When it comes to self defense products pepper spray is hands down the most popular out there , however it is important to know that it is illegal in a few states . Currently as I am writing this , there were a couple states where you could not posses it and a few where there are certain restrictions .
First off Cali. has a certain restriction on pepper spray , the biggest bottle of defense spray you can have is a two and a half ounce bottle of spray .
In Michigan, New York, Wisconsin, and Hawaii, pepper spray regulations state you are allow to poses it . There are other limitations that go along with these regulations though . If you visit one of these locations or happen to live there , you will have to be sure that you are holding the type that you are allowed to have in those states . As an example if you are located in Michigan you are only allowed to poses spray that is considered Michigan Approved spray . The other states listed have similar laws to Michigan . Make sure you are aware of the local defense spray restrictions .
Along with the previous states Mass. also has their own restrictions if you would like to be able to have pepper spray in a legal manner . Their pepper spray law says you must get a FID (Firearms Identification Card). If you live there are want to get one then head to your local law enforcement station , fill out an applications, present 2 forms of government issue identification and pay a fee . When you get your FID, keep it on your person (and of course, to make the FID useful, keep your pepper spray on your person as well).
The legal implications
From time to time, civilians and law enforcement officers have managed to use pepper spray excessively or irresponsibly. Even though pepper spray is non-lethal, it does hurt to go through getting sprayed with pepper spray. If you have had pepper spray used on you in a very excessive manner , you have the ability to file suit .
It is not gone unnoticed with the public that police offers have been known to use pepper spray on people when use of it was clearly gratuitous. Litigation has been pressed, and the media have touched on the subject to a small extent. Due to these situations the justice dept. has issue information about the pros and cons of the use of pepper spray as well as suggesting that police officers receive more extensive training .
The high effectiveness of pepper spray is what makes it so popular as well as how easy it is to obtain legally. Individuals also have the options of other self defense weapons including stun guns but there are a lot more laws that govern them. People also find they are a little scary and choose not to use them as much . Because of those issue most people turn to pepper spray to keep them safe . The popularity grows every year and there is no sign of slowing. Anyone out there that is worried about their safety or just wants to take an extra step to make sure they are protected need to looking into getting themselves some mace pepper spray. This rings even more true if you have to walk to work or are a college student.