The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9: A Review After Real Use
The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 is a crucial piece of duty gear, especially for law enforcement and security professionals who rely on OC spray as a less-lethal option. Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and durability in the law enforcement equipment world, designed this holder for quick access and secure retention. This particular model boasts a mid-ride height and an open-top design for rapid deployment, a feature that can be paramount in high-stress situations.
My need for this product stemmed from a desire for a more streamlined and accessible OC spray carry solution. I was previously using a generic pouch that lacked the secure retention I needed, leading to concerns about accidental deployment or loss of the canister. The Safariland name gave me confidence that this would be a solution to that concern.
Upon receiving the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9, my initial impression was positive. The Safari-Laminate material felt robust and well-constructed, hinting at long-term durability. The open-top design was exactly what I was looking for – a simple, no-nonsense system for immediate access.
I considered a few similar products before settling on this Safariland model. I looked at the Bianchi 7205 OC Spray Pouch and the Monadnock Side Break OC Spray Holder, but I chose the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 because of the open top. The speed of access was a determining factor.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for faster deployment but also a bit concerned about whether the open-top design would compromise retention. The quality of the Safariland materials was a definite plus, giving me hope that this would be a reliable piece of gear.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 took place during a training exercise simulating a crowd control scenario. The purpose of the training was to assess its functionality in a dynamic, high-pressure environment. I was specifically interested in how easily I could draw the OC spray canister while wearing gloves and under simulated stress.
The conditions were fairly standard – dry, mild weather. However, the simulated stress of the exercise added a critical element to the testing. The draw was surprisingly smooth and intuitive; the open-top design allowed for a solid grip on the canister without fumbling.
There was a slight learning curve with the draw angle. Initially, I was drawing the canister too high, but after a few repetitions, I found the optimal angle for a clean, efficient draw. Overall, the first-time use was positive and encouraging.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous use during patrol duty, the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 has held up remarkably well. The Safari-Laminate material shows no signs of wear and tear despite rubbing against my duty belt and clothing. The holder maintains its shape and secure grip on the OC spray canister.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove any dirt or grime. Compared to my previous pouch, which required constant adjusting and cleaning, this Safariland holder is a significant upgrade in terms of ease of care.
In comparison to my previous experience with generic pouches, the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 far outperforms in terms of retention, accessibility, and durability. The peace of mind knowing that my OC spray is securely held and readily available is invaluable. It is a great product made by Safariland.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9
Specifications
The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 is specifically designed for OC spray canisters with dimensions of approximately 1.5 inches (38mm) in diameter and 4 to 4.5 inches (10.16cm to 11.43cm) in height. This makes it compatible with popular canisters like the Defense Technology MK3 1.47 oz and 2 oz, MSI MKIII OC/CS 2 oz, and Pepper Mace MKIII 5.5% 2 oz. canisters. It’s very important to ensure the correct size fit to have proper retention.
The “Mid-Ride” designation refers to the holder’s position on the duty belt, placing it lower than a standard belt attachment for improved comfort and accessibility. The holder is constructed from durable Safari-Laminate, a Safariland proprietary material known for its resistance to abrasions, moisture, and chemicals. The open-top design allows for quick and unhindered access to the OC spray canister in critical situations.
The holder is finished in a professional-looking hi-gloss black, which integrates seamlessly with most duty belt setups. The hi-gloss finish contributes to the overall durability and ease of cleaning. The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 is built to last through years of service.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 excels in its primary function: providing secure retention and rapid access to OC spray. The open-top design allows for a quick and intuitive draw, crucial in high-stress situations where seconds can make a difference. The mid-ride height ensures that the canister is positioned comfortably and doesn’t interfere with other equipment on the duty belt.
One of the strengths is its simplicity. There are no complex mechanisms or adjustments to worry about, making it reliable and easy to use even under pressure. The only area for potential improvement is the addition of an adjustable tension screw to fine-tune the retention level, but that is not necessary.
The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade OC spray holder. The design facilitates a quick, secure, and reliable deployment of the OC spray canister, making it an invaluable tool for any law enforcement or security professional.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 is thoughtfully designed with both durability and user comfort in mind. The Safari-Laminate material provides a robust and long-lasting construction while remaining relatively lightweight. The mid-ride height contributes to overall comfort by distributing the weight of the OC spray canister evenly on the duty belt.
The open-top design is inherently user-friendly. It allows for a natural and instinctive draw, minimizing the learning curve. The overall design is streamlined and unobtrusive, ensuring that it doesn’t snag on clothing or other equipment.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 is built for long-term durability. The Safari-Laminate material is highly resistant to wear, tear, and environmental factors, ensuring that it will withstand the rigors of daily use. With proper care, this holder should last for years of service.
Maintenance is minimal. Simply wiping down the holder with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean and functioning properly. The durable construction and simple design minimize the need for repairs or replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 is primarily a standalone product and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Because it interfaces with a standard duty belt, there are some customization options. However, this is limited to the belt type itself.
While not directly customizable, the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 is compatible with a variety of duty belts from different brands. The belt loop is designed to accommodate standard-sized duty belts commonly used by law enforcement and security professionals. It is a high quality belt loop.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9
Pros
- Rapid Access: The open-top design allows for incredibly fast deployment of the OC spray canister, critical in dynamic situations.
- Durable Construction: The Safari-Laminate material is exceptionally durable and resistant to wear and tear, ensuring long-term reliability.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride height positions the OC spray canister comfortably on the duty belt, reducing strain and improving accessibility.
- Simple and Reliable Design: The absence of complex mechanisms makes the holder easy to use and reduces the risk of malfunction.
- Easy Maintenance: Minimal maintenance is required; a simple wipe-down is sufficient to keep it clean and functioning properly.
Cons
- Limited Retention Adjustment: There is no tension adjustment, which some users may prefer for fine-tuning the level of retention.
- Open-Top Design: The open-top design has a greater potential for accidental dislodgement than a closed-top pouch, especially during rigorous physical activity.
Who Should Buy Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9?
The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who relies on OC spray as a less-lethal self-defense tool. It’s a great product for those who prioritize rapid access and dependable performance. The high-quality construction makes it ideal for those working in demanding environments where gear must withstand constant use and potential abuse.
This product might not be suitable for individuals who require a fully enclosed and highly secure pouch due to concerns about accidental dislodgement. Civilians who only carry OC spray occasionally might find a simpler, less expensive option more appropriate. It is a specialized product for experts.
A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure secure and comfortable carry. While no modifications are necessary, some users might consider adding a small lanyard to the OC spray canister for added security. This can help prevent loss if the canister is accidentally dislodged.
Conclusion on Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9
Overall, the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 is a highly functional and durable piece of duty gear that delivers on its promise of rapid access and secure retention. The quality of the Safari-Laminate material and the thoughtful design make it a worthwhile investment for professionals who depend on OC spray as a less-lethal option. The quality materials of the Safariland product are worth the cost.
The price is justified given the superior quality and performance compared to cheaper alternatives. I would personally recommend this holder to anyone seeking a reliable and efficient OC spray carry solution. This is a serious product for serious situations.
If you’re looking for a duty-grade OC spray holder that prioritizes speed and reliability, the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-4-9 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and effectiveness by adding this essential piece of gear to your duty belt today. Do not hesitate.