The Best Bear Deterrent: Rankings In 2024 & Purchasing Tips

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
SABRE Frontiersman 9.2 oz. Bear Spray, Maximum Strength
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: SABRE Frontiersman 9.2 oz. Bear Spray, Maximum Strength

If you want to get the job done, this is your go-to spray. It's easy to use and easy to carry. With an industry exclusive HPLC laboratory, SABRE guarantees its maximum strength formulation for every canister. This 9.2 oz. bear spray features a belt holster and auto-flip safety cap for easy access when needed! Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Udap 12DCH 7.9oz-225g Bear Pepper Spray w/GrizGuard Holster 2PACK

The Bear Pepper Spray is the perfect solution for your outdoor adventures. The Bear Pepper Spray has a non-lethal, taser-like effect that will only stop your bear and make it feel dizzy. It will also deter other animals from approaching you. Read Review

3. Best Realiable: SABRE Frontiersman Powerful 30 ft. Range Bear Deterrent

With a 30-foot (9-meter) spray range reaching up to 10-feet further than the competition, Frontiersman Bear Spray gives you more time to react to a bear charging up to 35 mph & provide safer protection with a greater protective barrier per burst (up to 58% more than competitors). With this premium bear spray, you'll also have instant access when seconds count. Packaged in an easy-to-access, quick draw belt holster. Read Review

4. Best Powerful: BUNDLE - 3 ITEMS - 2 Cans Guard Alaska Bear Repellant

Guard Alaska by Sabre is a powerful bear repellant that is safe for use around camp and your home. The spray contains 1.34% total capsaicinoid formula, which was intensively tested in the Alaskan wilderness for six years to ensure effectiveness against all types of bears. Read Review

The presence of a bear may not be felt until it’s too late. That’s why having a bear deterrent around your home is essential. Bear-resistant food storage containers are one of the best bear deterrents available. They keep your food secure and inaccessible to animals while also preventing contamination.

There are many types of RDF products on the market, from simple metal feeder holes with no lock or seal to more complex systems that use baffles, locks, keys, and seals for aggressive nuisance bears as well as black bears, brown bears, and polar bears when they are threatened. Some RDF products incorporate scent barriers so that the smell of human food does not attract animals to your yard in the first place.

Others use flashing lights or loud noises to scare away any wildlife approaching your property from afar. However you choose to protect your home from unwanted guests, many RDF products will help you do so effectively and conveniently.

We have chosen many of the good items currently available, including the SABRE Frontiersman 9.2 oz. Bear Spray, Maximum Strength with an industry-exclusive HPLC laboratory - our favorite one. We also provide you with a Udap 12DCH 7.9oz-225g Bear Pepper Spray w/GrizGuard Holster 2PACK model that you may consider if the top product is not your choice.

You will be surprised at the information we are about to share below! Let's explore the unique features of products from famous brands right here.

Our Top Picks

  • QUIET ACCESS TO PROTECTION: Frontiersman Bear Spray Holsters are not made with Velcro, allowing for quick and silent access to your deterrent should you encounter a bear
  • RIGOROUSLY TESTED FOR CERTAINTY AND PEACE OF MIND: E.P.A. approved, our environmentally friendly bear spray is field-tested and proven effective against all types of bears by the Elmendorf Air Force Base and Brown Bear Resources
  • Provides Silent, Easy Access To Your Bear Spray Trigger
  • Keeps Your Bear Spray Accessible
  • Conveniently Allows Bear Spray To Be Clipped On
  • Keeps Your Bear Spray Accessible
  • SPRAYS UP TO 50% FURTHER: With a 30-foot (9-meter) spray range reaching up to 10-feet further than the competition, Frontiersman Bear Spray gives you more time to react to a bear charging up to 35 mph & provide safer protection with a greater protective barrier per burst (up to 58% more than competitors)
  • QUICK & QUIET ACCESS TO PROTECTION: Velcro sound could aggravate a threatening bear and potentially cause aggressive behavior - Frontiersman holsters eliminate the unnecessary Velcro straps allowing for quick & silent access to your spray during an emergency
  • RIGOROUSLY TESTED TO MAXIMIZE YOUR SAFETY: E.P.A. and Health Canada approved, our environmentally friendly bear spray is field-tested and proven effective against all types of bears by the Elmendorf Air Force Base and Brown Bear Resources
  • MAXIMUM STOPPING POWER: Strongest formula allowed by law (EPA Requires range of 1.0-2.0% Major Capsaicinoids), Frontiersman bear spray, made with 2.0% Major Capsaicinoids, is backed by our industry exclusive in-house HPLC lab, guaranteeing maximum strength in each canister
  • IMMEDIATELY ACCESSIBLE BEAR SPRAY: Easy to access when seconds count, our bear sprays are available with quick draw belt or chest holsters; Strong elastic keeps bear spray secure while out on the trails
  • MAXIMUM STRENGTH - 1.34% total capsaicinoid formula, 9 ounce (255 Grams) UltraMag shotgun size canister, EZ Access Firemaster Actuator
  • 9 SECOND CONTINUOUS SPRAY - Releases 9 ounces of bear protection in 9 seconds, or may be fired in bursts - Fogger delivery system sprays 15-20 feet quickly engulfing attacking bear for maximum effectiveness
5 Counter Assault Bear Spray, 8.1 oz (Pack of 2)
Our Score:
9.3
Counter Assault
  • Optimal 32 ft spray distance with 7 second spray duration for top performance
  • Premium bear deterrent spray formula has a maximum strength 2% capsaicin and related capsaicinoids
  • Bear canister works to deter all bear species from attacking humans for safer camping and hiking
  • Made-in Montana bear spray provides extra safety with glow in the dark safety wedge and tie string
  • 8.1 oz bear spray cans with durable holster for quick access on your hip
  • Works on all 8-bear species to deter bears from attacking humans
  • 8. 1 oz. bear spray with 7 seconds of spray time
  • Hottest Formula allowed by law at 2% capsaicin & related capsaicinoids
  • Only bear spray to meet EPA SNAP rule of the Clean Air Act
  • 32-foot spray distance
  • Trusted by Campers, Hikers, Hunters and Outdoor Enthusiasts.
  • The Most Accessible and Functional Griz Guard Bear Spray Holster.
  • Most Powerful Formula Allowed By The EPA.
  • Rapidly Deploys Heavy Fog With 30 Foot Range.
  • Package Includes (2) Griz Guard Bear Deterrent 7.9 oz. and (2) Griz Guard Holsters.
  • Six years of intensive testing in Alaska wilds - Maximum strength 1.34% total capsaicinoid formula - 9 ounce (255 Grams) UltraMag shotgun size - E-Z Access Firemaster Actuator - 15-20 feet firing range - Releases full 9 ounces of protection in 9 seconds
  • Fogger delivery system to quickly engulf bear's face for maximum effectiveness
9 Frontiersman Bear Attack Deterrent
Our Score:
8.5
Frontiersman
  • Glow-In-The Dark Safety
  • Deploys Long Range Spray Out To 30 Feet
10 Counter Assault Bear Deterrent 10.2 Oz
Our Score:
8.3
Counter Assault
  • Hottest formula allowed by EPA at 2% capsaicin. Longest spray time and spray distance of 7.2 seconds; 30 ft. for 8.1 oz. And 9.2 seconds; 32 ft for 10.2 oz. Glow-in-the-dark safety tie. Packaged in tamper-resistant sealed blister pack (w/Holster's only).

Things you are expected to understand when you buy the best bear deterrent

The internet is a platform in which you can get almost everything you want. Finding the best bear deterrent on whatever you need to know about how something works is an incredible guide for all of your needs.

Unfortunately, because of so many various websites out there which are either fraudulent or untrustworthy, finding what you're searching for on a single website might be difficult. Many consumers are hesitant to purchase the best bear deterrent because they are unclear if they are making the right selection.

The following post will explain four things to consider when purchasing a best bear deterrent for your needs.

Range Of Spray

When shopping for bear spray, one of the most crucial aspects is its range. Some sprays can reach only 12 feet. This distance is not comfortable, but it can provide an acceptable range. To increase the chances of stopping a bear dead in its tracks, aim for a greater range.
Bear sprays should be between 30-40 feet away. The further you are, the better. It should be clear whether the spray is coming from a stream, a lake or both. A narrowly targeted stream will not work unless you can aim well. The perfect aim in these circumstances is difficult to find. Therefore, seek out distances that are reasonable and have a shotgun blast pattern.
The spray speed and distance can also impact the effectiveness of the spray. Sprays can reach speeds up to 70 miles per hour, but others spray at a slower speed. While a spray can travel at a faster speed, it is better to find a balance. This way you can aim your stream more precisely and don't run the risk of sending too many in the wrong direction.

Holster

Depending on what you do, how much bear spray you need will determine your ability to carry. It is important to consider how easily it can be found in case of emergency. It should not be in your bag.
Bear spray should be carried in some type of holster. This will allow you to reach for it easily when necessary. It can be attached to your belt, hip strap or shoulder strap. Spray can be accessed without removing your backpack.
The spray can be carried in a holster so you are able to grab it quickly and keep the spray out of your backpack.

Safety And Ease Of Use

Some canisters do not have the same spray or safety features. You may be exposed to danger if you don't have a safety lock. Always purchase a bear spray that has a safety lock.
You will also be amazed at how simple it is to spray, lock, and aim. If a bear approaches you, you don't want to accidentally spray yourself.
In the backcountry, safety should be your number one priority. Don't forget to take your first safety gear with you when stocking up.

Weight And Size

A spray you are able to keep close by is a must. Bear sprays come in large cans so be sure to have the right size pouch or holster. Another important factor to consider is weight. Although most dogs weigh under a pound and can be carried for longer distances, you should still consider this when packing your backpack.

Shelf Life

Bear spray is something you want to never use so it's likely it'll sit on your shelf. Before you go out in the field with your bear spray, make sure it is still functional. This will affect the overall value.

Concentration

Capsaicin is listed in most bear sprays as a concentration between 1 to 2 percent. For maximum effectiveness, bear sprays should contain no more than 2 percent.

FAQs

Does Bear Spray Work?

Bear spray is effective and can be used to deter bears. The Journal of Wildlife Management published a 20-year study that concluded bear spray was at least 90% effective in keeping bears from engaging in undesirable behaviors. Bear spray is more efficient and safer than guns to deter bear behavior, according to other sources.

What’s The Difference Between Bear Mace Vs. Pepper Spray?

Bear mace is different from standard pepper spray in that it has different pressure, volume and spray range. Bear mace can spray up to 40ft and is more pressured. To accommodate this spray range, the spray volume in the canisters is larger than that of pepper spray. Pepper spray and bear mace both contain the active ingredient, oleoresin capicum (OC), at differing volumes. Both can lead to temporary blindness and nausea.

How Do You Use Bear Spray?

We recommend that you follow the manufacturer's instructions as with all outdoor products. Although the instructions for using the bear spray will vary from one brand to another, there are general guidelines you can use.
Bear spray canisters should be held in your hands with both of your hands. You can hold the canister in one hand and use the other to trigger the spray. The nozzle should be pointed towards you, not away. Before spraying, the bear must be at least 30ft (10mi) from you. Bear spray is currently only allowed to be applied within 40 feet of the bear.
Due to the slight recoil of canisters, it is easier to spray downwards. Canisters should be emptied in a circular motion in the direction that the bear is facing. You will create a bigger cloud between the bear and you.

When Should Someone Use Bear Spray?

First, practice bear avoidance. Bear avoidance is key to avoiding bear attacks. A bear attack is not worth taking a picture of. Bear in mind that bears don't usually attack humans and unprovoked sprays can cause more problems than they were. If a bear acts aggressively towards your property, you should not use bear spray.

Is Bear Spray Required?

Bear spray is a must-have for anyone who plans to hike or camp in bear country. Bear spray is not allowed in every park. There are regulations that bear spray must follow. Bear spraying is not allowed in bear country. Check local regulations.

How Do You Carry Bear Spray On A Hike?

Bear spray should always be easily accessible. A lot of bear spray holders allow you to attach it to your backpack, or anywhere else on your body. To help you develop muscle memory, practice accessing it fast.

Conclusion

The most appealing aspect of this post is that it contains the top models of best bear deterrent that clients require. It also sells reliable items and has a lot of positive feedback from customers. 

Then, you may buy items from well-known companies with confidence through this page since you know they are the greatest on the market. You will also have the opportunity to look at a variety of alternatives for your favorite, particularly the Griz Guard - Maximum Strength Bear Spray (2 Pack) - Strongest Formula.

What is your favorite item? Please let us know! We're continuously on the lookout for new products and services to give our loyal consumers so that we may continue to provide them with high-quality goods at reasonable pricing.


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

Read Scott's full bio