Let’s Dive into Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder
The Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder is a seemingly simple piece of kit that fills a crucial role for law enforcement, security personnel, and even responsible civilians. Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and reliability in the law enforcement world, offers this holder as a means of quick and secure access to your pepper spray. Its open-top design allows for immediate deployment, while the durable construction ensures your OC canister stays put until needed.
My journey to acquiring this holder began with a need for a reliable and accessible method of carrying pepper spray. As a former security contractor, I’ve always prioritized non-lethal options for personal defense and de-escalation. I wanted a holder that wouldn’t fumble under pressure.
Upon receiving the Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder, I was immediately struck by its simplicity and robust construction. The SafariLaminate material felt durable and rigid, while the overall design was clean and functional. It felt lighter than I expected, which is always a plus on a duty belt.
I considered a few other options before settling on the Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder. I looked at a closed-top nylon pouch with a Velcro closure and a molded plastic holder with adjustable retention. The Safariland won because of its balance of speed and security. The open top offered faster access than the pouch, and the form-fitting design seemed more secure than the adjustable plastic holder.
My first impression was positive; I was eager to integrate this holder into my everyday carry and put it through its paces. It appeared to be a practical and well-made solution to a very real need.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder during a security detail at an outdoor event. The weather was mild, but the crowded environment presented a perfect opportunity to assess the holder’s accessibility and retention. I made it a point to practice drawing the OC canister from the holder multiple times throughout my shift.
The holder performed flawlessly; the open-top design allowed for a smooth and rapid draw every time. The OC canister remained firmly in place during movement, even during brief periods of running. I encountered no issues related to draw speed or retention.
After my shift, I practiced drawing with wet hands to simulate use in inclement weather. I experienced no difficulty in drawing the canister even with reduced grip. The Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder exceeded expectations under stressful conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, and the SafariLaminate material has maintained its shape and rigidity. The holder still firmly retains the OC canister.
Cleaning the holder is incredibly simple. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The material resists stains and odors, which is important for a piece of gear that can potentially come into contact with irritants.
Compared to my previous experiences with nylon OC holders, the Safariland outperforms in every area. The open-top design provides faster access, and the robust construction ensures superior durability. It is undoubtedly a worthwhile upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder
Specifications
The Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder is designed for use with standard-sized OC spray canisters. It is constructed from durable SafariLaminate material and designed to fit 2.25″ (58mm) duty belts. This holder is also compatible with the Safariland 6004/6005 tactical systems. The holder is available in cordovan (leather-look) color.
These specifications are critical because they dictate the holder’s compatibility and durability. The SafariLaminate ensures long-lasting performance in demanding environments, while the duty belt compatibility makes it a seamless addition to any professional loadout. The compatibility with the 6004/6005 tactical system adds flexibility for those needing to integrate it with a thigh rig.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder excels at its primary function: providing quick and secure access to OC spray. The open-top design allows for immediate deployment, without the need for fumbling with snaps, zippers, or Velcro. The holder’s snug fit ensures the OC canister remains firmly in place during rigorous activity.
The holder’s greatest strength is its simplicity and reliability. Its weakness is the reliance on friction for retention, which could potentially be compromised by an undersized canister. The holder meets and exceeds expectations for accessibility and durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder is simple, yet effective. The SafariLaminate construction provides excellent rigidity and durability, while the open-top design ensures rapid access. The holder is lightweight and does not add unnecessary bulk to the duty belt.
The holder is exceptionally user-friendly; there is no learning curve involved. Simply attach it to your duty belt and insert the OC canister. The draw is intuitive and requires no specialized training.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariLaminate construction ensures the Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. The robust material can withstand daily wear and tear, exposure to the elements, and even accidental impacts.
Maintaining the holder is effortless. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. The SafariLaminate is resistant to most solvents and chemicals, further simplifying the cleaning process.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder does not come with any accessories. The primary customization option is color, although the cordovan is the standard offering. Because it is part of the Safariland duty belt system, it is compatible with other Safariland accessories, such as belt keepers and tactical leg shrouds.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder
Pros
- Rapid Deployment: The open-top design allows for incredibly fast access to your OC spray, essential in critical situations.
- Durable Construction: The SafariLaminate material is tough and long-lasting, withstanding the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
- Secure Retention: The holder securely retains the OC canister, preventing accidental loss or dislodgement during movement.
- Duty Belt Compatibility: Designed to fit standard 2.25″ duty belts, making it a seamless addition to professional loadouts.
- Low Profile Design: The holder is lightweight and does not add unnecessary bulk to your duty belt.
Cons
- Limited Retention Adjustment: Retention is dependent on the size and shape of the OC canister; some canisters may fit more loosely than others.
- Open-Top Exposure: The open-top design exposes the OC canister to the elements, potentially leading to premature degradation of the spray.
Who Should Buy Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder?
The Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who prioritizes quick and reliable access to OC spray for self-defense. Those who work in high-risk environments where the need for immediate non-lethal force may arise benefit most. The ability to quickly deploy OC spray can de-escalate situations before they escalate.
This product might not be ideal for individuals who prioritize maximum concealment. The open-top design, while providing quick access, makes the OC canister more visible. Also, those who require adjustable retention may find this holder lacking, as it relies on friction and canister size for a secure fit.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality OC spray canister of the correct size to ensure proper retention. Depending on your specific needs, you might also consider Safariland belt keepers for added security.
Conclusion on Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder
The Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder is a simple, yet incredibly effective piece of gear. It provides quick and reliable access to OC spray, which can be crucial in de-escalating potentially dangerous situations. The durable SafariLaminate construction ensures long-lasting performance, and the duty belt compatibility makes it a seamless addition to any professional loadout.
At a price of $37.79, the Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder offers excellent value for the money. The quality of construction and the reliability of its design justify the cost. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who needs a dependable method of carrying and deploying OC spray.
If you are looking for a reliable and accessible OC holder, the Safariland Open Top Mace/OC Holder is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and equip yourself with this essential piece of kit. You won’t be disappointed.