Wasp Spray VS Pepper Spray

Did you know in the U.S. alone there's one aggravated assault every 34 seconds?

Maybe you do know, and that's why you're here... Looking for information on wasp spray vs pepper spray.

There is a lot of information -- and misinformation -- circulating about the use of wasp spray for self defense.

We want to clear it up for you.

Read on to learn the differences between wasp spray and pepper spray so you can make an informed decision.

What is Wasp Spray?

Aerosol wasp spray is designed to have a fast 'knockdown' time for the insect or bug.

Knockdown refers to how quickly a pest will become immobile after getting sprayed. A lot of factors play into this, including:

• The size of the droplets
• The chemical used
• The aim of the person spraying
• What the chemical is mixed with

Wasp and hornet spray contains a neurotoxin. In fact, most insecticides work by using a neurotoxin to stop bugs in their tracks.

Pyrethroids and pyrethrins, the main ingredients in most wasp sprays, work very fast. They hold open the sodium channels of the wasp's nerves to render them immobile.

Because the nervous system can't react, the wasp is paralyzed.

Pyrethroids are harmless to humans. They can, however, kill other creatures such as fish.

The compound comes from the chrysanthemum plant. It is common in many pesticides and generally harmless to human beings.

But be warned! Many wasp sprays contain other ingredients that are highly toxic to humans.

Some of these chemical compounds will have critical effects on someone's health or even cause death unless treated with an antidote.

Many factors play into this effect, including the ones listed above. But the point is, that wasp spray should only be used for its primary purpose: getting rid of wasps.

Different than Pepper Spray

Pepper spray is also known as oleoresin capsicum spray. Capsaicin is the chemical compound found in chilis and other plants of the capsicum genus.

The compound has an inflammatory response to humans, including:

• Tears
• Pain
• Swelling
• Temporary blindness

It has been chosen for self-defense purposes because it is a less-than-lethal agent. There are extremely rare cases where pepper spray has caused death.

This usually only happens in victims with asthma and is considered exceptional. Normally, pepper spray can be successfully used as a protection weapon to reduce a threat while not causing long-term harm.

Pepper spray is used by police officers to reduce threats without resorting to violence. In fact, law enforcement injuries have decreased consistently since the introduction of pepper spray.

Pepper spray is an obvious choice when it comes to personal self-defense weapons.

It is also available for purchase on the market. This makes it a choice for personal self-defense for many people across the country.

Interested in learning more about what's in pepper spray?

Wasp Spray VS Pepper Spray

When it comes to wasp spray vs pepper spray for self-defense, the choice is clear.

Wasp spray:

• Has no scientific evidence to support it can stop an attacker.
• Is prohibited from being used for any other purpose than what is on the labeling by federal law.
• Can't even be recommended to be used in a manner other than what's on the label. To do so is a violation and a finable offense.
• Has never been tested on humans. The existing toxicity reports have data collected solely from a suicide attempt or accidental exposure incidents.

Basically, wasp spray is for wasps. Any use other than that is illegal and not proven effective.

Pepper sprays, on the other hand:

• Are made from natural pepper ingredients. The compound that creates a reaction, capsaicin, comes from peppers.
• Have been tested on humans and are considered less-than-lethal. They've also been proven effective for stopping an aggressive attacker.
• Civilian pepper sprays have been shown to be as strong as police force pepper sprays.
• Have decreased violent injuries to police officers in law enforcement since their introduction.
• Are legal to carry in all fifty of the United States.
• Can be bought legally for the specific purpose of self-defense.
• Can be used for safety against dogs and bears too, not just humans.

Spray Ingredients

And the majority of pepper sprays on the market are not mixed with any other chemicals that haven't been tested on humans. The active ingredient is oleoresin capsicum, OC for short.

Wasp spray, on the other hand, can be mixed with a ton of different things besides the active ingredient. And the active ingredient is a neurotoxin!

While the compound may stop a wasp in its tracks, there is no evidence to show it can stop an attacker.

So it's illegal. And it's potentially ineffective.

Understanding the Effectiveness and Safety of Pepper Spray vs. Wasp Spray

When choosing between wasp spray and pepper spray for self-defense, understanding the ingredients, intended use, and potential legal implications is crucial. Here’s a closer look at the components and effectiveness of each:

Ingredients and Intended Use

• Wasp Spray: Typically contains pyrethroids or pyrethrins, chemicals derived from the chrysanthemum plant. While effective against wasps, hornets, and other stinging insects by immobilizing them through neurotoxic action, these substances are designed specifically for pest control. The canister releases a stream targeted to reach distant wasp nests, which is not designed for precision in a self-defense situation.
• Pepper Spray: Contains oleoresin capsicum, an extract derived from hot peppers, which acts as a potent irritant to the eyes and skin. This non-lethal weapon is specifically formulated for self-defense, producing immediate temporary blindness, intense pain, and inflammation, allowing the user to escape danger.

Safety and Legal Concerns

• Wasp Spray: Using wasp spray on humans is not only illegal but also potentially dangerous. There is no evidence supporting its effectiveness as a deterrent in dangerous situations. Misuse of this product against humans could lead to legal penalties and unintended health complications for the assailant.
• Pepper Spray: Legally endorsed for self-defense, pepper spray is a proven deterrent in threatening situations. It’s recognized and regulated for personal safety, making it a safer and more reliable choice. Law enforcement agencies widely use pepper spray due to its immediate yet temporary incapacitating effects, minimizing long-term harm.

Comparing Effectiveness

• Range and Accuracy: Pepper spray canisters are designed for self-defense situations, offering a range of up to 20 feet with enhanced accuracy, which is crucial during an attack. Wasp sprays, while having a long range, are not designed for accuracy against moving targets such as human assailants.
• Response to Threat: The immediate inflammatory effects of pepper spray incapacitate an attacker quickly and efficiently, which is vital in a self-defense scenario. Wasp spray, however, lacks the proven capability to stop a human attacker reliably and could escalate the danger if not effective.

Choosing the Right Deterrent

For those concerned about personal safety and seeking effective self-defense solutions, pepper spray stands out as the superior choice. It is specifically designed for stopping aggressors, ensuring your safety with proven effectiveness and legal assurance. Wasp spray, while effective for its intended purpose of controlling insects, falls short in non-lethal defense and carries significant risks and legal concerns when misused on humans.

The Myth and the Legend

This urban legend has been circulating the internet for a while:

"A can of wasp spray is a great alternative to pepper spray when it comes to self-defense. It's more accurate in its trajectory and has the same debilitating effect.

It can stop an assailant by temporarily blinding them until they make it to the hospital for an antidote."

Another way this is presented online is that so-and-so has a self-defense teacher who taught them this.

Some people even claim they are self-defense teachers and this is what they practice and teach their students.

But the moral of the story is, that you can't believe everything you read.

When you really break down a comparison of wasp spray vs pepper spray, the facts show the truth.

And the myth that wasp spray is more accurate? Total bunk.

There are cans of pepper spray on the market that have a range of 20 feet or greater.

If you use wasp spray instead of OC spray, you might:

• Still miss your attacker.
• Not stop your attacker.
• End up in a legal battle.
• Get a hefty fine for using a pesticide in a way other than on the label.
• Harm someone permanently and possibly face other charges.

Protect yourself. Only use pepper spray for self defense.

Wasp Spray for Self Defense?

Looking for a great way to defend yourself? Wasp spray isn't the answer.

Now that you've read about wasp spray vs pepper spray, you might be wondering: "What's the best option for self-defense tools?"

Check out these self-defense toolkits that can meet all your needs instead of heading out for a can of wasp spray. You'll also find Mace brand sprays as well as electric shock weapons in our taser or stun gun categories.

Inside this website are many tools proven effective in keeping you safe.