Hawaii is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the globe, boasting world-class beaches, pristine forests, tropical weather, and beautiful sceneries.
Unfortunately, such places are also hotspots for muggers, robbers, and assailants.
That said, if you’re visiting Hawaii soon, it’s a good idea to bring with you some self-defense tools just in case.
One of the most effective self-defense tools is pepper spray, which can also come in a pepper spray gun.
However, you might be wondering, is pepper spray legal in Hawaii? Read on to find out.
Is Pepper Spray Legal in Hawaii?
The good news is, yes, it’s legal to buy, carry, and even ship pepper spray to Hawaii.
Your weapon should be packed in your checked luggage if you’re boarding a plane.
Airlines in Hawaii do not allow self-defense weapons in your carry-on bag.
It is important to check with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for the rules about bringing pepper spray.
Pepper Spray Law in Hawaii
While you can bring, carry, and use pepper spray in Hawaii, there are restrictions that you should know about.
According to the Revised Ordinances of Honolulu Sec. 41-37.3, you cannot use pepper spray for any purpose except for:
- Self-defense
- Defense of another person
- Protection of your property or another person’s property
Moreover, you should be at least 18 years old to use or possess pepper spray in Hawaii, and you must not have any record of conviction for felonies.
Can You Sell Pepper Spray in Hawaii?
Yes, you can, but only if you have obtained a license from the city.
Also, you cannot sell or offer for sale any pepper spray to a minor in Hawaii.
If you’re shipping pepper sprays to a client in Hawaii, you should comply with the licensing and logging requirements.
Can You Buy Pepper Spray in Hawaii?
If you are over 18, you can buy pepper spray from any licensed dealer in Hawaii.
Usually, you can get one from stores that offer sporting goods.
Is Pepper Spray Legal In Honolulu?
Yes. Like other cities and regions in Hawaii, individuals at least 18 years old can carry pepper spray and use it for self-defense.
What Other Weapons Can You Carry in Hawaii?
Starting in 2022, it is now legal in Hawaii to carry tasers and stun guns for self-defense as long as you are at least 21 years of age.
However, the new law is strict compared to that of most states.
For instance, vendors need to have a complete background check on potential buyers.
They should also provide proper training on how to use self-defense tools.
The new law limits the use of Tasers and electric guns for self-defense, defense of another, and property protection.
Can You Mail Pepper Spray Within Hawaii?
It’s perfectly legal to ship pepper spray and bottles, but the postal service considers the materials in these bottles hazardous.
Thus, there is only one method to ship, and that is ground transportation.
What Is Pepper Spray Made Of?
Pepper sprays contain an active ingredient called Oleoresin Capsicum (OC).
Oleoresin is an oil, and capsaicin is an inflammatory agent naturally present in hot cayenne peppers.
When blasted into someone’s face, pepper spray can cause temporary blindness and breathing difficulty.
It can also cause a burning sensation in the skin and eyes.
Is pepper spray an effective self-defense tool?
Yes. One of the greatest benefits of pepper spray is it works even on those with a lowered sense of pain, such as those under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
It also works on animals.
Unlike tear gas, pepper spray can cause an intense and debilitating burning sensation.
Furthermore, the effectiveness of pepper spray does not rely on the accuracy, and close contact is not necessary.
Typically, the effects of pepper spray last between 15 and 45 minutes, although it may vary from one person to another.
How to Use Pepper Spray Effectively
Now that you know the answer to the question “Is pepper spray legal in Hawaii?”, it’s time to learn some useful tips on how to use it.
Pepper spray is a very useful tool that can save your life.
Whether you’re strolling in the beautiful cities of Hawaii or going on a hike, bridging pepper spray can give you peace of mind if an assailant comes out from nowhere.
However, you must use pepper spray correctly to ensure that the attacker is harmed, not you.
Follow these steps on how to use pepper spray effectively:
- Spray the attacker in the face, particularly the eyes.
- Then, flee to a safe location and call the police as soon as possible.
- Know the range of your pepper spray.
- Most brands have a range of about 10 feet, allowing you to spray an attacker from a distance.
Besides protecting yourself or others or your property, using pepper spray for other reasons can lead to criminal and civil penalties.
Other Things to Keep in Mind
To effectively use pepper spray as a self-defense weapon, here are some other things to keep in mind:
Practice Using Your Spray in a Safe, Outdoor Environment
This will help you understand how pepper spray works and the range of your device.
Make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before use.
Research What Pepper Spray Is Best for Your Situation
Pepper sprays come in varying dispersal patterns, and each one has pros and cons based on the environment or situation.
The most common type of pepper spray is the “stream” model, which effectively shoots or sprays in a stream or straight ahead pattern.
It is ideal for single targets and has good resistance in windy conditions.
However, stream pepper sprays require good aim.
Pepper sprays also come in gel and foam forms. These are great for reducing contamination in the area as they produce fewer particulates in the air.
Never Use an Expired Pepper Spray
If you haven’t used your pepper spray for a long time, consider replacing it.
Don’t Get Too Close to Your Attacker
The whole point of pepper spray as a self-defense weapon is to avoid getting in contact with your attacker.
Before spraying, you must be at least two arm lengths away from your attacker.
Finally, remember that pepper spray is just a tool.
Don’t become overly reliant on it. Consider carrying a backup tool or another device.
It’s always good to have options, especially when it comes to your safety.
