Frequently Asked Questions

What is Pepper Spray?

We’re so glad you asked and you’ve come to the right place. Pepper Spray is an aerosol spray containing oils derived from cayenne pepper. AKA “oleoresin capsicum” or OC spray.

Fantastically effective and not lethal - the “OC” works by irritating the eyes, causing burning pain, tears, and a sensation of temporary blindness. It's dependable stopping power when used in self-defense against people, dogs, and bears. (But not ghosts. We’re working on self-defense against ghosts. We’ll let you know when we have a breakthrough.)

How do I use Pepper Spray?

We hope you never actually have to use your Pepper Spray.

If you do need to use it then we hope you have it accessible and within reach because it’s super easy to use. To fire, simply move the red actuator from the safety position into the firing position using your thumb. Easy, right? Then, point and aim the nozzle directly at the attacker’s face and depress the red actuator with your index finger. For maximum results, fire the canister horizontally over the subject’s eyes, spraying from ear to ear. To stop firing, release your finger pressure. Then run, call the police, and get away from the situation entirely.

You can practice this at home with a Water-filled Pepper Spray Trainer until it’s second nature.

What are the effects of Pepper Spray?

The effects of the spray are instantaneous. Pepper spray causes inflammation of the eye capillaries and all other mucous membranes resulting in immediate blindness, coughing, choking and nausea with extreme discomfort. Symptoms will disappear within 30 to 40 minutes with no after effects. Pepper spray will cause no permanent damage or after effects if used properly. No medical attention should be necessary. Exposure to fresh air and water will reduce effects. Remove contaminated clothing immediately. Wash exposed skin area thoroughly with soap and cold water for 15 minutes, repeat as necessary.

When do I use my Pepper Spray?

Now that you have Pepper Spray, it’s time to start being more aware of your surroundings in general. Take your Pepper Spray wherever you go, and have in hand, in the firing position, when walking alone, entering buildings, jogging, in elevators, hiking, walking the dog, walking to your car, etc. Of course, do not rely solely on any self-defense product for protection and avoid dangerous, isolated and poorly lit areas. Travel with others when possible. Take reasonable precautions to avoid situations where self-defense will be necessary. After spraying attacker, escape immediately and call police.

Is it illegal to carry Pepper Spray?

No. It’s legal to carry pepper spray in all 50 states (age requirements can differ so check your state and local laws), but pepper spray is no joke! For self-defense ONLY. The use of pepper spray for any other purpose other than self-defense is a crime under the law. Illegal use of this unit is punishable by imprisonment, fines or both. Not be purchased or possessed by minors, felons, anyone addicted to narcotics or where prohibited by law. In New York, this device shall not be sold by anyone other than a licensed or authorized dealer.

Which states restrict Pepper Spray by law?

The usage and shipping of pepper spray is regulated differently by each state. Please make sure that you check your local state laws (we suggest doing a quick internet search on pepper spray laws in your state before completing your purchase on blingsting.com, as laws do frequently change). Most states do restrict the sale of pepper spray to minors, so please be sure you are over the age of 18 if you are purchasing or carrying pepper spray.

While pepper spray is a non-lethal, positive self-defense product that is legal for use in all 50 states, some states do restrict the sale/shipping of pepper spray. At this time, if you live in the following locations, we simply can't fulfill your online order due to state law and shipping restrictions:

New York

Massachusetts

Alaska

Hawaii

Canada

International

Can I take my Pepper Spray on an airplane?

No. Remember to leave your pepper spray at home when traveling by air. You cannot take pepper spray on an airplane. Our friends at TSA will confiscate it and give you a very hard time. It’s the law, so trust us on this one.

What is a Stun Gun?

A stun gun is a device that is used to immobilize an attacker without causing serious injury. It is typically administered by an electric shock. 

When can I use my Stun Gun?

First thing is first, always check your local laws in regards to the carry and use of stun guns. If allowed, you should carry your stun with you at all times. Keep it in your purse while you’re on the go or by your night stand when at home. Keep is somewhere safe and so that you know where it is at all times. Stun guns should only be used if you feel physically threatened by someone. “A person is justified in using force again another when and to the degree the actor reasonably believes the force is immediately necessary to protect the actor against the other’s use or attempted use of unlawful force.” (Sec. 9.31. TX Penal Code.)

What is the difference between a Stun Gun and a Taser?

The very first thing to know about a stun gun is that is not a taser. A stun gun is a personal defense item that requires you to make physical contact with the attacker in order for them to feel the electric shock. It is considered to be a “close proximity self-defense item.” On the other hand, a taser is a device that actually shoots and projects an electric shock on to an attacker from a distance. Tasers do not require physical contact but each device does have an effect range. Tasers are typically carried by law enforcement and in most states it requires an additional weapons permit to carry.

How do I use my Stun Gun?

We hope that you are never in a position where you actually have to use your stun gun but if you are, we are glad you have it to protect yourself. To use the stun gun, push the “ON/OFF” switch up into the “ON” position. You will know it is “ON” because a red light will appear and indicate that the device is in “Ready to Fire” mode. Make sure to have the top portion of the device, where the two metal prongs are, pointed at the attacker. Keeping your fingers clear of the top portion and prongs you should then activate the stun gun by pressing the black button above the red light. You will hear a loud crackling/popping noise and an electric arch will appear between the two prongs. Again, make sure to come in contact with the attacker when activating the stun gun.

Do I need to make physical contact with the attacker to stun them?

Yes. Plain and simple. In order to shock the attacker, you must make physical contact on their body with the two prongs while pushing the activation button.

Does the shock penetrate clothing?

It sure does. The stunning gun will shock through clothing but for the absolute best results, find an area where the attacker’s skin is exposed or find the thinnest area of their clothing. The level of shock will be effected by the thickness of the clothing. So in the case, the thinner the clothes or the more skin, the better.

If the attacker is touching me when I shock them, will I get shocked as well?

No. If the attacker is touching you, you will not be shocked. The shock provided by the stun gun will not conduct from one person to another. The effects of the shock are localized only to where the contact is made.

What are the effects of a Stun Gun

While effects of the Stun Gun do not cause serious injury, they are effective and will bring the attacker an extreme amount of discomfort and pain. In a nut shell, the stun gun sends a shock wave to the nervous system and essentially over works the muscles. This causes severe pain. The impact of the shock is affected by the size of the attacker and how long you shock them for. The longer the device is held on the attacker, the greater the pain. See below for further explanation on the length of a shock and its effects.

A short blast (1/4 of a second): This will startle the attacker. It can cause minor contractions and have a repelling effect. If your attacker lets go of you, get up, get out, run, and call the police.

A moderate blast (1-4 seconds): This can cause the attacker to fall to the ground and cause mental confusion. This will deter further attack but they will be able to get back up very quickly. As soon as they begin to fall, make your break to safety and call the police.

A severe blast (5 seconds or more): This can immobilize an attacker. It will cause disorientation, loss of balance, falling to the ground, and leaving them in an unpleasant daze for several minutes. If possible, this should be your goal. Again, once the attacker has fallen to the floor, get out and call the police.

How do I use a Personal Alarm?

Press the red button once to activate the alarm. Press the red button again to stop the alarm. To activate the safety LED light, press and hold the white button. Volume will slightly decrease with each use. 

When do I use my Personal Alarm?

You can sound off your personal alarm in any situation that makes you feel uncomfortable and or threatened. The piercing siren acts as a surprising deterrent for an oncoming threat and also alerts bystanders of a potentially threatening situation.

Are there any age or carrying restrictions?

No. Personal alarms are the perfect safety accessory for women of any age and present the most positive form of personal protection on the market.

What is an Emergency Escape Car Hammer?

An emergency escape car hammer is a safety device used in vehicles to break through window glass in case of an emergency or crash incident. 

How do I use an Emergency Escape Car Hammer?

The reinforced carbide tip of the hammer easily breaks passenger side windows with a simple tap, while the weighted end helps clear tempered glass for an escape. The recessed blade at the bottom of the hammer cuts through seatbelts of trapped passengers with a single downward motion.

Why would I need an Emergency Escape Hammer?

Emergency Escape Hammers are the perfect safety tool for any driver, especially mothers traveling with children and those who drive over water or in inclement weather.

Can I take my Emergency Escape Car Hammer on an airplane?

You can check your emergency escape car hammer in your bag, but you CANNOT carry-on your hammer.

Where do I keep my Emergency Escape Car Hammer in my car?

We know that safety tools are only effective if they are close at hand when you actually need them. We recommend keeping it close to you, rather than being in the glove compartment or tucked away in another spot that could be hard to reach during an emergency.

Do your products work on dogs?

None of the products are designed to use on dogs. However, we have customers and animal control departments that use our products to stop dog fights and dog attacks. They have given very good feedback on that.

For high voltage baton stun guns, customers have found that, when you test fire it, it makes a very loud cracking noise, that most times that noise is enough to scare the dog and stop the attack.

Would any of your products cause permanent damage on dogs?

No, if it is used properly.

Would any of your products kill the dog?

Due to its low current design (often around 3 milliamp), stun guns are safe to use when used properly. It should not cause any permanent damage to the animal.

What would you recommend for stopping dog attack? 

Any Stun Baton would be an excellent choice. The extended reach feature would allow you to maintain a good distance from your attacker (in this case the aggressive dog). The Stun Baton is very effective when used on an attacking dog. 

A lot of our customers found that just by test firing a stun gun, the loud cracking noise is often enough to scare the dog away. If that did not work, just stun the animal with the stun gun. The pain that is caused by a stun gun is far more than the pain you can inflict on the animal by kicking or hitting it with a stick. So, a stun gun gives you a much better chance to fight off the attacking dog than a stick or an empty hand.

The best part about the Stun baton is that if nothing works, the dog probably is going to turn around and bite whatever is causing its pain, in this case, it is the baton and hopefully not your hand or leg. This will give you some time to run away as well.

What would you recommend for woman?

We would recommend the O/G Stunner – the 11-Million Rechargeable Stun Gun. It is only 3.5″ long and weighs 7oz. It is very easy to use and to carry. 

What would you recommend for my daughter / college student?

We would recommend the O/G Stunner, the Micro O/G Stunner, or the Mini-Stunner. These stunners are rechargeable and pack up to a 5-million-volt punch. Either of these are great for women due to its size and power. You cannot go wrong with either one.

What would you recommend for men?

Men probably need something small and easy to carry in their jeans or pants pocket or even on their belt. I would recommend the O/G Stunner since it is only 3.5″ long and weight 7oz. So, it is about the size of a small cell phone. It is discrete and very powerful. 

How long would it take to receive my order?

Orders will be processed and shipped within 2 working days from the time of purchase. Orders received after that time, or on weekends, will begin the processing phase the following business day.

Do I have to be there to sign for the package?

It depends on the item you order, the carrier you choose and where you live.

For USPS Priority package: Signature is not required upon delivery except if the package is too large to fit in your mailbox, the USPS driver may deliver to your door and ask for a signature.

For UPS package: We do not add the signature request. It is up to UPS driver to decide whether, or not to leave the package without signature. You can always contact UPS and make special request or arrangement with them.

Bottom line is, you can always call and ask the carrier to deliver the package without signature if you are willing to waive the lost package insurance. Please make sure you understand that once you make such request, neither the carrier nor our company can be held liable if the package is lost.

Why would I need more than one Self-defense product?

Very simple. It is for the same reason as having more than one telephone at home. Why would anyone need more than one telephone in the same house? It is because when a telephone rings, you usually will have about 10-15 seconds to locate the phone and respond to it. Most people do not want to miss a phone call. It is their priority to answer the phone before the last ring. Therefore, they will place as many telephones as they can afford all over the house. An average middle-class family will have one telephone in the living room, one in the kitchen and one in the bedroom. If answering a simple phone call is such a high priority in the house, what about stopping an intruder? You probably will have to locate the self-defense weapon within 10-15 seconds or even less. How would you rate that priority? And more importantly, how would you price it? We strongly believe, when it comes to you and your loved ones, safety is priceless.

Are stun guns or TASER devices legal?

They are legal in 42 states, if you are not a minor, and you do not have any felony record and only use if for self-defense. 

States where all stun devices including TASER are illegal:

• Hawaii
• Illinois (unless you can provide a valid copy of your FOID card)
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• New Jersey
• New York
• Rhode Island
• Wisconsin (unless you can provide a valid copy of your CCW permit)
• Cities where all stun devices including TASER are illegal:
• Annapolis, MD
• Baltimore, MD
• Baltimore County, MD
• Denison / Crawford County, IA (*According to Sheriff Tom Hogan*)
• District of Columbia
• Philadelphia, PA

Can I carry them or put them in my car?

Most states allow civilians to have it for personal protection. Different areas might have different regulations. If you are in doubt and need more information, please contact your local law enforcement or sheriff’s office and they should be able to tell you over the phone.  

Can I travel with it?

It depends on where you are going and how. According to the Transportation Security Administration, stun guns and self-defense sprays are allowed in checked baggage with restriction and prohibited in carry-on. For more information, please visit
TSA site or contact your airline, they should be able to help you.

Can I take it to Mexico or other countries?

It depends on how you travel and what the laws of the host country that you are visiting are. It is recommended that you contact the country’s Embassy for more information.

How do I return my product?

Please email joe@pdsbattlebuddy.com to receive a return authorization no later than 2 months after original ship date. Please include the following information in your e-mail:

· Name

· Order ID

· Address

· Contact phone number

· Reason for return (if product is defected)

A return authorization will be sent within 48 hours via e-mail. Please print the return authorization email and return with the order.

IMPORTANT: Any return must be authorized by Battle Buddy.com and under no circumstances will returns be accepted otherwise. We are not responsible for lost or damaged returns. Customer is responsible for return shipping.

How long do the batteries last for a stun gun?

Each set of batteries should last for 50 “one-second tests”.

Do I need to buy batteries for a rechargeable unit?

No. The rechargeable unit already has rechargeable batteries built into it. You do not need to purchase batteries for it.

Do I or Can I replace the batteries for the rechargeable unit?

No. Since the battery compartment is completely sealed, you cannot replace the batteries. However, all our rechargeable units can be recharged 100 times; this should already last you years.

Does the stun gun have a battery indicator?

Unfortunately, No. But when you test fire the unit, you should be able to tell if the batteries are getting weaker. When the battery is weak, you can see that the current that passes through the metal prongs is not as strong.

How often do I have to recharge the unit?

Depending on the unit. Most rechargeable units on our site only need to be charged 6-8 hours each for every 30-60 days. Please see the product manual for more information.

How long do I have to charge it for?

6-8 hours each time.

When I receive the unit, is it fully charged?

No.

Does it tell me when the unit is charged?

Depending on the unit, the instructions will indicate to you how to know when the unit is fully charged or needs to be recharged.

What is the lifetime of the rechargeable unit?

The built-in rechargeable battery should support up to 100 times recharge. According to the manufacturer, you only need to recharge it every 30-60 days under normal usage, the rechargeable unit should last about 6-8 years.

Can I replace the battery of a rechargeable unit when the battery is dead?

No.

What does the manufacturer limited-lifetime warranty cover?

It covers everything that is the manufacturer’s fault. Meaning if the unit is sitting on your table and just stops working, it will be 100% covered. If you drop the unit and it stops working, it WILL NOT be covered.

What does the 2-Year or 3-Year Unlimited Warranty cover?

Basically it is a replacement guarantee, and it covers everything. You must make sure to contact us and can ship us back the broken or defective product, we will replace it one time with a new one within the coverage period. This warranty does not cover lost or stolen items.