Description
The OC (oleoresin capsicum) 1% and PAVA (piperidine-1-aldoxime methiodide) 4% incapacitating projectile is a non-lethal product designed to temporarily immobilise a person without causing serious damage. It consists of a plastic capsule containing a mixture of OC and PAVA powders.
When the projectile is fired, the capsule breaks and the OC and PAVA mixture spreads through the air, causing eye and respiratory tract irritation in the affected person. OC, also used in pepper spray cans, is a powerful irritant that causes watering, sneezing and skin burning. PAVA acts as an incapacitating agent, causing temporary muscle weakness and loss of coordination.
The OC and PAVA-based incapacitating projectile is effective at a distance of up to 12 metres. In some countries it is used by law enforcement and security personnel to immobilise violent or uncooperative people. It is also known to be useful in street or crowd situations, where it can immobilise people without causing serious injury.
In summary, the OC and PAVA incapacitating projectile is a non-lethal product that is effective in temporarily immobilising a person through the combined use of an eye irritant and an incapacitating agent.
It is important to note that, although the Byrna projectile is non-lethal, it can cause injury if used at too close a range or if the target has pre-existing medical conditions. It is therefore recommended that it be used only in cases of immediate danger and after assessing the situation.
While the attacker is temporarily incapacitated, it is better to flee rather than try to neutralise him/her. It is important to contact the police to deal with the situation.
