Mace and pepper spray are both types of personal defense sprays that are designed to incapacitate an attacker. However, they are made from different chemical compounds and have some key differences.

Mace is a brand name for a type of tear gas that is used as a self-defense spray. It contains a chemical called chloroacetophenone, which causes irritation and swelling of the eyes, throat, and skin. It is designed to incapacitate an attacker by causing temporary blindness and difficulty breathing.

Pepper spray, on the other hand, is made from a chemical compound called oleoresin capsicum (OC), which is derived from hot peppers. When sprayed into the face, OC causes a burning sensation in the eyes, throat, and skin, and can cause temporary blindness and difficulty breathing. Pepper spray is also more effective at deterring animal attacks.

In general, pepper spray is considered to be more effective as a self-defense tool, as it is more potent and has a longer-lasting effect than mace. However, both types of sprays can be effective in certain situations, and it is important to choose the one that is best suited to your needs.