Content

1. Characteristics of the Authentic Turnstile
2. How to Determine Material Quality?
3. Brand and Manufacturer Information
4. Comparing Prices - Why Cheaper Isn't Always Better
5. Recommendations for Choosing a Tourniquet

The modern market reality includes the presence of various medical devices, including tourniquets, in the international and Ukrainian markets.

However, the most popular question we receive regarding these products nowadays is about their authenticity. In this publication, we will explore how to identify the genuine CAT Gen 7, manufactured in the USA.

Characteristics of the Authentic Turnstile

The CAT Gen7, which stands for Combat Application Tourniquet seventh generation, is a product exclusively manufactured in the United States of America. There are official distributors of this product on the European continent, but its components are produced only in the USA.

• The plastic buckle bears official branding with two "CAT" inscriptions that can be felt on the touch and are located on opposite sides.
• The plastic windlass also features the official marking "CAT" and is characterized by the presence of four serrations on each side, with three equidistant and one closer to the edge of the windlass.
• The sturdy plastic "tabs" are made from high-quality material and possess a certain degree of elasticity, ensuring their reliability during use for hemorrhage control with the tourniquet. Velcro for securing the time band is located on the surface of these "tabs."
• The time band for indicating the application time of the tourniquet has a gray shade specifically chosen for the legibility of the text, even after marking with a marker, and to prevent potential tampering.
• The robust plastic buckle carries official branding that includes not only the product's name but also the manufacturing address, the official website with all necessary information about the tourniquet, and special symbols.
• Inside the tourniquet, there is a strip that moves freely and can compress vessels when turning the windlass to create effective occlusion.

The authentic tourniquet comes with a folded instruction manual, which may have different appearances depending on the distributor. There are no official distributors in Ukraine, so you may encounter tourniquets on the market that were purchased in the USA or in Europe.

How to Determine Material Quality?

The original tourniquet is made from high-quality materials such as robust nylon and premium plastic. Check for official branding on all components, including the buckle, windlass, and time band.

Brand and Manufacturer Information

Start by verifying the brand and manufacturer. Authentic tourniquets are produced by well-known and reputable companies such as "CAT" (Combat Application Tourniquet), "SOF Tactical Tourniquet," "RATS Tourniquet," and others.

Comparing Prices - Why Cheaper Isn't Always Better

It's important to remember that counterfeit tourniquets can be extremely dangerous in situations where reliable medical assistance is needed. Always check the tourniquet for the specified quality features, and if you have doubts, consult authorized suppliers or a medical professional for guidance on choosing the best and most reliable medical equipment. Saving money on a product that can potentially save lives should not be a priority.

Recommendations for Choosing a Tourniquet

A tourniquet is a vital medical tool that can save lives in emergency situations. Choosing the right tourniquet can be crucial in critical moments. Here are several recommendations to consider when selecting this device.

Brand and Manufacturer: Trust well-known brands and manufacturers with a good reputation in the field of medical equipment. Such companies always prioritize the quality and reliability of their products.

Markings: Ensure that the tourniquet has clear markings, including information about the brand, model, and manufacturer. This will help you identify the authentic product.

Materials: The tourniquet should be made from high-quality materials, such as strong nylon and quality plastic. Verify that the materials meet safety and durability standards.

Functionality: Consider the functions offered by the tourniquet. Some models may have additional features, such as quick release after application or mechanisms for storing extra tape.

Tape Length: It's important to choose a tourniquet with a sufficient tape length to ensure reliable compression when applied around the limb. Typically, the length should be no less than 30 cm.

Instructions and Training: Ensure that the tourniquet comes with usage instructions and training on proper application. This will help you and your team use the device effectively and safely.

Reviews and Feedback: Before making a purchase, review the tourniquet's feedback and ratings from other users. This can provide you with additional confidence in choosing the right product.

Always remember that a tourniquet is not a situation where quality should be compromised. A reliable and high-quality tourniquet can save lives, so choose it with great care and diligence.