What is the difference between Pepper Spray and Mace?
Quick Summary: Pepper Spray is an aerosol spray containing oils derived from cayenne pepper. AKA “oleoresin capsicum” or OC spray. The OC irritates the eyes to cause tears, pain, and temporary blindness, and is effective when used in self-defense against people, dogs, and bears (ok, more on this below)
Mace Spray is a trademarked chemical compound, and also a brand name. Blingsting pepper spray is NOT mace and mace is not ever Blingsting.
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Pepper Spray vs Mace
Have you ever felt confused about the difference between Mace and pepper spray? You're not alone. Many people want to know which one is better for self-defense. One interesting fact is that Mace was developed after a robbery incident in Pittsburgh.
It's meant to keep people safe.
This blog will guide you through what makes Mace different from pepper spray. We'll talk about their ingredients, how they affect those who get sprayed, and where it's okay to have them.
By the end, you'll know which one might be right for keeping yourself safe. Ready to learn more? Keep reading!
Key Takeaways
- Mace and pepper spray both aim to stop attackers, but they have different ingredients. Original MACE has a chemical called chloroacetophenone (CN), while pepper spray uses oleoresin capsicum (OC) from chili peppers.
- When sprayed, both Mace and pepper spray cause burning eyes and skin, trouble breathing, coughing, and sometimes nausea. This is because of the capsaicin in chilies or phenacyl chloride (CN).
- Pepper spray is legal in all 50 states but some places limit how you can buy or use it. For example, California allows cans less than 2.5 ounces. New York makes you buy it at specific stores.
- The original formula for Mace included a toxic chemical. Now, some types mix this old ingredient with chili oils for more power.
- It's important to check local laws before buying either Mace or pepper spray for self-defense because rules vary by state on who can carry and use them.
Defining Mace and Pepper Spray
Mace and pepper spray are tools for personal safety that can stop an attacker. Mace is a brand name that used to have tear gas, but now mostly uses oleoresin capsicum - the same hot stuff found in chili peppers.
Pepper spray also uses this spicy ingredient to cause burning and temporary blindness, making it a key self-defense product against threats.
Chemical Composition Differences
Diving right into the heart of our topic, let's talk about what sets Mace and Pepper Spray apart, particularly focusing on what they're made of. This part is all about their chemical makeup.
| Product | Primary Active Ingredient | Other Components |
|---|---|---|
| Original MACE | 1% chloroacetophenone (CN) | 2-butanol, propylene glycol, cyclohexene, dipropylene glycol methyl ether |
| Pepper Spray | Oleoresin capsicum (OC) | Varies, mainly carriers for the OC |
| Mace® Brand Pepper Spray | Oleoresin capsicum (OC) | Combines CN, OC, and ultraviolet marker dye |
So, the big takeaway? The original MACE formula leans on a chemical named chloroacetophenone. Pepper sprays, on the other hand, swear by oleoresin capsicum. That's the stuff that gives chilies their kick. And if you're looking at the Mace® brand these days, they've mixed things up with a triple threat: the old-school CN, the fiery OC, and a unique ultraviolet dye to mark an assailant.
Now, let's move on to how these ingredients actually affect someone when they're sprayed.
Effects on Targets
When mace or pepper spray hits a target, the person will feel a sharp burning in their eyes and skin. They might also cough a lot. This makes it hard for them to see and breathe for a short time.
Interested in learning more? Keep reading to find out how these self-defense tools work and why they are so effective.
Immediate Physical Reactions
Mace and pepper spray hit hard and fast. They cause quick trouble for anyone caught in their mist.
- Skin feels like it's on fire - a strong burning and stinging on the face. 3
- Eyes slam shut from swelling, burning, and redness, making it hard to see.
- Breathing gets tough as noses run, and throats feel like they're closing up.
- Coughing kicks in big time because the lungs want to get rid of the irritants.
- Some people might even feel sick to their stomachs from the intense burning sensation.
These sprays pack a punch with capsaicin from hot peppers and phenacyl chloride (CN) that shuts things down fast. Let's look at how laws play a role next.
Legal Considerations and Availability
Pepper spray is okay to have in all 50 states. Yet, some places make it hard to buy or use it. For example, you can only have a small can, less than 2.5 ounces, in California. New York says you can only buy it at certain stores.
Each state has its own rules for these self-defense products. Smith & Wesson's Lake Erie Chemical once bought Mace. Now, whether you can get Mace depends on where you live too. Some states put tight reins on buying and using Mace as a brand of defense spray.
It's wise to check your local laws before getting any pepper spray or chemical mace for self-protection.
Conclusion
Mace is a brand, and pepper spray uses chili pepper oils. Mace used to have a toxic chemical, but now some types mix this with chili pepper oils for strength. Both aim to stop attackers quickly and safely.
Laws vary on who can carry them. Knowing the differences helps pick the right self-defense tool.
FAQs
1. What is the main difference between mace and pepper spray?
Mace and pepper spray are both self-defense tools, but they differ in their ingredients. Mace uses a man-made tear gas known as CS tear gas, while pepper spray contains an inflammatory agent derived from natural peppers.
2. Can I be legally penalized for using mace or pepper spray?
Yes, depending on where you live. Pepper spray laws vary by location, so it's crucial to understand your local regulations before carrying or using either product.
3. If someone gets "maced," what does that mean?
When someone is "maced," it means they have been sprayed with the self-defense product called Mace, which contains CS tear gas causing temporary discomfort and disorientation.
4. How does being pepper-sprayed affect a person?
Being pepper-sprayed can cause intense pain, inflammation of skin and eyes due to its inflammatory agent content; this reaction helps deter potential threats giving the victim time to escape.