Pepper spray -- legal in MA and thoughts

[rickb]

Looks like Pepper spray for personal defense is finally legal in Massachusetts without a gun permit. It had been classified as ammunition and the penalties for carrying it without a gun permit were draconian.

Here is the article.

http://www.recorder.com/home/13588418-95/pepper-spray-now-available-without-an-fid

If one makes the personal decision to carry pepper spray, I think it only makes sense to carry the most powerful concentration available and legal in the areas you intend to carry-- in MA that can be the same strength that police carry. The friendly folks at your neighborhood gun shop can help you figure that out or research on-line.

Other consideration include whether the spray is a stream (goes farther) or a cone (easier to hit the assailant) and whether or not the spray has a UV or colored die marker. On that point, I am thinking better not to have if you are not a LEO. You will also need to figure out the best size-- from something that could go on a key chain on up.

Here is a link to one well-regarded manufacturer:

http://www.foxlabs.com/products/pepper-spray.html?

[rocketsocks]

give the state police a call, they have the skinny on all the rules. I would risk internet, often dated information either.

[rocketsocks]

give the state police a call, they have the skinny on all the rules. I would not risk internet, often dated information either.
Oops, not...would not risk.

[swisscross]

You guys up north have some funny laws regarding guns and personal protection.

[momo3boys]

I read that they put it back in the regulations. :( I'd call the police office in town and see what they say. Getting a permit for one isn't too hard but does require an education class.


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[Sarcasm the elf]

I read that they put it back in the regulations. :( I'd call the police office in town and see what they say. Getting a permit for one isn't too hard but does require an education class.


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Try getting one if you live out if state :mad:

[tucker0104]

I agree with swisscross.

[rickb]

I read that they put it back in the regulations. :( I'd call the police office in town and see what they say. Getting a permit for one isn't too hard but does require an education class.


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Not a bad idea but as a general principal I would not recommend one rely on legal advise from your local police department-- especially regarding these kinds of issues.

There was a great deal of back and forth on the matter of pepper spray before the final version was passed and signed into law, which I believe is detailed in the link below.

My understanding is that Section 20 removes the ban on pepper spray and
Section 122C(c) adds the requirement for an FID for pepper spray for persons under age 18.

https://malegislature.gov/Laws/SessionLaws/Acts/2014/Chapter284 (https://malegislature.gov/Laws/SessionLaws/Acts/2014/Chapter284)