X8T™ Tactical Tourniquet - Rapid Hemorrhage Control with One-Handed Operation

2025-07-28T10:18:22-04:00

Vendor: RCR Medical
Type: Tourniquet
Price: 29.99

The RCR Medical X8T™ Tactical Tourniquet is a 1.5-inch military-grade nylon tourniquet featuring the patented Maximum Efficiency Dial (MED) — a self-securing rotary mechanism enabling precise, incremental tightening and controlled release with one hand in as little as 8 seconds. Rated 500 lb tensile strength. Effective on limbs from pediatric to large adult. Made in the USA. Available in Black (tactical), Blue (training), and Orange (emergency/public access).

Key Specifications

Specification | Detail
Manufacturer | RCR Medical (USA)
SKU (Black) | RCR-X8T-T2G
SKU (Blue) | RCR-X8T-P2G
SKU (Orange) | RCR-X8T-E2G
Tightening Mechanism | Patented Maximum Efficiency Dial (MED) — self-securing rotary dial
Strap Width | 1.5 inches
Strap Material | Military-grade nylon, 500 lb tensile strength
One-Handed Application | Yes — full application achievable in ~8 seconds with one hand
Quick-Release Buckle | Yes — for fast access in trapped-limb scenarios
Glove Compatible | Yes
Limb Size Range | Pediatric to large adult
Weight | 6 oz
Origin | Made in the USA
Colors | Black (tactical), Blue (training/practice), Orange (public/emergency access)

Product Overview

Tourniquet design has advanced considerably since the windlass-based Combat Application Tourniquet (C-A-T®) and SAM XT became the dominant CoTCCC-recommended options. The X8T™ from RCR Medical represents a distinct mechanical approach: instead of a windlass rod that requires wrapping and locking, the X8T uses a patented rotary dial — the Maximum Efficiency Dial (MED) — that the operator turns with their thumb and forefinger to progressively cinch the strap to occlusion pressure.

The MED system is self-securing: the dial ratchets into each position as it is turned, requiring active release to loosen — preventing the accidental unwinding that can occur with poorly secured windlass bars. This incremental control allows the operator to dial pressure up or down precisely, which is relevant in managed care settings where the tourniquet needs controlled loosening during reassessment. The quick-release buckle on the strap enables rapid removal in trapped-limb casualty situations where the tourniquet must be released rather than cut.

At 6 oz and 1.5 inches wide, the X8T sits in the same weight and width class as the C-A-T® Gen 7 and SAM XT — compatible with standard tourniquet pouches and IFAK holders designed for these industry-standard dimensions. The 500 lb tensile strength strap ensures the tourniquet withstands the high forces generated during maximum occlusion application, particularly on large-circumference thigh applications where windlass or dial mechanisms must overcome significant tissue pressure.

Color Selection Guide

Black (RCR-X8T-T2G): Tactical use — for operators, law enforcement, and military personnel carrying in an IFAK or on body armor. Low visibility, standard TCCC operational color.
Blue (RCR-X8T-P2G): Training/practice use — visually distinct from operational tourniquets to prevent training device mix-ups with live tactical kit. Identical mechanism and construction for authentic skill transfer.
Orange (RCR-X8T-E2G): Public access and emergency response — high-visibility color for bleeding control stations, public access kits, and non-tactical emergency settings.

See also: Tourniquets & Pouches | C-A-T® Gen 7 Tourniquet | SAM XT Tourniquet | Massive Hemorrhage Control