Are there Limits to Pepper Spray/Balls and Tear Gas?

The effectiveness of pepper spray/balls and tear gas depends on whether it is raining or the wind is blowing strongly. There are also issues if you are using it in an enclosed space. Nor is everyone affected by these products.

The use of kinetic impact projectiles and other less-lethal weapons has been associated with reduced injury rates for criminal suspects versus when guns are fired. But guns are rarely fired by civilians who use guns defensively. About 95% of the time, simply brandishing a gun is sufficient to stop an attack. News media are overwhelmingly more likely to cover DGUs when the attacker is killed, so it gives people the false impression that using a gun frequently results in death or at least wounding.

Pepper Spray:

• Effectiveness: A study by the National Institute of Justice found that pepper spray was reported by arresting officers to be effective in only 20% of the cases studied. 

• Individual Variability: Factors such as pain tolerance, substance use, or mental state can influence an individual’s reaction to pepper spray. For instance, Virginia Commonwealth University Police notes that pepper spray may not be as effective on intoxicated individuals or those with a high pain threshold. 
• Tolerance and Desensitization: People who are frequently exposed to pepper spray (e.g., law enforcement or military personnel during training) may develop a tolerance.

• Individual Variability: Genetic differences can affect sensitivity to capsaicin, the active ingredient in pepper spray.

• Health Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as nasal congestion or reduced tear production, may lessen the impact of capsaicin.

• Mental State and Adrenaline: High adrenaline or altered mental states (e.g., under the influence of drugs or alcohol) can reduce the perception of pain and discomfort.

• Protective Measures: Individuals wearing protective gear (e.g., goggles, masks) or having clothing that covers exposed skin can mitigate the effects.

Tear Gas:

• General Sensitivity: Most people experience immediate irritation from tear gas exposure, including eye tearing, respiratory discomfort, and skin irritation. However, specific data quantifying the percentage of individuals unaffected is scarce.

• Anecdotal Evidence: There are anecdotal reports, such as military personnel exhibiting reduced sensitivity to tear gas after repeated exposure, but these cases are not well-documented in scientific literature.

• Adaptation and Resilience: Communities worldwide have developed techniques to build resilience against tear gas, suggesting that repeated exposure and adaptive strategies can reduce its impact.

In summary, while most individuals are affected by pepper spray and tear gas, a subset may exhibit reduced sensitivity or resistance due to various factors. Precise percentages are not well-established in current research.