10 Best Bear Sprays for Camping & Hiking (2022): Buyer’s Guide and Unbiased Reviews

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Are you on a quest to find the best bear sprays?

Then you’re in the right place. Because I have done the hard work for you and have reviewed dozens of products to bring you the best bear sprays.

In addition, I will introduce the following related topics.

  • Product Details (Including advantages and disadvantages) 
  • Bear Sprays Buyer’s Guide
  • More Bear Spray Tips

I will also answer some common questions.

  • How Do Bear Sprays Work?
  • Why Use Bear Spray?
  • How To Use Bear Spray Properly?
  • Is It Necessary to Have Bear Spray?
  • Are There Places Where It Is Considered Illegal?
  • How Long Is It Good For?
  • Is It Possible to Put it in Luggage When Traveling Via Airplane?
  • Can the Spray Get Used More Than One Time?
  • Is the Spray Going to Cause Permanent Damage to the Bear?
  • Is It Safe to Use on People and Different Types of Animals?
  • Is It Best to Practice Using the Product?
  • Is It Extremely Hot?
  • What Should You Do If You Get Some Spray on You?
  • How Does Bear Spray Differ From Pepper Spray?

Without further ado, let’s begin!

Top 3 Picks

In a hurry? Here are the winners.

Product
Editor’s Choice & Best Seller
SABRE Frontiersman Bear Spray 9.2 oz (Holster Options & Multi-Pack Options) Maximum Strength & Larger Protective...#ad
Professional's Choice
UDAP 18CP Super Magnum Bear Spray, Multi,13.4oz#ad
Best Value
SABRE Advanced Compact Pepper Spray with Clip – 3-in-1 Formula (Pepper Spray, CS Tear Gas & UV Marking Dye), Police...#ad
Image
SABRE Frontiersman Bear Spray 9.2 oz (Holster Options & Multi-Pack Options) Maximum Strength & Larger Protective...#ad
UDAP 18CP Super Magnum Bear Spray, Multi,13.4oz#ad
SABRE Advanced Compact Pepper Spray with Clip – 3-in-1 Formula (Pepper Spray, CS Tear Gas & UV Marking Dye), Police...#ad
Price
$51.06
$64.99
$7.99
Prime
-
-
Our Rating
Editor’s Choice & Best Seller
Product
SABRE Frontiersman Bear Spray 9.2 oz (Holster Options & Multi-Pack Options) Maximum Strength & Larger Protective...#ad
Image
SABRE Frontiersman Bear Spray 9.2 oz (Holster Options & Multi-Pack Options) Maximum Strength & Larger Protective...#ad
Price
$51.06
Prime
-
Our Rating
Read Full Review
View on Amazon
Professional's Choice
Product
UDAP 18CP Super Magnum Bear Spray, Multi,13.4oz#ad
Image
UDAP 18CP Super Magnum Bear Spray, Multi,13.4oz#ad
Price
$64.99
Prime
-
Our Rating
Read Full Review
View on Amazon
Best Value
Product
SABRE Advanced Compact Pepper Spray with Clip – 3-in-1 Formula (Pepper Spray, CS Tear Gas & UV Marking Dye), Police...#ad
Image
SABRE Advanced Compact Pepper Spray with Clip – 3-in-1 Formula (Pepper Spray, CS Tear Gas & UV Marking Dye), Police...#ad
Price
$7.99
Prime
Our Rating
Read Full Review
View on Amazon

Chief Editor

Brian

25
Hours Researching

30
Products Evaluated

600
Reviews Considered

15
Researched Sources

Best Bear Sprays

If you are a person that prefers spending your vacations on a popular beach or enjoying what city life has to offer you, then you will probably not be interested in the product that we are about to review. Yet if you love camping and exploring the outdoors, then you will probably understand how important bear spray is.

Bear spray is the type of product that you hope will be close by, but you also hope that you will never need to use it. This is understandable even when you love the wilderness and all nature has to offer you, not many people enjoy the thought of seeing or coming close to a wild bear. If you ever do encounter an unexpected attack, then you need to be prepared. The best protection for these types of situations would have to be a reliable bear spray.

A few years back, the only choice that people had to scare away or fight off bears or any other animal known for attacking humans would involve using a gun. However, researchers have now discovered that bear spray in a can works more effectively and faster than a gun when it comes to these encounters. In addition, not all of us know how to operate a gun, and it is never an easy task to try and aim or even fire while you are in a panic.

Fortunately, with bear spray, your aim doesn’t need to be accurate or perfect as the contents are released in a liquid. The spray creates a fog which quickly causes a burning sensation that is extreme to the attacking animal.

Here is a list of some of the best types of bear sprays to consider before you venture out into the wild again.

1. SABRE FRONTIERSMAN Bear Spray – Editor’s Choice & Best Seller

SABRE Frontiersman Bear Spray 9.2 oz (Holster Options & Multi-Pack Options) Maximum Strength & Larger Protective...#ad
  • MAXIMUM STOPPING POWER: The only bear spray with an in-house...
  • GREATEST PROTECTION AT SAFEST DISTANCE - 35 FEET: Traveling...
  • GREATEST PROTECTIVE BARRIER PER BURST: Rapidly deploys the...
  • RIGOROUSLY TESTED FOR CERTAINTY AND PEACE OF MIND: E.P.A....
  • SAFER FOR YOU, THE ENVIRONMENT AND THE BEAR: FRONTIERSMAN...

Adhering strictly to all the requirements that the EPA has set out, the Frontiersman Bear Spray is a match with the upper limits of the main capsaicinoid strength (2.0%), which means it is a highly effective bear repellent. This is also the only canister (9.2 ounces) that has the ability to achieve a 35-feet firing range. This offers a bigger window for reaction time against an attacking or charging bear, where it is able to cover 30+ feet/sec. The holster provided with this product will allow you to fire your spray fluidly from your hip when you are faced with a sudden attack while walking in the forest or the woods.

What I really enjoyed about this bear spray is the fact that it has already undergone testing for its abilities to deter bears at Elmendorf AFB based in Elmendorf, Alaska, and Brown Bear Resources based in Missoula, Montana, with positive results that were consistent throughout. This manufacturer even provides its exclusive HLPC guarantee when it comes to quality. This will mean that you are guaranteed that this spray will not let you down when you are faced with an emergency because the spray was derived from a batch that was weak. This is a common issue faced by other similar products currently available.

However, there is a notable drawback when it comes to this spray. This has to do with that when you activate the spray it delivers 1.84 oz per second. This means that your can will be empty within 5 seconds, which is under the 6 seconds recommended by experts.

Yet when it comes to consumer satisfaction, most users praised this product for its effectiveness, along with a couple of unique stories on how the spray prevented serious injuries or saved lives. There were also, on the other hand, a few complaints about the build quality, yet not important enough to indicate a design flaw that is serious. This product is one of the stronger candidates when it comes to the best of the bear sprays currently available on the markets.

Pros
  • Contains the maximum suggested capsaicinoid strength of 2.0%
  • The maximum range when compared to its competitors of 35 ft
  • Tested by an in-house HLPC lab and external organizations
Cons
  • No warranty from the manufacturer
  • A few complaints about materials that are flimsy

2. Counter Assault – EPA Certified, Maximum Strength & Distance Bear Repellent Spray

No products found.

If the name of this product has impressed you, it should, because the Counter Assault Bear Deterrent is a Delta Force when it comes to bear sprays. Designed with a patented safety cap, this feature prevents accidental discharge and comes with its own holster that securely holds the spray.

The container is oversized and will dispense the entire product in as little as 9.2 seconds. This bear deterrent delivers the maximum capsaicin formula of 2% permitted by the EPA. The safety mechanism and the package are both designed to prevent accidental discharges.

Many repeat buyers regard this product as the only bear spray they will ever use, as the brand is more than 90% effective once this spray hits the target.

This brand does not come with an attached shelf-life, which means if you only go camping every now and again, or the fact that this mega product has such a fast delivery system could be why you decide to buy it.

Pros
  • The favorite brand for campers due to the safety features and the size of the can
  • This brand is 90% effective once the contents are released
  • No restrictions on shelf-life like many other brands
  • Empties the contents uniformly and quickly
  • The formulation provides the maximum capsaicin percentage permitted by the FDA
Cons
  • Pricy when compared to the competitor products
  • The availability can sometimes be problematic as this product often sells out very fast
  • Has a shorter range when compared to competitor brands
  • The repeated action of inserting the container into the hoster may open seams

3. Udap 12HP Bear Spray

Sale
Udap 12HP Bear Spray#ad
  • FREE 32 Page UDAP Bear Safety Tips booklet included!
  • Glow in the Dark Safety Clip with chain attached
  • Developed by a bear attack survivor
  • Hottest bear spray available at 2% CRC
  • 30 foot spray range

This bear spray may come in a small package, yet it packs a powerful punch. This spray features a 2% strength with a small size of just 7.9 ounces, along with a 30 feet range.

This product also features a safety cap that, offers a unique glow in the dark feature. This product only shoots for 4 seconds, yet it is designed for shooting a single, yet strong spray.

If you prefer carrying something a bit more compact, that still offers you with extreme power, this may be the right bear spray for you. This product is small, easy to handle and carry, without a decrease in performance.

There are a few individuals that had experienced bear encounters in Alaska. They used this spray for protection and none of them sustained any injuries. They deterred the bear, and everyone managed to stay safe.

The UDAP trigger is not suitable when it comes to burst fire, and the triggering mechanism that is manual does take a bit of getting used to. An added addition to the package is a free booklet which gives you more information about how to stay safe from bears along with a small bag to carry your spray around in.

Pros
  • 30 feet range
  • 2% strength
  • Free bag and booklet
  • Powerful, yet compact
Cons
  • Not a good trigger when it comes to burst fire

4. Bear Guard Alaska Bear Pepper Spray 9 Ounce Can with Nylon Holster

Bear Guard Alaska Bear Pepper Spray 9 Ounce Can with Nylon Holster#ad
  • EFFECTIVE BEAR PROTECTION - Includes ONE (1) Guard Alaska 9...
  • TESTED & PROVEN - Guard Alaska was intensively tested for...
  • 9 SECOND CONTINUOUS SPRAY - Releases 9 ounces of bear...
  • MAXIMUM STRENGTH - 1.34% total capsaicinoid formula, 9 ounce...
  • ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE - Does not contain flammable or ozone...

If the graphic on the product label failed to convince you about choosing this spray, then perhaps the marketing promise from Guard Alaska that states “ an ultra-hot pepper spray proven so effective its made only to repel all types of bear species” will.

This formulation is environmentally safe and has no impact or the Ozone layer and it won’t flame up, which is probably why the Alaska Science and Technolgy Foundation endorsed this product. This is a high-volume spray to deter bears that is available in 2 packages. The first is dedicated to the product, while the other package is for the sprays holster which comes with a Velcro closure, nylon sleeve, and a durable belt hook.

The manufacturer of this product has extensively tested these sprays and discovered that the disbursal rate is around 9 seconds. This means that even though you are only getting 9 ounces, this fog is dispensed very quickly.

Even though it has only been tested exclusively for the last 6 years in Alaska, this product will work just as well in every other state.

Pros
  • The EPA has approved this product as safe to use
  • Targets all types of bear species which include those that are found outside of Alaska
  • The entire product is disbursed in 9 seconds
  • The hand trigger offers a fast response
  • The only product that claims it does not impact the ozone layer
Cons
  • A few pressurization problems were reported
  • The distance for coverage is close to half when compared to competitors
  • The construction issues with the holster could prove to be problematic
  • A bit pricey when you compare it to the other brands in a similar size

5. Mace Brand Bear Pepper Spray

No products found.

The functionality and usability of bear sprays are also an important consideration. This is the reason why many people prefer small and compact pepper sprays.

For these people, a spray that acts as a defense works better when they can hold the can properly. This is the main advantage that the Mace Brand Bear Pepper Spray is able to offer its users with.

This product comes in a very compact canister, and it is even easy to carry it in your hand. It can also easily fit into an outside compartment on a backpack.

This 9 oz can is capable of spraying up to a maximum of 30 feet. With this fogger-type spray, you are able to disburse the contents in 5.4 seconds while generating an adequate amount of fog to target a bear and make sure you drive the animal away.

Pros
  • Easy and compact to carry without or with a holster
  • A powerful bear-repellent formulation
  • Works on all types of bear species
  • A decent spraying time and distance
Cons
  • The can empties out very quickly
  • Does not come with its own holster

6. UDAP 18HP Super Magnum Bear Spray – Professional’s Choice

UDAP 18CP Super Magnum Bear Spray, Multi,13.4oz#ad
  • 13.4oz-380g Super Magnum Bear Spray w/Chest Holster (fog)
  • UDAP Industries, Inc. manufactures the world's hottest...

This effective bear spray comes with a 13.4-ounce quantity, and to date is the biggest EPA registered bear-deterrent product currently available. The 2.0% capsaicinoid concentration means it is just as good as its strongest competitors and is designed to disperse a fiery and dense fog to protect you for an attacking bear from a maximum of 35 feet away. However, this also means this spray is more on the expensive side as the contents run out within 7 seconds, which is on the lower side when compared to some of its competitors.

Even though the Super Magnum Bear Spray has received a lot of praise from certain users when it comes to its effectiveness for an actual encounter against wild animals and bears. There has been an issue that is serious which was raised by a user. This has to do with the trigger that prevents easy bursts of firing. As soon as you press down on the trigger, it has to be manually depressed in order to stop the spray. This could prove to be difficult when faced with a real encounter.

For this reason, this bear deterrent seems to be a design that features a 1-in-the-chamber deal. This is a turn-off for many considering how big it is, and it would have made this product the perfect weapon when it came to sustained defense against attacks from wild animals.

Pros
  • The maximum CRC of 2.0% stipulated by the EPA
  • A 35 feet range
  • The canister produces a far denser cloud of fog when compared to other competitors
  • Comes with a free 32-page book about bear safety
Cons
  • The spray duration is somewhat short
  • The trigger does not allow for burst firing that is easy
  • Pricey

7. UDAP Bear Spray With Camo Hip Holster

Udap Bear Spray with Camo Hip Holster#ad
  • Includes camouflage hip holster.
  • Hottest Bear Spray Formula at 2% CRC
  • Most Powerful Bear Spray Fog!
  • 30 foot spray range.
  • Most trusted bear spray product Developed by a bear attack...

This product comes with a bear deterrent spray along with a stylish hip holster. The formulation is super hot and regarded as effective enough to prevent possible attacks. When activated the spray will produce a pungent fog which causes a severe burning sensation to the attacking animal.

Even though this formulation is very powerful and strong, it isn’t lethal to the environment or the animal. The product is registered with the EPA and has been tested and proven to be highly effective on wild animals and bears.

It also comes with a cap that features a safety clip which offers a fast release along with a seal that is secured to stop accidental discharges.

Although the formula is extremely powerful, it is not lethal for the animal or to the environment. It is EPA registered and proven to be very effective on bears and other wild animals. The trendy camouflage design of the hip holster makes it ideal for camping trips in the wild.

Pros
  • A powerful formulation at 2% CRC
  • A spray range of up to 30 feet
  • Comes with a fast release safety-cap
  • Safe on the environment and not lethal to the animal
Cons
  • The holster is not very durable

8. SABRE 3-IN-1 Pepper Spray – Police Strength – Best Value

SABRE Advanced Compact Pepper Spray with Clip – 3-in-1 Formula (Pepper Spray, CS Tear Gas & UV Marking Dye), Police...#ad
  • GUARANTEED SABRE MAXIMUM STRENGTH FORMULA IN EVERY...
  • PROTECTION AT A SAFE DISTANCE AGAINST MULTIPLE THREATS:...
  • ADVANCED 3-IN-1 FORMULA: Powerful Defense Spray formulation...
  • EASY TO CARRY PROTECTION: The clip allows the Defense Spray...
  • STAY SAFE WITH FREE SAFETY TRAINING: Feel secure with every...

While the standard pepper sprays are not usually recommended, this product is the ideal multifunctional spray that is effective to use to protect yourself should you encounter a bear while out in nature. The Sabre pepper spray has a limited range of only 15 feet, yet does offer up to 35 bursts to help keep a bear away.

It also comes with an impressive 4-years shelf life, so you can be sure the spray will still be effective for the next couple of camping trips. This spray is designed to produce a big smoke cloud which will help keep an attacking animal from getting close to you and attacking you.

The primary concern about this bear deterrent is the distance that is lacking. However, this is the type of spray that could prove to be highly effective in a dense area with its multiple bursts. This means you can tackle more than one target in close successions.

Pros
  • Efficient bursts of speed
  • Produces a great cloud
  • Long shelf-life
  • Provides a multifunctional use
Cons
  • The distance is not very effective

9. SABRE Red Pepper Gel – Police Strength – Tactical Series with 18-Foot (5.5M) Range, 18 Bursts & Belt Holster

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SABRE Tactical Pepper Gel With Belt Holster, 18 Bursts of Maximum Police Strength OC Spray, Quick Access Flip Top...#ad
  • PERSONAL PROTECTION YOU CAN TRUST: SABRE is the #1 pepper...
  • GUARANTEED SABRE MAXIMUM STRENGTH FORMULA IN EVERY...
  • GEL IS SAFER WITH GREATER RANGE: Pepper gel has an...
  • TACTICAL PROTECTION ON-THE-GO: This professional grade...
  • STAY SAFE WITH FREE SAFETY TRAINING: Feel secure with every...

The Red Pepper Gel by Sabre is also a very effective type of pepper spray that you can safely use when visiting Bear Country to stop a bear attack. The range is also somewhat lacking with this product as it only gives you 18 feet. However, it can reach as far as 20 feet giving you a bit more time in order to run away.

This product offers up to 18 bursts which give you the opportunity to stave off the wild animal or an attacker multiple times when you are faced with a dangerous situation. This pepper spray also comes with a holster that you can position on either your chest or on your belt. This helps to ensure the spray is right where you need when you need to spring into action.

We enjoyed the price which is relatively cheap, yet there is a concern when it comes to the overall reaching distance with this spray. This is a product that has the highest ratings from the best police officials from across the globe, and it will prove to be an effective weapon when out in nature and you find yourself trapped in an area that is dense.

Pros
  • Provides multiple bursts
  • Comes with a decent quality holster
  • Priced reasonably
Cons
  • The range is lacking

10. Mace Brand Self Defense Police Strength Pepper Spray Gun with Strobe LED

Sale
Mace Brand Self Defense Pepper Spray Gun with Strobe LED (Matte Black) – Accurate 20’ Powerful Pepper Spray, Leaves...#ad
  • Accurate, Long-Range Protection – Accurate & Effective,...
  • Strong Formula – Oc Pepper Spray Causes Respiratory...
  • Integrated Led Light: A Dual Mode Led Strobe Light Distracts...
  • Safe And Easy To Use – This Mace Brand Pepper Spray Gun...

In addition to the bear sprays, here is another effective self-defense pepper-spray gun which is combined with a Strobe LED light which helps to illuminate your target.

This is an outstanding safety tool that you can use on human and animal attackers when you are faced with potential danger. This product will give you a range of between 15 to 20 feet and you can use the spray 7 times.

Once you have your aim and you spray, the strong 10% OC pepper formulation releases a strong stream which quickly leaves a burning sensation that is unbearable on your target.

You are also able to practice with this self-defense spray by first using a water cartridge in order to perfect your technique and your aim. This will help you to quickly defend yourself should you ever face an attack.

This gun is not regarded as light-weight, so you will need to use the provided holster to carry your weapon around.

Pros
  • The spray range is good
  • The formulation is highly concentrated
  • Uses a Strobe LED
  • Comes with its own practice cartridge
  • Not lethal yet extremely effective for both human and animal attackers
Cons
  • This spray is released in a stream so you need to ensure it reaches the attacker’s face. This means you need to perfect your aim along with a fairly sturdy grip.

How Do Bear Sprays Work?

The bear repellents are designed to shoot out atomized capsaicin in bursts which is one of the derivatives of the cayenne pepper. This occurs through aerosol cans. The spray can reach up to 8 meters yet the effectiveness does decrease the further away you are. The result causes the attacker’s lung membranes, nose and eyes to swell. This causes total yet temporary blindness for the attacker along with breathing difficulties. In most cases, this will force the bear or attacking animal to quickly move away from you, giving you the chance to make a fast retreat.

Why Use Bear Spray?

Guns are not usually very effective when it comes to bears. If you want to use a gun you need to be skilled as a hunter, have an extremely steady hand combined with very fast reflexes and nerves of absolute steel. And if you have heard of the reports that the US Wildlife Department have released, even all these skills will not always save you from an attacking bear. One of the issues when it comes to bears is that they are very tough animals. A single shot from a rifle to the animals head may stop the bear, yet getting this shot right when you are faced by charging bear is just about impossible. The bear sprays, on the other hand, will quickly target the breathing and visibility of the bear, which makes the animal instinctively stop and retreat. This gives you ample time to get away.

Guns can cause death, while the bear spray won’t. If you threatened mortally by an attacking beast while out in the woods, it becomes hard to think about the pleas from the environmentalists about saving the wildlife. Yet since it has now been proven scientifically that the bear sprays are far more effective when compared to firearms, this is safe measure for yourself and the bear to protect you from an attack. Additionally, if you are traveling in a group, you may accidentally cause an injury or even worse kill another person if your gun goes off in the wrong direction. The bear spray repellents are non-lethal, so even when you spray another person by mistake with the bear repellant you are still able to get guide them safely away from the impending danger.

Buying Guide: Understanding How to Select Bear Spray

When walking on the trails, it is best to have a bear spray available to use. The spray could keep bears away while protecting you from an attack. It could mean the difference between life or death. You should know a few important things before you begin your search for the perfect spray.

How Strong Is It?

The sprays that are made to repel bears are a lot like pepper spray, but the ingredients used are known for being even stronger. The primary ingredient in these products is Oleoresin Capsicum. There is a higher percentage of this ingredient in bear spray than there is in traditional pepper spray that a person would carry around with them to keep themselves safe. You should always look for something that is strong enough to take a bear down.

What Is the Range Like?

Always get extra details about the range of the spray before you buy it. You want to be able to effectively spray the bear from a distance. You do not want to wait until it is right in front of your face because then you are likely going to panic and could end up dropping the product to the ground simply because your hands are shaking. Rather than putting yourself in that type of position, look for a bear spray that has a range of at least 16 feet. There are options available that can reach up to 35 feet.

How Long Does It Spray?

You need to know how much time you have when you are pressing the nozzle and letting the spray come out of the bottle. Most of these products will run for at least four seconds, but some run for up to six or seven seconds at a time. Look on the bottle to see if it has been approved by the EPA because then you will know that what you are using is an effective product that works right.

How Big Is It?

Because you are trying to walk around and have a good time while enjoying the scenery, you probably do not want to get stuck carrying a heavy bottle around with you. The good news is that these products typically weigh a pound or less, which means they will not take up a lot of space. You can always bring multiple cans with you to have as a back up just in case you do end up needing it.

Where Should It Go?

Some hikers make a common yet unfortunate mistake of placing the bear spray inside their hiking backpack. However, it will take time for you to take your backpack off, open it up, and then pull the bear spray out, and that is not a good thing when you have a bear coming toward you. Instead of throwing the product into your hiking backpack, you should place it in your front pocket or purchase a holster to wear. There are holsters that are convenient and easy to access when you need to grab your spray and get ready to use it.

If you are going to use a holster, choose one of the high-quality, durable options that are made to last. Some of the features you should look for in a holster include:

  • Easy to access
  • Holds the product with no problem
  • Comfortable to wear on your body

It is best to find a holster that you can wear around your belt or even across your chest. You need to have the bear spray in a spot that you can get to with ease because you never know when a bear is going to unexpectedly pop up out of nowhere.

How Many Cans Should I Bring?

When hiking with a group of people, each person should have their own bottle of bear spray available. However, if you are going out on your own, be prepared with a backup can. It never hurts to carry two or three cans around with you at a time. You may run into several bears while you are out on your hiking adventures and you do not want those bears to cause any harm to you. The extra protection is essential for you.

When Does It Expire?

After you have purchased the bear spray, keep track of the expiration date. It will eventually expire and will no longer be effective. If you never end up needing to use it by the time it expires, throw it out and purchase a new one. You should know that the average can of bear spray will last for at least three years before expiring.

How Much Will It Cost?

A nine-ounce can of the product will typically cost close to $35. However, you can find more affordable and more expensive options in stores and online. The price varies based on the size of the product and what it comes with, especially since some of these sprays come in pairs or come with convenient holsters that you can start using.

How To Use Bear Spray?

Knowing how to use the spray is a big deal. You would not want to make the mistake of doing it the wrong way when you have a bear next to you. While taking a firm stance, you should hold the repellent with both hands, remove the cap, and then aim in the direction of the bear while carefully pressing down on the nozzle. Move your hands to the left and the right in the shape of the letter Z while you are spraying.

Additional Tips

When you do come across a bear, try not to overreact. If you start running, the animal will likely begin chasing you. The best thing for you to do is to stay as calm as you can. Remember that the spray can end up on your hands or body depending on how windy it is outside. Try to avoid spraying in the direction that the wind is blowing to avoid having the spray hit you. Never put your bottle in a hot car or anywhere else where the temperature is too high because it could end up exploding on you.

Common Questions About Bear Spray

Answers to Some of the Most Common Questions

Is It Necessary to Have Bear Spray?

You do not necessarily need to bring bear spray along with you when you are outdoors, but it is always good to have it when you know that there is a possibility of an encounter with a bear. It is best to have the spray attached to a holster and on your body when you are walking around in different remote areas, including the Glacier National Park and the Yellowstone National Park. These are just two of the many parks that you can visit that are known for having bears roaming around.

Some of these parks provide individuals with bear spray. It is often available for purchase and you can even receive instructions on how to use it in an effective way. Some parks do not allow people to bring bear spray with them, such as the Yosemite National Park in the state of California. They classify the spray as a type of weapon, which is why it is prohibited. Before heading out to a specific park, find out about the specific rules they might have.

Are There Places Where It Is Considered Illegal?

You may enjoy knowing that bear spray is legal to own and carry. There are restrictions on other types of pepper sprays in certain areas, such as the state of New York and the state of Massachusetts. One thing you must know is that you cannot bring the product with you on an airplane. If you are planning to travel, you will need to buy the spray when you arrive at your destination rather than trying to take it on the airplane with you.

How Long Is It Good For?

After it has been manufactured, the bear spray will typically last for as long as five years before it expires. You can check the bottle to find out exactly when it is due to expire to make sure that you are not using something that is no longer as effective. Although it may still work past the expiration date, it is still in your best interest to replace any bear spray that has since expired because you would not want to have a problem using it when you truly need it the most.

Is It Possible to Put it in Luggage When Traveling Via Airplane?

Bear spray is not allowed on airplanes. It does not matter if you are attempting to put it in checked baggage or in a carry-on bag that you would bring with you on the plane. It is prohibited because it is a flammable product.

Can the Spray Get Used More Than One Time?

You do not have to use the entire contents of the bottle at one time. Press the nozzle down and spray as much as you need to. You may still have some product left inside the bottle for later use.

Is the Spray Going to Cause Permanent Damage to the Bear?

Although you want to avoid an attack from a bear, you also probably do not want to cause much harm to the animal. You should know that while the spray causes temporary pain, it is not going to cause permanent damage to the animal. The purpose of the spray is to cause a burning sensation that keeps the bear from being able to attack you while giving you time to quickly get away. The discomfort eventually wears off for the bear.

Is It Safe to Use on People and Different Types of Animals?

It is known as a bear spray for a reason – it should only get used on bears. You should avoid spraying the product at humans or any other animals you might come across. There is no telling how much damage the product can cause to people and other types of animals that are out there in the wilderness.

Is It Best to Practice Using the Product?

You should learn how to properly use your bear spray before you ever end up needing to use it to protect yourself. You do not need to have the best aim, but you should know how to hold the bottle and move it around to effectively get the bear to go away. It helps to practice removing the product from the holster, too.

Is It Extremely Hot?

A lot of the bear sprays that are currently on the market contain about two percent of CPC, an ingredient that causes the burning sensation to the bears when it is sprayed at them. It is an ingredient that is found in chili peppers.

What Should You Do If You Get Some Spray on You?

By practicing with the product, you can learn how to use it without getting it on your body. However, there are times when you may be acting quickly, and you could end up getting a bit of the product on your skin. If this does happen, you should wash it off as quickly as you can to avoid dealing with an uncomfortable burning sensation. If your skin is burning, you can use vegetable oil to soothe the skin in such a natural and effective way.

How Does Bear Spray Differ From Pepper Spray?

Pepper spray is a product that is made for people to use when they want to have a non-violent way to protect themselves from people who could cause harm to them. The chemical that is in pepper spray is found in chili peppers. If you have had these peppers on your fingers and then touched your eyes, you have likely experienced the stinging and burning that these peppers can cause, which is why they are used to create this type of a concoction that can keep you safe against potential attackers. When it is used correctly, the pepper spray will cause excruciating pain as the eyelids start to swell. The person who gets sprayed in the eyes will not be able to see for a while before the swelling eventually starts to subside.

The bear spray is a lot like pepper spray, but there are some differences. For example, the concentration of CPC is much lower. You are not trying to cause a lot of harm to the bear, but you are simply trying to get it to move away from you to avoid an attack.

Final Words

A bottle of pepper spray is beneficial to those looking to feel safe and more protected while they are walking around and going to different places. While it is an effective product to use on a human attacker, it is not something you should use on bears. If you know you are going for a hike or camping adventure and there is a chance you will encounter bears, you should have a bear spray on you because then you can use it if you need to do so. Choose a large can that contains plenty of the product because then you will not need to worry so much about running out if a bear is in front of you.

There are a few things you need to look at before you spend money on a bear spray. Make sure it contains enough liquid, has a decent spray range, and fits into a holster that you will wear on your body when you are outdoors.

References

Best Bear Sprays ( Top 3 Picks )

Product
Editor’s Choice & Best Seller
SABRE Frontiersman Bear Spray 9.2 oz (Holster Options & Multi-Pack Options) Maximum Strength & Larger Protective...#ad
Professional's Choice
UDAP 18CP Super Magnum Bear Spray, Multi,13.4oz#ad
Best Value
SABRE Advanced Compact Pepper Spray with Clip – 3-in-1 Formula (Pepper Spray, CS Tear Gas & UV Marking Dye), Police...#ad
Image
SABRE Frontiersman Bear Spray 9.2 oz (Holster Options & Multi-Pack Options) Maximum Strength & Larger Protective...#ad
UDAP 18CP Super Magnum Bear Spray, Multi,13.4oz#ad
SABRE Advanced Compact Pepper Spray with Clip – 3-in-1 Formula (Pepper Spray, CS Tear Gas & UV Marking Dye), Police...#ad
Price
$51.06
$64.99
$7.99
Prime
-
-
Our Rating
Editor’s Choice & Best Seller
Product
SABRE Frontiersman Bear Spray 9.2 oz (Holster Options & Multi-Pack Options) Maximum Strength & Larger Protective...#ad
Image
SABRE Frontiersman Bear Spray 9.2 oz (Holster Options & Multi-Pack Options) Maximum Strength & Larger Protective...#ad
Price
$51.06
Prime
-
Our Rating
Read Full Review
View on Amazon
Professional's Choice
Product
UDAP 18CP Super Magnum Bear Spray, Multi,13.4oz#ad
Image
UDAP 18CP Super Magnum Bear Spray, Multi,13.4oz#ad
Price
$64.99
Prime
-
Our Rating
Read Full Review
View on Amazon
Best Value
Product
SABRE Advanced Compact Pepper Spray with Clip – 3-in-1 Formula (Pepper Spray, CS Tear Gas & UV Marking Dye), Police...#ad
Image
SABRE Advanced Compact Pepper Spray with Clip – 3-in-1 Formula (Pepper Spray, CS Tear Gas & UV Marking Dye), Police...#ad
Price
$7.99
Prime
Our Rating
Read Full Review
View on Amazon

Last update on 2022-05-30 / Rating by Author / Affiliate links, Images, Descriptions & Price from Amazon Product Advertising API

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