Safariland 690 Handcuff Strap, 1 Snap 690-2B Review

The Safariland 690 Handcuff Strap, 1 Snap 690-2B: First Use to Final Thoughts

The Safariland 690 Handcuff Strap, 1 Snap 690-2B is a seemingly simple piece of kit, but in the world of law enforcement and security, simplicity often equates to reliability. This isn’t some high-tech gadget promising the world; it’s a straightforward solution from Safariland designed to securely hold a pair of handcuffs on a duty belt. Its single-snap design keeps things streamlined, preventing unnecessary bulk on an already crowded rig, and it’s priced affordably at $18.40.

As a gear specialist, I’ve seen countless attachment methods for essential equipment, and the need for a secure and accessible handcuff carry is paramount for anyone in uniform. Many officers carry multiple sets of cuffs and the Safariland 690 seemed like a reasonable start for the second pair. My primary need was for a low-profile, dependable method of carrying a second pair of handcuffs without adding significant weight or obstruction to my already overloaded belt.

Upon receiving the Safariland 690, my initial impression was of solid, no-nonsense construction. The plain finish is unpretentious, and the single snap felt secure. Compared to some bulkier handcuff cases or complicated retention systems, the Safariland 690 offered a refreshingly minimalist approach. I chose this strap over a full handcuff case, such as the Safariland 7305 or a horizontal carry option, due to its space-saving design and ease of access. My first thought was, “This is exactly what I needed – something simple, effective, and doesn’t get in the way.”

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 690 Handcuff Strap, 1 Snap 690-2B to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Safariland 690 during a week of range training and patrol duties. This involved a variety of activities, from stationary target practice to dynamic movement drills, as well as several hours of stationary posts and sitting within the patrol vehicle. The weather conditions ranged from a typical dry 70-degree sunny California to a slightly humid 90-degree day.

The Safariland 690 proved easy to integrate into my existing duty belt setup and provided a secure and reliable method of carrying my second pair of cuffs without impeding movement or restricting access to other essential tools. I found it remarkably easy to draw and replace the cuffs from the strap even while wearing gloves. One small surprise, which was more of a relief, was how quiet the strap was during movement.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of continuous use, the Safariland 690 continues to perform reliably. There are no signs of wear and tear on the strap itself, the snap is still strong, and it has retained its shape and integrity.

The strap is easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth, and the plain finish hasn’t shown any signs of discoloration or fading. Compared to previous handcuff carriers I’ve used, the Safariland 690 is far more durable and streamlined. Previously, I had used elastic straps that would eventually stretch out and lose their retention. The Safariland 690 has held up significantly better, offering consistent performance and lasting value.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 690 Handcuff Strap, 1 Snap 690-2B

Specifications

• The Safariland 690 Handcuff Strap, 1 Snap 690-2B is designed to secure one pair of handcuffs to a duty rig. Its simple design accommodates both hinged and chained handcuffs, standard and oversized.
• The strap mounts to the belt with a single brass snap, which fits 2.25-inch (58 mm) duty belts. The finish is plain.
• It is manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement equipment. The minimalist design saves space on the duty belt, which is valuable when carrying multiple tools.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 690 excels in its primary function: securely holding handcuffs. The single snap design allows for quick and easy access, while the strap maintains a tight grip on the cuffs to prevent accidental loss.

While incredibly simplistic, there is almost no way for the Safariland 690 to fail in its duty. It meets expectations for a basic handcuff strap and provides reliable performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is sturdy, using durable materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The plain finish keeps the strap discreet and professional-looking.

There is virtually no learning curve; it is self-explanatory. The strap’s design does not hinder movement or interfere with other gear.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the sturdy construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland 690 is expected to last for years with minimal maintenance. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it clean.

The single snap is made of durable brass, resistant to corrosion and wear. The overall design minimizes potential points of failure, increasing its longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 690 is a standalone product and doesn’t require additional accessories for its primary function. However, users can customize their setup by pairing it with other Safariland duty gear, such as belt keepers or MOLLE attachments, to further secure the strap and optimize its placement on the belt.

Given the strap’s universal compatibility with various types of handcuffs, no additional customization is typically necessary. It’s a simple, effective solution right out of the box.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 690 Handcuff Strap, 1 Snap 690-2B