I always keep mine on my belt, i take the cap off when i make visual contact or see/smell fresh bear sign. Make sure you know how to use it/understand the spray pattern. This goes for bear banger especially, i can tell you i have watched a few different bears run towards people because the banger they fired landed behind the bear and it ran past the people to get away.
If your bottle is a few years old id recommend using it up and the end of your season and getting a fresh one next season. I had one sitting for a while i sprayed off last hunting season and it barely had any heat left to it.
Lastly keep in mind the scenario where you are most likely to have an encounter is when the wind is in your face and this is when you'll least want to use spray lol so if your hiking this is the best time to make noise now and then.
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