Bear spray is subject to windspeed and direction. It can blow back in your face. The shooter is there to protect the group. Why would he suffer?
Have ya ever shot a 12ga with 3" slugs? I've got an old 870 we named "Vince". As in Vince Wilfork. 'Cause shooting it feels like a hit from big Vince even with 2.75" slugs! Hehehe. d;^)