Tourniquet Choices

In light of a upcoming tourniquet holder review, I thought it was fitting to go over a couple tourniquet (TQ) choices. Of course with anything, there are dozens of different choices, but today I'm going to talk about the Composite Resources C-A-T, and the SOF Tactical Tourniquet. Both are excellent choices with is comes to deciding on a personal TQ.

Let's start by looking at the C-A-T.

Function: It is very basic and has a Velcro strap that is pulled tight and secured. The bar is then twisted until bleeding is stopped, and then the bar is inserted into the cradle. The Velcro strap is secured over the cradle to keep the bar from coming out. Now you write the time the TQ was applied. 

Ease of use: Since the function is very basic, is is very easy to use. There is nothing that you can really mess up. You can easily apply this TQ while simultaneously using a firearm in a defensive situation.  

Cons: Being that there is only a Velcro strap that secures the entire TQ, it can be easy to accidentally knock the Velcro lose.


Now lets take a look at the SOF Tactical TQ.

Function: At first glance this TQ seems pretty complicated, but after you play with it for a few minutes, it actually is pretty easy. It has no Velcro, and all the important pieces are made of metal. Once you cinch it tight you are good. It has a buckle with some teeth on it to keep the strap from coming lose once it is in place. You now twist the bar to the desired tightness, and then you have some triangle ears that you tuck either half of the bar into.You write the time at the end of the strap.

Ease of use: Since there are more moving parts this TQ can be more tricky....UNLESS YOU TRAIN WITH IT! It is fairly easy to use. My favorite feature of this TQ is that it has a screw that you can hand tighten to lock the buckle in place so the strap cannot come lose.

Cons: Being that this TQ has more moving parts, it does take a bit of concentration, and it could detract from your focus in a defensive situation.



So which one do I choose?
My personal TQ is the SOF Tactical Tourniquet. Whichever personal TQ you choose, remember to train with it. I don't want to have to spend 10 minutes figuring it our AFTER the SHTF.