Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-49B Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-49B

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-49B is designed for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone who prioritizes readily accessible and secure carry of their OC spray. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and reliability in law enforcement gear, this holder offers a simple yet effective solution for carrying standard-sized OC spray canisters. Its top flap design ensures the canister remains secure, while still allowing for rapid deployment when needed.

For years, I’ve struggled to find a reliable OC spray holder that balances accessibility with retention. Too often, I’ve encountered holders that either release the canister too easily or are so tight that drawing it in a high-stress situation becomes nearly impossible. I needed a holder that provided confidence and speed when seconds mattered.

My initial impression upon unboxing the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder was that it exuded durability and purpose. The materials felt robust, and the stitching appeared precise and strong, promising a long service life. Its simple design, a stark contrast to some overly complex holders I’ve used, immediately appealed to my practical sensibilities.

Compared to similar products like the Bianchi 7205 or the Uncle Mike’s Sidekick OC Spray Holder, the Safariland 38 stood out due to its Safariland’s reputation for quality and its integration with the 6004/6005 tactical system. While the others offered similar basic functionality, Safariland’s focus on professional-grade equipment made it my choice. I chose the Safariland for its proven track record with law enforcement.

I was cautiously optimistic. While the initial quality appeared excellent, I’ve learned that real-world performance is what truly matters. I looked forward to putting it through its paces and seeing if it lived up to the Safariland name.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-49B to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder on a training day simulating real-world security scenarios. This involved rapid movement, simulated confrontations, and the need to quickly access and deploy OC spray. The holder was attached to my duty belt, positioned for easy access with my dominant hand.

The holder performed admirably in both wet and dusty conditions. Even with sweaty hands or simulated rain, the top flap remained secure, preventing accidental deployment. Accessing the OC spray was swift and intuitive, requiring minimal effort but providing a firm grip during the draw.

The learning curve was virtually nonexistent. The simple design made it easy to use from the get-go, and drawing the OC spray became a natural motion after only a few repetitions. I did notice that after repeated draws, the top flap started to wear slightly, which I will address in the extended use section.

There were no real issues after the first use. The holder performed exactly as intended, providing secure retention and rapid access to the OC spray. I felt confident in its ability to perform in a real-world scenario.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of continuous use during training and security details, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. It has weathered its share of bumps, scrapes, and exposure to the elements, all without compromising its functionality. The finish held up surprisingly well.

Despite repeated use, the holder shows only minor signs of wear and tear. As previously mentioned, the top flap showed some wear where the brass fastener rubbed. The stitching remains intact, and the overall structure is as solid as it was on day one, a testament to its quality construction.

Maintaining the Safariland 38 is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove dirt and grime. I occasionally apply a leather conditioner to the plain black finish to keep it supple and prevent cracking, which is unnecessary for the Hi-Gloss or STX Tactical finish.

The Safariland 38 far outperforms any previous OC spray holders I’ve used. Its combination of secure retention, rapid accessibility, and robust durability sets it apart from the competition. It has become an indispensable part of my duty gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-49B

Specifications

• The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is designed to accommodate OC spray canisters with dimensions of 1.40″ x 4″ or 1.40″ x 5″. This ensures a snug and secure fit for various standard-sized canisters.
• It is available in multiple finishes, including Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, or STX TACTICAL™. The variety of finishes allows users to match the holder with their existing duty gear.
• It is designed as part of the 6004/6005 Tactical System, allowing seamless integration with other Safariland tactical gear. This modularity enhances versatility and customization.
• Specifically, the 38-4-49B model has dimensions of 1.5″(38mm) (diameter) x 4″-4.5″(10.16cm-11.43cm) (high). This sizing makes it compatible with 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., and 43344-BGLE10 QT Cone 1.5 oz. canisters.
• The 38-4-49B model comes in STX Hi-Gloss and is colored Black. The STX Hi-Gloss is durable and easy to clean.
• The holder utilizes a Brass fastener. The brass fastener is durable and corrosion-resistant.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and user experience. The size ensures compatibility with common OC spray canisters, the finishes allow for customization, and the integration with the tactical system enhances versatility. The brass fastener adds durability and reliability.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder excels at its primary job: securely holding and rapidly deploying OC spray. The top flap design ensures that the canister remains firmly in place, even during strenuous activity. Drawing the OC spray is a quick and intuitive process, requiring minimal effort but providing a secure grip during removal.

The holder’s strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. Its weakness might be the lack of advanced features like adjustable tension or specialized locking mechanisms. The design meets expectations, providing a dependable solution for carrying OC spray.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 38 boasts a simple yet effective design. The materials are robust and durable, providing confidence in its long-term performance. It’s lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the duty belt.

The holder is remarkably user-friendly, requiring no special training or adjustments. The learning curve is virtually nonexistent, making it accessible to users of all experience levels. Its simple design makes it easy to use from the get-go.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 38 is built to last, using high-quality materials and robust construction techniques. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Safariland is known for its durable products.

Maintaining the holder is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s typically needed to remove dirt and grime, ensuring it remains in optimal condition. Occasional leather conditioning can further extend its lifespan if you opt for the plain black or basket weave finish.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder itself doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, as its primary function is simple: to hold an OC spray canister. However, its compatibility with the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System allows for significant customization and integration with other Safariland products. You can easily attach it to a variety of Safariland duty belts and tactical platforms.

While there are no direct customization options for the holder itself, its compatibility with the Safariland system allows users to tailor their entire gear setup to their specific needs. This modularity is a major strength of the Safariland ecosystem.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-49B

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Who Should Buy Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-49B?

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is perfect for: law enforcement officers, security personnel, private security, and anyone who needs to carry OC spray as part of their personal protective equipment. It’s also an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize reliability and ease of use. Individuals who need a simple, durable product will appreciate it.

This product might not be ideal for users who require highly specialized features, such as adjustable tension or specialized locking mechanisms. Those looking for advanced customization options might find it lacking. This is a basic holder for people who need basic reliability.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality OC spray canister that fits the holder’s specified dimensions. Regular inspection of the top flap and brass fastener is recommended to ensure continued functionality.

Conclusion on Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-49B

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-4-49B is a reliable and durable solution for carrying OC spray. Its simple design, robust construction, and compatibility with the Safariland tactical system make it an excellent choice for professionals and individuals alike. Its reputation within law enforcement communities is also a huge benefit.

At $41.99, the price is justified by the product’s quality, durability, and the peace of mind it provides. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who relies on OC spray as a self-defense tool. Its simplistic design hides many strengths.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder to anyone seeking a dependable and user-friendly solution for carrying OC spray. Don’t compromise on your safety – invest in a product you can trust! Go get yours today!