Stun guns and pepper spray are two of the most popular non lethal self defense devices. Both of these devices will immediately stop an attacker, giving you several minutes to get away, but do not cause lasting bodily harm. Both come in small enough sizes that they can be conveniently carried in your purse. If you are considering purchasing one of these for self defense, you may not know which to purchase. Should you opt for a stun gun, or a can of pepper spray?
Stun guns are very powerful methods of stopping an assailant, but because of the electrical current running through them, you should be trained before using one. On the other hand, using a can of pepper spray is just like using a can of spray paint; simply aim and press the button. Pepper spray cans are often chosen by people who would feel more comfortable using a device that is already familiar to them. Whichever device you choose, be sure that you would feel comfortable using it in an emergency situation; if not, carrying it is of no use.
Most stun devices must be placed against your attacker’s skin, meaning you must be standing next to them in order for it to be effective. On the other hand, pepper sprays have an effective distance of up to 15 or even 20 feet, depending on the model you choose. However, you must aim the pepper spray at the attacker’s face and have reasonably good aim, as the spray direction can be affected by wind and rain. Those which produce a wide spray rather than a steady stream are easier to use if you are concerned about your aim. Meanwhile, with a stun gun you can touch the device to any area of the attacker’s body.
One factor to consider when choosing between stun guns and sprays is the appearance of the device before you have actually used it. The appearance of a stun gun may be enough to deter an assailant without you actually needing to use the device. On the other hand, a can of pepper spray is unlikely to deter an attacker until it is actually used.
Both of these devices can, obviously, be used on a human. However, if you go jogging or otherwise spend a lot of time outdoors, you may want to consider self defense devices to protect yourself against dogs, bears, or other wildlife. In these cases, a can of pepper spray is probably the better option. It is likely to deter any animals, while stun guns can have unknown reactions on animals, and in most cases mean you havr to get uncomfortably close to the animal.
Both pepper spray and stun guns are relatively inexpensive means for self protection, especially when compared to the cost of a gun. Your costs can vary widely depending upon the model you choose, although in the majority of cases, equipping yourself with a stun gun or pepper spray for your safety will cost well less than a hundred dollars.
Generally, both stun guns and pepper spray can be carried legally. Check your local police department for any restrictions on purchasing, carrying, or using these devices. In jurisdictions where there are such limitations, usually stun guns fall under heavier restrictions than pepper spray.
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