The Best Grizzly Bear Spray For 2024

Sara Ryan By, Sara Ryan
Updated
SABRE Frontiersman 9.2 oz. Bear Spray, Maximum Strength 2.0%
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: SABRE Frontiersman 9.2 oz. Bear Spray, Maximum Strength 2.0%

Sabre Frontiersman is a safe and effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones from bears. Sabre's tough, rugged design makes it a reliable companion on the trail or in the backcountry. This durable bear spray has been rigorously tested for certainty and peace of mind by the Elmendorf Air Force Base and Brown Bear Resources. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Udap 12DCH 7.9oz-225g Bear Pepper Spray w/GrizGuard Holster 2PACK

This Bear Pepper Spray with holster by Udap Industries, Inc. provides you with the convenience of having a concealed pepper spray. The pepper spray is hidden inside a holster made for the user to put their hand in, allowing for quick access and safety. Read Review

3. Best Convenient: SABRE Frontiersman 7.9 oz. Bear Spray, Maximum Strength 2.0% Major

Sabre Frontiersman Bear Spray is the strongest formula allowed by law. Ensuring maximum strength in each canister and protecting you from dangerous attacks on the trail. Each bottle comes with a convenient carry strap for easy transport on your outdoor adventure. Read Review

4. Best Powerful: Counter Assault - EPA Certified, Maximum Strength & Bear Spray

Whether you're a hunter, outdoor enthusiast or just someone who appreciates being able to go for a hike without the worry of being confronted by an aggressive bear, Counter Assault is the ideal solution. And with EPA-certified maximum strength and effectiveness up to 32 feet, it's easy to see why this is one of the market's most trusted products. Read Review

Grizzly bears are apex predators, and their territories are large. You might be thinking this means you can find plenty of space for your backcountry campsite. But with the presence of so many other animals in the area - and the chance that any or all of them might wander by during your stay - it’s unwise to set up a tent too close to the woods.

Rather than give up on your camping trips, learn how to protect yourself from bears with our guide on how to avoid an encounter with a grizzly bear. Keep reading to discover the best grizzly bear spray for you.

You are strongly encouraged to pay close attention to the SABRE Frontiersman 9.2 oz. Bear Spray, Maximum Strength 2.0% as our top product. Or you can check the Udap 12DCH 7.9oz-225g Bear Pepper Spray w/GrizGuard Holster 2PACK as the other great option, even if the first option didn't meet all of your requirements.

Our Top Picks

  • RIGOROUSLY TESTED FOR CERTAINTY AND PEACE OF MIND: E.P.A. approved, our environmentally friendly bear spray is field-tested and proven effective against all types of bears by the Elmendorf Air Force Base and Brown Bear Resources
  • PROTECTION AT A SAFE DISTANCE: Bear spray has a 35-foot (10 meter) range – up to 10 feet farther than other brands. Deploys 1.84 ounces of fog per 1-second burst (up to 84% more than competitors), creating a barrier of protection between you and a bear
  • QUIET ACCESS TO PROTECTION: Frontiersman Bear Spray Holsters are not made with Velcro, allowing for quick and silent access to your deterrent should you encounter a bear
  • GUARANTEED SABRE MAXIMUM STRENGTH FORUMLA IN EVERY CANISTER: According to an independent study conducted by the University of Utah, variability rates in the concentration of active ingredients in pepper sprays have a 30% failure rate. With an industry exclusive HPLC laboratory, only SABRE guarantees its maximum strength formulation in every canister.
  • EASY TO CARRY: A belt holster helps to keep your canister secure and immediately accessible. The bear spray is secured by strong elastic to prevent loss
  • 7.9oz-225g Bear Pepper Spray w/ GrizGuard Holster 2PACK
  • UDAP Industries, Inc. manufactures the world's hottest self-defense pepper spray
  • MAXIMUM STOPPING POWER: Strongest formula allowed by law (EPA Requires range of 1.0-2.0% Major Capsaicinoids), Frontiersman bear spray, made with 2.0% Major Capsaicinoids, is backed by our industry exclusive in-house HPLC lab, guaranteeing maximum strength in each canister
  • SPRAYS UP TO 50% FURTHER: With a 30-foot (9-meter) spray range reaching up to 10-feet further than the competition, Frontiersman Bear Spray gives you more time to react to a bear charging up to 35 mph & provide safer protection with a greater protective barrier per burst (up to 58% more than competitors)
  • RIGOROUSLY TESTED TO MAXIMIZE YOUR SAFETY: E.P.A. and Health Canada approved, our environmentally friendly bear spray is field-tested and proven effective against all types of bears by the Elmendorf Air Force Base and Brown Bear Resources
  • ONLY BEAR SPRAY TO MEET ALL EPA REQUIREMENTS FOR S.N.A.P. CERTIFICATION - This is the only bear deterrent pepper spray to meet the requirements of the Significant New Alternative Policy (S.N.A.P) of the clean air act regarding ozone depleting substances.
  • FARTHEST REACHING BEAR REPELLENT - Counter Assault is the industry leader in bear repellent spray and is the farthest reaching bear spray on the market today - It’s effective up to 32 feet “When every foot matters”, don’t substitute price for quality
  • MADE IN THE USA - Made in Montana (bear country), by American workers with American materials
  • 7 SECOND CONTINUOUS SPRAY - Our spray lasts longer than basically any other brand with the same size can, is leak tested for quality, and has a 4 year shelf life. No need to replace your bear spray annually when you have the “Cadillac of bears sprays”
  • “HOTTEST” FORMULA ALLOWED BY LAW - 2% capsaicin and related capsaicinoid products temporarily disable a bear’s abilities to smell, and see. Our formula is effective against all 8 species of bear - EVEN POLAR BEARS
  • Trusted by Campers, Hikers, Hunters and Outdoor Enthusiasts.
  • Field Proven and Rigorously Tested.
  • Most Powerful Formula Allowed By The EPA.
6 Counter Assault Bear Spray, 8.1 oz (Pack of 2)
Our Score:
9.1
Counter Assault
  • Bear canister works to deter all bear species from attacking humans for safer camping and hiking
  • Premium bear deterrent spray formula has a maximum strength 2% capsaicin and related capsaicinoids
  • Made-in Montana bear spray provides extra safety with glow in the dark safety wedge and tie string
  • Most Powerful Bear Spray Fog!
  • Hottest Bear Spray Formula at 2% CRC
  • Most trusted bear spray product Developed by a bear attack survivor.
  • Non-retail waste reduction packaging. No Clamshell.
  • 9.2oz-260g Magnum Bear Spray w/ Plastic GrizGuard Holster (fog)
  • UDAP Industries, Inc. manufactures the world's hottest self-defense pepper spray
  • Rapidly Deploys Heavy Fog With 30 Foot Range.
  • Most Powerful Formula Allowed By The EPA.
  • Field Proven and Rigorously Tested.

Our buying guide to pick best grizzly bear spray for you need

Maybe you feel overwhelmed by the variety of choices when it comes to purchasing best grizzly bear spray? Visitors didn't even know if a better option was available. We have a few suggestions which will make things easier and thus save you time and effort.

Review them out below to see whether the item you're looking for is right for you!

Safety And Ease Of Use

Some canisters do not have the same spray or safety features. You may be exposed to danger if you don't have a safety lock. Always purchase a bear spray that has a safety lock.
You will also be amazed at how simple it is to spray, lock, and aim. If a bear approaches you, you don't want to accidentally spray yourself.
In the backcountry, safety should be your number one priority. Don't forget to take your first safety gear with you when stocking up.

Shelf Life

Bear spray is something you want to never use so it's likely it'll sit on your shelf. Before you go out in the field with your bear spray, make sure it is still functional. This will affect the overall value.

Holster

Depending on what you do, how much bear spray you need will determine your ability to carry. It is important to consider how easily it can be found in case of emergency. It should not be in your bag.
Bear spray should be carried in some type of holster. This will allow you to reach for it easily when necessary. It can be attached to your belt, hip strap or shoulder strap. Spray can be accessed without removing your backpack.
The spray can be carried in a holster so you are able to grab it quickly and keep the spray out of your backpack.

Range Of Spray

When shopping for bear spray, one of the most crucial aspects is its range. Some sprays can reach only 12 feet. This distance is not comfortable, but it can provide an acceptable range. To increase the chances of stopping a bear dead in its tracks, aim for a greater range.
Bear sprays should be between 30-40 feet away. The further you are, the better. It should be clear whether the spray is coming from a stream, a lake or both. A narrowly targeted stream will not work unless you can aim well. The perfect aim in these circumstances is difficult to find. Therefore, seek out distances that are reasonable and have a shotgun blast pattern.
The spray speed and distance can also impact the effectiveness of the spray. Sprays can reach speeds up to 70 miles per hour, but others spray at a slower speed. While a spray can travel at a faster speed, it is better to find a balance. This way you can aim your stream more precisely and don't run the risk of sending too many in the wrong direction.

Concentration

Capsaicin is listed in most bear sprays as a concentration between 1 to 2 percent. For maximum effectiveness, bear sprays should contain no more than 2 percent.

Weight And Size

A spray you are able to keep close by is a must. Bear sprays come in large cans so be sure to have the right size pouch or holster. Another important factor to consider is weight. Although most dogs weigh under a pound and can be carried for longer distances, you should still consider this when packing your backpack.

FAQs

Does Bear Spray Work?

Bear spray is effective and can be used to deter bears. The Journal of Wildlife Management published a 20-year study that concluded bear spray was at least 90% effective in keeping bears from engaging in undesirable behaviors. Bear spray is more efficient and safer than guns to deter bear behavior, according to other sources.

When Should Someone Use Bear Spray?

First, practice bear avoidance. Bear avoidance is key to avoiding bear attacks. A bear attack is not worth taking a picture of. Bear in mind that bears don't usually attack humans and unprovoked sprays can cause more problems than they were. If a bear acts aggressively towards your property, you should not use bear spray.

How Do You Use Bear Spray?

We recommend that you follow the manufacturer's instructions as with all outdoor products. Although the instructions for using the bear spray will vary from one brand to another, there are general guidelines you can use.
Bear spray canisters should be held in your hands with both of your hands. You can hold the canister in one hand and use the other to trigger the spray. The nozzle should be pointed towards you, not away. Before spraying, the bear must be at least 30ft (10mi) from you. Bear spray is currently only allowed to be applied within 40 feet of the bear.
Due to the slight recoil of canisters, it is easier to spray downwards. Canisters should be emptied in a circular motion in the direction that the bear is facing. You will create a bigger cloud between the bear and you.

How Do You Carry Bear Spray On A Hike?

Bear spray should always be easily accessible. A lot of bear spray holders allow you to attach it to your backpack, or anywhere else on your body. To help you develop muscle memory, practice accessing it fast.

Is Bear Spray Required?

Bear spray is a must-have for anyone who plans to hike or camp in bear country. Bear spray is not allowed in every park. There are regulations that bear spray must follow. Bear spraying is not allowed in bear country. Check local regulations.

What’s The Difference Between Bear Mace Vs. Pepper Spray?

Bear mace is different from standard pepper spray in that it has different pressure, volume and spray range. Bear mace can spray up to 40ft and is more pressured. To accommodate this spray range, the spray volume in the canisters is larger than that of pepper spray. Pepper spray and bear mace both contain the active ingredient, oleoresin capicum (OC), at differing volumes. Both can lead to temporary blindness and nausea.

Conclusion

The website has a buying guide for best grizzly bear spray for your needs. It will assist you in determining what to purchase and how much was to purchase! If the above options do not meet your needs, consider UDAP Magnum Bear Spray & Hip Holster - 7.9 ounces Emergency as an alternative.

Whether any of this makes it sound daunting or if you want more information, please give us a call, our members of the team are always happy to chat and brainstorm ideas with you!


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About Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan is a freelance writer for CampFireHQ and avid diver. She first discovered her love for diving while on vacation in the Caribbean and has been hooked ever since. Sara loves exploring new dive sites and observing the fascinating creatures that live beneath the waves. As a native of Colorado, Sara enjoys spending her free time hiking and camping in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. She also enjoys writing about her adventures in diving and wildlife conservation.

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