What Makes Safariland 35 Expandle Baton Holder, 26in. – 1 out of 13 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 35 Expandle Baton Holder, 26in. – 1 out of 13 models is designed for professionals who rely on readily accessible impact tools. This specific model accommodates a 26-inch collapsible baton and features an STX Tactical Coyote Brown finish, along with an ambidextrous shroud mount. It promises quick deployment and secure retention, critical for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone requiring a non-lethal self-defense option.
My path to this particular baton holder began with frustration. I needed a reliable, low-profile solution for carrying my 26-inch baton, something that wouldn’t snag on gear or be overly bulky. I was looking for a holder that offered both security and rapid access, and one that integrated seamlessly with my existing tactical setup.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 35 immediately impressed me with its robust construction. The materials felt durable and the overall design seemed well-thought-out; not flimsy. Its weight was noticeable but reasonable, hinting at the quality of the polymer used.
I considered the BlackHawk! baton holder and the ASP Federal Scabbard before deciding on the Safariland 35. The BlackHawk! felt too bulky and lacked the streamlined profile I desired. The ASP, while sleek, seemed less durable in its construction. The Safariland 35 struck the perfect balance of durability, accessibility, and low-profile design.
Initially, I was excited by the ambidextrous shroud mount; this is huge for left-handed officers like myself. I was also cautiously optimistic about the STX Tactical Coyote Brown finish; hoping it would withstand the daily grind without significant wear and tear. I was ready to see if this product could really hold up.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 35 Expandle Baton Holder, 26in. – 1 out of 13 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 35 during a week-long tactical training course at a local law enforcement facility. I secured it to my duty belt using the included shroud mount and spent several days running drills involving foot pursuits, building searches, and crowd control simulations. The weather was a mix of sun and rain, providing a range of environmental conditions.
The Safariland 35 performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions. The baton remained securely in place during vigorous movement, but it deployed quickly and smoothly when needed. I had absolutely no fumbling issues.
The learning curve was minimal. The ambidextrous design allowed me to draw the baton quickly and efficiently from either side. Within a few hours, the draw became almost instinctive; that is what I was looking for.
The only minor issue I encountered initially was adjusting the tension screw to achieve the optimal retention level. It took a little fine-tuning to find the perfect balance between secure retention and rapid deployment. This is fairly normal for an adjustable retention device.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 35 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. It has seen consistent usage on the job, as well as continued use in ongoing training.
The Safariland 35 has held up exceptionally well, showing only minor cosmetic wear. There are a few scuff marks on the STX Tactical Coyote Brown finish, but the polymer construction remains structurally sound. The baton retention mechanism continues to function flawlessly.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Occasionally, I apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the tension screw to ensure smooth operation. The Safariland 35 is incredibly simple to take care of.
Compared to other baton holders I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 35 stands out for its combination of durability, accessibility, and low-profile design. It outperforms my previous holders in terms of both comfort and functionality.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 35 Expandle Baton Holder, 26in. – 1 out of 13 models
Specifications
The Safariland 35 Expandle Baton Holder, 26in. – 1 out of 13 models is specifically designed to accommodate a 26-inch collapsible baton. The overall weight is approximately 4 ounces.
The primary material is a high-strength polymer, ensuring durability and resistance to impact. The finish is STX Tactical Coyote Brown, offering a low-profile appearance and resistance to scratches.
A key feature is the adjustable baton retention, allowing users to customize the draw tension. The ambidextrous shroud mount offers versatile attachment options for both left- and right-handed users.
These specifications are critical for professional use because they ensure the baton is securely held yet readily accessible. The durable construction guarantees the holder can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 35 performs its job exceptionally well; it keeps the baton secure, yet allows for rapid deployment when needed. The adjustable retention is crucial; it enables users to fine-tune the draw tension to their preference.
Its main strengths are its durability, accessibility, and ambidextrous design. A minor improvement could be a slightly more aggressive texture on the tension screw for easier adjustment with gloved hands.
The Safariland 35 meets and exceeds expectations. It provides a reliable and convenient way to carry and deploy a 26-inch collapsible baton.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 35 is excellent. The polymer feels robust and well-molded, and the finish is evenly applied. Its lightweight design is impressive.
The holder is comfortable to wear on a duty belt, and the low-profile design minimizes snagging on gear or obstacles. There is almost zero learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 35 is built to last. The high-strength polymer and robust construction ensure it can withstand years of use in demanding conditions.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The Safariland 35 is easy to maintain and keep in excellent working condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 35 comes with the necessary hardware for attachment to a duty belt. The ambidextrous shroud mount is the primary accessory.
While there are no direct customization options from Safariland, the holder is compatible with a variety of duty belt attachment systems from other brands. Users can easily adapt the holder to their preferred carrying configuration.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 35 Expandle Baton Holder, 26in. – 1 out of 13 models
Pros
- Durable high-strength polymer construction.
- Adjustable baton retention for customized draw tension.
- Ambidextrous shroud mount for versatile carry options.
- Low-profile design minimizes snagging.
- Easy to maintain and clean.
Cons
- Tension screw could benefit from a more aggressive texture.
- Limited customization options beyond belt attachment.
Who Should Buy Safariland 35 Expandle Baton Holder, 26in. – 1 out of 13 models?
The Safariland 35 Expandle Baton Holder, 26in. – 1 out of 13 models is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and private security contractors who rely on a 26-inch collapsible baton. Anyone who needs a secure and readily accessible carry option would also benefit from this product.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who use batons of different lengths, as it is specifically designed for 26-inch models. Individuals looking for maximum customization beyond belt attachment systems may want to consider other options.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality duty belt that is compatible with the shroud mount. Additionally, a small bottle of silicone lubricant for the tension screw is recommended for maintaining smooth operation.
Conclusion on Safariland 35 Expandle Baton Holder, 26in. – 1 out of 13 models
The Safariland 35 Expandle Baton Holder, 26in. – 1 out of 13 models is a well-designed and durable piece of kit that provides a reliable and convenient way to carry a 26-inch collapsible baton. Its adjustable retention, ambidextrous design, and low-profile construction make it a top choice for professionals.
The price of $40.99 is more than justified given the quality and functionality of the product. It’s an investment in both safety and efficiency.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 35 to anyone who needs a secure and readily accessible baton carry solution. If you depend on your baton for personal safety, then this is the product for you. Don’t settle for less when it comes to your gear; purchase a Safariland 35 and experience the difference.