In most states, pepper spray is legal to purchase.  You can probably find it at hardware stores or firearm retail outlets.  The likelihood of you finding it at Wal-Mart, however, is slim.

Please do understand that the effective use of pepper spray depends on a variety of factors.  Police officers do use pepper spray, but they have had training on how to use it correctly.  Factors that influence its effectiveness include the proximity of the attacker versus you, how much spray you deploy, and where you deploy it at.  For maximum effectiveness, it must be sprayed in the eyes.

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Pepper spray is a natural derivative of hot peppers. The essence is extracted, combined with a carrier and propellant, and put into a spray canister. When it is sprayed into the eyes and face on an attacker, it is extremely painful, but it does not rely on pain for its effectiveness. Pepper spray causes physical effects even in people who are “feeling no pain” such as drug users or drunk individuals.

Pepper spray makes the eyelids slam shut or spasm, causing hampered vision or even temporary blindness. When even a small amount is inhaled, it constricts the bronchial tubes, causing extreme choking and coughing, though it does not cut off breathing. It is usually effective on most people and animals, including the mentally ill and those under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

Pepper spray comes in various concentrations, and various degrees of heat. If you’re going to get pepper spray, you should purchase a product which has an SHU rating of 1 to 2 million or more.

A 1% to 5% concentration is the best range. Sometimes concentrations higher than 5% do not atomize well, and are therefore less effective; also, they lengthen the recovery time beyond the usual 45 minutes or so, and there is no advantage to that in personal defensive situations.

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