🚀 go-pugleaf

[ This came in sans subject line and gun related topic. However,
  I really don't know where else one would discuss this (net.women?),
  so what the heck. It won't the the first time we've digressed a little. -jh ]

[ PS: I'd be interested in hearing from you chemists out there on the topic
  of more "home brew" aerosols for defensive use. If there is sufficient
  interest, I'll post a summary - jh again ]

     I'm looking for information on CS or tear gas.  The type and 
size a women can carry in her purse. This info I need for my wife,
since a handgun is out of the question(if you lived in the Boston
area you would know what I mean, tough to get a permit).
     I was going to get any kind, I thought it did not matter. Now
I'm finding out that some of the stuff on the market is no good
and instead of stopping a criminal, it would just irritate him more. 
I know the stuff they use in the military is potent stuff, I
was "exposed" to it (unvoluntarily). Is any of this kind available
in a small size. Can anyone out there in netland give 
me any info on companies that make a good potent tear gas weapon?
Or even ones to stay away from! I have heard that S&W makes a good
product. Is this true? Any information will be appreciated.
     Also, any info on other types of protection that a women can
use that I'm not aware of would be very helpful.

     THANKS in advance.