How to choose a gas spray for self-defense - which option is better and why?

Gas cartridges are the simplest and most affordable means of self-defense. And if you consider that they are much more compact (unlike gas pistols), their use does not cause significant harm to the attacker (all the more, it does not lead to death), you do not need to issue permits (licenses) before buying, and the cost is low, then the reason why many of our fellow citizens make a choice in their favor is quite understandable.

And this is where a lot of questions arise. If you summarize them, then it all comes down to one thing - which model of the entire range of gas cartridges is better for self-defense.

The optimal choice can be made only by knowing the classification of this group of self-defense equipment and their main differences in terms of technical characteristics, which determine the features of the application. Although many experts distinguish gas cartridges according to two main parameters, there are several more of them. The author considers it right to consider all points. This will allow you to more accurately determine the choice of the optimal option, since it is impossible to say unequivocally which of the means of self-defense of this group is better. It largely depends on who acquires it and for what purposes.

What to consider when choosing a gas cartridge

An incorrect definition of all the features and capabilities of a particular gas cartridge can lead to the fact that instead of blocking an attack, its use, on the contrary, will only cause rage on the part of the "aggressor" with all the consequences. Therefore, when buying, it is necessary to carefully analyze all aspects of the likely use of the can and compare them with its characteristics.

For some reason, it is believed that a gas spray is a means of self-defense from an inadequate person. This is fundamentally wrong. With it, you can protect yourself from attacks from animals. The author will not reveal a big secret if he says that many are simply afraid (especially in the private sector) to return home late.

It is not uncommon for parents to meet their children after the second school shift. And it's not just the poor lighting of lanes. The main reason is the packs of stray dogs, which, unfortunately, are not getting smaller on the streets. And many of them are really aggressive towards humans.

Classification of gas cartridges

By type of filler

The body of the gas cartridge indicates what substance is inside. Therefore, the seller's consultation is not needed, moreover, there is no guarantee that he is an extra-class professional in this matter. Knowing the interpretation of the symbols, it is easy to figure out for yourself how the gas mixture acts on the attacker in self-defense.

CS (sometimes CR) is tear gas. The most common way to fill cans. It is worth noting that such means of self-defense are effective in protecting against an attack by an inadequate person (or “group of comrades”). Judging by the reviews on the forums on this topic, many users have noticed that such content has a much weaker effect on animals, and not always. So if a gas spray is purchased precisely in order to protect yourself from the attack of a pack of stray dogs, then this is not the best choice for self-defense.

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OS - a more reliable means based on red pepper, more precisely, extracts from it. At the same time, it affects the organs of vision and the respiratory tract of the attacker. The result is a "sea" of tears and a strong burning sensation in the chest, sometimes leading to continuous coughing and spasms. A good means of self-defense against both humans and animals. But there is a nuance. It is noticed that the attacker "under the degree" (or "under the dope") is not affected so much. Alcohol and drugs partially neutralize the effectiveness of the pepper jet (or cloud). In addition, some users note their slight delay in the application process.

IPC is practically the same as the OS. The difference is in the chemical composition of the filler. In such containers, instead of extracting pepper, there is its synthetic counterpart. And all the main characteristics are completely identical. Although some social media users believe that the effectiveness of this type of gas cartridges is somewhat lower than their counterparts with a natural substance.

CN. Products of this type on the market, if they are found, are quite rare. They are practically out of production, so if they are sold, they are from old, unsold stocks. The term "best" is not applicable to such a gas cartridge for two reasons. Firstly, the effectiveness of self-defense is extremely low. Secondly, the substance in the container is toxic. It is not a fact that when used, the defender himself will not feel negative consequences. Especially with the inept handling of such a means of self-defense. No matter how attractive the cost, you do not need to buy.

UN. Definitely not even worth considering. It is better to pass by and not listen to the "stories" of the seller about the effectiveness of such a gas cartridge. The substance that is in the container is either a fake, or not at all what is indicated on the package. And this is undeniable for the reason that the original is on the list of banned drugs.. Therefore, for self-defense in gas cartridges cannot be used by definition.

By type of spray

Inkjet. Given that gas cartridges are used for outdoor self-defense, then this type of protective equipment can be considered the best. Pluses - the direction of action and the increased range of "shooting". Even the wind on the street (of course, if it's not a hurricane) will not deflect the jet too much. In addition, you can repel aggression at a safe distance for yourself.

But there are also disadvantages. Firstly, practice is needed, since the first time, without it, you can not get into the face of the attacker. And these are lost seconds, which is very important in self-defense. Secondly, they are effective only with a single attack. They are unlikely to help from the group, since the defending side simply does not have time to “process” each of them.

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Aerosol. This type of gas cartridge releases a protective cloud. The advantages are that you don’t have to aim, and protection from a group attack is provided. A reliable curtain is formed between the aggressors and the user. But the disadvantages of such gas cartridges are much greater. Firstly, they are effective in self-defense in calm weather, otherwise you will have to constantly “spray”, and the stocks of the substance in the container are limited.

Secondly , it is not a fact that the defender himself will not suffer, especially if the gas cartridge is used in an enclosed space (flight of stairs, corridor, elevator, and so on). Thirdly , the range is much smaller. Therefore, in order to achieve the desired effect, you will have to let the attacker as close as possible. Will the gas have time to act before he "lays" a hand?

To learn how to choose a reliable traumatic gun for self-defense, read here .

By bottle capacity

The indicated numerical values ​​are in ml.

If we talk about the volumes of gas cartridges, then the main gradation is as follows - 20, 65, 80 and 100. There are also larger products - 650 each. Before choosing a gas cartridge for this parameter, you need to take into account a number of factors.

  • With an increase in volume, the range of "shooting", the power of the jet and the number of "shots" increase. But wearing such a self-defense tool is much more difficult. For example, a 100 container for a small handbag is clearly not the best option.
  • Small gas cartridges are much more compact. But they are enough for 1 time, no more, since the user presses “all the way” during defense (fear involuntarily affects, especially if a woman is attacked).

In our country, there is a limit on the volume of the gas mixture in one cylinder. Therefore, shopping for a substance chosen for self-defense in a larger container is sometimes simply pointless. Permissible packing limits:

  • CS - 150 (for CR much lower - 20).
  • OS and IPC - up to 1,000.
This is more about choosing a self-defense tool with CR tear gas. The fact is that no matter how large the container is, it will not contain more than 20 ml of this substance. Conclusion - the smaller the can, the higher the concentration of the gas mixture. Therefore, he is better.

By time of action

It is indicated on the packaging. Some substances neutralize the attacker in just 4 - 5 seconds, others - much longer. But not everything is simple here either. Manufacturers take into account only general parameters, and each person is individual.

The author does not consider this characteristic important when choosing a gas cartridge. The fact is that it is not known in what place it will be used, whether the aggressor is sober or under the influence of drugs, the characteristics of his body (that is, a defensive reaction), and so on. Therefore, overpaying for a means of self-defense, which allegedly disables the attacker for a long time, is hardly correct. This is more of a marketing ploy to "fairly fish" money out of our wallets than reality.

Recommendation:

  • Tear gas, like pepper gas, has its pros and cons. For example, the former are distinguished by speed, the latter by efficiency. Recently, spray cans have appeared on the market, the filling of which is a combination of these types of self-defense equipment. As an option - a mixture of gases from different groups (for example, CS and OS). Such modifications are without a doubt the best, as they optimally combine the advantages of all types of substances. They should be chosen.
  • In terms of efficiency, gel-filled gas cartridges are considered the best (recently appeared on sale). They are universal in use (in the building, outside it) and perfectly spray the substance regardless of the position of the container.
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A brief overview of self-defense gas cartridges and their cost

Prices are indicative, in Russian rubles.

"Russian Defense"

A complex defensive tool based on a mixture of gases in the proportion: MPC (1000) + CR (20). Containers of 25 and 65. Price - 318 (25) and 446 (65).

"Weapon of the proletariat"

Filling - a mixture of MPC (1000) + CS (145), the volume of the can is 25 or 65. The price is 378 (65).

"The highest measure"

The same (500 + 20), but the volume of the container is larger - 100. Price - 215.

"Molotov cocktail"

Capacity - 65, filling with a mixture in the ratio of MPC (500) + CS (80). Price - 348.

"Shock"

Only based on pepper extract, without any impurities. In a gas canister at 65, the concentration of OS aerosols is 1000. The price is 478.

"Pepper Jet"

Similar to the previous means of self-defense. The difference is that this is an inkjet version. Price - 325.

These are not the only models of gas cartridges found on sale. There are many more varieties of them, but if you believe the statistics, they are purchased more often. And there are more user reviews about them.

practical advice

When buying such a self-defense tool for the first time, it is advisable to take two cans of the same type at once, especially if it is of a jet spray type. Why the second, of course - for training. This will allow self-defense to act as efficiently, consciously and competently as possible. Own security is worth any money - no one will argue with this.

Conclusion

It is impossible to say unequivocally which of the commercially available gas cartridges for self-defense is better. First of all, you need to consider by whom (or for whom) the product is purchased and for what purposes. The criteria for evaluating the effectiveness in the article are quite detailed, so making the best choice for yourself is easy.

Those who often travel out of town in their personal car (to visit relatives, to the country house) should pay attention to large-capacity gas cartridges. You don’t have to carry them in a bag or pocket, but it doesn’t hurt to have them on hand. On the road (picnic, fishing) different things happen, so it is useful to make sure.

Good luck and complete safety wherever you are!

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2 comments

  1. Alexei

    self-defense aerosol pistols are now replacing gas cans

    • Paul

      is not a fact. Balloons are more common.

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