I have a few, not because I think my bulldogs "well hard" it's because I know he is and accidents can and do happen!! If keeping a few handy makes me a so called macho moron then so be it, like I'm bothered by what a few jumped up internet muppets on here think, I'd rather be safe than sorry. Never used one on a lurcher but then I'm only on my 1st and I'm actually teaching her to out, easier said than done though when dealing with insane prey drive.
Also I believe if your hitting/kicking/screaming at your dog to get it off then you either need to sell up or maybe purchase a stick.