Pepper Spray Keeps Hunters Safer From Bear Attacks

Hunters have long been encouraged to carry bear spray (pepper spray) instead of a handgun for protection against bear attacks. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (part of the Department of the Interior) found that use of firearms can escalate an attack. Bullets can be fatal to an attacking bear but often not in time to prevent an attack, even if the shooter is an experienced marksman.

Canadian bear biologist’s research confirms the U.S. Fish and Wildlife’s investigations of bear attacks, finding that use of bear pepper spray cuts in half the chance of serious injury when compared with use of firearms in similar situations.

Veteran Park Ranger Jim Burnett notes that bear pepper spray should not be confused with personal defense pepper spray or law enforcement pepper spray. The Center for Wildlife Information notes that only 15 of the 50 people surveyed who carried pepper spray in Glacier National Park were carrying the correct product.

While bear pepper spray is a very effective defense against bears and lessens the likelihood and severity of attacks, it is not foolproof or 100% effective. Hunters and other outdoors enthusiasts should take care to avoid contact with bears and to refrain from provoking bears that they are unable to avoid.

Considering that bear contact is only 100% avoidable if hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts cease to go into their habitats or live in the general vicinity, effective deterrents for bear attacks will always be an important part of safety gear. Bear pepper spray is light weight, easy to use, and highly effective—a great choice.