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CAT vs. SOF-T Tourniquets: The only two you should trust

A tourniquet is a binary device: it either works 100%, or it fails and the patient bleeds to death. There is no middle ground.
Because of this, you must only buy tourniquets approved by the Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care (CoTCCC).

The two industry standards are the C-A-T Gen 7 (Combat Application Tourniquet) and the SOF-T Wide (Special Operations Forces Tourniquet).
Both will save a life, but they handle differently under stress.

⚠️ WARNING: COUNTERFEITS
Do not buy tourniquets from random Amazon sellers. “2-packs” for $15 are fake. The windlass rod will snap when tightened. A genuine CAT costs ~$30. If it’s cheap, it’s fake.

The Standard: CAT Gen 7

The CAT (North American Rescue) is the most widely used tourniquet in the world. It uses a velcro strap and a polymer windlass rod.

Pros: It is incredibly intuitive and easiest for self-application (putting it on your own arm one-handed).

Cons: It is bulky. The plastic parts make it hard to fold flat in a pocket.

Best for: IFAKs, Car Kits, Plate Carriers.

The Flat Option: SOF-T Wide

The SOF-T (TacMed Solutions) uses a webbing strap with a metal buckle and a metal aircraft-aluminum windlass.

Pros: It folds completely flat. The metal components are virtually indestructible and perform better in extreme heat/cold where plastic might get brittle or soft.

Cons: Slightly harder to apply one-handed than the CAT.

Best for: Ankle kits, Pocket carry, EDC.

Which TQ belongs in your kit?

Top Pick: CAT Gen 7

The gold standard. If you are building a kit for your car or home, buy this one. Easiest to use under high stress.

EDC Pick: SOF-T Wide

The best choice for on-body carry. Folds flatter than a smartphone. Metal construction guarantees durability.

The Controversy: RATS Tourniquet

A solid rubber cord. While popular for small limbs (children/dogs), it is generally considered secondary to the CAT/SOF-T for adults.

The “Blue” Trainer

Tourniquets are single-use devices. Once you tighten them fully, the fibers stretch and cannot be trusted again for life-saving use.
However, you must practice. Buy a dedicated Blue Trainer version (or mark an old one “TRAINING ONLY” with blue tape) and practice applying it until you can do it in under 30 seconds blindfolded.

Related pages

MyMedic vs. Refuge Medical

These kits come pre-stocked with genuine CAT tourniquets.

Best Vehicle IFAK

You are most likely to need a tourniquet at a car accident scene.

First Aid Checklist

Don’t forget the Sharpie. You need to write the “Time Applied” on the TQ tab.

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Medical Disclaimer: We are not doctors. This information is for educational purposes only. Always seek professional medical training (Stop the Bleed, CPR) before using trauma gear.