The Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain Made a Bold First Impression
The Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain by Safariland isn’t exactly the type of gear that elicits gasps of excitement. However, in the world of tactical preparedness, sometimes the most unassuming items are the most crucial. I’m a firm believer in being prepared for any situation, and having readily accessible personal protective equipment (PPE) is a non-negotiable aspect of that philosophy.
For years, I’ve wrestled with the best way to carry disposable gloves in the field. Typically, I’d stash a pair or two in a pocket, only to find them crushed, punctured, or otherwise compromised when I needed them most. After one too many frustrating incidents involving ripped gloves and potential exposure to contaminants while dressing a minor wound on a hunting trip, I knew I needed a dedicated solution.
Upon unboxing the Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain, my first impression was one of simple, functional design. It’s lightweight, constructed from what appears to be durable nylon, and features a straightforward hook-and-loop closure. The black, plain finish is understated and professional.
I considered several alternatives, including small zippered pouches and elastic loops designed for similar purposes. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain because of its compatibility with my existing 2.25-inch duty belt and its promise of quick, reliable access to gloves. The Safariland name also carries weight – they’re known for durable, practical gear.
Honestly, “excited” isn’t the word I’d use. But I was optimistic. I was hoping that it would provide a clean, secure, and easily accessible way to carry surgical gloves on my duty belt or pack.
Real-World Testing: Putting Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain was a week-long backcountry camping trip in the Cascade Mountains. This environment presented a variety of challenges, including fluctuating temperatures, moisture, and rough terrain. I attached the holder to my belt and stocked it with three pairs of nitrile gloves.
The first time I needed the gloves was while cleaning a freshly caught trout. The Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain proved easy to access, even with gloved hands. The hook-and-loop closure opened smoothly, and I was able to retrieve a pair of gloves without any fumbling.
I was also impressed with its performance in wet conditions. Despite several hours of exposure to rain and stream crossings, the gloves remained dry and protected inside the pouch. I also found that it didn’t significantly impede my movement or get in the way while hiking through dense brush.
There were no major issues after the first use. The pouch stayed securely attached to my belt, and the gloves remained in good condition. The only thing that would make things better would be an indicator to tell me how many gloves were left inside the pouch without needing to open it.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being exposed to a variety of harsh conditions, including mud, dust, and extreme temperatures. The stitching remains intact, and the hook-and-loop closure still functions reliably.
Maintaining the pouch is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and grime. I’ve also occasionally used a mild detergent to clean it more thoroughly.
Compared to my previous method of carrying gloves loose in my pockets, the Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain is a significant improvement. It keeps the gloves clean, dry, and readily accessible, and it prevents them from being crushed or punctured. In terms of usability and durability, it has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain
Specifications
- Color: Black. The simple black color allows for compatibility with most duty gear.
- Finish: Plain. This minimizes attention and maintains a professional appearance.
- Material: Durable nylon fabric. This offers resistance to abrasion and the elements.
- Capacity: Holds one to three pairs of surgical-style gloves. This provides sufficient capacity for most situations.
- Closure: Hook and loop flap. This provides secure and easy access to the gloves.
- Belt Compatibility: Designed to fit 2.25 in. (58 mm) duty belts. This allows for secure attachment to standard law enforcement and military belts.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and reliability of the glove holder. The durable nylon and secure closure ensure that the gloves are protected and readily accessible when needed. The belt compatibility makes it easy to integrate into existing tactical gear setups.
Performance & Functionality
The Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain performs its job admirably. It securely holds surgical gloves, providing quick and easy access when needed. It keeps the gloves clean, dry, and protected from damage.
Its primary strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. The hook-and-loop closure is easy to operate, even with gloved hands, and the pouch stays securely attached to the belt. One weakness, however, is the limited capacity – only one to three pairs of gloves.
It meets my expectations for a basic glove holder. It’s simple, durable, and functional.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, and the materials feel durable. The weight is negligible, and it doesn’t add any noticeable bulk to my belt. The design is straightforward and functional.
The Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain is inherently user-friendly. There’s no learning curve involved; it’s simply a pouch for holding gloves.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, I expect the Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain to last for several years with proper care. The nylon fabric is resistant to tearing and abrasion, and the stitching is well-done.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain doesn’t come with any accessories, nor does it offer many customization options. Its design is intended to be simple and functional.
It’s compatible with any standard 2.25-inch duty belt. While there are no direct customization options, users could potentially attach small MOLLE-compatible pouches to the sides for carrying additional items.
Pros and Cons of Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain
Pros
- Keeps gloves clean, dry, and protected.
- Provides quick and easy access to gloves.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Simple, functional design is easy to use.
- Compatible with standard 2.25-inch duty belts.
Cons
- Limited capacity (one to three pairs of gloves).
- Plain design lacks visual flair.
Who Should Buy Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain?
Pros
- Keeps gloves clean, dry, and protected.
- Provides quick and easy access to gloves.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Simple, functional design is easy to use.
- Compatible with standard 2.25-inch duty belts.
Cons
- Limited capacity (one to three pairs of gloves).
- Plain design lacks visual flair.
The Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain is perfect for: law enforcement officers, first responders, EMTs, security personnel, hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs to carry disposable gloves in a secure and readily accessible manner. It’s especially beneficial for individuals working in environments where exposure to contaminants is a concern.
This product might not be suitable for individuals who need to carry a large quantity of gloves or who require a more specialized glove storage solution. If you need more space, you’ll need a different system.
A must-have accessory for this product is a good quality pair of nitrile or latex gloves. It is also essential to inspect the gloves regularly and replace them as needed to ensure they are always in good condition.
Conclusion on Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain
The Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain is a simple, functional, and durable solution for carrying disposable gloves. While it may not be the most exciting piece of gear, it provides peace of mind knowing that essential PPE is readily available when needed.
At $23.80, the price is reasonable for the level of quality and functionality offered. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference in terms of safety and preparedness.
I would definitely recommend the Model 33 Surgical Glove Holder | Black | Plain to anyone who needs a reliable way to carry disposable gloves. It’s a basic but essential piece of gear that can help you stay safe and prepared in a variety of situations. Don’t leave home without it – add this to your belt and ensure you’re ready for anything.