Let’s Dive into Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-3-2B
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-3-2B is a seemingly simple piece of kit, but in the world of law enforcement and personal defense, reliable equipment can make all the difference. Safariland, a name synonymous with quality duty gear, brings their expertise to this OC spray holder, promising secure carry and rapid deployment. It’s designed to integrate seamlessly into a tactical setup, offering both accessibility and protection for a crucial non-lethal tool.
I needed a reliable way to carry OC spray on my duty belt that wouldn’t accidentally discharge, yet be easily accessible when needed. I’ve seen too many generic pouches fail, either ripping at the seams or allowing the canister to jostle loose during foot pursuits. The Safariland name gave me a degree of confidence that this wouldn’t be the case.
Out of the box, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder feels sturdy and well-constructed. The plain black finish is professional, and the top flap closure gives the impression of secure retention. The brass fastener adds a touch of classic Safariland quality.
I considered a few alternatives, including open-top carriers and those with adjustable tension screws. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder for its balance of security and quick access, figuring the top flap would offer better protection against accidental discharge or loss, while still being fast to open with practice. My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of concern about the flap hindering draw speed, but I was eager to test it.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-3-2B to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder during a training exercise simulating a crowd control scenario. This involved a lot of movement, simulated physical altercations, and rapid transitions between tasks. I wanted to see how well the holder would retain the OC canister under stress.
In dry conditions, the draw was relatively smooth after a few practice runs, and the flap opened easily with one hand. The holder stayed firmly in place on my belt, and the OC canister remained secure throughout the exercise. However, in a simulated rainy environment (achieved with a garden hose – don’t judge), the brass fastener became slightly slippery, making the flap a little more difficult to open quickly.
There were no significant issues beyond the slightly slick fastener in wet conditions. The holder did exactly what it was designed to do: keep the OC spray readily available and secure.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use during patrol, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder has proven to be quite durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the nylon or stitching, and the brass fastener remains functional. The holder has maintained its shape and rigidity, even after being subjected to daily bumps and scrapes.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and grime. The plain black finish hides scuffs well. Compared to previous, cheaper OC spray holders I’ve used, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is a clear upgrade in terms of both durability and retention. It outperforms those inferior models considerably.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-3-2B
Specifications
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-3-2B is specifically designed to hold a standard 2 oz. OC spray canister. Its internal dimensions are 1.375 inches (34.9mm) in diameter and 4 inches (10.16cm) in height, making it a snug fit for canisters like the Guardian 2 oz., Freeze 2 oz., and Punch II M-3 2 oz. It is made from a durable nylon material with a plain black finish.
The holder features a top flap with a brass fastener for secure retention. This is part of the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System, indicating its intended use with compatible duty belts and tactical platforms. These specifications are crucial for ensuring proper fit and reliable performance. The dimensions ensure the canister is secure, the material ensures durability, and the tactical system compatibility ensures easy integration into an existing duty setup.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder performs its primary function admirably: securely holding and providing quick access to OC spray. The top flap design provides excellent retention, preventing accidental discharge or loss of the canister, even during strenuous activity. The brass fastener, while potentially slippery when wet, is generally reliable and easy to operate with one hand after practice.
The holder meets my expectations for a duty-grade piece of equipment. The only area for potential improvement would be the grip of the fastener in wet conditions.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is what one expects from Safariland: rugged and professional. The plain black nylon is durable and resists abrasions well. The holder’s weight is negligible, and it doesn’t add any noticeable bulk to the duty belt.
The design is straightforward and user-friendly. There is a slight learning curve involved in mastering the one-handed draw, but with practice, it becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction and materials, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder should last for years under normal use. The nylon is resistant to tearing and abrasion, and the stitching is reinforced in high-stress areas. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down is all that’s needed to keep it clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-3-2B is primarily designed as a standalone holder. However, as part of the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System, it integrates seamlessly with other compatible Safariland belt attachments and platforms. There are no specific aftermarket accessories designed solely for this holder, but its modular design allows for flexibility in positioning it on a duty belt.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-3-2B
Pros
- Excellent Retention: The top flap design securely holds the OC canister, preventing accidental discharge or loss.
- Durable Construction: Made from rugged nylon with reinforced stitching, built to withstand daily wear and tear.
- Professional Appearance: The plain black finish and simple design are suitable for duty use.
- Part of Tactical System: Integrates seamlessly with Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple wipe-down cleaning.
Cons
- Brass Fastener Can Be Slippery When Wet: Affecting draw speed in wet conditions.
- Top Flap Can Hinder Draw Speed: Requires practice to master one-handed operation.
Who Should Buy Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-3-2B?
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who needs to carry OC spray as part of their personal defense setup. Its durable construction and secure retention make it ideal for those who work in demanding environments. Anyone using the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System will find that it integrates seamlessly into their current gear.
Those who prioritize absolute speed of draw above all else might prefer an open-top carrier. Also, individuals who only occasionally carry OC spray might find this holder overkill. A must-have modification would be adding some sort of textured grip to the brass fastener to mitigate the slickness when wet.
Conclusion on Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-3-2B
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-3-2B is a solid, reliable piece of duty gear that delivers on its promises. The price is justified by the quality of construction, secure retention, and integration with the Safariland tactical system.
I would definitely recommend this holder to anyone who needs a dependable way to carry OC spray. It’s a small investment that can provide peace of mind and ensure that this important tool is always readily available. If you need a solid, reliable OC spray holder, look no further than the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-3-2B.