Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS is a duty-grade piece of kit designed to provide secure and readily accessible storage for your OC (Oleoresin Capsicum) spray. Made by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical gear, this holder is built for professionals who need quick access to their less-lethal options. This holder offers a balance of security, accessibility, and durability, promising to withstand the rigors of daily duty.

As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I needed a reliable OC spray holder for personal defense during off-duty hours and range safety officer duties. I was looking for something more robust than the flimsy nylon pouches I’d previously used; something that offered positive retention and quick deployment. The Safariland reputation for quality and the specific top flap design of this model drew me in.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was of solid construction and a no-nonsense design. The STX Tactical finish felt durable, and the top flap closure provided a sense of security I hadn’t experienced with other open-top designs. It felt like a serious piece of kit, ready for serious use.

Compared to generic nylon pouches and even some cheaper leather options, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS stood out immediately. The molded construction offered superior protection for the OC canister, and the top flap promised better retention during strenuous activity. I picked this over others because I needed the confidence that my OC spray would be there when I needed it.

I was pleasantly surprised by the overall quality. It exceeded my expectations in terms of both construction and design. This wasn’t just a pouch; it was a purpose-built piece of equipment.


Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS during a range day where I was acting as a safety officer. This involved a lot of walking, bending, and generally moving around in a dynamic environment. The holder was secured to my duty belt.

The weather was mild, but the range was dusty. The Safariland holder kept the OC canister secure and protected from the elements. I found the top flap easy to open with one hand, even while wearing gloves, which is crucial in a tactical situation.

The draw was intuitive and quick, requiring minimal practice. The top flap offered enough resistance to prevent accidental deployment. No issues arose during the first use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS has proven to be remarkably durable. Despite daily wear and tear, including scrapes and bumps against other gear, the STX Tactical finish has held up extremely well. There are no signs of significant wear or degradation.

Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep it clean. The molded construction resists dirt and grime buildup effectively. Compared to my previous experiences with nylon pouches that quickly became frayed and faded, the Safariland holder has far exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS

Specifications

  • The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS is designed to accommodate OC spray canisters that are 1.40″ x 5″ in size. This is a common size for personal defense sprays.
  • The holder features a STX Tactical finish, providing a durable and professional appearance. This finish also offers good resistance to scratches and abrasions.
  • The holder is designed to be compatible with the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System. This means it can be easily attached to a variety of duty belts and tactical platforms.
  • It has a hidden fastener. This creates a clean and professional look while providing a secure attachment to your belt.
  • The holder is available in black. This color is standard for law enforcement and tactical applications.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and reliability of the holder. The size ensures a snug and secure fit for the OC canister. The material provides durability. The attachment system ensures compatibility with existing gear.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS performs its job admirably. It securely holds the OC spray canister while allowing for quick and easy deployment when needed. The top flap provides an added layer of security.

The strengths lie in its durability, secure retention, and ease of access. The only potential weakness is that the top flap requires a deliberate action to open. However, this is also a strength in preventing accidental discharge. It meets and exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. Safariland uses high-quality materials and precise molding techniques to create a durable and reliable product. The holder is lightweight yet sturdy.

The design is user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive draw stroke. There’s virtually no learning curve; it’s ready to go right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS is built to last. The durable materials and robust construction ensure it can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.

Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s typically needed. The holder is designed to resist dirt and grime.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the holder itself. However, its compatibility with the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System allows for a wide range of customization options.

It can be easily attached to different belt loops, MOLLE platforms, and other tactical gear. While no specific modifications are necessary, users can choose different finishes (Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss) to match their existing equipment. The STX Tactical finish on this model is particularly durable and resistant to scratches.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS

Pros

  • Exceptional Durability: The STX Tactical finish and molded construction ensure long-lasting performance even under heavy use.
  • Secure Retention: The top flap provides positive retention, preventing accidental deployment of the OC spray.
  • Quick and Easy Access: The design allows for a fast and intuitive draw, even with gloves.
  • Professional Appearance: The sleek design and black finish provide a professional and discreet look.
  • Safariland 6004/6005 Compatibility: Easily integrates with existing duty belts and tactical gear.

Cons

  • Top flap requires a deliberate action to open.
  • Limited customization options beyond finish selection.


Who Should Buy Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS?

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who carries OC spray as part of their personal defense strategy. It’s also well-suited for range safety officers.

Those who prefer open-top designs for even faster access might want to consider other options. However, they will sacrifice the added security of the top flap. A high-quality OC spray canister is a must-have accessory.

Conclusion on Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS

Overall, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS is an excellent piece of equipment that delivers on its promises. It provides secure, reliable, and readily accessible storage for OC spray, making it a valuable asset for anyone who relies on less-lethal options.

At $35.99, the price is justified by the quality of construction, durability, and overall performance. I would highly recommend this holder to anyone looking for a dependable and professional-grade OC spray carrying solution. Don’t compromise on your safety – invest in a Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-13HS and ensure your OC spray is always ready when you need it.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top