Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-8-563PBL Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-8-563PBL

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-8-563PBL is a duty-grade piece of kit designed to securely carry and rapidly deploy OC spray. Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical gear, has built its reputation on producing durable and reliable equipment. This particular holder promises to be no different, offering a secure method of carrying your OC spray with quick access when needed.

As a seasoned gear specialist, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of readily accessible and reliable defensive tools. My interest in the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder stemmed from needing a more streamlined and secure way to carry OC spray on my duty belt, replacing a generic nylon holder that felt flimsy and unreliable. The open top design of my previous carrier made me worry about accidental deployment or loss of the canister during a scuffle.

Upon unboxing, my first impression was that this was a serious piece of equipment. The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder felt solid, with a reassuring weight hinting at durable construction. The top flap provided a sense of security, knowing my OC canister would be protected from accidental discharge.

Compared to a generic nylon open-top holder and a molded plastic holder with adjustable retention, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder immediately stood out. The nylon option felt cheap and lacked retention, while the adjustable plastic one, though secure, was bulky and slow to draw from. The Safariland offered what seemed like the perfect balance: secure retention with relatively quick access.

My initial excitement was palpable. I was eager to integrate the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder into my daily loadout and see how it performed under real-world conditions. The quality and design suggested this would be a significant upgrade.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-8-563PBL to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder was during a week-long tactical training course, simulating various scenarios from patrol duties to building searches. I specifically focused on its performance during simulated foot pursuits and close-quarters engagements. The holder was attached to my duty belt via the standard 2.25″ belt loop.

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder performed exceptionally well in dry conditions. Drawing and re-holstering the OC spray was fluid and consistent. The top flap, secured by a snap, was easy to disengage even with gloved hands.

However, under wet conditions, the snap closure became slightly more difficult to operate with gloves. After repeated exposure to mud and rain, the leather (in the basket weave option I tested) began to stiffen slightly, requiring a bit more force to open the flap. This wasn’t a major issue, but something to note.

I did not need any significant time to get used to the holder, the draw stroke felt natural and intuitive. After just a few practice draws, I was able to access my OC spray quickly and efficiently, even under simulated stress.

The only initial surprise was how snug the fit was for my specific OC canister. It took a little extra effort to initially seat the canister fully, but this tightness ultimately contributed to a more secure carry.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of daily use, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder has proven to be a durable and reliable piece of equipment. It has been subjected to a range of environmental conditions, from scorching summer heat to freezing rain.

The holder has shown minimal signs of wear and tear. The leather (basket weave version) has retained its shape and integrity, with only slight scuffing on the edges. The snap closure remains functional, though as mentioned previously, requires a bit more deliberate action when wet.

Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Occasionally, I apply a leather conditioner to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking.

In comparison to my previous experiences with cheaper nylon and plastic holders, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is a clear winner. It provides superior security, durability, and ease of access. It has boosted my confidence knowing my OC spray is securely held and instantly available when needed.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-8-563PBL

Specifications

• The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap is designed to accommodate 1.40″ diameter OC spray canisters, available in both 4″ and 5″ heights. This allows compatibility with a wide range of standard OC spray products.
• It is available in several finishes, including Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, and STX TACTICAL™. This provides options for matching the holder to existing duty gear.
• The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder integrates seamlessly with the 6004/6005 Tactical System. This modularity is beneficial for those already using Safariland’s tactical leg platforms.
• According to specifications, it can be ordered to fit a 2.25″ (58mm) belt slide, or as a mount on leg and vest accessory. The flexibility to mount it to various platforms is a plus.
• The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-8-563PBL comes in OD Green with a Black Fastener. Color options allow end users to have the best camouflage as needed.

These specifications are vital as they ensure compatibility with standard duty belts and tactical systems, allowing seamless integration into existing loadouts. The variety of finishes allows professionals to maintain a consistent and professional appearance.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder excels in its primary function: securely holding and providing rapid access to OC spray. The top flap provides a level of retention that open-top carriers lack, reducing the risk of accidental deployment or loss.

Its strengths lie in its robust construction and intuitive design. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, allowing for quick and efficient deployment of the OC spray.

One potential area for improvement would be the snap closure, particularly for use in extremely wet conditions. A slightly larger or redesigned snap could improve grip and operability with gloved hands when wet.

Overall, the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder meets and exceeds expectations. It strikes a solid balance between security, accessibility, and durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder boasts a professional and functional design. The leather (or STX TACTICAL™) construction provides a balance of durability and aesthetics.

The holder sits comfortably on the duty belt and doesn’t interfere with movement. The top flap is easy to manipulate, allowing for a quick and efficient draw.

There is virtually no learning curve with this holder. It’s intuitive to use and integrates seamlessly into a standard duty belt setup.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is built to last. The high-quality materials and construction ensure it can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional leather conditioning (for leather models) will keep the holder in optimal condition for years.

Minor repairs, such as replacing the snap closure, could potentially be done with basic tools and readily available replacement parts. Safariland products are known for their longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder itself doesn’t come with many accessories, its primary function is to hold the OC spray canister. However, as part of the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System, it can be mounted on various leg and vest platforms, expanding its versatility.

The ability to choose from different finishes allows for a degree of customization to match existing gear. The holder is compatible with a wide range of standard 1.40″ diameter OC spray canisters.

One great addition would be if Safariland included a small tube of leather conditioner with the leather versions, helping users maintain the leather properly.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-8-563PBL

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Who Should Buy Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-8-563PBL?

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who carries OC spray as part of their daily gear. Its secure retention and rapid access make it an ideal choice for those who require a reliable and professional-grade OC spray holder. Tactical professionals will benefit significantly from the build quality and retention.

This product might not be the best choice for individuals who are looking for the absolute minimalist and fastest drawing option. An open-top design might offer slightly quicker access, but at the cost of security and retention.

A must-have accessory for this holder is a high-quality OC spray canister. Furthermore, regular leather conditioning is beneficial for the leather versions, maintaining the integrity of the material.

Conclusion on Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-8-563PBL

The Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder, Standard, Top Flap 38-8-563PBL is a top-tier duty gear accessory that delivers on its promises. Its robust construction, secure retention, and rapid access make it a worthy investment for anyone who relies on OC spray for personal or professional defense.

At a price of $39.99, the value proposition is justified. The durability and reliability of the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder ensure it will last for years, making it a more cost-effective option than cheaper, less durable alternatives.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 38 OC Spray Holder to anyone seeking a professional-grade OC spray carrying solution. Upgrade your duty belt today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your OC spray is securely held and instantly accessible when needed.