Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4 is a duty-grade piece of gear designed for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone requiring quick and reliable access to their OC spray. Safariland is a trusted name in the industry, known for its durable and functional designs, and this OC spray holder is no exception. This particular model features a standard size, ideal for MK-9 canisters, and a top flap for secure retention.

I’ve spent years working security and in law enforcement support roles, and one constant challenge is optimizing my duty belt for both comfort and accessibility. I needed a reliable OC spray holder that wouldn’t accidentally deploy, yet would allow for rapid deployment in a critical situation. I was looking for something more secure than an open-top carrier, but faster to access than a fully enclosed pouch with a buckle.

My first impression upon receiving the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4 was of solid construction and quality materials. The leather (or synthetic, depending on the finish) felt durable, the stitching was clean and even, and the snap closure was positive and reassuring. It felt like a piece of gear ready for serious duty.

Compared to a cheaper, generic nylon holder I had used previously, the Safariland felt significantly more robust. I also considered a molded polymer holder from another brand, but opted for the Safariland due to its more traditional appearance and the perceived security of the top flap. My initial reaction was positive, a feeling of confidence that this holder would perform reliably when needed most.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4 during a training exercise involving scenario-based use of force. The exercise took place outdoors, in typical late-summer conditions – hot and humid. The key was assessing how quickly I could draw the OC spray under simulated stress.

The holder performed admirably, allowing for a relatively quick and consistent draw after a few practice runs. The top flap, while providing excellent retention, did require a deliberate motion to unsnap, which added a fraction of a second to the deployment time. However, this was a trade-off I was willing to accept for the added security.

There were no major issues during the initial use, although I did notice that the leather (in the basket weave finish) became slightly slick with sweat, making it a little harder to grip initially. After the exercise I wiped it down and let it air dry.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use on my duty belt, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4 has held up remarkably well. The stitching remains intact, the leather shows only minimal signs of wear, and the snap closure still functions perfectly. The holder has maintained its shape and continues to provide secure retention.

The only maintenance I’ve performed is occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and leather conditioner to keep the leather supple. It is a very low-maintenance piece of gear. Compared to my previous nylon holder, which quickly became frayed and loose, the Safariland has proven to be significantly more durable and reliable.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4

Specifications

• The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4 is designed to accommodate standard-sized OC spray canisters, specifically those with dimensions of either 1.40″ x 4″ or 1.40″ x 5″. This sizing is ideal for the widely used First Defense MK-9 Magnum canister.
• It is available in various finishes, including Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, and STX TACTICAL™. These finishes offer options to match other duty gear and personal preferences.
• The holder is part of the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System. This ensures compatibility with other Safariland duty belt accessories for a cohesive and modular setup.
• The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4 uses a hidden snap fastener for secure closure and a professional appearance. The hidden snap adds a layer of security and prevents accidental opening.

These specifications are crucial because they dictate the compatibility, durability, and overall functionality of the holder. The size ensures the correct canister fits securely, the finish offers aesthetic and tactical advantages, and the integration with the Safariland system allows for a customized duty belt setup.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4 performs its primary function of securely holding and providing quick access to OC spray exceptionally well. The top flap design offers a good balance between retention and speed of deployment, which is crucial in high-stress situations. It is not the fastest system, but it is very secure.

The main strength of this holder is its reliable retention, which prevents accidental deployment of the OC spray. A minor weakness is that the top flap can slightly slow down the draw compared to open-top designs. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade OC spray holder.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4 is excellent, utilizing durable materials and precise stitching. The weight is minimal, and the holder sits comfortably on the duty belt without causing undue bulk or discomfort. The design is professional and discreet.

The holder is generally user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the unsnapping and drawing motion. With practice, the draw becomes fluid and efficient.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction and quality materials, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4 is expected to last for years under normal duty conditions. The leather (or synthetic) is resistant to wear and tear, and the stitching is reinforced for added durability. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4 is primarily designed as a standalone holder and doesn’t come with extensive accessories. However, its compatibility with the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System allows for seamless integration with other Safariland duty belt components, such as magazine pouches, flashlight holders, and handcuff cases. This modularity enables a highly customized duty belt setup.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4

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Who Should Buy Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4?

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone requiring secure and reliable access to their OC spray. It’s ideal for those who prioritize retention and durability over absolute speed of deployment. The holder is also well-suited for individuals who utilize the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System for their duty belt setup.

This product might not be the best choice for individuals who require the absolute fastest OC spray deployment possible, such as competitive shooters or those in extremely high-threat environments. For those users, an open-top holder might be more suitable.

A must-have accessory is a quality OC spray canister that is compatible with the holder’s dimensions. Regular practice drawing the OC spray from the holder is also highly recommended to build muscle memory and ensure efficient deployment in real-world situations.

Conclusion on Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4 is a well-designed, durable, and reliable piece of duty gear that provides excellent security and reasonable access to OC spray. The price of $41.99 is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your OC spray is securely held and readily accessible.

I personally recommend this OC spray holder to anyone seeking a duty-grade solution that balances retention, durability, and professional appearance. If you’re looking for a reliable and long-lasting OC spray holder, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-6-4 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and readiness – you won’t regret it.