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

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-4: A Review After Real Use

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-4 is a piece of duty gear that often gets overlooked, but it’s essential for law enforcement and security personnel. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and reliability in the law enforcement equipment world, and this OC spray holder aims to uphold that reputation. I’ve spent over a decade in tactical roles, and the ability to quickly deploy OC spray can be a game-changer in de-escalating situations.

My need for this holder arose from a specific problem. I was searching for a secure yet easily accessible way to carry OC spray on my duty belt without sacrificing comfort or drawing speed. I was tired of fumbling with cumbersome pouches that hindered my response time in critical moments.

Upon unboxing, the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder felt solid and well-constructed. The Safari-Laminate material felt durable, and the stitching was clean and robust. The open-top design immediately signaled its intent: quick access.

I considered several similar products from Bianchi and Uncle Mike’s, but ultimately chose the Safariland 37-4-4 for its mid-ride height and reputation for superior retention. Other holders felt either too bulky or lacked the secure fit I needed.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for improved accessibility, but concerned about whether the open-top design would adequately secure the OC spray canister during rigorous activity. Time and testing would tell.

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

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place on the range and during scenario-based training exercises. I specifically wanted to assess the draw speed and retention under stress. The conditions were varied, including both dry and wet environments to simulate real-world encounters.

The open-top design lived up to its promise of quick access. Drawing the OC spray was intuitive and fast, requiring minimal effort or adjustment. Even with gloved hands, I was able to establish a secure grip and deploy the canister smoothly.

There were initial concerns about retention. During rapid movements, such as sprinting and grappling, the canister did shift slightly within the holder, but it never dislodged. This gave me some confidence, though I remained vigilant.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. The Safari-Laminate material has held up well to daily wear and tear, showing minimal signs of abrasion or fading. The stitching remains intact, and the holder retains its shape.

Durability has been a strong point. I’ve subjected the holder to a variety of demanding conditions, including exposure to rain, mud, and extreme temperatures. Despite the abuse, it continues to perform as intended.

Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The open-top design prevents moisture from accumulating inside the holder, reducing the risk of corrosion or mildew.

Compared to previous OC spray holders I’ve used, the Safariland 37-4-4 offers a noticeable improvement in both accessibility and retention. It strikes a good balance between speed and security, making it a valuable asset in high-pressure situations. It outperforms a generic nylon pouch I was using previously in every measurable way.

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

Specifications

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-4 is designed for specific OC spray canister sizes. It fits canisters with dimensions of 1.5 inches (38mm) in diameter and 4 to 4.5 inches (10.16cm to 11.43cm) in height. This compatibility ensures a snug and secure fit for commonly used OC spray models.

The holder is designed to accommodate brands like Defense Technology MK3 1.47 oz. and 2 oz. canisters, as well as MSI MKIII oc/cs 2 oz. and Pepper Mace MKIII 5.5% 2 oz. canisters. The specific sizing ensures that a variety of popular OC spray options can be readily deployed.

The finish is basket weave, providing a professional and aesthetically pleasing appearance. This finish is common among law enforcement gear and integrates seamlessly with other duty belt accessories.

The color is black, maintaining a low profile and professional appearance. Black is a standard color for duty gear and ensures compatibility with various uniform requirements.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the holder’s ability to securely retain the OC spray canister and provide quick access when needed. The compatibility with specific canister sizes ensures a proper fit, preventing accidental dislodgement or difficulty in drawing the spray.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder excels in its primary function: providing quick and reliable access to OC spray. The open-top design eliminates the need for snaps, zippers, or other cumbersome closures, allowing for immediate deployment.

The holder’s strengths lie in its simplicity and efficiency. The mid-ride height positions the OC spray canister comfortably on the duty belt, within easy reach of the user’s dominant hand. The snug fit ensures that the canister remains securely in place during normal activity.

One potential weakness is the lack of adjustability. The holder is designed for a specific range of canister sizes, and may not accommodate larger or smaller canisters without modification.

Overall, the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder meets and exceeds expectations. Its straightforward design, durable construction, and reliable retention make it a valuable asset for anyone who carries OC spray as part of their duty equipment.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder is constructed from durable Safari-Laminate material, providing a balance of strength and flexibility. The material is resistant to abrasion, moisture, and extreme temperatures, ensuring long-lasting performance in demanding environments.

The holder is lightweight and comfortable to wear, adding minimal bulk to the duty belt. The mid-ride height positions the canister in a natural and accessible location, reducing strain on the user’s back and hips.

The open-top design is inherently user-friendly, requiring no specialized training or techniques. The intuitive draw stroke allows for quick and efficient deployment of the OC spray canister.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use in law enforcement and security environments. The durable Safari-Laminate material and reinforced stitching ensure that the holder will last for years with proper care.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The open-top design allows for adequate ventilation, preventing moisture buildup and reducing the risk of corrosion or mildew.

Repairs are generally not required, but if necessary, minor repairs such as restitching can be performed by a qualified leatherworker or equipment specialist. The Safariland name is associated with quality that leads to long life.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder is designed as a standalone product and does not come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of duty belts and mounting systems.

The holder’s open-top design does not allow for any significant customization options. However, some users may choose to modify the retention system by adding additional straps or clips for enhanced security.

The Safariland name ensures that the holder integrates seamlessly with other Safariland duty gear products, such as belt keepers, handcuff cases, and radio pouches. A uniform look and high level of quality is assured.

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

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

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who carries OC spray as part of their personal defense equipment. Its quick access, durable construction, and comfortable design make it a valuable asset in any situation where OC spray may be needed.

This product may not be suitable for individuals who require a fully enclosed OC spray holder with adjustable retention. Those who operate in extremely demanding environments, such as SWAT teams or military special operations units, may prefer a holder with a more robust retention system.

A must-have accessory is a quality duty belt that is compatible with the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder. A secure and stable belt is essential for ensuring that the holder remains in place and that the OC spray canister is readily accessible.

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

The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-4 is a well-designed and durable piece of duty gear that offers quick and reliable access to OC spray. While it may have some limitations in terms of adjustability and retention, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.

The price is justified by the quality of materials and construction. It will withstand rigorous use and its long service life makes it a worthwhile investment.

I would personally recommend this product to anyone who needs a reliable and efficient way to carry OC spray. It’s a simple yet effective tool that can make a significant difference in critical situations. Equip yourself with the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your OC spray is always within reach.