short: Mace® can be pepper spray, but not all pepper spray is Mace®.

The main differences come down to range, control, and blowback risk. A stream is a narrow, targeted spray that’s typically easier to aim and often offers strong range. Gel is thicker and can reduce airborne mist, which may help lower blowback risk—especially outdoors—while still maintaining good range.

A fog (or cone) pattern disperses a wider cloud, which can make it easier to hit a moving target at close range, but it can also be more affected by wind. Choosing the right option depends on where you plan to carry it (outdoors vs indoors), your comfort level, and how much precision you want.