These are the two most popular self-defense tools we sell at Safety Smarts, and I get asked all the time: which one should I carry? The honest answer is that they do different things, and the right choice depends on how and where you plan to use it.
Let me break down the real differences.
How Pepper Spray Works
Pepper spray uses OC (oleoresin capsicum) to irritate the eyes, nose, lungs, and skin on contact. The result: temporary blindness, coughing, difficulty breathing, and disorientation. Most sprays have an effective range of about 10 feet.
Advantages:
- Works at a distance. You don't need to be within arm's reach of the threat.
- Effective regardless of pain tolerance. Even someone under the influence of substances will have trouble seeing through pepper spray.
- Compact and easy to carry on a keychain or in a pocket.
- Minimal training needed. Point and spray.
Things to consider:
- Wind can blow spray back toward you, especially with fogger-style sprays. Stream patterns reduce this risk.
- In enclosed spaces, you may feel the effects too.
- It has a shelf life. Check the expiration date and replace when needed.
How Stun Guns Work
Stun guns deliver an electrical charge on contact. The shock causes pain, muscle contraction, and disorientation. The goal is the same as pepper spray: create a window of time to escape.
Advantages:
- No blowback risk. The effect only hits what you touch.
- Rechargeable. No cartridges to replace or expiration dates to track.
- Many models double as flashlights, giving you an everyday carry tool you'll actually use.
- The sound of a stun gun arcing can be a deterrent on its own.
Things to consider:
- You need to be close enough to make contact. That means arm's reach.
- Thick clothing can reduce effectiveness.
- Someone with a high pain tolerance or under the influence may not react as strongly.
So Which Should You Choose?
Think about these questions:
Where will you use it? If you're outdoors (walking, jogging, parking lots), pepper spray's range gives you an advantage. If you're in close quarters or worry about blowback, a stun gun makes more sense.
How will you carry it? Pepper spray clips to a keychain easily. Stun guns come in different form factors: palm-sized, ring-style (like the Sting Ring you wear on your hand), or flashlight combos you'd carry anyway.
What's legal in your area? Both pepper spray and stun guns have varying regulations by state and locality. Check your local laws before purchasing either one.
My Recommendation
If you're choosing just one, pepper spray is the more versatile option for most people. The distance advantage matters. You want to create space between you and a threat, and 10 feet of range helps you do that without physical contact.
If you can carry both, do it. They complement each other. Pepper spray for distance, a stun device as backup if someone gets close.
Either way, the tool only works if you have it on you and you can reach it quickly. Whatever you choose, carry it somewhere accessible. Not buried at the bottom of a bag.
Lisa Boggs is a black belt in karate, kickboxing instructor, and the founder of Safety Smarts.