Fifty years ago, Carl Hoernecke invented aerosol-based pepper spray, an innovation that has persisted as the go-to solution for less-lethal personal protection. Now the market is growing as innovative companies invest in advanced technologies and delivery systems to meet the demands of a widening audience with varying needs.

The less-lethal space is made up of an increasingly diverse set of consumers and agencies. Professional security, police, border patrol, military, consumers, and everyone in-between are eager for reliable defense options. Historically, consumers have supported pepper-spray related aerosol, making up the largest percentage of sales in the industry. Market research shows these products were valued at $26 million in 2019 and are estimated to reach $67 million with a compound annual growth rate of 14.7% by 2025.

Professional groups wear a wide selection of products on their uniforms including projectiles and sprays in powder and gel formats. According to recent research, less-lethal purchases by law enforcement in the United States will exceed $10.2 Billion by 2025.

Less-lethal products have become the choice for millions of people around the globe. Today, the consumer’s choice of product is mostly driven by size, cost and availability. HERO™ Defense Systems LLC is a new breed of manufacturer, producing high-tech personal self-defense weapons with advanced features and lifestyle considerations.

HERO™ 2020 Launches at Shot Show, the Largest Shooting, Hunting, and Outdoor Event in the U.S.

HERO® has successfully launched its first consumer and prosumer product: HERO™ 2020. A patent pending product, HERO™ 2020 is a small format, feature rich personal protection device. The dual shot device comes with two finger trigger, double-sided safety, 600 lumen LED stun light, laser assisted aim, and an innovative interchangeable cartridge design. With multiple cartridge options, HERO™ 2020 allows users to choose the best delivery format for every environment and includes non-active options for training. It’s a new approach to self-defense using a powerful nitrogen power plant to deliver high-grade, lab tested pepper based ingredients. HERO™ 2020 allows product customization and feature choices for international distributors.

“What started out as a simple idea has turned out to be a growing passion with so many people around the globe. We worked relentlessly on well thought-out designs, natural ergonomics, and new technologies to get people motivated – to rethink personal protection for their families and commit to always having a go-to-plan. The professionals like security guards, city police, first responders, governmental agencies agreed that they need more well designed less-lethal options and that the HERO™ 2020 would be on their immediate product testing schedules.”
– David Clemons, Co-Founder and CEO

HERO™ 2020 was met with enthusiasm at Shot Show, with industry leaders and consumers alike expressing interest and excitement for the new product. Individuals and agencies from over 30 countries expressed an immediate need and interest to distribute.