[pct-l] bear protection

[Bob Bankhead]

I'd advise against replacing the used can in your supply closet for use on some future hike.  

Counter Assualt will tell you that once you discharge even a small amount of the material, you should empty the can and dispose of it. Some of the material  will lodge under the valve so it can't re-seat completely. Even though you can't hear or see it, the can will be slowly losing pressure; pressure that you will desperately need if you have to deploy it as a real defense.

Also, beware of residual material on or in the nozzel. Getting it on your hands, even months later, can be damaging to your eyes or nose if you transfer it there.

I'd suggest you use the rest of the can as practice, noting how far and wide it sprays. If you think you'll need it on a future hike, wait and buy a new can just before you go.

Wandering Bob
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: g l 
  To: Bob ; PCT 
  Sent: Friday, December 07, 2007 12:30 PM
  Subject: Re: [pct-l] bear protection


  Well, I couldn't bring myself to unload a perfectly good (?) can of Counter Assault, but I will tell you this:  I gave the can a toot out my back door and the blast was (I'm assuming) as forceful and healthy as day one.  So there ya have it!  Now it may vary from can to can, but its seems pretty sturdy to me.  Also- I have had the trigger guard in place the whole 10 years, so that may have made a difference by preventing accidental mini- blasts......not sure.  So Bob, I'd say hang on to the old ones you have, and just give them a 1/2 second test before carrying them.  That won't be a guarantee in the field of course, but it should be a reasonably safe bet.
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