I'm sure you're asking yourself "What's the difference between mace and pepper sprsy?". They are both self defence sprays dispensed from an aerosol canister. Mace is a form of tear gas and brand name of pepper spray. Pepper spray is based on oleoresin capsicum. This next information talks about mace as form of tear gas.
Mace
Mace spray contains lachrymator in a volatile solvent. Mace irritates the membrane tissues in the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. This irritation will cause tears and mucus to flow. They will also sneeze and cough from being sprayed. Mace requires the person being sprayed to be able to feel pain. If the person is under the influence of drugs or alcohol they may not react to mace. Mace will not work against wild animals. After being released from the canister some of the mace will turn from liquid to gas. This is advantageous because even though the person may not be hit right in the face they may still feel the effects. When you spray mace in a cofined area, such as a room, anyone in that room will most likely be effected. The room will be uninhabitable for several hours until the spray fully disperses. Mace can take 5 to 30 seconds to take affect. After you wash it off, mace will still be working for approximately 30 to 120 minutes. Mace is non-lethal. Mace is illegal in many countries.
Pepper Spray
Pepper spray is made from peppers such as cayenne pepper. Pepper spray will even work on individuals who are under the effects of alcohol or drugs. Pepper spray also works on animals. To be effective pepper spray should be sprayed right straight into the persons face including the mouth, eyes and nose. Pepper spray does not dissipate over time. Pepper spray begins to work on the person sprayed very quickly, about 3 to 5 seconds. The person sprayed may be blinded for 15 to 30 minutes. The affected person will cough for 3 to 15 minutes and the burning can last up to an hour. Pepper spray is generally non-lethal; however there have been cases of death, especially when sprayed on people who have poor breathing. Pepper spray is non-soluble in water and needs to be washed off with soap. Pepper spray is legal in the United States though some states have laws regarding the strength of the pepper spray allowed. One two ounce canister of pepper spray can also be carried in checked luggage on a plane.
Difference between Mace and Pepper Spray
While both mace and pepper spray are common aerosol sprays used for self-defense, there are significant differences between their effects and use. Pepper spray works on people who are high and drunk whereas mace may not. Pepper spray is very effective on animals, mace not so much so. Pepper spray takes effect more quickly than mace. Mace on the other hand can last longer. Mace is non-lethal but pepper spray may be dangerous or lethal when used on people with breathing problems. With mace you don't have to hit the person directly but with pepper spray you do. Pepper spray is legal but regulated, while mace is illegal for general public use in most Western countries.
When looking to purchase any type of self-defense products, it is very important to educate yourself on each and every product out there. With so many choices of personal safety devices such as stun guns, personal alarms, mace spray and pepper spray, the choosing process can be a tad overwhelming for the average consumer.
Mace spray and pepper spray are two of the best selling personal security products in the nation. Before you begin your search on the best pepper spray or mace, it is important that you are aware of the difference between mace and pepper spray. While both of these products are used in warfare, police activities, and individual self defense strategies, the differences between mace and pepper spray are significant.
What is also very important to note is that mace and pepper spray are restricted substances - meaning they are not legal in every state. Depending on where you live, you may be restricted from purchasing either substance.
So What's the Difference, You Ask?
The first difference between mace and pepper spray is how the two products are classified. Mace is classified as an irritant that is similar to tear gas, while pepper spray is classified as an inflammatory agent, which can immediately incapacitate an assailant. Mace has no affect on those who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, while pepper spray has the ability to take down and cause temporary pain to those under the influence.
While the effects of tear gas (mace) are immediate and painful, mace will not cause inflammation of the capillaries of the eyes and skin, while pepper spray will. The best pepper spray can cause temporary blindness, nausea, breathing difficulties, and an intense, unpleasant burning sensation. Tear gas causes one's eyes to shut, water, and burn, and will make the nose and mouth feel like they are on fire. Since tear gas was introduced in 1962, it is a widely regulated substance around the world. Some countries will not allow anyone to have possession of mace spray at all, while others will allow just police and military personnel to carry it.
What may confuse some is the fact that Mace is also now a brand name that is associated with pepper spray products.
Always Practice Caution
If personal use of mace spray or pepper spray is allowed in your town, county, and/or state, it is crucial to learn the proper way to use these personal security products. Even the most effective self defense spray will not do you any good if you do not have it when you need it, fail to aim it properly, or use it incorrectly. Also, by obeying the laws of your town, county, and/or state, you cannot be sued if you use your mace spray or pepper spray for self defense reasons.
Be responsible, and get the training and education you need to make your personal security devices work best for you!
Both Mark Strong & Temp are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Mark Strong has sinced written about articles on various topics from Home Management, Home Security and Family. About the authur:My name is Mark Strong and I live in Loveland Ohio with my lovely wife Patricia. We hope that everyone will benefit from the information and products we provide and have a safer, happier more secure life.. Mark Strong's top article generates over 3600 views. to your Favourites.
Temp has sinced written about articles on various topics from Disease & illness, Jewelry and Real Estate. Nick Muntimuri is the founder of PromarkSafety.com and started selling ,. Temp's top article generates over 14800 views. to your Favourites.