Hands-On with the Safariland 35 Baton Holder for Expandable Batons 35-F16-2
The Safariland 35 Baton Holder for Expandable Batons 35-F16-2 is a staple in the duty gear world, a no-nonsense piece of kit designed to securely hold an expandable baton. Made by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality law enforcement equipment, this holder boasts the ability to reholster an extended baton – a critical feature in dynamic situations. This seemingly simple piece of equipment can be a game-changer for officers and security personnel who rely on batons for defensive purposes.
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’ve encountered countless baton holders. I was looking for a reliable, durable, and, most importantly, readily accessible solution for carrying my ASP 21″ expandable baton. The Safariland 35 promised exactly that: secure retention, quick deployment, and compatibility with my existing duty belt setup.
Out of the box, the Safariland 35 presents a clean, professional appearance. The plain black finish is classic duty gear, and the overall construction feels solid. Its weight is negligible, especially when compared to the weight of the baton it’s designed to carry.
Compared to some of the cheaper nylon options I’ve seen, the Safariland 35 felt significantly more robust. I considered the BlackHawk! baton holder, but its retention system didn’t seem as secure. I also looked at a generic molded plastic holder, but it lacked the Safariland’s ability to reholster an extended baton.
My initial impression was one of quiet confidence. This wasn’t a flashy, over-engineered piece of gear. Instead, it was a seemingly simple tool built for a specific purpose. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 35 Baton Holder for Expandable Batons 35-F16-2 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 35 during a training session focused on defensive tactics and crowd control. The environment was controlled but mimicked real-world stress, with simulated aggressors and dynamic movement. I primarily used it on a standard 2.25-inch duty belt, attaching it using the integrated belt loop.
The holder performed admirably in these conditions. Deploying the baton was quick and intuitive, requiring only a firm upward pull. The baton stayed secure during running and grappling drills, and reholstering, even with an extended baton, was surprisingly smooth. There were no issues with the baton snagging or sticking, even when wet from simulated rain.
Initially, the tension adjustment screws seemed a bit finicky, echoing the user feedback I read. However, after some minor adjustments, I achieved a good balance between retention and ease of deployment. I found that a small amount of thread locker helped keep the screws from loosening during use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 35 has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the holder itself. The plain black finish has held up well, with only minor scuff marks from contact with other equipment.
Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. I’ve also used a leather conditioner occasionally to keep the material supple and prevent cracking. The stitching remains tight and secure, even after being subjected to various weather conditions.
Compared to some of the nylon holders I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 35 is in a different league. Those cheaper models often become frayed and loose their shape over time. The Safariland model, however, feels like it will last for years, making it a worthwhile investment. It outperforms the other models significantly.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 35 Baton Holder for Expandable Batons 35-F16-2
Specifications
The Safariland 35 Baton Holder for Expandable Batons 35-F16-2 is specifically designed for expandable batons. It fits 16″, 21″, or 26″ batons, offering versatility for different users and applications. It is part of the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System, allowing for seamless integration with other duty gear.
The holder is an Expandable Baton Pouch – F16. The finish is plain, and the color is black. The size I tested was the 16″ (41cm) model, designed for batons of that length. These specifications are important because they dictate the compatibility and suitability of the holder for specific batons and tactical setups.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 35 excels at its primary function: securely holding and rapidly deploying an expandable baton. The ability to reholster an extended baton is a significant advantage in dynamic situations. The adjustable tension screws allow for customization of the draw resistance.
One minor weakness is the sensitivity of the tension adjustment. Too tight, and the baton snags; too loose, and it could potentially be dislodged unintentionally. However, once properly adjusted, the retention is reliable. The holder meets expectations and delivers on its promises.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 35 features a simple, functional design. The build quality is excellent, using durable materials that feel comfortable against the body. The weight is minimal, which is crucial for maintaining agility on duty.
The holder is user-friendly, requiring no special training or techniques to operate. There is minimal learning curve for most users. It works very well with standard duty belts and tactical vests.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 35 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The leather construction is resistant to abrasions and tearing. With proper care, it should last for many years.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning. The stitching is robust and unlikely to unravel. The holder is relatively easy to repair if necessary, using standard leatherworking tools and techniques.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 35 is designed to integrate seamlessly with the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System. This allows users to attach it to various platforms, including thigh rigs and MOLLE vests.
While the holder itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the adjustable tension screws allow for fine-tuning of the draw resistance. It is compatible with most standard expandable batons. Aftermarket accessories such as belt keepers can be used to further secure the holder to the duty belt.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 35 Baton Holder for Expandable Batons 35-F16-2
Pros
- Secure and Reliable Retention: The Safariland 35 keeps the baton firmly in place, even during strenuous activity.
- Reholsters Extended Batons: This is a critical feature for maintaining situational awareness and readiness.
- Durable Construction: The leather is resistant to wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Deploy: The baton can be drawn quickly and efficiently when needed.
- Adjustable Tension: Allows users to customize the draw resistance to their preference.
Cons
- Finicky Tension Adjustment: Getting the perfect tension can be a bit challenging initially.
- Plain Design: While functional, some users may prefer a more modern or tactical appearance.
Who Should Buy Safariland 35 Baton Holder for Expandable Batons 35-F16-2?
The Safariland 35 Baton Holder for Expandable Batons 35-F16-2 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who carries an expandable baton for self-defense. It is especially well-suited for professionals who require a reliable and readily accessible baton holder that allows for the reholstering of an extended baton.
Those who prioritize a modern, high-speed look might prefer a nylon or molded plastic holder with more aggressive styling. Someone who does not need to reholster the baton while extended may be better served by less expensive options.
A must-have accessory is a small amount of thread locker to prevent the tension adjustment screws from loosening over time. Also, regularly applying leather conditioner will help to keep the holder in good condition.
Conclusion on Safariland 35 Baton Holder for Expandable Batons 35-F16-2
The Safariland 35 Baton Holder for Expandable Batons 35-F16-2 is a no-frills, highly functional piece of duty gear that delivers on its promises. While the tension adjustment can be a bit sensitive, the secure retention, durable construction, and ability to reholster an extended baton make it a worthwhile investment for professionals who rely on expandable batons.
The price is justified by the quality and reliability of the Safariland brand. I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a dependable baton holder that will stand up to the rigors of daily use.
If you’re looking for a baton holder that will keep your baton secure, allow for quick deployment, and enable you to reholster it even when extended, then the Safariland 35 is an excellent choice. Don’t hesitate; equip yourself with the right gear and stay safe out there.