Bear Spray on Black Bears: The Guide You Can’t “Bear” to Miss
Close call with a big ol’ black bear on your last hiking trip? Yeah, having the right bear spray could’ve saved your tail that day. But what exactly is bear spray? When should you use it? And how the heck do you use bear spray properly?
Relax, we’ve got you covered with this complete guide on using bear spray for black bear encounters. It’s basically a can of pepper spray on steroids designed specifically to stop aggressive bears dead in their tracks.
But don’t go spraying just any old can of Mace you find under the kitchen sink. Using the proper bear deterrent could mean the difference between a story to tell around the campfire or…well, you get the picture.
Let’s start with the basics…
What is Bear Spray and How Does it Work?
Bear spray is a powerful animal deterrent made of oleoresin capsicum (OC) – the same stuff found in pepper spray. But bear spray contains an extra potent 1-2% OC compared to self-defense pepper sprays.
When deployed, the large foggy cloud of bear spray temporarily but intensely overwhelms a bear’s eyes, nose, throat and lungs. This burning sensation is intended to stop the bear’s aggressive behavior and drive it away from the area.
Most quality bear sprays can shoot a thick high-pressure stream of OC up to 30 feet away. This gives users a better chance of hitting the target bear’s face rather than spraying too close.
Some key features to look for in an effective bear spray:
– EPA approved and certified for use on bears
– 7.9 oz or larger canister
– Ranges between 25-35 feet spray distance
– Visible cloud pattern for aiming
– Gelled formulation to minimize wind drift
– Easy grip design for cold/gloved hands
When to Use Bear Spray on Black Bears
So when exactly should you reach for that bear spray holster? According to wildlife experts, bear spray should only be used on aggressive or charging bears that:
– Stalk you and follow you without avoiding or changing direction
– Act defensively to guard a particular space like a food source
– Make loud huffing noises and swat the ground to warn you off
– Lower their head, flatten their ears and charge towards you
However, the National Park Service warns you should NOT spray a bear that is:
– Feeding and unaware of your presence
– Wandering or grazing and not paying attention to you
– Simply looking in your general direction out of curiosity
Bottom line? Save the bear spray for an actual threatened attack. Don’t inadvertently provoke a bear just passing through the area. Back away slowly and remain non-threatening.
SAFETY TIP: Do not take out your bear spray until you are absolutely sure the bear is a threat and you have no other choice. Never spray preemptively!
How to Use Bear Spray Effectively
Whipping out that bear spray at the last second won’t do you much good. Using bear spray correctly requires proper knowledge and technique. Here are some essential tips:
First, always keep your bear spray accessible on your person when outdoors – not buried in your pack. An encounter could happen fast!
Many hikers use a shoulder or chest holster to keep their bear deterrent within quick reach. When a bear charges, you’ll need both hands free to remove the safety clip and aim properly.
When facing an aggressive bear, don’t spray too soon or from too far away. Wait until the bear is within the spray’s effective range of about 25-30 feet maximum. Any closer and you risk spraying yourself or not covering the bear’s face fully.
With the spray canister gripped firmly and your finger off the trigger, move sideways to create an exit route behind you. Then spray a heavyweight fog directly into the bear’s eyes and face as it approaches.
Apply firm pressure on the trigger for 6-8 solid seconds to create a thick cloud of OC irritant. Don’t blink or you’ll be temporarily blinded too! After spraying, immediately leave the area by continuing your sideways movement.
Proper Bear Spray Storage and Safety
Even an unused can of bear spray can be hazardous if not handled properly. Most brands recommend replacing canisters every 2-4 years as the OC irritant can lose potency over time.
Always store your bear deterrent in a cool, dry place away from moisture, heat or flames. Extreme temperatures can cause bear spray to lose pressure or potentially explode.
Likewise, never store bear sprays inside a hot car or tent. The trapped interior heat could easily cause a leak or canister burst.
When transporting in a vehicle, bear spray should be locked in a leak-proof container to avoid accidental discharge. Seal it in plastic bags first, then place inside a sturdy box, ammunition case or even a cooler.
It’s also wise to test fire new canisters away from people or animals. This ensures you understand exactly how to operate your bear spray properly before heading into bear country.
SAFETY FIRST: Bear spray is an intense eye/respiratory irritant that can incapacitate humans too! Always handle and store with extreme caution, especially around children. If accidentally sprayed, flush eyes/skin immediately.
Alternatives to Bear Spray
What if you can’t purchase bear spray in your area? Or do you want a backup deterrent alongside your typical OC spray? Here are some other bear encounter protection options:
– Firearms – A high-caliber gun like 12-gauge shotguns loaded with slugs could be used as a last resort on a charging bear. However, firearms require extensive training to use safely and properly.
– Air Horns – Very loud 115+ decibel air horns can sometimes disorient and scare bears away through sheer noise alone. But horns have limited range and a much lower success rate than OC deterrents.
– Bear Bangers – These pen-launched explosive firework devices create bright flashes and loud cracks to frighten bears. But they require expert skill to deploy safely and aren’t permitted everywhere.
– Trekking Poles – A rigid pole can be used to strike a bear’s face/snout as a very last resort if attacked at close range. But this highly dangerous method should only be attempted if absolutely no other choices exist.
While options like air horns or poles give you something as a final attempt, wildlife experts still overwhelmingly recommend bear spray as the most effective bear deterrent available.
Bear Safety Tips for Hikers & Campers
Beyond just bear spray knowledge, it’s crucial for outdoor adventurers to understand general safety practices when exploring bear country. A few quick tips:
– Always stay bear aware by making noise to avoid surprising any bears
– Keep food stored properly and cook far away from your campsite
– Never approach bears, their kills or cubs under any circumstances
– If a bear is spotted, back away slowly while facing it and avoid direct eye contact
– In case of a charging bear, stand your ground and use bear spray if attack seems imminent
With some basic bear smarts, situational awareness and a trusty can of bear spray by your side, you’re far better equipped to handle any “unbearable” encounters on the trail!
There you have it – the inside scoop on using bear spray for effective black bear deterrence. While I hope you never need to use these skills, a little preparation could just save your hide out there!