[Leaning Right]

Since you're a cop, I'd like to throw a question out to you.

There are some folks out there who (for whatever reason) can't, or won't, use a firearm.

What is your opinion on pepper spray as a better-than-nothing alternative? And what brands do you recommend? Why?

Thanks.

[Blueflag]

Not a cop, but was a firefighter a looong time ago.

A BIC lighter and a can of flammable wasp spray.

even without being lit, the wasp spray in the face WILL stop ANYONE in their tracks.

If you ignite the emitted stream with the lighter, it makes an IMPRESSIVE flamethrower; and NO, the can will NOT, CANNOT explode.

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For a more benign and dual use nonlethal deterrent, buy the largest dry powder fire extinguisher you can handle. ANYONE you cover with the dry powder stream WILL be stopped, and find breathing quite difficult. Keep spraying them until they stop trying to get up. The powder is choking but non-toxic. You can then whack ‘em with the empty canister. But trust me, dry powder WILL stop anyone’s advance who needs to breathe air to live.

[TurboZamboni]

bear spray-like mace with a 20 foot range and bigger can.

if it doesn't immobilize them, they'll at least be blind for 20 minutes.

[Dan(9698)]

What is your opinion on pepper spray as a better-than-nothing alternative?

Wasp spray works better. It won't blow back in your face and disable you. Also it sticks to whatever it touches and isn't easy to wipe out of their eyes.

[thefactor]

OC spray is useful. I give keychain-friendly sized canisters to my female family members and give them safety tips.

For home defense, if a gun isn't an option, go for some large bear-spray pressurized canisters. They have a stream that is wider and longer. Distance is your best friend in these situations. Spray and pray, get out of the house. I'm sure hunting/camping supply stores carry them. I'm not sure if Oleoresin Capsicum (OC) is the active ingredient in bear spray, but that's the good stuff.