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Revolutionizing Law Enforcement: The Story Behind the IMPACT Chemical Irritant Spray

IMPACT chemical irritant spraysWhen two seasoned NYPD officers, Tom Smith and Dan Murphy, decided to create a product that would redefine safety for law enforcement and civilians alike, they weren’t just filling a gap—they were addressing a decades-old problem. The result? The IMPACT Chemical Irritant Spray, a water-based, non-toxic alternative to traditional pepper spray that’s making waves in the industry.

The IMPACT irritant spray is available in 3 different sizes:

  • Impact MK3 Chemical Irritant Spray (1.47 oz.) - compact, next-gen deterrent designed to quickly cause eye pain without affecting respiration or leaving lasting effects.
  • Impact MK4 Chemical Irritant Spray (3 oz.) - high-capacity, nitrogen-propelled, non-flammable deterrent designed for controlled indoor and outdoor use.
  • Impact MK9 Chemical Irritant Spray (13 oz.) - controlled, high-output deterrent designed for high-risk operations with minimal environmental impact, safe indoor use, fast cleanup, and zero blowback.

The Journey from NYPD to Innovation 

Tom Smith’s 30-year career with the NYPD was nothing short of extraordinary. From patrolling the streets to working in narcotics, gang units, and even the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, Smith’s experience gave him a unique perspective on the tools officers need to stay safe. Alongside Dan Murphy, a trusted colleague and friend since their days in the Bronx gang unit, Smith co-founded the IMPACT brand.Tom Smith and Dan MurphyTheir shared frustration with traditional pepper spray was the driving force behind the creation of IMPACT. “In 50 years combined, Dan and I never used our pepper spray,” Smith explained. “It’s horrible. It affects the officers as much as the suspect, and in confined spaces like elevators or stairwells, it’s completely unusable.”

What Makes IMPACT Different? 

We spoke with retired NYPD Detective and IMPACT Solutions COO, Tom Smith, to understand why the IMPACT chemical irritant stands out from the rest. It’s not just another spray—it’s a true game-changer. Here’s what he shared with us: 

1. Water-Based, Non-Toxic Formula 
Unlike oleoresin capsicum (OC) pepper spray, IMPACT uses a proprietary blend of three acidic acids and 70% water. This formula eliminates respiratory risks, ensuring that officers and bystanders remain unaffected. “The last thing you want on a body cam is someone saying they can’t breathe,” Smith emphasized. 
2. No Cross-Contamination 
Traditional pepper spray often backfires, affecting officers and anyone nearby. The IMPACT spray targets only the suspect, giving officers a significant tactical advantage. “Imagine having a TASER that shocks the cop too,” Smith joked. “You’d never use it.” 
3. Quick Cleanup 
One of the standout features of the IMPACT spray is its rapid decontamination process. A simple rinse with half a bottle of water clears the irritant in under a minute, allowing officers to move on quickly. 
4. Extended Range and Precision 
The nitrogen-propelled canisters deliver a powerful spray that can hit a target from 12 to 15 feet away, keeping officers at a safe distance. “You don’t have to wait until the suspect is on top of you,” Smith noted. 
5. UV Dye for Identification 
For civilians, the spray includes an invisible UV dye that marks the suspect, aiding law enforcement in identification and prosecution.

Made by Cops, for Cops 

What sets IMPACT apart isn’t just the product—it’s the people behind it. Smith and Murphy’s extensive law enforcement backgrounds lend credibility and trust to their brand. “Departments trust us because we’ve been there,” Smith said. “We’re not just sales guys; we’re cops who understand the challenges.” 

The duo worked closely with chemists and manufacturers, testing the product rigorously to ensure it met their high standards. “It took about a year of development and countless tests—on ourselves, of course,” Smith laughed. “But we knew we had something special.” 

Real-World Success Stories 

The IMPACT spray is already making a difference. From hospital security teams to police departments across the U.S., the spray has proven its effectiveness. One Connecticut police department reported a successful deployment just a day after adopting the product. “It worked perfectly—calmed the suspect down immediately,” Smith shared. 

Civilians, too, are embracing the product for personal safety. The compact keychain version is particularly popular, offering discreet protection that’s easy to carry. “You can use it in an elevator, a car, or a stairwell without worrying about affecting yourself,” Smith explained. 

Looking Ahead

While the IMPACT spray is currently available online at carryimpact.com and through select distributors like Galls.com under defense sprays, Smith and Murphy have their sights set on expanding into brick-and-mortar stores and international markets. “We’re not reinventing the wheel,” Smith said. “But we are making it better.” 

With its innovative design, user-friendly features, and the trust of law enforcement professionals, the IMPACT Chemical Irritant Spray is poised to become a staple in safety equipment for years to come.