The Best Pepper Spray For Bears: Guides & Ranking 2024
By, Scott NelsonUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: SABRE Advanced Compact Pepper Spray
Sabre Advanced Compact Pepper Spray with Clip – 3-in-1 Formula is a powerful defense spray with CS military tear gas, which heightens the burn of pepper spray. It's easily concealed and can be conveniently clipped on to your belt for quick access to this all-in-one defense tool. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: Vexor Pepper Spray
Vexor Pepper Spray is the perfect self-defense weapon. This compact canister is equipped with our full axis technology that fires from any angle, even upside down. With a flip top safety simply flip the top of the lid and press for easy, non-lethal, 360-degree protection. Safely attached to your belt with integrated belt clip. Read Review
3. Best Design: SABRE RED Pepper Spray
With its ‘advanced police strength’, this SABRE Red Magnum Series Red Pepper Spray with key ring can stop any would-be attacker, without causing lasting harm. The key ring makes it easy to carry everywhere and is perfect for those who want a second layer of defence. Read Review
4. Best Safety: Vexor Pepper Spray
This convenient pepper spray canister can emit sprays that can measure up to 20 feet away from the can itself. Due to its powerful capabilities, this hand-held can should be kept safe. out of reach of kids, either hidden or secured in the holster. Read Review
The most common attacks by unwelcome guests in the wilderness are from bears. They will come close to you with their sharp senses and natural curiosity to sniff or investigate something. This is why it’s essential to have a self-defense tool that you can use when threatened by a bear. This is why we’re discussing the best pepper sprays for bears today.
Pepper spray is effective against any intruder, regardless of size and strength. It works by temporarily incapacitating the target with a painful burning sensation that causes them discomfort and distress. Thankfully, there are different types of pepper spray on the market – some more effective than others at repelling unwelcome visitors from your campsite or cabin. We’ve tested 10 of different varieties of pepper spray for bears – so read on to find out which one works best for you!
You can count on our team of experts who have spent over 16 hours conducting surveys through -total-reviewgenuineal customer reviews. Because of this, we concluded that the best-reviewed product is the SABRE Advanced Compact Pepper Spray. And Vexor Pepper Spray is another choice for you while keeping the product's quality and functionality.
RELATED: In 2024, we tried to compare highlights such as price, pros, and cons of each product. Then we put together this list most effective bear spray for you! Join us right here to find out!
Our Top Picks
- ADVANCED 3-IN-1 FORMULA: Powerful Defense Spray formulation contains SABRE’s maximum strength pepper spray, as well as CS military tear gas, which heightens the burn of pepper spray, and UV marking dye for suspect identification
- PROTECTION AT A SAFE DISTANCE AGAINST MULTIPLE THREATS: Canister contains 35 bursts (5x the competition) for protection against multiple threats; 10-foot (3 meter) range provides protection at a safer distance
- PERSONAL PROTECTION YOU CAN TRUST: SABRE is the #1 pepper spray brand trusted by police. SABRE's professional OC Spray is backed by in-house lab testing, guaranteeing maximum heat and eliminating the 30% failure rate of other brands (U of Utah study)
- √ FULL AXIS (360 degree) FLIP TOP WITH BELT CLIP: This canister is equipped with our full axis technology that fires from any angle, even upside down. With a flip top safety simply flip the top of the lid and press for easy, non-lethal, 360-degree protection. Safely attached to your belt with integrated belt clip
- √ FIRE-HOT SPRAY: Trusted by POLICE and Military worldwide, non-toxic, powerful, and fiery hot, this is among the best non-lethal pepper sprays. Our formula causes eye and respiratory irritation, stopping the attacker giving you time to flee to safety
- √ RELIABLE & LONG-LASTING: up to 4-year shelf life, backed by our in-house high-performance liquid chromatography laboratory (HPLC) Made in the USA by Zarc International in a certified ISO 2001:2015 quality controlled facility to guarantee reliability
- PERSONAL PROTECTION YOU CAN TRUST: SABRE is the #1 pepper spray brand trusted by police & consumers & a leader in the personal safety category. Pepper spray is made in the USA
- MAXIMUM STOPPING POWER: SABRE's professional-grade OC Spray is backed by our in-house lab testing, guaranteeing maximum heat and stopping power in every burst and eliminating the 30% failure rate of other pepper spray brands (U of Utah study
- STAY SAFE WITH FREE SAFETY TRAINING: Feel secure with every SABRE product; Packaging includes links to free training videos so that, in the face of danger, you are better prepared to use your SABRE Pepper Spray
- √ BEST PROTECTION YOU CAN BUY: This Vexor Pepper Spray is among the best repellent tools and products on the market. With over 35 years manufacturing pepper sprays for US State and Federal Law enforcement you get the same quality as our Police and Military customers.
- √ LARGE 20-FOOT RANGE: This convenient pepper spray canister can emit sprays that can measure up to 20 feet away from the can itself. Due to its powerful capabilities, this hand-held can should be kept safe. out of reach of kids, either hidden or secured in the holster. This pepper spray is not available for sale in all states.
- √ FULL AXIS (360 degree) FLIP TOP WITH BELT CLIP: This canister is equipped with our full axis technology that fires from any angle, even upside down. With a flip top safety simply flip the top of the lid and press for easy, non-lethal, 360-degree protection. Safely attached to your belt with integrated belt clip
- √ FIRE-HOT SPRAY: Each of these mini cans have a potent 4-year shelf life, making it a great addition to your self-defense kit. This powerful, non-toxic, spray is fiery hot to provide you with the best non-lethal protection possible. Our formula can even affect those wearing glasses and contacts, causing eye and respiratory irritation that can last up to 30 minutes.
- Net Weight: 260g
- Range: Up to 35 ft
- Stay Protected Outdoors: Always Stay Protected While Experiencing The Great Outdoors. This Mace Brand Bear Spray Empties In 6 Seconds Making It An Essential Accessory For Hiking, Climbing, Camping, Biking And Other Outdoor Activities In Bear Country
- Easy To Use – This Mace Brand Bear Spray Features A Finger Loop Handle With Safety Clip Making It Easy To Carry. To Use, Pull Off The Orange Safety Wedge On The Top Of The Grip And Spay By Pressing Down On The Actuator Button On The Top Of The Hand Grip. Holster is not included.
- Number of Sprays: Empties in 6 seconds
- Accurate Protection – Accurate & Effective, The Mace Brand Bear Spray Combines An Advanced Delivery System With A Powerful Formula To Protect You From Bears And Outdoor Threats. The Power Fogger Spray Pattern Provides Long-Range Protection Up To 20 Ft
- Formula: EPA-registered / for Bear defense
- Effects – The Oc Bear Safe Formula Is A Natural Ingredient Derived From Hot Peppers That Is Epa Regulated. Upon Contact, The Bear’S Eyes, Nose And Lungs Will Engorge Resulting In Temporary Sight Loss, Restriction Of Breathing, And Burning Sensation
- Spray Pattern: Power Fogger
- 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
- 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
- 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)
- UDAP Industries, Inc. manufactures the world's hottest self-defense pepper spray
- 7.9oz-225g Bear Pepper Spray w/ GrizGuard Holster 2PACK
- Easy to conceal - Small pepper spray canisters that are lightweight and designed to be practical for everyday carry protection whether you are walking alone at night or running in the park. Fits well in a small hand and is simple and quick to deploy by twisting the safety lock to the centre and pressing down to fire.
- Proudly Made in the USA - 1.33% MC police pepper spray maximum strength OC that is used and trusted by several law enforcement agencies and security personnel - Our formula is HPLC lab tested for a consistent self defense pepper spray performance. Provides strong 10-12ft range with multiple blasts.
- A Non-Lethal Layer Of Protection - A smart pepper spray option to defend and protect yourself or your loved ones. Safety first is important and our tactical pepper spray kit will incapacitate an attacker when sprayed across the eyes and nose for a minimum 30 minutes with effects laster longer so you can get to safety.
- Personal Safety Is Important - We manufacture in small batches so you will receive a full 4 year expiration date with your pepper spray 2 pack. Pull off the keychain bottom to see the date. In the event you have to use your small pepper spray we will replace your sprays.
- Feel Secure - Be prepared and have peace of mind security knowing you can protect yourself or your loved ones can defend themselves in a dangerous situation. The multipack allows you to use 1 as a practice practice pepper spray so you can feel confident in knowing how to operate your OC spray effectively.
- EASY ACCESSIBALITY: This professional design pepper spray includes a belt clip you can attach to your belt, purse, or backpack.
- STICKY GEL FORMULATION clings to attacker’s skin, to make sure you get the target not by-standers.
- LARGE 18-FOOT RANGE: Fires 18 bursts of Pepper Gel with an 18-foot range (5.5 meters), keeping you at a safe distance.
- GEL IS BETTER: No more worrying about Gel blowing back towards you Pepper GEL removes wind blowback and unlike traditional pepper sprays, Gel works great both indoors and outdoors!
- POWERUL CAPABILITIES: VEXOR Pocket Guard GEL is Maximum Strength, developed with Zarc’s flagship formulation, 10% stronger than other pepper sprays on the market, putting more stopping power in your hands!
- LARGE 18-FOOT RANGE: Fires 18 bursts of Pepper Gel with an 18-foot range (5.5 meters), keeping you at a safe distance.
- STICKY GEL FORMULATION clings to attacker’s skin, to make sure you get the target not by-standers.
- POWERUL CAPABILITIES: VEXOR Pocket Guard GEL is Maximum Strength, developed with Zarc’s flagship formulation, 10% stronger than other pepper sprays on the market, putting more stopping power in your hands!
Buying Guide and Tips for better purchase of best pepper spray for bears
Merchandise is much more than a physical item. It's the result of someone having an idea, working on it, and making it a reality. When you go out to buy, these would be the factors you should know once looking for best pepper spray for bears.
In fact, this is not about how much it costs and what other people think of it, but whether it will suit your requirements and last long enough even for users to have your money's worth out of it. This article will inform consumers about how and why you buy best pepper spray for bears.
Shelf Life
Holster
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.
Concentration
Safety And Ease Of Use
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.
Range Of Spray
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.
Weight And Size
RELATED: By comparing the standout aspects of the models on best grizzly bear spray's list, we've rounded up the best ones for you. Products for 2024 right below!.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Conclusion
best pepper spray for bears are usually made of high-quality materials, come with a warranty in case something goes wrong, and have a lot of positive customer feedback. If you want to buy the best commodity for your necessities, you must first understand what characteristics or qualities constitute an "ideal" item.
You can also look into VEXOR® Outdoorsman 9.2 oz. Pepper Spray as an alternative to the options listed above. We hope that this list of excuses why investing in the best is worthwhile will assist you in making an informed decision when shopping online.
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