Pepper Spray

* In response to “Public’s Demand for Pepper Spray Is Bigger Than Supply in L.A. Area,” March 2:

How come a person needs to obtain training in order to purchase pepper spray but anyone can purchase a lethal weapon (gun) without so much as a blink of an eye?

ESTHER KRISMAN

Los Angeles

* On the subject of pepper sprays for self-defense, the American Civil Liberties Union is right: Do more research first. Yes, it is a defensive weapon. I quote David Boyd, director of the National Institute of Justice: “A person sprayed will be forced to the knees.”

What about it as a non-lethal, offensive weapon? Any crook or hoodlum can obtain the certificate and buy the spray. He now uses it on pedestrians, male and female, disables them, and runs off with purse or wallet. I deem it foolish, asinine and stupid to permit the sale of such incapacitating devices to the public.

ROGER O. SIEGE

Los Angeles

* How long will it be before an ambitious entrepreneur markets face masks to guard all of us from pepper spray?

R. SETMIRE

Irvine