Let’s Dive into Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-22HS
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-22HS is a duty-grade piece of gear designed to securely carry your OC spray. This holder, manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical equipment, aims to provide quick and reliable access to your less-lethal defense. Its standard size and top flap design are meant to accommodate common OC spray canisters while ensuring they stay protected and readily available.
My need for this product stemmed from a growing concern about carrying OC spray in a secure, yet accessible manner. Prior to acquiring the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, I was using a generic nylon pouch that lacked the necessary retention and durability for professional use. I needed something that would hold up to daily wear and tear, and that I could trust wouldn’t accidentally deploy or lose the canister.
Upon receiving the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, my first impression was one of solid construction and professional design. The material felt durable, and the top flap closure gave me confidence that my OC spray would stay in place. It wasn’t flashy, but it looked like a serious piece of kit designed for serious work.
Compared to cheaper nylon options, the Safariland holder immediately stood out due to its molded construction and superior retention. I considered a kydex holder from another brand, but I preferred the added protection of the top flap, especially in harsh environments. I also looked at a Bianchi model, but the Safariland seemed more streamlined and compatible with my existing duty belt setup.
My first impression was positive and cautiously optimistic. The build quality and Safariland’s reputation gave me confidence, but the true test would be how it performed under real-world conditions. I was eager to see if it could live up to the demands of daily carry and potential deployment situations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-22HS to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place on a security detail assignment, which involved extended periods of standing and patrolling in varied weather conditions. The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder was attached to my duty belt and carried a standard 1.40″ x 5″ OC spray canister. The primary focus was on evaluating ease of access and retention during normal movement.
The holder performed admirably in dry conditions, keeping the OC spray securely in place while allowing for a relatively quick draw with a bit of practice. However, I also experienced a rainy shift where the nylon-look finish got a bit slick, slightly hindering the opening of the top flap with wet gloves. This highlighted the need for consistent practice under all potential conditions.
It took a couple of hours to become fully comfortable with the draw stroke, figuring out the best way to unsnap the flap and grip the canister quickly. There were no immediate issues, but I did notice that the snap closure required a deliberate motion to open, which could be a slight disadvantage in a high-stress situation where fine motor skills might be compromised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. The “Nylon-Look” finish shows minimal signs of wear, despite regular exposure to the elements and the constant friction against my duty belt. The snap closure is still secure, although it has loosened slightly, making it marginally easier to open.
The holder has held up remarkably well, with no fraying of the material or loosening of the stitching. The molded shape has maintained its integrity, ensuring a consistent and secure fit for the OC spray canister. The only minor wear is some slight discoloration of the finish where it rubs against other gear on my belt.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional wiping down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. I’ve also applied a silicone-based protectant to the snap closure to ensure it remains supple and functional. Compared to the flimsy nylon pouch I used previously, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder offers significantly better protection, retention, and overall durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-22HS
Specifications
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-22HS is designed to carry standard-sized OC spray canisters, either 1.40″ x 4″ or 1.40″ x 5″. It is available in several finishes, including Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, and STX TACTICAL™. This particular model features a “Nylon-Look” finish in Black, with a hidden fastener for a clean, professional appearance. The holder is part of the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System, allowing it to be easily integrated with other compatible gear.
These specifications are important because they dictate the compatibility, durability, and aesthetic of the holder. The size ensures it fits the most common OC spray canisters, while the finish provides a degree of weather resistance and a professional appearance. The integration with the Safariland tactical system allows for seamless integration with existing duty gear setups.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder performs its job effectively by securely retaining the OC spray canister while allowing for relatively quick deployment. The top flap design provides an added layer of protection against accidental discharge or loss of the canister. However, the snap closure can require a deliberate motion to open, which could potentially slow down deployment in a high-stress situation.
The holder’s strengths lie in its durability, secure retention, and professional appearance. Its main weakness is the slightly slower deployment time compared to open-top designs. Overall, it meets expectations for a duty-grade OC spray holder, providing a balance of security and accessibility.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder features a molded design made from a durable synthetic material with a “Nylon-Look” finish. It’s lightweight and relatively comfortable to wear on a duty belt, without adding unnecessary bulk. The top flap provides good coverage, and the hidden fastener gives it a clean, professional look.
The holder is generally user-friendly, although it may require some practice to master the draw stroke. The snap closure is secure, but can be slightly stiff at first. Overall, the design is functional and well-suited for its intended purpose.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is built to last, constructed from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The “Nylon-Look” finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions, and the molded design helps maintain its shape and integrity. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild detergent. The snap closure may benefit from occasional lubrication with a silicone-based protectant to keep it functioning smoothly. There are no user-serviceable parts, but the overall construction is robust enough that repairs should rarely be necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder does not come with any additional accessories, as it is a standalone product designed to hold a standard OC spray canister. Customization options are limited to selecting the desired finish (Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, or STX TACTICAL™) to match existing duty gear.
While the holder itself doesn’t offer extensive customization, it is compatible with the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System, allowing it to be easily attached to other compatible platforms, such as leg shrouds or MOLLE vests. Additionally, it can be paired with various duty belts and other accessories from Safariland and other manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-22HS
Pros
- Durable construction: Built to withstand daily wear and tear in demanding environments.
- Secure retention: Top flap and molded design ensure the OC spray canister stays in place.
- Professional appearance: Clean “Nylon-Look” finish and hidden fastener provide a polished look.
- Easy integration: Compatible with the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System.
- Added protection: Top flap shields the OC spray nozzle from debris and accidental discharge.
Cons
- Slightly slower deployment compared to open-top designs.
- Snap closure can be stiff and require a deliberate motion to open, especially with gloves.
Who Should Buy Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-22HS?
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who needs to carry OC spray as part of their professional duties. It’s also suitable for individuals who prioritize secure retention and protection of their OC spray over lightning-fast deployment times. Individuals who value a professional, streamlined look will also appreciate this holder.
Someone who needs the absolute fastest access to their OC spray, such as those in very high-risk environments, might prefer an open-top kydex holder. Also, if budget is a primary concern, there are cheaper nylon pouches available, although they may not offer the same level of durability and security. A must-have modification could be practicing the snap closure and draw-stroke consistently to ensure smooth deployment.
Conclusion on Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-22HS
The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-5-22HS is a reliable and durable piece of gear that provides secure retention and a professional appearance. While it may not be the fastest option for deploying OC spray, the added protection and secure closure offer peace of mind for those who carry OC spray as part of their daily duties.
At a price of $39.99, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder represents a solid value proposition. It’s more expensive than basic nylon pouches, but the improved durability, retention, and professional design justify the investment for serious users.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder to anyone looking for a dependable and professional way to carry their OC spray. If you prioritize security and durability over split-second deployment, this holder is an excellent choice. Add the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder to your gear setup for dependable OC spray carry, and you’ll have confidence knowing you have durable and protective retention of your OC spray!