What is OC Spray? The Complete Guide to Pepper Spray Types

Whether you call it OC spray, pepper spray, or capsicum spray, understanding what's actually inside that canister—and how different formulations and spray patterns affect performance—is essential for making an informed self-defense choice. This guide covers everything you need to know: the chemistry behind the heat, how to decode confusing strength ratings, which spray pattern works best for your situation, and the key limitations every user should understand.

What is OC Spray?

OC spray—short for Oleoresin Capsicum spray—is the technical name for what most people call "pepper spray." It's a less-lethal self-defense tool that uses a naturally-derived inflammatory compound extracted from hot peppers to temporarily incapacitate an attacker.

When sprayed in someone's face, OC causes an immediate and involuntary reaction: eyes slam shut, skin burns intensely, breathing becomes difficult, and disorientation sets in. These effects typically last 30-45 minutes, giving you time to escape a dangerous situation.

How OC Spray Works

Oleoresin Capsicum is an oily resin extracted from the placenta (the white membrane inside) of hot pepper plants in the Capsicum genus. The "active ingredient" responsible for the burning sensation is capsaicin—the same compound that makes jalapeños hot, just in much higher concentrations.

When OC contacts the skin, eyes, or respiratory system, it triggers an inflammatory response that:

• Forces eyes to close involuntarily (blepharospasm), causing temporary blindness
• Causes intense burning pain on exposed skin and mucous membranes
• Triggers coughing, gagging, and shortness of breath as it affects the respiratory system
• Creates disorientation that limits the attacker's ability to continue their assault

Unlike tear gas compounds (CS and CN), which rely on pain compliance, OC causes involuntary physical reactions. This makes it effective even against individuals under the influence of drugs or alcohol who might not respond to pain alone.

Chemical Compounds: OC vs CS vs CN

Not all defense sprays use the same active ingredients. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right product and know what to expect.

OC-Only vs "Triple Action" Formulas

Some products, like SABRE's Advanced 3-in-1 formula, combine OC with CS tear gas and UV marking dye. The theory is that CS provides additional irritant effects while OC handles the inflammatory response. The UV dye helps police identify an attacker later under blacklight.

However, many experts and law enforcement agencies prefer OC-only formulations (like SABRE Red or Fox Labs) because:

• OC alone produces involuntary responses regardless of pain tolerance
• CS effects can be reduced by drugs, alcohol, or mental illness
• Simpler formulas are less likely to have consistency issues

Understanding Pepper Spray Strength: MC%, OC%, and SHU

This is where things get confusing—and where marketing often misleads consumers. There are three common ways manufacturers describe pepper spray strength, but only one actually tells you how effective the spray will be.

The Three Strength Metrics

1. Major Capsaicinoids (MC%) — THE ONLY ACCURATE MEASURE

Major Capsaicinoids percentage is the only reliable indicator of pepper spray potency. It measures the actual concentration of the five capsaicinoid compounds responsible for the burning effect in the final spray formula.

• Civilian/Law Enforcement sprays: Typically 0.18% to 1.33% MC
• Bear sprays: 1.0% to 2.0% MC (EPA regulated maximum)
• High-potency sprays (e.g., UDAP): Up to 3.0% MC

The higher the MC percentage, the more potent the spray. A product with 1.33% MC will be significantly more effective than one with 0.18% MC.

2. Oleoresin Capsicum Percentage (OC%) — MISLEADING

OC percentage (typically listed as 2% to 18% OC) only tells you how much raw pepper oil is in the canister—not how hot that pepper oil actually is. A spray with 18% OC made from mild peppers can be weaker than a 2% OC spray made from extremely hot peppers.

3. Scoville Heat Units (SHU) — ALSO MISLEADING

SHU measures the "hotness" of peppers using a subjective taste test developed in 1912. While law enforcement sprays typically rate around 2 million SHU, this number refers to the raw OC ingredient—not the spray's final potency.

A company can claim "5 million SHU" by using extremely hot raw OC, then dilute it heavily in the final product. The SHU of the ingredient means nothing if there's very little of it in the can.

Strength Comparison Table

Spray Patterns: Gel vs Stream vs Fog vs Foam

How pepper spray is delivered matters as much as what's inside. Each spray pattern has distinct advantages and trade-offs depending on where you'll use it, wind conditions, and whether you might face multiple attackers.

Which Spray Pattern Should You Choose?

Canister Sizes: MK3, MK4, MK9 & More

Defense sprays come in standardized canister sizes, originally developed for law enforcement. Understanding these designations helps you choose the right capacity for your needs.

Effective Range & Deployment Distance

Understanding effective range is critical because pepper spray has a "sweet spot" where it works best—and using it outside that range reduces effectiveness or puts you at risk.

Optimal Deployment Distance: 6-12 Feet

According to SABRE, one of the leading manufacturers, pepper spray is most effective when used at 6-12 feet from the target, aiming for the attacker's eye region. This distance provides:

• Enough spray concentration to cause immediate effects
• Sufficient distance to avoid physical contact
• Time to spray and move (escape)

The Tueller Drill Problem

Here's a critical reality check: The Tueller Drill demonstrates that an attacker can close 21 feet in approximately 1.5 seconds. If your pepper spray is in your pocket or purse when an attack begins, you may not have time to deploy it effectively.

Range by Spray Pattern

Top Pepper Spray Brands Compared

Not all pepper spray is created equal. Here's how the major brands compare:

Effects on the Body & Recovery Time

Understanding what pepper spray does—and how long effects last—helps set realistic expectations for both users and those who might be exposed.

Immediate Effects (0-30 seconds)

• Eyes: Involuntary closure (blepharospasm), intense burning, temporary blindness
• Skin: Burning sensation on all contacted areas
• Respiratory: Coughing, gagging, shortness of breath, sensation of choking
• Mental: Disorientation, panic, inability to focus on attack

Duration of Effects

• Vision recovery: 7-15 minutes (most can partially see)
• Full eye recovery: 30-45 minutes
• Respiratory effects: 15-30 minutes
• Skin burning: 45-60 minutes (longer without decontamination)
• Residual discomfort: Several hours possible

Decontamination

The best way to reduce OC effects:

1. Move to fresh air and a well-ventilated area
2. Do NOT rub eyes—this spreads the oil and can damage the cornea
3. Flush eyes with cool water for 15-20 minutes
4. Wash skin with mild dish soap (helps break down the oily resin)
5. Remove contaminated clothing
6. Blink rapidly to help tear production flush the eyes

Critical Limitations You Must Understand

Pepper spray is a valuable self-defense tool, but it has significant limitations that every user must understand. Relying on it as your only option can leave you vulnerable.

1. Wind and Weather

Wind can blow spray back in your face, especially with cone/fog patterns. Rain can reduce effectiveness. Extreme cold can affect propellant pressure and spray distance.

2. Indoor Use Risks

Using pepper spray indoors—especially fog/cone patterns—will contaminate the entire area. You may incapacitate yourself along with the attacker. If you spray indoors, have an immediate escape route planned.

3. Delayed Effectiveness

Despite marketing claims of "instant" stopping power, full effects take 30-45 seconds to develop. An attacker can still harm you during this window, especially if they're already in close contact.

4. Variable Response

Some individuals show reduced response to OC spray due to:

• Drug or alcohol intoxication
• Mental illness or psychotic episodes
• High pain tolerance or adrenaline
• Previous exposure (some tolerance develops)

Studies show pepper spray reduces aggressive behavior by about 90% on average—meaning 1 in 10 attackers may continue despite being sprayed.

5. Expiration

Pepper spray loses effectiveness over time as propellant pressure drops and the OC degrades. Most sprays have a 2-4 year shelf life from manufacture date. Check the expiration date and replace accordingly.

6. Legal Restrictions

Pepper spray is legal in all 50 US states but with varying restrictions on size, concentration, and where you can carry it. It's illegal or heavily restricted in many countries including Canada, UK, Australia, and most of Europe.

7. Deployment Time

If your spray isn't immediately accessible, you may not be able to deploy it in time. The average attack gives you less than 2 seconds to respond.

When Pepper Spray Isn't the Answer

Given the limitations above, there are situations where pepper spray may not be your best option:

• Restricted environments: Airplanes, government buildings, schools, and many workplaces prohibit pepper spray
• International travel: Illegal in most countries outside the US
• Close-quarters situations: If an attacker is already grabbing you, spray deployment becomes nearly impossible
• Indoor encounters: Risk of self-contamination in enclosed spaces
• Windy conditions: Outdoor events, beaches, or open areas with unpredictable wind

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary: Choosing the Right Pepper Spray

When selecting a pepper spray, focus on these key factors:

1. MC Percentage: Look for at least 1.0% MC for reliable effectiveness
2. Spray Pattern: Match the pattern to your most likely use scenario (gel for all-around, stream for outdoor, cone for multiple threats)
3. Canister Size: Balance capacity with portability—a spray you don't carry is useless
4. Reputable Brand: Stick with SABRE, Fox Labs, or other law enforcement-trusted manufacturers
5. Legal Compliance: Verify your local laws before purchasing

And always remember: pepper spray is one component of personal safety, not a complete solution. Awareness, avoidance, and having backup options when spray isn't feasible are equally important.

For more information on self-defense options, including why tactical pens offer advantages in situations where pepper spray falls short, explore our complete guide to Covert Self-Defense or check out The Way of the Pen training program with Doug Marcaida.