Let’s Dive into Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-13PBL
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-13PBL is a seemingly simple piece of duty gear, but its importance in law enforcement and security applications cannot be overstated. Manufactured by Safariland, a company renowned for its high-quality holsters and tactical equipment, this holder is designed to provide secure and readily accessible storage for standard-sized OC spray canisters. The top flap design offers an added layer of security, ensuring the canister remains in place during rigorous activity.
My search for the perfect OC spray holder began years ago, driven by a need for reliable retention and quick deployment in unpredictable situations. I’ve seen colleagues struggle with inferior holders where the spray dislodges during foot pursuits or is difficult to access under stress. This led me to prioritize security and ease of access above all else.
Upon receiving the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, my initial impression was one of solid construction and professional design. The material felt durable, and the stitching was clean and robust. The top flap snapped securely into place, instilling confidence that the OC spray would remain safe.
Compared to cheaper, generic OC spray holders I’ve used in the past, the Safariland product immediately stood out due to its superior build quality and attention to detail. I previously considered a Kydex open-top holder, but ultimately chose the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder for its added layer of security with the top flap and its reputation for durability in demanding environments. I was excited to finally have a professional-grade OC spray holder that would not fail when needed most.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-13PBL to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder was during a week-long tactical training exercise at a law enforcement training facility. This environment provided ample opportunities to assess the holder’s performance in a variety of scenarios, including simulated foot pursuits, vehicle extractions, and crowd control drills. The conditions were demanding, with exposure to rain, mud, and constant physical activity.
The Safariland holder performed flawlessly under these challenging conditions. The OC spray canister remained securely in place throughout the entire exercise, even during intense physical exertion. Deployment was intuitive and quick, requiring only a simple unsnapping of the top flap and a firm grip to remove the canister. There were no unexpected issues or surprises during the initial testing phase.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use in a patrol setting, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder continues to hold up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the snap closure remains secure and reliable. The holder has been exposed to a wide range of weather conditions, including extreme heat, humidity, and sub-freezing temperatures, without any noticeable degradation in performance.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep the holder clean and functional. Compared to my previous experiences with less durable OC spray holders, the Safariland product has far exceeded my expectations in terms of longevity and reliability. It consistently outperforms other similar products on the market.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-13PBL
Specifications
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-13PBL is designed to accommodate standard-sized OC spray canisters. It typically fits canisters with dimensions of 1.40″ in diameter and either 4″ or 5″ in height. The available finishes include Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, and STX TACTICAL™.
This holder is specifically designed to integrate into the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System, offering versatility in mounting options. The fastener is a secure snap closure. The STX TAC finish provides a durable and professional appearance. The holder is designed to fit Defense Technology MK3 1.47 oz., and 2 oz. canisters MSI MKIII oc/cs 2 oz., Pepper Mace MKIII 5.5% 2 oz. canisters, 43345-BGLE10 QT Stream 1.5oz., 43344-BGLE10 QT Cone 1.5 oz., 43342-BGLE10 QT Foam 1.5 oz., and 42344-BG QT Cone 1.5 oz. canisters.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder excels in its primary function: providing secure and accessible storage for OC spray. The top flap design ensures that the canister remains in place during physical activity, while the snap closure allows for rapid deployment when needed. The holder’s simple design makes it easy to use, even under stressful conditions.
Its greatest strength is its reliability. The snap closure and durable construction ensure that the OC spray is always readily available. A potential improvement would be a slightly deeper pouch to accommodate a wider range of canister sizes.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder features a straightforward and functional design. The materials used are durable and weather-resistant, ensuring long-term reliability. The weight is minimal, adding negligible bulk to the duty belt.
The holder is ergonomically sound, allowing for a comfortable and secure grip on the OC spray canister during deployment. There is minimal learning curve, making it easy to integrate into existing duty gear setups.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in law enforcement and security environments. The durable materials and reinforced stitching ensure that it will last for years with proper care. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder offers long-term reliability and ease of maintenance. Its robust construction ensures that it can endure the demands of daily duty.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is primarily a standalone product and does not come with many accessories. Its integration with the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System allows for versatile mounting options on duty belts and tactical vests. The availability of different finishes, such as Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, and STX TACTICAL™, allows users to customize the holder to match their existing gear.
It is compatible with standard Safariland belt loops and MOLLE attachments, allowing for seamless integration into various gear configurations. Be sure to check compatibility for other brand mounting hardware.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-13PBL
Pros
- Secure retention: The top flap design ensures the OC spray canister remains in place during rigorous activity.
- Rapid deployment: The snap closure allows for quick and easy access to the OC spray when needed most.
- Durable construction: High-quality materials and reinforced stitching ensure long-term reliability.
- Integration with Safariland systems: Compatible with the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System for versatile mounting options.
- Professional appearance: Available in various finishes to match existing duty gear.
Cons
- Canister size limitation: Designed for standard-sized OC spray canisters, potentially limiting compatibility with larger or non-standard sizes.
- Snap closure maintenance: The snap closure may require occasional cleaning to ensure smooth operation.
Who Should Buy Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-13PBL?
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and private security professionals. It’s also suitable for anyone who carries OC spray for personal defense and requires a reliable and secure holder.
Individuals using less common OC spray canister sizes should skip this product. A must-have modification would be upgrading the belt loop to a MOLLE attachment for those using tactical vests.
Conclusion on Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-13PBL
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-13PBL is a high-quality and reliable piece of duty gear that delivers on its promise of secure OC spray storage and rapid deployment. Its durable construction, secure retention, and seamless integration with Safariland systems make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who relies on OC spray for personal or professional use. The price is justified by the product’s durability and reliability.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder to anyone seeking a dependable and professional-grade OC spray holder. If you’re in the market for a reliable OC spray holder, the Safariland 38 is a solid choice.