Pepper spray

Pepper spray works, and it has averted many potentially dangerous encounters and saved many lives. It is not a complete fail-safe, but research done in the late 1990's indicated 80% effectiveness. Generally the brands that are available can be relied upon, though the original American-produced "Counter Assault" and the Canadian "Bear Scare" got highest marks from the researchers. Whichever brand a person buys, it is important that it is comprised 10% or more of Oleoresin Capsicum.

Understanding the limitations of pepper spray is very important: Generally, it has a range of 18-20 feet, in still air, and it is very easily blown off target in even a fairly light wind! The contents of a standard 275ml can will last for approximately 6 seconds if the trigger is kept depressed, so anyone who feels the need to test their pepper spray before each outing is likely to find they have none or little left when they actually need it. The best policy may be to test a can soon after buying it, with a very quick half-second or so burst, and then to do the same at the beginning of the following spring. If a can is dropped or damaged it may be wise to do another brief test to see if it still functions, but over-testing could defeat the purpose of buying the spray in the first place. Pepper spray normally has a shelf life of three years, after which time it should be replaced. Pepper spray is coloured, so an initial test, as suggested, will allow a new user to have an impression of range and how to "aim" the can. Pepper spray should never make its carrier bolder than they might otherwise be; it is not a guarantee of safety, but it provides a further option in the unlikely event of an attack by a bear.

A 275ml can of pepper spray will cost between $30-35, on average, in the US, and $35-40 in Canada. A holster will cost a minimum of $10 to $15 in each country.