During a recent visit to Tac Med Solutions I got a chance to check out the newest version of the SOF Tourniquet or SOF-T as it’s commonly known.
There are multiple specific improvements to this tourniquet which I’ll cover in detail, but overall, these changes in material construction result in lighter weight and an easy-pull action for smooth and quick self-application.
Here’s a breakdown of the updates:
Performance Compression Band
Completely redesigned webbing maximizes compression during the application process. At a true 1.5” width, the new performance material glides through the Rugged Buckle for quick, snag-free operation and minimizes loss of pressure over time after application.
Rugged Buckle
Engineered to remove excess slack in a single fluid motion, the buckle’s shape stabilizes the Performance Compression Band at any angle of engagement. The new Rugged Buckle is an advanced, lightweight composite design with superior strength over previous versions.
Slack Indicator Wedge
Stitched into the Performance Compression Band below the windlass, the contrasting wedge offers a visual confirmation you have pulled all excess slack from the band. This is a critical step for proper tourniquet application and results in less windlass rotations required to reach occlusion.
High-Strength Aluminum Windlass
Machined from a single aircraft-grade aluminum bar stock, the 5.5” windlass features signature conical ends and grip-friendly texture for consistent torque. Its anodized finish minimizes impacts from environmental elements for durability in any scenario.
Reinforced Tourniquet Retention Assistance Clip
Conveniently holds the windlass in place until you can secure it into the Tri-Ring Lock – even under extreme lateral loads. The Tourniquet Retention Assistance Clip (TRAC) provides steady handling during tough applications and enhances control for one-handed maneuvers.
Tri-Ring Lock
Complete the tourniquet application by securing the windlass into the Tri-Ring Lock. It can easily be manipulated with just one hand and prevents the windlass from shifting during patient movement.
Time Tag
Document when the tourniquet is applied with no interference to the device securement mechanism.
Colors
Offered in a variety of colors: Black, Rescue Orange, Trainer Blue, Tan and Red for the American and Canadian Red Cross.
To be clear, although this is the fifth update to the SOF Tourniquet, previous versions still work. You can still use them with confidence and don’t have to replace them. This newest version just has improvements based upon years of use and material updates.
Any one of these improvements would have been welcome, but combined they make the tourniquet easier to properly employ and increase confidence that it will remain properly applied even during patient movement.
Get your SOF Tourniquet at www.tacmedsolutions.com/SOF-Tourniquet.
