The Rise of Less-Lethal
A History of Pepper Spray
Since humans could hold sticks, mankind has defended itself with a wide variety of weaponry throughout history. These days many choose a firearm. While a valid option, guns aren’t always the best choice. Some areas don’t allow people to own or carry guns, or prohibit them from entering certain places. Even when a firearm is used legally users can face legal, financial, and social repercussions. Lastly, lethal force is a drastic measure that doesn’t fit every situation. Clearly firearms are not always the best choice for self-defense.
Examples of a "Metsubushi," an ancient pepper powder weapon from Japan.
Less-lethal protection has been slowly gaining traction as a viable alternative for a modern world. But these kinds of defense options aren’t new. Pepper based weaponry goes back centuries. Check out how people have been using less-lethal dating back to ancient China:
- Ancient China: Ground cayenne pepper is carried in rice paper and thrown into the face of enemies.
- 1600s: Military forces in Japan use a “Metsubushi” by placing ground pepper in a box, then blowing the powder in an opponent's face.
- 1756: Unfortunately, pepper powder is used in a torture known as the “Derby’s Dose.” The punishment involved beating slaves, then rubbing salt, pickle juice, lime juice, and pepper powder into their wounds.
- 1912: Tear gas is used for the first time on a crowd in Paris.
- 1920s: U.S. Military conducts research on tear gas and develops prototypes for police use.
- 1962: Peter Hoernecke creates an aerosol spray in Stuttgart, Germany that incorporates active agents for self defense.
- 1964: Alan Litman of Pittsburgh submits a patent for a spray can, nozzle, and chemical agent designed to incapacitate without killing or maiming.
- 1969: American inventor Jack Cover develops the first stun gun.
- 1980: U.S. Postal carriers begin to carry pepper spray to protect themselves against animals.
- 1987: The FBI endorses pepper spray as an allowed chemical solution for agents to carry.
- 1991: Pepper spray is accepted by state and local law enforcement officers. Many police departments issue pepper spray to officers.
- 1990s - Today: Pepper spray gains traction as a non lethal defense tool for civilians.
Pepper based defense has come a long way. And HERO® 2020 and AIIRO® are the next step forward. We’ve combined the best features in the industry to create a user friendly, powerful defense tool designed for concealment. HERO® products even won Product of The Year at Shot Show! What an honor!
We strive to provide the most reliable and effective less-lethal defense products around so you and your loved ones can live confidently and safely.