The propellent must dry before the debilitating ingredient can take effect, so there are several seconds lost between contact and effects. Spraying on a rain-soaked face obviously would reduce the effectiveness. The recovery time for 10 percent capsicum is longer than for the five percent, but the 10 percent does not work faster or inflict more severe deterrent. A recent run brought me bace to face with a pit bull. Without missing a stride, I sprayed him directly in the face.
Capsicum comes in either a stream spray or cone spray.
The former is superior for closeness and maximum solution hitting the target. I met a fellow recently who stated that his daughter carried pepper spray but had no idea how to use it. Very foolish and dangerous. Peruse this home page frequently for tips on personal safety, including the proper use of Pepper Spray. Full Contact McCormick has written for Full Contact , an American publication that deals with the use of firearms, knives and open hand techniques for self-defense.