Hot Topic: Choosing the Right OC Spray

OC spray continues to be one of the most valuable force options available to law enforcement. It fills the gap between empty-hand control and higher force options, and it has proven effective countless real-world encounters. It’s important to understand that not all OC has the same purpose or design. Choosing the right spray requires understanding the role you serve, the environment you operate in, and the way you intend to deploy the tool.

Know your mission

The selection process begins with one question: what is your mission? A uniformed patrol officer has different needs than a plain clothes detective or a corrections officer. A solo officer on nights will often choose differently than a partner-based unit. Crowd control and cell extractions demand a different delivery system than a street stop. Even off-duty carry, gym workouts, or family travel may call for a completely different size and pattern. Once that role is defined, officers should consider what their agency authorizes. Department policy will narrow down the available size options and acceptable spray types

Size matters

Most duty-size spray units fall into a few common categories. Medium-sized canisters (like a MK-3)—the most common for patrol—offer a balance of capacity and comfort on the belt. They give officers enough spray to manage a resisting subject without creating unnecessary bulk or weight. Larger canisters (MK-4, MK-9, etc.) are typically preferred by corrections officers or specialized units working crowd control environments or cell extractions, where extended deployment or wide-area coverage may be necessary. Smaller, compact units are often better suited for plain clothes or concealed carry roles where space and discretion matter.

Spray pattern selection

Once size/capacity is established, the next decision is spray pattern. Stream patterns remain the most common option in law enforcement because they offer good range, and a manageable area of effect. They allow the officer to target a subject without saturating an entire environment. Gel patterns are growing in popularity because they adhere to the target and minimize cross-contamination. They can be excellent choices in confined spaces, in hospitals, in vehicles, or in situations where suspects and officers may be in close proximity. Fog or cone patterns serve a different purpose. They are meant for wide-area coverage and rapid incapacitation of multiple subjects, which makes them ideal for riots or extractions. Each pattern has strengths and limitations; officers should choose based on where they expect to fight.

The delivery system

While most officers focus on the irritant formula or potency—more on that coming up—the way the spray is delivered can be just as important. Some canisters allow firing from any orientation, including upside down, which can become critical if a struggle goes to the ground or the officer must fire from an unconventional position. Others maintain constant pressure and consistent flow until the canister is empty, ensuring equal output during the first and last seconds of use. These differences may seem minor on paper, but they matter in the chaos of a real confrontation.

Off-duty and covert carry

Off-duty carry presents a completely different set of priorities. Officers tend to prefer compact units that can be carried discreetly while jogging, traveling, or running errands with family. Devices that resemble everyday objects, fit easily in a pocket or waistband, and deploy quickly in confined spaces make the most sense here. Range is less of a priority; accessibility and concealment take center stage. In close-quarters incidents—such as parking lot encounters or attempted grabs—a wider fog or mist spray pattern often performs better than a long-range duty stream. ASP’s Sport and Metro Defenders are good examples of off-duty/covert carry-optimized devices.

Formula, strength, and safety factors

When comparing formulas, officers should pay attention to the major capsaicinoid percentage rather than simply the OC percentage printed on the label. The major capsaicinoid percentage tells you the actual effective strength of the spray. Some OC sprays also include UV dye, which assists in identifying a sprayed suspect later in custody. Some departments also require formulas that are compatible with conducted energy weapons—addressing a very real and important safety and liability concern. These features should all factor into your OC decision making.

As always, training makes the difference

Regardless of which OC you or your agency selects, as with any weapon or tool, training remains the most important factor. Officers should train with inert sprays, practice drawing from their duty belt or off-duty carry position, and learn how to integrate OC with other tools such as batons. They should train weapon retention, takedowns, and physical control. Confidence with deployment dramatically increases the effectiveness of the spray, even when conditions are not ideal.

Final thoughts

Choosing the right OC spray is an important decision about a tool you are very likely to use in your law enforcement career. So be thoughtful in understanding your assignment, evaluating the environment(s) you work in, and selecting a tool that fits your tactical needs. When selected and trained for properly, OC remains a highly effective, scalable, and defensible force option for law enforcement—on duty or off.