What Led Me to Try the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-4
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-4 is a seemingly simple piece of gear, but in the world of tactical and duty equipment, it’s the details that make the difference. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and durability, and their Model 38 OC spray holder is designed for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone who needs quick and reliable access to their OC spray. I was drawn to this particular model because of its top flap design, which offers an added layer of security and protection for the canister.
For years, I’ve relied on open-top carriers for my OC spray, prioritizing speed of deployment. However, after an incident where my spray canister was accidentally dislodged during a foot pursuit, I knew I needed something more secure. The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder promised both retention and ease of access, a combination I found appealing.
When I received the holder, my initial impression was one of solid construction. The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-4 felt robust, with thick, durable material and a secure snap closure.
I considered a few other options before settling on this Safariland model. I looked at some open-top Kydex carriers, but they lacked the added protection I was seeking. I also considered a nylon pouch with a Velcro closure, but I was concerned about the Velcro wearing out over time. Ultimately, the Safariland 38 seemed like the best balance of security, durability, and ease of use.
My first impression was positive; I was excited to see how this holder would perform in the field. I was particularly interested in testing the speed and ease of accessing the OC spray with the top flap design.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-4 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder was during a training exercise at a local law enforcement training facility. We were running drills that simulated real-life scenarios, including foot pursuits, crowd control, and subject apprehension.
The holder performed admirably in all conditions. Even while moving dynamically, sprinting, and changing positions, the OC spray canister remained securely in place. The top flap’s snap closure provided excellent retention, and the OC spray never felt like it was at risk of falling out.
It did take a few repetitions to get used to unsnapping the flap and drawing the spray quickly. However, after a short period of practice, the motion became fluid and natural. There were no major issues, although the initial learning curve was a bit steeper than with my previous open-top carrier.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous use in both training and patrol environments, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after being subjected to rough handling and exposure to the elements.
The holder’s durability is impressive. The stitching remains intact, the snap closure is still secure, and the material hasn’t shown any signs of fraying or tearing. Cleaning and maintenance are simple. I just wipe it down with a damp cloth occasionally to remove dirt and grime.
Compared to my previous open-top carrier, the Safariland 38 offers a significant improvement in retention and security. While the draw is slightly slower, the added peace of mind knowing that my OC spray is always secure is well worth the trade-off.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-4
Specifications
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-4 is designed to hold standard-sized OC spray canisters, typically those measuring 1.40″ in diameter and either 4″ or 5″ in height. It’s available in several finishes, including Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, and STX TACTICAL™. The model I tested features the Basket Weave finish, which provides a professional and durable appearance.
The holder is made from durable synthetic material, likely Safariland‘s proprietary SafariSeven™ nylon blend or similar. This material is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use in law enforcement and security environments. The top flap secures with a sturdy snap closure, providing an extra layer of retention and protection for the OC spray canister.
The specific model, 38-7-4, denotes the size and attachment style. The “7” indicates the belt loop size (likely 2.25″), and the “4” specifies that it fits the smaller 4″ OC canisters. These specifications are critical for ensuring the holder fits properly on a duty belt and accommodates the correct size OC spray.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder performs its job exceptionally well. It securely holds the OC spray canister while allowing for relatively quick access when needed. The snap closure on the top flap is easy to operate with one hand, even while wearing gloves.
The holder’s primary strength is its retention capability. The top flap design provides an added layer of security, preventing the OC spray from accidentally dislodging during strenuous activity. One area for potential improvement would be to offer a slightly faster draw, perhaps by experimenting with different flap designs or closure mechanisms.
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-4 meets and slightly exceeds my expectations. It offers a significant improvement in security compared to open-top carriers without sacrificing too much in terms of speed of deployment.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder features a simple yet effective design. The holder is molded to fit the shape of a standard OC spray canister, and the top flap is contoured to provide a secure and comfortable fit.
The build quality is excellent. The materials are durable and well-stitched, and the snap closure feels solid and reliable. There is a slight learning curve associated with using the top flap, but after a short period of practice, the draw becomes intuitive and efficient.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is built to last. The materials and construction are robust, and the holder shows minimal signs of wear and tear even after extended use in demanding conditions.
Maintenance is simple. I wipe it down with a damp cloth as needed. I anticipate that this holder will provide years of reliable service with minimal maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is primarily a standalone product, so there aren’t many accessories that come directly with it. However, its compatibility with Safariland‘s duty belt system provides a wide range of customization options.
The holder can be easily attached to any standard duty belt using the integrated belt loop. Additionally, it’s compatible with Safariland‘s Quick Release system, allowing for quick and easy removal and attachment to other gear. The availability of different finishes, such as Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, and STX TACTICAL™, allows users to match the holder to their existing duty gear.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-4
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The top flap design provides superior security, preventing accidental dislodging of the OC spray.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials, this holder is built to withstand the rigors of daily use.
- Professional Appearance: Available in various finishes, including Basket Weave, to match existing duty gear.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple wipe-down cleaning keeps the holder in good condition.
- Compatibility: Works seamlessly with Safariland‘s duty belt system and Quick Release system.
Cons
- Slightly Slower Draw: The top flap adds a fraction of a second to the draw time compared to open-top carriers.
- Initial Learning Curve: Requires some practice to master the one-handed operation of the snap closure.
Who Should Buy Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-4?
This Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable way to carry their OC spray. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals who work in dynamic environments where there’s a high risk of their OC spray being accidentally dislodged.
This product might not be ideal for those who prioritize absolute speed of deployment above all else. Individuals who primarily work in static environments with minimal risk of dislodgement may find an open-top carrier sufficient.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality OC spray canister that fits securely within the holder. Ensuring the canister is properly sized is crucial for optimal retention and ease of deployment.
Conclusion on Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-4
Overall, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-4 is an excellent piece of gear that offers a compelling combination of security, durability, and ease of use. Safariland delivers on its promise of quality and reliability.
The price of $39.99 is justified by the holder’s robust construction and superior retention capabilities. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who relies on OC spray for personal or professional protection.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this holder to anyone looking for a secure and dependable way to carry their OC spray. If you value peace of mind and the assurance that your OC spray will always be there when you need it, then the Safariland 38 is the perfect choice. Consider upgrading to the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-4 today for enhanced security and performance.