What is friction retention on the Rigid Gen. 7 CAT Case and is it secure?
Friction retention means the injection-molded nylon case holds the C-A-T® Gen 7 tourniquet in place purely by the close fit of the case around the tourniquet body — there are no straps, buckles, elastic covers, or snap closures. The molded nylon grips the tourniquet firmly enough to withstand physical activity including running, vehicle operations, and combative encounters without the tourniquet falling out. To deploy, you simply grab the exposed upper portion of the tourniquet and pull with a single gross-motor motion. This is intentional design: one-handed deployment with no fine motor steps even when hands are bloody or gloved.
What is the difference between the standard Rigid Gen 7 Case and the Black MOLLE variant?
The standard Rigid Gen. 7 CAT Tourniquet Case ships with a Blade-Tech TekLok attachment designed for duty belts up to 2.25 inches wide. The Black MOLLE variant ships with Tactical Tailor Malice Clips instead, which allow the case to be mounted to MOLLE/PALS webbing on plate carriers, tactical vests, or MOLLE belts. If you need the case on a military plate carrier or MOLLE chest rig, select the Black MOLLE variant. If you primarily carry on a duty belt, select the standard belt-mount option.
Can this case hold older CAT generations like Gen 6?
Yes. While the case is designated for the Gen 7, North American Rescue and Eleven 10® note that the Rigid TQ Case is compatible with the C-A-T® Gen 7 and older generations. The Gen 7 introduced some dimensional changes but the injection-molded case accommodates earlier C-A-T® generations through the same friction-fit design. For maximum security and fit, using the Gen 7 is recommended, as the case is specifically dimensioned around that version.
Why does the Rigid Gen 7 CAT Case have a drainage hole at the bottom?
The drainage hole at the bottom of the case allows water to escape if the case is submerged or exposed to heavy rain, preventing water from pooling inside and affecting the tourniquet. This is particularly important for military operators who may wade through water obstacles, law enforcement officers operating in rain, and any user whose gear might be exposed to standing water. The hole is small enough that it does not compromise the structural integrity of the case.
Can I add a Shirt Guard or cover to the standard Rigid Gen 7 CAT Case?
Yes. The Rigid Gen. 7 CAT Tourniquet Case uses the same two-screw mounting holes as all Eleven 10® RIGID TQ Cases, making it compatible with the Eleven 10® Shirt Shield (sold separately). The Shirt Shield attaches with two screws to the back of the case to protect the uniform shirt from the windlass clip. The Case Cover variant (w/Cover) includes a Hypalon cover and is sold as a separate product. Both accessories are available through MED-TAC International.