Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-2 Review

From Curiosity to Confidence: My Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-2 Review

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-2 is a seemingly simple piece of kit, but in the world of law enforcement and personal defense, accessibility and reliability are paramount. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality duty gear, and this holder aims to provide quick and secure access to OC spray. Its open-top design and mid-ride positioning caught my attention, promising a balance of retention and rapid deployment.

As a seasoned gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters and pouches, many failing to live up to their claims under pressure. I needed a reliable solution for carrying OC spray during personal security details and training exercises. The Safariland reputation and the promise of rapid access made this holder a strong contender.

Unboxing the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, I was immediately struck by the robust construction of the SAFARI-LAMINATE material. It felt durable and well-made, certainly capable of withstanding the rigors of daily duty. The molded shape provided a snug fit for the 40mm OC canister it’s designed for.

Compared to other OC spray holders I’ve used – mostly generic nylon pouches with flimsy closures – the Safariland 37 stood out due to its rigid construction and secure belt attachment. I had considered a fully enclosed holder with a snap closure, but the speed of the open-top design ultimately won me over. The retention seemed secure enough to prevent accidental release, a concern I had with purely friction-based holders.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The build quality was impressive, but the true test would be how it performed in real-world scenarios. I was excited to see if the Safariland 37 would live up to its promise of providing secure and rapid access to OC spray.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-2 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder during a week-long personal security detail in a crowded urban environment. This involved a significant amount of walking, standing, and navigating tight spaces, providing ample opportunity to assess the holder’s comfort, retention, and ease of access. The weather varied from sunny and dry to rainy and humid, offering a good range of conditions.

The open-top design proved invaluable, allowing me to quickly access the OC spray on several occasions when perceived threats arose. Drawing the canister was smooth and intuitive, requiring minimal effort or conscious thought. The mid-ride height positioned the spray at a comfortable level, easily accessible with either hand. In the rainy conditions, the SAFARI-LAMINATE material repelled water effectively, preventing the canister from becoming soaked and slippery.

Initially, the snug fit of the holder made drawing the canister slightly stiff, requiring a deliberate tug. However, after a few practice draws, the fit loosened slightly, becoming perfectly balanced between retention and ease of access. There were no accidental releases, even during periods of vigorous activity.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of near-daily use, the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder has held up remarkably well. The SAFARI-LAMINATE material shows no signs of wear or tear, despite being subjected to abrasion from clothing and equipment. The molded shape has retained its form, ensuring a consistent and secure fit for the OC canister.

Durability has been exceptional; the holder has survived accidental bumps, scrapes, and even a minor fall without any damage. Maintenance has been minimal, consisting primarily of wiping down the surface with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. It’s a testament to the quality of materials and construction.

Compared to my previous experiences with nylon pouches, the Safariland 37 is a significant upgrade in terms of durability, accessibility, and overall reliability. It outperforms any other OC spray holder I’ve used, providing peace of mind knowing that my OC spray is securely retained and readily available when needed. The difference is night and day.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-2

Specifications

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-2 is specifically designed to accommodate 40mm OC spray canisters, such as the Exact Impact 1006 and Direct Impact OC. Its defining feature is the open-top design, facilitating rapid access to the spray. The holder is constructed from durable SAFARI-LAMINATE material, known for its resistance to wear, tear, and moisture.

The mid-ride height positions the canister at a comfortable level on the duty belt, typically just below the waistline. It’s available with a 2.25″ (58mm) belt slide for secure attachment to standard duty belts. The holder can also be ordered with mounts compatible with leg and vest accessories, offering versatile carry options. The color is a professional, low-profile black. The finish is plain.

These specifications are crucial for optimal performance. The 40mm canister compatibility ensures a secure and snug fit, preventing the canister from rattling or shifting during movement. The open-top design is paramount for rapid deployment in critical situations. The SAFARI-LAMINATE construction guarantees long-lasting durability, even under harsh conditions. The mid-ride height strikes a balance between accessibility and security, preventing the canister from snagging on obstacles.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder excels at its primary function: providing secure retention and rapid access to OC spray. The open-top design allows for a quick and intuitive draw, minimizing the time required to deploy the spray. The mid-ride height positions the canister within easy reach, whether using a dominant or support hand.

The holder’s strengths lie in its simplicity and reliability. There are no complicated mechanisms or closures to fumble with; the open-top design ensures immediate access. The secure belt attachment prevents the holder from shifting or rotating during movement. However, the open-top design may leave the canister exposed to the elements, potentially leading to corrosion or contamination over time. A covered option might be preferable in exceptionally harsh environments.

Overall, the Safariland 37 meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of providing secure retention and rapid access, making it an essential piece of kit for law enforcement and security professionals. Its simple design and robust construction ensure reliable performance in demanding situations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 37 boasts a functional and practical design. The molded shape provides a snug and secure fit for the OC canister, preventing it from rattling or shifting during movement. The SAFARI-LAMINATE material is both durable and lightweight, minimizing bulk and weight on the duty belt. The mid-ride height is ergonomically sound, positioning the canister at a comfortable level for easy access.

The build quality is exceptional. The materials are high-grade and the construction is robust, ensuring long-lasting durability. The holder is surprisingly lightweight, adding minimal weight to the duty belt.

There is virtually no learning curve; the open-top design is intuitive and easy to use. Drawing the canister is a natural motion, requiring minimal practice or instruction. The simple design and ergonomic positioning make the Safariland 37 a user-friendly piece of kit.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder is built to last. The SAFARI-LAMINATE material is highly resistant to wear, tear, and abrasion, ensuring long-lasting durability even under harsh conditions. The molded shape retains its form over time, preventing the canister from becoming loose or insecure.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. The smooth surface of the SAFARI-LAMINATE material is easy to clean with a damp cloth. The holder can withstand exposure to moisture, solvents, and other common contaminants without damage.

Repair is unlikely to be necessary, given the robust construction and simple design. The SAFARI-LAMINATE material is resistant to tearing and cracking, minimizing the risk of damage. The Safariland 37 is a low-maintenance piece of kit that is built to withstand years of reliable use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder is primarily designed as a standalone piece of kit, and therefore, it does not include any additional accessories beyond the belt attachment. However, Safariland offers various mounting options, including leg and vest attachments, for increased versatility.

The holder is compatible with standard 2.25″ duty belts. You can use it with other Safariland duty gear components, such as belt keepers and MOLLE adapters.

The simplicity of the Safariland 37 limits customization options. The focus is on providing a reliable and accessible platform for carrying OC spray. While not customizable in the traditional sense, the availability of different mounting options provides some flexibility in terms of carry style.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-2

Who Should Buy Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-2?

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder is perfect for: Law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who carries OC spray as part of their personal protection plan. It suits those who prioritize rapid access and reliable retention above all else. It is especially helpful for individuals who work in environments where quick deployment of OC spray is essential.

Who should skip this product? Individuals who require a fully enclosed and weatherproof OC spray holder may find the open-top design unsuitable. Those who prefer a more discreet or low-profile carry method may also prefer a different type of holder.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality 40mm OC spray canister, such as the Exact Impact 1006 or Direct Impact OC, to ensure proper fit and functionality. No modifications are generally necessary, as the holder is designed to function optimally in its stock configuration.

Conclusion on Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-2

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-2 is a simple yet effective piece of gear that delivers on its promise of providing secure retention and rapid access to OC spray. Its robust construction, ergonomic design, and intuitive functionality make it an essential tool for law enforcement, security professionals, and anyone who prioritizes personal safety.

The price of $39.99 is justified by the quality of materials and construction, as well as the reliability and durability of the product. While the open-top design may not be ideal for all environments, the benefits of rapid deployment outweigh the potential drawbacks in most situations.

I would personally recommend the Safariland 37 to anyone seeking a dependable and accessible OC spray holder. It is a valuable investment in personal safety and a worthwhile addition to any duty belt or gear setup. Don’t compromise on your safety; invest in the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder today and gain the confidence of knowing your OC spray is always within easy reach.