Bear spray has become a very popular self-defense tool among the homeless. It’s very easy for someone to assume that something that’s made to deter bears from harming them, can obviously deter a human from attacking them. This couldn’t be further from the truth when it comes to Bear Spray. It is far less potent than pepper spray and less effective. Properly named “bear deterrent”, it is made up of almost the same ingredients as pepper spray., except it has a very low amount of the pepper chemical that makes pepper spray so hot. It attacks the bear’s sense of smell and sight, but won’t burn the bear’s skin like pepper spray does to humans.
A false sense of security
The feel, range, and sound of bear spray give people a false sense of security. The canister gives off a kick when pressing the trigger. So much so that it’s recommended to hold the can with both hands. This feeling makes you feel much bigger than you are. It creates a huge amount of space(up to 40 feet) between you and your attacker, giving out a loud popping and hissing sound when released. This can sound and feel very intimidating to attackers. But someone who’s been sprayed multiple times by law enforcement will notice its weakness once hit. They’ll notice that it’s not burning them and may build up the will to fight through it. This is a situation you don’t want to be in.
You can possibly be jailed and/or sued
Bear spray is not made for the purpose of self-defense on humans. Most brands will have a clear disclaimer on the can. It’s actually classified as a pesticide by the EPA. If you buy it and clearly intend to use it for self-defense, you could have a lawsuit on your hands, and possibly be thrown in jail. It’s far-fetched, but in states where even pepper spray is regulated, it can happen. It’s not to say you can’t defend yourself with it if someone is attacking you. I carry bear spray at our camp strictly for the purpose of shooing away wild and stray animals. I holster pepper spray as well. If someone were to attack me, I have the right to use equal force against my attacker. If for some reason I couldn’t get to my pepper spray, then bear spray it is. You still have rights if you are homeless. Just make sure you do it properly.
