Let’s Dive into Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-9B
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-9B isn’t the flashiest piece of gear, but it’s a crucial part of any law enforcement officer’s or security professional’s kit. This seemingly simple holder can be the difference between effectively deploying a non-lethal deterrent and fumbling under pressure. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement equipment, it promises secure retention and rapid access, two critical factors in high-stress situations.
I’ve spent years in patrol environments, witnessing firsthand the chaos that can erupt in a split second. I needed a reliable OC spray holder that wouldn’t fail me when I needed it most. I was looking for something durable, accessible with either hand, and secure enough to withstand the rigors of daily duty.
My initial impression upon unboxing the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder was positive. The build quality felt solid, and the Hi-Gloss finish gave it a professional look. The Top Flap design seemed like a good balance of security and accessibility.
I considered several other OC spray holders, including models from Bianchi and BlackHawk. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland 38 for its reputation, its compatibility with the Safariland duty belt system, and the perceived durability of its construction. I was cautiously optimistic. The “devil is in the details,” as they say, and duty gear is no exception.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-9B to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder during a week-long field training exercise simulating real-world patrol scenarios. This involved foot pursuits, simulated altercations, and vehicle stops in various weather conditions. The holder was subjected to rain, mud, and the general jostling that comes with active duty.
The Safariland 38 performed well under pressure. Accessing the OC spray was quick and intuitive, even with gloved hands. The Top Flap provided ample security, preventing accidental discharge during rigorous activity.
I did notice that the Hi-Gloss finish, while aesthetically pleasing, tended to attract fingerprints and smudges. This wasn’t a performance issue, but it did require occasional cleaning to maintain a professional appearance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of consistent use on patrol, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder has proven its worth. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The stitching remains intact, and the snap closure of the Top Flap is still secure.
Maintaining the Safariland 38 is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The Hi-Gloss finish is relatively easy to clean, though it does require a bit more effort to remove stubborn smudges.
Compared to previous OC spray holders I’ve used, the Safariland 38 offers a noticeable improvement in both security and accessibility. Cheaper nylon holders tend to lose their shape and retention over time, making them less reliable. The Safariland 38 has maintained its integrity, providing consistent performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-9B
Specifications
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-9B is designed to hold standard-sized OC spray canisters, typically those measuring 1.40″ in diameter and either 4″ or 5″ in height. It is constructed from durable, molded Safariland materials, and is available in several finishes, including Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, and STX TACTICAL™. The Part of the 6004/6005 Tactical System indicates that it’s built to integrate seamlessly with other Safariland duty gear.
These specifications are crucial for ensuring proper fit, durability, and compatibility with existing equipment. The 1.40″ diameter ensures that the holder securely retains the OC spray canister. The available finishes allow officers to match the holder to their duty belt and other gear.
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 offers a good balance of retention and accessibility. The snap closure is strong enough to prevent accidental discharge, yet easy enough to open quickly under stress.
The main strength of the Safariland 38 is its reliability. It consistently performs as expected, providing peace of mind in potentially volatile situations. One area for potential improvement would be the addition of a tension adjustment screw, allowing users to fine-tune the retention force.
Overall, the Safariland 38 meets and exceeds expectations for a standard OC spray holder. It’s a simple but effective piece of gear that performs its intended function admirably.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder features a straightforward, functional design. The molded construction provides excellent durability and a professional appearance. The holder is lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the duty belt.
The Top Flap design is user-friendly, allowing for ambidextrous access to the OC spray. There is virtually no learning curve involved; it’s intuitive to use from day one.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty. The durable materials and robust construction suggest that it will last for years with proper care.
Maintenance is simple and requires minimal effort. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the holder in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder doesn’t come with a wide range of accessories or customization options. However, its compatibility with the Safariland duty belt system allows for seamless integration with other Safariland pouches and accessories.
The Safariland system offers a variety of belt attachments, allowing users to customize the position and orientation of the OC spray holder. It is also compatible with many popular MOLLE-compatible platforms with the use of appropriate adapters.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-9B
Pros
- Secure retention. The Top Flap design ensures that the OC spray canister stays in place, even during vigorous activity.
- Rapid accessibility. The Top Flap is easy to open quickly under stress, allowing for rapid deployment of the OC spray.
- Durable construction. The molded materials and robust stitching are built to withstand the demands of daily duty.
- Professional appearance. The Hi-Gloss finish provides a clean, professional look.
- Compatibility. Part of the 6004/6005 Tactical System, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder integrates seamlessly with other Safariland duty gear.
Cons
- The Hi-Gloss finish attracts fingerprints and smudges, requiring regular cleaning.
- Lack of tension adjustment. A tension screw would allow users to fine-tune the retention force.
Who Should Buy Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-9B?
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who carries OC spray as part of their personal defense strategy. It’s a reliable and durable piece of gear that provides secure retention and rapid access to OC spray.
Those seeking a more low-profile or concealed carry option might prefer a different style of OC spray holder. Individuals who prioritize aesthetics over functionality may also find the Hi-Gloss finish less appealing due to its tendency to attract fingerprints.
A must-have accessory would be a Safariland duty belt or MOLLE-compatible platform for attaching the holder. Users may also consider purchasing a spare OC spray canister to ensure they are always prepared.
Conclusion on Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-9B
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-7-9B is a reliable and durable piece of equipment designed for professionals who rely on OC spray as a non-lethal deterrent. It provides secure retention and rapid access, two critical factors in high-stress situations.
The price of $45.99 is justified by the quality of construction and the peace of mind it provides. It’s an investment in your safety and readiness.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder to any law enforcement officer or security professional. If you need a dependable OC spray holder that won’t let you down, this is a solid choice. Add it to your gear setup and ensure you are prepared for whatever challenges may come your way.