Let’s Dive into Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder
The Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder is a seemingly simple piece of kit, but in the world of law enforcement and personal defense, efficient access to your less-lethal options is paramount. This holder, manufactured by Safariland, promises quick deployment and secure retention of your mace or OC spray canister. The open-top design and durable construction caught my attention, making me eager to evaluate its real-world performance.
I’ve spent years fumbling with ill-fitting OC holders, often costing precious seconds in scenarios where every fraction of a second matters. I needed a reliable and readily accessible solution, and the Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder seemed to fit the bill.
My initial impression upon unboxing was that it was exactly what I expected: a no-nonsense, purpose-built holder. The materials felt robust, the stitching was clean, and the overall build quality suggested it could withstand the rigors of daily carry. It’s lightweight, which is always a plus when you’re already carrying a full load of gear.
I considered a few other options, including a nylon pouch with a Velcro closure and a molded plastic holder with a retention strap. However, I ultimately chose the Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder for its simplicity and speed. Velcro can be noisy and prone to failure, and retention straps can add an extra step in a high-stress situation.
I was cautiously optimistic. Its straightforward design gave me hope that it would perform well, but I’ve been burned before by gear that looks good but falls short in practical use. The real test would be how well it held up to daily wear and tear and whether it truly allowed for rapid deployment of my OC spray.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder during a week-long tactical training course that simulated various real-world scenarios. These included active shooter drills, crowd control exercises, and defensive tactics simulations. The holder was mounted on my duty belt, positioned for easy access with my dominant hand.
Throughout the training, the holder performed admirably, even in challenging conditions. We encountered rain, mud, and dusty environments, but the holder never faltered.
The open-top design allowed me to quickly draw and deploy my OC spray without any fumbling or hesitation.
After a few practice draws, I felt completely comfortable with the system. There were no unpleasant surprises; it worked exactly as intended.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It’s become an integral part of my everyday carry.
Despite being subjected to daily wear and tear, the holder shows minimal signs of degradation. The stitching remains intact, and the molded plastic retains its shape and rigidity.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep it clean.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper, less durable OC holders, the Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder is a significant improvement. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder
Specifications
The Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder is specifically designed to accommodate standard-sized mace or OC spray canisters. The holder’s dimensions are approximately 5 inches in height, 2 inches in width, and 1.5 inches in depth.
It is constructed from a durable, injection-molded polymer blend. This material is known for its impact resistance and resistance to extreme temperatures.
The open-top design allows for rapid deployment of the OC spray. The holder features a tension screw that allows you to adjust the retention force.
It’s compatible with Safariland‘s standard belt loops, which fit belts up to 2.25 inches wide. The holder weighs approximately 3 ounces, making it lightweight and comfortable to wear.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the holder’s overall performance and usability. The durable construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of daily use, while the open-top design and adjustable retention provide for quick and secure access to your OC spray.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder excels in its primary function: providing secure retention and rapid deployment of OC spray.
Its open-top design is a significant advantage, allowing for quick and easy access to the canister without the need to manipulate straps or closures. The adjustable retention screw allows you to fine-tune the fit to your specific canister, ensuring that it stays securely in place but can still be drawn quickly when needed.
One minor weakness is that the open-top design could potentially allow debris to enter the holder, although this has not been a significant issue in my experience. Overall, the Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder meets and even exceeds expectations for this type of gear.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder features a simple and functional design that prioritizes ease of use and accessibility.
The molded polymer construction is both durable and lightweight, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction, the Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
The smooth polymer surface is easy to clean. Any dirt or debris can be easily wiped away with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories. However, it is compatible with Safariland‘s line of belt loops, allowing you to customize the carry angle and position.
It also works well with various MOLLE attachment systems, enabling you to mount it on tactical vests or other gear. The adjustable retention screw can be considered a form of customization. It lets you tailor the fit to your specific OC spray canister.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder
Pros
- Rapid Deployment: The open-top design allows for incredibly quick access to your OC spray, which can be crucial in a high-stress situation.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality, injection-molded polymer, this holder is built to withstand the rigors of daily use.
- Adjustable Retention: The tension screw lets you fine-tune the fit to your specific canister, ensuring secure retention without sacrificing accessibility.
- Lightweight and Comfortable: Its low weight and streamlined design make it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
- Easy Maintenance: The smooth polymer surface is easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Open Top Allows Debris: The open-top design could potentially allow dirt or debris to enter the holder.
- Limited Customization: There aren’t many customization options beyond adjusting the retention.
Who Should Buy Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder?
This holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who carries OC spray for self-defense. It’s also a good option for hikers or campers who want to have a readily accessible defense against aggressive animals.
Those who prioritize maximum protection from the elements might want to consider a holder with a flap or closure. If you need a highly customizable system with numerous mounting options, there might be better alternatives.
A must-have accessory is a quality OC spray canister that fits the holder properly. Also consider a duty belt that is compatible with Safariland‘s belt loops for a secure and reliable mounting platform.
Conclusion on Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder
The Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder is a reliable and well-designed piece of gear that excels at its intended purpose: providing secure retention and rapid deployment of OC spray.
At around $34, the price is justified given the holder’s durability and performance. It provides excellent value for anyone who needs a dependable OC spray carrying solution.
I would definitely recommend the Safariland 37 Open Top Mace / OC Holder to anyone looking for a simple, durable, and effective way to carry their OC spray. Invest in your safety and ensure you have quick access to your less-lethal options when you need them most!
