Breaking Down My First Experience with the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-9
As a seasoned professional in the tactical gear world, I’ve seen countless variations on essential duty equipment. From innovative designs to cost-cutting compromises, the market is flooded with options. So when I first laid eyes on the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-9, I was intrigued by its seemingly simple, yet purposeful design.
My need for a reliable OC spray holder stemmed from a recent shift in my duties, requiring me to carry less-lethal options more frequently. I was tired of generic pouches that offered inadequate retention and slow deployment. Unboxing the Safariland 37, I immediately appreciated the quality of the Safari-Laminate material. It felt durable, professional, and ready for the rigors of daily use.
I’ve used open-top designs before, as well as models with flaps and various retention devices. I decided on the Safariland 37 because of Safariland’s reputation for quality and the specific mid-ride height that fits my preferred belt setup. Other options felt either too bulky or offered insufficient security. My initial impression was positive; the holder felt robust, with a clean, functional aesthetic.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-9 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test took place during a week-long training exercise at a local law enforcement training facility. This environment provided a demanding, real-world setting to evaluate the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder. The holder was subjected to various scenarios, including foot pursuits, simulated confrontations, and tactical maneuvers.
I was impressed by its performance in diverse conditions. Even during heavy rain and muddy terrain, the holder maintained its integrity, and the OC canister remained secure. The open-top design allowed for quick and easy access, which proved crucial in high-pressure simulations. There was a slight learning curve in consistently drawing the canister at the correct angle for immediate deployment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the Safariland 37 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. I’ve experienced no significant wear and tear, even with daily exposure to the elements and constant abrasion against other equipment. The Safari-Laminate material remains rigid and retains its shape.
Maintenance has been minimal; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to previous OC spray holders I’ve used, the Safariland 37 far surpasses them in terms of durability, accessibility, and overall reliability. It’s a clear upgrade and a worthwhile investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-9
Specifications
The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-9 is specifically designed to accommodate “Exact Impact 1006 40mm” and “Direct Impact OC 40mm” OC spray canisters. It comes in a Hi Gloss black finish. The holder is crafted from durable Safari-Laminate material.
The mid-ride design positions the canister comfortably on the duty belt, allowing for a smooth and efficient draw. It can be ordered for either a 2.25″ (58mm) belt slide or configured for mounting on leg and vest accessories. These specifications directly impact performance by ensuring compatibility with common OC spray canisters and allowing for personalized placement on the user’s duty rig.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 37 excels in its primary function: providing quick and reliable access to OC spray. The open-top design facilitates rapid deployment. The mid-ride height offers a comfortable and ergonomic draw.
While the open top design offers fast access, it does sacrifice some security compared to models with retention straps or flaps. However, the snug fit of the canister within the holder provides sufficient retention for most situations. Overall, the Safariland 37 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade OC spray holder.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional, as one would expect from Safariland. The Safari-Laminate material is both durable and lightweight. The mid-ride height positions the canister comfortably on the belt without impeding movement.
The design is straightforward and functional, with no unnecessary frills. There is a slight learning curve to drawing the canister consistently, but practice quickly overcomes this.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 37 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The Safari-Laminate material is resistant to abrasion, moisture, and temperature extremes. With minimal care, this holder should provide years of reliable service.
Cleaning is simple, typically requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth. No specialized tools or cleaning agents are needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 37 itself doesn’t come with additional accessories, as it’s a relatively simple device. However, it offers some customization options through its mounting configurations. Users can select the appropriate belt loop size to match their duty belt (2.25 inches is standard), or choose to mount it on a MOLLE-compatible vest or thigh rig using appropriate adapters (sold separately).
While designed primarily for Safariland’s mounting systems, the holder can often be adapted to work with other brands’ mounting platforms with some ingenuity. The versatility in mounting options is a significant advantage.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-9
Pros
- Provides extremely fast access to OC spray due to its open-top design.
- Durable Safari-Laminate construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Mid-ride height offers a comfortable and ergonomic draw.
- Compatible with standard 2.25″ duty belts and MOLLE vests with appropriate adapters.
- Professional appearance suitable for law enforcement and security personnel.
Cons
- Open-top design offers less security compared to models with retention straps.
- May require some practice to consistently draw the OC spray canister at the correct angle.
Who Should Buy Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-9?
The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires quick and reliable access to OC spray. Those working in high-risk environments or who prioritize speed of deployment will find this holder particularly valuable.
Individuals who prioritize maximum security over speed of access might want to consider a holder with a retention strap or flap. Those who are new to carrying OC spray may also benefit from a holder with more robust retention features. A must-have modification would be selecting the mounting option best suited for your duty belt and vest configuration.
Conclusion on Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-9
The Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder, Mid-Ride, Open Top 37-8-9 is a well-designed and durable piece of equipment that delivers on its promise of quick and reliable access to OC spray. Its simple yet functional design, combined with Safariland’s renowned quality, makes it a worthwhile investment for professionals who rely on less-lethal options. The price is justified by the quality and durability of the Safari-Laminate material, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your OC spray is readily accessible.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 37 to anyone seeking a professional-grade OC spray holder. If you value speed, reliability, and durability, this holder is an excellent choice. Equip yourself with the Safariland 37 OC Spray Holder and experience the difference a quality piece of gear can make.