Safariland 36 Open Top OC Holder, Designed For DTC – 1 out of 13 models Review

What Makes Safariland 36 Open Top OC Holder, Designed For DTC – 1 out of 13 models Stand Out?

The Safariland 36 Open Top OC Holder, Designed For DTC – 1 out of 13 models, manufactured by Safariland, is a purpose-built piece of tactical gear designed for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone who needs quick and reliable access to their Defense Technology® (DTC) MK-9 series OC spray. This open-top design allows for rapid deployment while maintaining secure retention, making it an essential tool for situations where seconds count.

As a seasoned gear specialist, I often encounter scenarios where efficient access to less-lethal options can de-escalate a situation before it escalates. I needed a reliable and readily accessible OC holder that wouldn’t fumble or break under pressure.

Upon unboxing, the Safariland 36 immediately felt robust and well-constructed. The STX Tactical Black finish provides a professional and low-profile appearance, while the overall design inspires confidence in its durability.

Compared to generic OC pouches that offer little to no retention, or even some nylon options that become flimsy with wear, the Safariland 36 stood out for its rigid construction and specifically molded design. I chose this model over a closed-top pouch, as speed of deployment was my primary concern, and I found that some models lacked the adjustable cant feature.

My initial impression was excitement mixed with a sense of reassurance. This OC holder appeared to be a serious piece of kit, engineered for professional use, which is exactly what I was looking for.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 36 Open Top OC Holder, Designed For DTC – 1 out of 13 models to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 36 Open Top OC Holder during a force-on-force training scenario at a local law enforcement training facility. The simulation involved various confrontational situations, requiring me to rapidly access and deploy my OC spray.

During the wet and muddy training environment, the open-top design proved invaluable, allowing for a quick and clean draw even with compromised grip. The ease of use was immediately apparent, requiring no break-in period or adjustments to my technique.

The only surprise was the initial stiffness of the Safariland STX material, which provided excellent retention but required a deliberate and firm grip to draw the OC canister. This was easily overcome with practice and familiarity.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use during training exercises and field deployments, the Safariland 36 Open Top OC Holder has held up remarkably well. The STX Tactical Black material shows minimal signs of wear and tear, resisting scratches and abrasions from daily use.

The holder’s durability is impressive; it has maintained its shape and retention capabilities despite being subjected to harsh conditions and repeated use. Cleaning and maintenance are simple, requiring only a damp cloth to wipe away dirt and debris.

Compared to previous nylon OC pouches I’ve used, the Safariland 36 is a significant upgrade in terms of durability, accessibility, and overall reliability. It outperforms those earlier experiences by a wide margin.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 36 Open Top OC Holder, Designed For DTC – 1 out of 13 models

Specifications

• The Safariland 36 Open Top OC Holder is specifically designed to hold the Defense Technology® Mk-9 series of aerosols. This ensures a snug and secure fit, preventing accidental deployment while allowing for quick access.
• The open-top design allows for fast retrieval of the OC spray. The 4″ open-top design is combined with sturdy product retention.
• It features the Safariland 745BL belt loop, which accommodates belt widths from 1.5″ (38mm) to 2.25″ (58mm). This provides versatile attachment options for different duty belts.
• The 745BL belt clip is user-adjustable for cant angle. This is an essential feature allowing the user to customize the angle of the holder for optimal draw speed and comfort.
• As part of the 6004/6005 Tactical System, the Safariland 36 Open Top OC Holder integrates seamlessly with other Safariland tactical gear. This modularity allows for a highly customizable and efficient load-bearing system.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 36 Open Top OC Holder performs its primary function exceptionally well: providing quick and reliable access to OC spray. The open-top design allows for a natural and intuitive draw, even under stress.

Its strength lies in its simple yet effective design, coupled with the durability of the Safariland STX material. The main weakness, if any, is that an open-top design exposes the OC canister to the elements, requiring more frequent cleaning in dusty or muddy environments. It certainly meets and even exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 36 Open Top OC Holder boasts a simple, functional design. The STX Tactical Black material provides a professional and low-profile appearance, while the molded construction ensures a snug and secure fit for the OC canister.

It is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no special tools or adjustments beyond setting the desired cant angle. The intuitive design minimizes the learning curve, making it accessible to users of all experience levels.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 36 Open Top OC Holder is built to last. The durable STX material resists wear and tear, ensuring years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a damp cloth to clean away dirt and debris. The robust construction minimizes the need for repairs, making it a low-maintenance piece of gear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 36 Open Top OC Holder is primarily designed for use with the Defense Technology® Mk-9 series of aerosols, limiting direct “accessories.” However, its integration with the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System provides extensive customization options.

It is compatible with various Safariland belt loops and attachment systems, allowing users to configure their gear to their specific needs. While not directly compatible with accessories from other brands in terms of direct attachment, the universal belt loop design allows integration into virtually any standard duty belt setup.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 36 Open Top OC Holder, Designed For DTC – 1 out of 13 models