Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-3-4 Review

It’s Time to Talk About the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-3-4

As a seasoned professional in the tactical gear world, I’ve seen countless iterations of duty belts and the accessories that adorn them. The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-3-4 is a seemingly simple piece of kit that plays a critical role in maintaining officer safety and public order. Its open-top design allows for rapid deployment of OC spray in potentially life-threatening situations, emphasizing accessibility without compromising security.

I needed a reliable and readily accessible OC spray holder for my duty belt after my previous holder’s retention mechanism failed at the worst possible moment during a high-stress crowd control scenario. The Safariland name is synonymous with quality and durability, so I wanted to see if their OC spray holder lived up to their reputation. Upon unboxing, I immediately noted the robust construction and simple design. The SafariLaminate material felt tough, and the mid-ride height seemed ideal for comfortable carry and quick access.

I have previously used OC spray holders from Bianchi and BlackHawk, but neither offered the same balance of accessibility and retention that I was seeking. I chose the Safariland 37 because of its reputation for dependability and its compatibility with various OC spray canister sizes. I was impressed with the initial quality, but real-world testing would be the true test.


Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-3-4 to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder during a training exercise simulating a protest with escalating tensions. The holder performed admirably, allowing me to quickly draw and deploy an inert training canister. The open-top design ensured I could access the spray without fumbling or delay, which could be crucial in a real-world scenario.

During the training exercise, we experienced a sudden downpour; however, the SafariLaminate material repelled water effectively. Even with wet gloves, I maintained a secure grip and smooth draw. I did not encounter any issues after the first use, which was a promising start.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use on patrol, the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder has held up remarkably well. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear, and the SafariLaminate still looks new. The holder has maintained its shape and retention strength despite being exposed to various weather conditions and the rigors of daily duty.

Maintenance is minimal; I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth as needed. This is a far cry from some of the more complicated nylon holders I’ve used, which require frequent cleaning and often fray over time. It outperforms any OC spray holder I’ve owned in terms of durability and ease of maintenance.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-3-4

Specifications

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-3-4 is designed for specific OC spray canister sizes. It accommodates canisters with dimensions of 1.375 inches (34.9mm) in diameter and 5 inches (12.7cm) in height. This includes popular models like the Guardian 2 oz. & 3 oz., Defense Technology MK6 .68 oz., Freeze 2 oz., and Punch II M-3 2 oz. canisters.

The holder is constructed from SafariLaminate, a durable material known for its resistance to abrasions, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Its black basket weave finish provides a professional appearance that matches most duty gear setups. It’s designed for mid-ride carry, positioning the canister at a comfortable and accessible height on the duty belt.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder’s primary function is to provide quick and reliable access to OC spray. The open-top design allows for instinctive draws without the need to manipulate snaps or levers. The mid-ride height places the canister within easy reach, facilitating swift deployment in critical situations.

Its greatest strength is its simplicity and reliability; however, the open top could be a potential weakness in extreme environments where dust or debris might accumulate in the holder. Overall, it meets expectations and provides dependable performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The holder features a streamlined design that minimizes bulk and maximizes comfort. The SafariLaminate construction ensures durability without adding excessive weight to the duty belt. The mid-ride height is ergonomically sound, allowing for a natural drawing motion.

The Safariland 37 is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no adjustment period or specialized training. Its intuitive design promotes efficient and safe operation.

Durability & Maintenance

Thanks to its rugged SafariLaminate construction, the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder is built to withstand the demands of daily duty. Its resistance to abrasions, moisture, and extreme temperatures ensures long-lasting performance. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.

The robust construction suggests that this holder will provide years of reliable service; moreover, the minimal maintenance requirements make it a practical choice for law enforcement and security professionals.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder is primarily a standalone product and doesn’t offer extensive customization options beyond its inherent design features. It’s compatible with standard 2.25-inch duty belts and can be easily mounted in various positions. While not directly customizable, it integrates seamlessly with other Safariland duty gear accessories.

The holder does not include any specific accessories, but its compatibility with a wide range of OC spray canisters makes it versatile. Users can choose their preferred brand and formulation without being limited by the holder’s design; furthermore, its ability to work with multiple canister sizes adds to its practical value.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-3-4

Pros

  • Rapid Deployment: The open-top design allows for instantaneous access to OC spray, crucial in high-stress situations.
  • Durable Construction: The SafariLaminate material provides exceptional resistance to wear, tear, and environmental factors.
  • Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride height ensures the canister is positioned for easy reach and comfortable all-day wear.
  • Universal Compatibility: It accommodates various OC spray canister sizes, offering flexibility in choosing your preferred brand.
  • Minimal Maintenance: Simple cleaning is all that’s required to keep the holder in top condition.

Cons

  • The open-top design could expose the canister to dust and debris in harsh environments.
  • Some may prefer a more secure retention mechanism, although this trades off with speed of access.


Who Should Buy Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-3-4?

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who needs quick and reliable access to OC spray for personal defense. This is a must-have for professionals working in crowd control, corrections, or any environment where the potential for conflict exists.

Those who prioritize maximum security and prefer a closed-top or Level II retention system might want to consider other options. People working in extremely dusty or dirty environments might also prefer a closed design to protect the canister.

A quality duty belt is essential for proper mounting and comfortable carry. A good brand of OC spray compatible with the holder is also vital.

Conclusion on Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-3-4

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-3-4 is a reliable and practical addition to any duty belt. Its open-top design provides quick access to OC spray, while its durable construction ensures long-lasting performance. The mid-ride height offers comfortable carry, and the holder’s universal compatibility makes it a versatile choice.

The price is justified by the quality of materials and construction. The Safariland 37 offers excellent value for law enforcement and security professionals who rely on their gear to perform flawlessly.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder to anyone seeking a dependable and accessible OC spray carrying solution. Don’t compromise on safety; invest in the gear that will protect you when it matters most.

Leave a Comment