I took the emergency medical treatment from Fieldcraft a couple of weeks ago in AZ from Doc. A great course with more than just tourniquet application and wound packing. If you have one in your area, I recommend it. It could save your life or someone you love.
After suffering a severe laceration to the underside of my foot, I cannot recommend getting a proper tourniquet enough. Bled through a large size towel while applying a serious amount of pressure, realized I hit a vein as the bleeding wasn't slowing down, and applied a TQ to finally get it to stop before getting transported to the ER. For whomever may be wondering, it was the latest gen CAT TQ and was promptly replaced with two more new ones after use. Fun fact, numbing agents like Lidocaine may or may not work for your body, no matter the amount injected. Mine didn't so I felt EVERYTHING. Stay safe folks!
I've been first aid trained for years but never gotten training on tourniquet. This segment is invaluable because I never knew about the two differences nor about the tension. I just made the decision that I will get training and buy more equipment. Thanks very much, it means alot.
One other big difference not mentioned is on-body carry considerations - the SOF-T can be packed noticeably slimmer than the CAT and doesn’t snag on clothes as bad (i.e. - ankle kit, cargo pocket, waist band holster), so I tend to carry SOF-T on-body much more frequently. I’m still consistently faster on one-handed application with the CAT though and stock more of my kits with them.
Seconded @Flyboy. Sof-t fits very nicely banded to rifle stocks, to boot. I think that’s the determining factor in my mind; space. With one velcro’d to an m4 stock, I don’t even notice its there and have zero issue manipulating the platform. Food for thought.
Both are great tourniquets. I’ve trained on both in the Stop The Bleed class I took, but own several CAT TQ’s that I have in my med bag, SAR pack, and vehicles.
Yes it was helpful, many thank-you's. One point I'd like to put forward for consideration, the CAT 7 appears to be non-metallic which maybe a plus for civilian/non EMT folk. Being that when carried it wont trigger metal detectors......"so what?" you may ask. I am a subject of His Britannic Majesty and as such I have to be mindful of what i have "about my person".
Very helpful.. I have the CAT & got trained on it but the pressure indicator and ease of configuration on the SOF-T seem like time-saving features that could really make a difference - will look into getting trained on that. Thanks!
I just put together an IFAK to carry with me as it is quickly becoming motorcycle season. This is good stuff. Wish I could make it to a class but I'm way out in Southern Ontario, Canada. Thanks for the video!
Online training is good. I've held varies medical certs. The main skills I've used real-world are direct pressure, TQ application and chest compression. Everything else is better left to a higher level of care.
Something to consider, you may not be the person applying the tq. You may be directing someone, or you may be incapacitated. In our minds, we play out a scenario of what we anticipate how it will go down. However, it rarely plays out that way. Train with which ever equipment that you chose, but remember, you may not be the person using it. .
Dude! SUPER helpful! Learned about FCS on Jocko + EC's podcast.. and then picked up the book, which was fantastic. Refreshing my overland vehicle's FAK and will be adding BOK.. will be going with a SOF-T.
I've only ever used CAT, so that's what I will buy for personal use, but if I ever get an opportunity to try the SOF T, maybe I'll like it better. Until then, I'll stick with what I know.
Both are good TQ’s. I have had some issues with certain types of snow causing the CAT to fail to adhere well. Snow packed into the pile and the hook would not bite good.
If I need one, I don’t care which one so much, as long as I have one!…. The tourniquets we were deployed with were not that fancy, I saw them work just fine!!
really liked this video. been training with CATs for quite a while since my time in the Army (retired now, but still have a CAT on the visor in my truck). heard about the SOF-Ts last year some time. ive been wondering if there was really any benefit to a SOF than a CAT. i do like that pressure indicator thing you were talking about. i guess i might have to buy a SOF-T or 2 and try them out.
Just replace all CAT with the Sam XT. They have the same basic idea and design, but a much more solid aluminium bar and a buckle that will automatically eliminate all slack, plus it pulls double duty as a second safety feature on top of the velcro to keep it tight.
For me the CAT is much faster and easier to get properly tight before you start to turn the windlass. I also like orange colour for visibility. Makes it easier to locate for others aswell. If you need a TQ you usaually need it ASAP.
Used the CAT in the army, and currently use the CAT in Fire/Ems. I probably won’t venture to others but I know this system works so it’s my go to. The logic is the same, so I know the other will work just as fine.
Black is SOFT T-WIDE GEN5, most recent. Orange is CAT-T, likely GEN7. I really like the SOFT T-W (elso known as SOF) due to its buckle, very smooth, wide, and strong strap (with tension indicator) instead of velcro, and buckle that holds the windlass before while you secure it with the triangular buckle. It comes in red, orange, etc., too.
Whatever you carry, train with it. Use a trainer, not what you're going to carry. I find the CAT easier to self apply to my arm. I have difficulty securing the windlass on the SOF when self applying. Either works well on my legs or applying to someone else.
SOF-T has far more capabilities any other tourniquet on the market. If you don't know what I'm talking about, you either need better training and or just stick with the CAT
Starting to put together my medical bag, complete with tourniquets, so this video comes at a good time.
@Qake Sounds like good advice
I have unfortunately used both of these and they both do what they are designed to do.
I now carry both and have them in all my trucks and kit bags.
I took the emergency medical treatment from Fieldcraft a couple of weeks ago in AZ from Doc. A great course with more than just tourniquet application and wound packing. If you have one in your area, I recommend it. It could save your life or someone you love.
After suffering a severe laceration to the underside of my foot, I cannot recommend getting a proper tourniquet enough.
Bled through a large size towel while applying a serious amount of pressure, realized I hit a vein as the bleeding wasn't slowing down, and applied a TQ to finally get it to stop before getting transported to the ER.
For whomever may be wondering, it was the latest gen CAT TQ and was promptly replaced with two more new ones after use.
Fun fact, numbing agents like Lidocaine may or may not work for your body, no matter the amount injected. Mine didn't so I felt EVERYTHING.
Stay safe folks!
I've been first aid trained for years but never gotten training on tourniquet.
This segment is invaluable because I never knew about the two differences nor about the tension.
I just made the decision that I will get training and buy more equipment.
Thanks very much, it means alot.
One other big difference not mentioned is on-body carry considerations - the SOF-T can be packed noticeably slimmer than the CAT and doesn’t snag on clothes as bad (i.e. - ankle kit, cargo pocket, waist band holster), so I tend to carry SOF-T on-body much more frequently. I’m still consistently faster on one-handed application with the CAT though and stock more of my kits with them.
Seconded @Flyboy.
Sof-t fits very nicely banded to rifle stocks, to boot. I think that’s the determining factor in my mind; space. With one velcro’d to an m4 stock, I don’t even notice its there and have zero issue manipulating the platform. Food for thought.
Also heard from a buddy who was over seas blood and sand can make velcro hard to secure.
Every lesson is appreciated by the ones paying attention.
I teach this stuff too and I could not have done any better. I appreciate the medical videos yall do. Keep it up.
Both are great tourniquets. I’ve trained on both in the Stop The Bleed class I took, but own several CAT TQ’s that I have in my med bag, SAR pack, and vehicles.
Glad to finally hear someone say "softy" in a positive way!
I love your guys medical videos, I always learn something new. Thanks!
Also not mentioned is the fact that the pressure applying part of the TQ for the CAT is only 1" wide. While the sof-t is 1.5".
Yes it was helpful, many thank-you's. One point I'd like to put forward for consideration, the CAT 7 appears to be non-metallic which maybe a plus for civilian/non EMT folk. Being that when carried it wont trigger metal detectors......"so what?" you may ask. I am a subject of His Britannic Majesty and as such I have to be mindful of what i have "about my person".
Very helpful.. I have the CAT & got trained on it but the pressure indicator and ease of configuration on the SOF-T seem like time-saving features that could really make a difference - will look into getting trained on that. Thanks!
I just put together an IFAK to carry with me as it is quickly becoming motorcycle season. This is good stuff. Wish I could make it to a class but I'm way out in Southern Ontario, Canada. Thanks for the video!
Online training is good. I've held varies medical certs. The main skills I've used real-world are direct pressure, TQ application and chest compression. Everything else is better left to a higher level of care.
Great video, but please put links to the specific products you are discussing in the description!
Something to consider, you may not be the person applying the tq. You may be directing someone, or you may be incapacitated. In our minds, we play out a scenario of what we anticipate how it will go down. However, it rarely plays out that way. Train with which ever equipment that you chose, but remember, you may not be the person using it. .
Thanks for sharing your insights on the difference between these two tourniquet types.
Great content Doc 🤙🏼
Dude! SUPER helpful! Learned about FCS on Jocko + EC's podcast.. and then picked up the book, which was fantastic. Refreshing my overland vehicle's FAK and will be adding BOK.. will be going with a SOF-T.
I've only ever used CAT, so that's what I will buy for personal use, but if I ever get an opportunity to try the SOF T, maybe I'll like it better. Until then, I'll stick with what I know.
Excellent content, Doc Nate! Looking forward to training with you again
Both are good TQ’s. I have had some issues with certain types of snow causing the CAT to fail to adhere well. Snow packed into the pile and the hook would not bite good.
Can you show us how to apply both of them?
Both are great in their own way but I prefer and carry the SOF-T.
We have the CAT on the ambulance it's easy however I prefer the Sof T wide
If I need one, I don’t care which one so much, as long as I have one!…. The tourniquets we were deployed with were not that fancy, I saw them work just fine!!
All we were taught for combat lifesaver and EIB training was using a cravat bandage and a stick 😁
@@robertoberman2403
Duct tape and tampons!!
Sam XT is a good option as well which may in a way bridge the gap of the two here
Great content.
Thank you very much.🌷
So..
The big question is..
Where do you get the proper training?
really liked this video. been training with CATs for quite a while since my time in the Army (retired now, but still have a CAT on the visor in my truck). heard about the SOF-Ts last year some time. ive been wondering if there was really any benefit to a SOF than a CAT. i do like that pressure indicator thing you were talking about. i guess i might have to buy a SOF-T or 2 and try them out.
Just replace all CAT with the Sam XT. They have the same basic idea and design, but a much more solid aluminium bar and a buckle that will automatically eliminate all slack, plus it pulls double duty as a second safety feature on top of the velcro to keep it tight.
I do alot of solo camping ,And have used the soft T,saved my life .I carry that and surgical stapler.
What happend?
Love it!
Great vid. Thanks
For me the CAT is much faster and easier to get properly tight before you start to turn the windlass. I also like orange colour for visibility. Makes it easier to locate for others aswell. If you need a TQ you usaually need it ASAP.
What's best is the TQ you have and can use .
This is so helpful ❤
Thank you
Used the CAT in the army, and currently use the CAT in Fire/Ems. I probably won’t venture to others but I know this system works so it’s my go to. The logic is the same, so I know the other will work just as fine.
Is it 13 or 14 years? Besides that great video.
Thoughts on the TMT?
Anyone know what tourniquets he’s showing in this video I’m primary interested in the black one for my medical bags
Black is SOFT T-WIDE GEN5, most recent. Orange is CAT-T, likely GEN7.
I really like the SOFT T-W (elso known as SOF) due to its buckle, very smooth, wide, and strong strap (with tension indicator) instead of velcro, and buckle that holds the windlass before while you secure it with the triangular buckle. It comes in red, orange, etc., too.
Thanks bro
Get trained. Comfortable using both. Well done.
Whatever you carry, train with it. Use a trainer, not what you're going to carry. I find the CAT easier to self apply to my arm. I have difficulty securing the windlass on the SOF when self applying. Either works well on my legs or applying to someone else.
My work supplies the SOF, so i am more familiar and trained with it
Yeah but which one is Batman?
Nate, slow it down son. Take a breath.
SOF-T has far more capabilities any other tourniquet on the market. If you don't know what I'm talking about, you either need better training and or just stick with the CAT
Wow 😮
WAIT... which one is Ford/Batman and which one is Ghey/Ghey?
Fun fact. TSA will take your tourniquet.
Which one is Batman?
👍
👍🏽👍🏽
Tenfur
Listen..
Everyone knows superman beats batman so....
The most important thing just after training is certified Tourniquet. Do not buy fake chinese crap.
Jesus. Is their anyone trained to improvise any longer?