Frequently Asked Questions
What is Oleoresin Capsicum?
Oleoresin Capsicum is the oil taken from the placenta near the stem of a pepper.
Oleoresin Capsicum is the active ingredient used in most self-defense sprays.
What are Capsaicin & Capsaicinoids?
Oleoresin Capsicum is comprised of several different Capsaicinoids. The Capsaicinoid responsible for providing the pungency or hotness of a pepper and in turn “Pepper Spray” is called Capsaicin. Therefore, it is the percentage of the total capsaicinoids and capsaicin, not the capsicum percentage that is most important. Oleoresin Capsicum percentages only measure the amount of red pepper contained in the defense spray, not the pungency or effectiveness of the product.
Which is better CS or CN tear gas?
“Super CS Military Tear Gas” offers numerous advantages over CN “Mace” tear gas. Because of these advantages, the US Department of Defense switched from using CN tear gas to CS in the late 1950’s. CS offers the following advantages over CN/Mace.
- CS takes effect quicker.
- CS is more potent, but less toxic.
- CS is extremely effective even in low concentrations.
If blended formulations are more effective, why do many law enforcement agencies carry OC only products?
Law enforcement officers have different objectives for carrying defense sprays than do civilians. For civilians, besides hand to hand combat, self defense-sprays are usually the first, and only means of defense available. For this reason, it is absolutely imperative that civilians carry the most effective products possible. Ideally, the spray will completely incapacitate the attacker and allow the victim to escape and call the police. If the victim is able to contact local law enforcement immediately, there is a good chance that the law enforcement officers will be able to apprehend the attacker. If not, a description and an ultraviolet dye will make the attacker to the scene of the crime. Civilians should carry a defense spray which incapacitates the attacker for as long as possible.
Law enforcement officers carry defense sprays as their first means of defense. They use them with the intent to immediately gain control of a perpetrator. After the perpetrator is restrained by hand-cuffs, there is no need for the perpetrator to continue feeling the effects of the spray. Because the effects of the caused by tear gas and tear gas/red pepper blended sprays last longer, many agencies opt for OC only products because they dissipate quicker.
Are Law Enforcement Defense Sprays significantly more potent than civilian products?
There are significant differences in potency from one defense spray to the next. However, civilians have access to defense sprays with the same potency as carries by agencies using the strongest available formulations. Please keep in mind that many agencies carry defense sprays for quick take down and quick decontamination. Other departments opt for the strongest formulation possible. Either way, consumers are able to purchase products of the same strengths.
Though many agencies carry either the SABRE or SABRE Red defense sprays, there is not an agency in the United States that is carrying a blended formulation which is stronger than SABRE or an OC only formulation which is stronger than SABRE Red!
For how long do most units fire?
On average, all SABRE units fire 75% longer than the industry average. For example, the average 1/2 oz. canister fires for approximately 5 seconds. All SABRE 1/2 oz units fire approximately 25 1/2 second to 1 second bursts! A ? oz. canister is the most popular size carried among civilians.
For how long will most products last?
All aerosol products will eventually lose pressure over time. Most defense sprays last for only two years from their manufacture date. Because all SABRE products use only the best available components and formulation ingredients, all SABRE products have a four year shelf life!
How far do most products fire?
Depending upon the wind, most defense sprays using a stream spray pattern fire 8 to 12 feet. Defense sprays using a cone/mist spray fire from 6 to 10 feet.
What sort of testing has been done on your products?
Each of our defense sprays have been tested by independent laboratories for the following:
- Dermal Irritation
- Eye Irritation
- OC Pungency (HPLC)
- Flammability
- Inhalation
In addition, numerous other tests are performed on every defense spray canister that we produce. For example, a crimp, weight, pressure, and temperature test is performed on every SABRE canister.
What are Scoville Heat Units (SHUs)?
Scoville Heat Units are another method used to measure the pungency of defense sprays. The Habanero is the hottest chili pepper, measuring 325,000 SHUs. The raw pepper used in SABRE and SABRE Red measures 2,000,000 SHU’s which is over six times hotter than a habanero.
The most effective means of determining a defense sprays pungency is to consider each of the following:
- Capsaicin Percentage
- Percentage of Major Capsaicinoids
- Scoville Heat Units
Oleoresin Capsicum Percentage
How long should I fire the can at the attacker?
It is recommended that the canister be fired until the attacker is incapacitated. Once the attacker is stopped, escape immediately and call the police. If the canister is used, it is recommended that the unit be replaced.
FOUR FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN PURCHASING A DEFENSE SPRAY:
I. ACTIVE INGREDIENT
We recommend that consumers carry our SABRE formulation because of its unique blend of CS Military Tear Gas, Red Pepper and UV Dye. SABRE takes effect quicker, produces a more intense effect, and outlasts the effects of all other defense sprays.
SABRE Red is also ideal because it uses a very high concentration of Red Pepper.
II. CANISTER CONTENT
The canister you carry should contain as much product as possible to allow you to test fire your unit and stop multiple attackers if necessary. SABRE ’s smallest canister, the pen and 1/2 oz. key-ring units, fire for approximately 17 and 15 1/2 second to 1 second busts, respectively. Our competitor’s products do not come close.
III. SHELF-LIFE
The longer the product is effective, the more value it has for you the consumer. SABRE has a four year shelf life!
IV. SAFETY MECHANISM
An easy to use safety is a must to prevent accidental discharge from occurring. Every SABRE unit contains a safety which can be unlocked and fired with one hand, in one fluid motion.
Are there any restrictions governing the use and sale of personal defense sprays?
Though legal in all 50 States, a number of cities and states have specific regulations pertaining to the purchase, possession and use of Aerosol Defense Sprays. The following states each have varying restrictions: HI, MA, MI, NY & WI. Security Equipment Corporation suggests that individuals also familiarize themselves with their local laws. If you have a question, you should contact your local SABRE retailer or Police Department. Aerosol Defense Sprays are meant for defensive purposes only are can only be sold to or used by persons 18 years of age or older.
Can I use my SABRE Defense Spray after the indicated expiration date?
Like any pressurized aerosol device, over time the unit may not spray as far as expected, if at all. We recommend replacing your spray at the expiration date shown on your SABRE Defense Spray.
At what temperature should I store my SABRE Defense Spray?
Do not leave your SABRE Defense Spray in any area that may exceed 120 degrees F or drop below 0 degrees F. Excessive heat or cold may cause the can to leak or burst. Do not store your SABRE Defense Spray in your car.
Can I bring my SABRE Defense Spray on an airplane?
According to the Code of Federal Regulations, 49 CFR Part 175.10(a)(4)(ii), the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) allows one self-defense spray, not exceeding 118 mL (4 fluid ounces) by volume, that incorporates a positive means to prevent accidental discharge, to be carried in checked baggage only. Sprays are not allowed in carry-on luggage or at any time in the passenger area.
What do I do when my SABRE Defense Spray expires or is empty?
Your SABRE Defense Spray does contain chemicals and should be disposed of in accordance with all local, state and federal regulations.