Let’s Dive into Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4HS
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4HS is a seemingly simple piece of kit, but it’s an essential part of any law enforcement officer’s or security professional’s duty rig. Made by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and durability in the law enforcement equipment world, this holder provides secure and readily accessible storage for standard sized OC spray canisters. The top flap design offers an extra layer of retention, preventing accidental deployment while ensuring quick access when needed most.
Years ago, I worked patrol in a particularly rough part of town where OC spray was deployed frequently. My biggest issue was always finding a holder that kept the canister secure during foot pursuits but allowed me to deploy it instantly when faced with an aggressive suspect. The generic nylon pouches I initially used were either too bulky, lacked sufficient retention, or were too slow to draw from under pressure.
Upon receiving the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, my initial impression was positive. The molded construction felt solid and durable, not flimsy like some cheaper alternatives. The top flap, secured with a hidden snap, provided a satisfying level of security. The basket weave finish on the plain black model I chose gives it a professional look that blends seamlessly with my duty belt.
Compared to the open-top nylon pouches I had previously used, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder offered a significantly more secure carry. Some colleagues were using similar open-top models from other manufacturers, but I preferred the added retention of the top flap, especially when dealing with combative individuals. This one seemed to offer the perfect balance of retention and accessibility, something I was eager to confirm in real-world scenarios. My first impression was one of cautious optimism—I was excited to see if it would live up to the Safariland name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4HS to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to truly test the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder came during a foot pursuit involving a resisting suspect. While the chase itself was uneventful, the true test came when I had to quickly transition from running to deploying the OC spray. The canister released smoothly and efficiently from the holder. The top flap snapped open without any fumbling.
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder performed flawlessly, even under the stress of the situation. Later, during a training exercise in simulated rain, the holder remained secure and the OC spray canister stayed firmly in place. The water didn’t affect the snap closure or the overall integrity of the holder, proving its reliability in adverse conditions. I found that, with practice, I could reliably access and deploy the OC spray with one hand, a crucial advantage in dynamic situations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of wear or tear on the molded body or the top flap. The snap closure still functions smoothly and securely. The basket weave finish has held up well, resisting scratches and scuffs.
The only maintenance required has been occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. Compared to the nylon pouches I used previously, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder requires significantly less care and attention. Its performance has consistently exceeded my expectations. It offers a level of security, accessibility, and durability that I had not experienced with other OC spray holders.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4HS
Specifications
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4HS is designed to accommodate standard 1.40″ diameter OC spray canisters, with length options of either 4″ or 5″ to fit various canister sizes. The holder is constructed from a durable, molded synthetic material ensuring long-lasting performance and resistance to the elements. It comes in several finishes: Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, and STX TACTICAL™, allowing for customization to match existing duty gear.
The holder utilizes a top flap with a hidden snap closure for secure retention and quick access. The dimensions are 1.5″(38mm) (diameter) x 5.5″-6.5″(13.9cm-16.51cm) (high), making it compatible with a wide range of OC spray canisters. This includes models from Guardian, Defense Technology, Freeze, and Punch II, as well as various fogger, cone, stream, and foam formulations. The hidden snap closure ensures a professional appearance and reduces the risk of accidental opening, providing enhanced security.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder excels at its primary function: securely holding and providing rapid access to OC spray. The top flap design adds an extra layer of retention. This ensures the canister remains in place even during strenuous activity. The molded construction provides excellent protection for the canister, preventing damage from impacts or abrasions.
However, the top flap design may require a bit of practice to master for truly rapid deployment. Some officers might prefer an open-top design for slightly faster access, but the added security of the flap is a worthwhile trade-off. Overall, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade OC spray holder. Its robust construction and thoughtful design make it a reliable and effective piece of equipment.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder features a simple yet effective design. The molded construction is both durable and lightweight, adding minimal bulk to the duty belt. The basket weave finish on my model provides a professional appearance. The smooth edges ensure comfort during extended wear.
The top flap is easy to operate with one hand, even with gloves on. The hidden snap closure is secure yet allows for quick access when needed. There’s a slight learning curve involved in mastering the one-handed draw, but it quickly becomes second nature with practice. The overall design is user-friendly and ergonomically sound.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is built to last. The molded synthetic material is highly resistant to wear, tear, and the elements. After months of use, there are no signs of cracking, splitting, or fading.
Maintenance is simple: just wipe it down with a damp cloth as needed to remove dirt and grime. The snap closure may benefit from occasional lubrication with a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation. With proper care, this holder should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is designed to integrate seamlessly with Safariland‘s 6004/6005 Tactical System. This allows it to be mounted on various platforms. These include thigh rigs and other tactical gear. The availability of different finishes (Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, and STX TACTICAL™) allows users to match the holder to their existing equipment.
While there are no specific “accessories” for the holder itself, its compatibility with the Safariland tactical system opens up a range of customization options. Users can easily adapt the holder to suit their specific needs and preferences. It’s also worth noting that the holder is designed to accommodate a wide variety of standard OC spray canisters, providing flexibility in terms of the specific brand and formulation used.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4HS
Pros
- Excellent Retention: The top flap with hidden snap provides superior security compared to open-top pouches.
- Durable Construction: The molded synthetic material is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
- Professional Appearance: Available in various finishes, including the classic basket weave, ensuring a polished look.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple to clean and requires minimal upkeep.
- Compatible with Safariland Tactical System: Integrates seamlessly with other Safariland gear for enhanced versatility.
Cons
- Top flap design may be slower to deploy compared to open-top options, requiring practice.
- Limited customization options beyond finish selection.
Who Should Buy Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4HS?
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4HS is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who carries OC spray as part of their personal protection equipment. It offers a reliable and secure way to carry OC spray while maintaining a professional appearance. Those working in high-risk environments where retention is paramount will particularly appreciate the top flap design.
Anyone prioritizing absolute speed of deployment above all else might consider an open-top holder instead. Also, if you require extensive customization options beyond finish selection, this holder might be too basic. A must-have modification could be the addition of a small lanyard attached to the snap, especially if you operate in cold weather with thick gloves. This will aid in quickly opening the flap.
Conclusion on Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4HS
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4HS is a well-designed, durable, and reliable piece of duty gear that provides secure and readily accessible storage for OC spray. The price is justified by the quality of construction, the added security of the top flap design, and the reputation of Safariland for producing top-notch law enforcement equipment.
I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who needs a professional-grade OC spray holder that can withstand the demands of daily use. If you’re looking for a secure, reliable, and professional-looking OC spray holder, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is an excellent choice. Don’t settle for less when it comes to your safety and the security of your equipment—invest in the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder today!