Counter Assault  Bear Deterrent Spray Holster

I've had two for TEN YEARS (2006-2016), and they have just now finally wore out. (The velcro on the flap on one has fallen out (gone bald, so to speak), and no longer holds. The elastic on the flap on the other one is so stretched that it won't stay on the spray can. 12 bucks. 10 years. PS: Carry it on your pack on the sternum strap. The small strap goes right through, and it's right there when you need it.

I bought both sizes of canister, and while the 8.1 oz can fits perfectly (earning the two stars), the 10.2 oz Counter Assault simply cannot be forced into this holster without using tools to stretch the fabric (therefore taking away 3 stars). I hoped it would then stretch out into a proper size, but it's still too tight and I need both hands and some moments to force it out. It's a fatal flaw (if you're being attacked by a bear) to try to carry the 10.2 can in this holster (if you even can get it in) because you'll be mauled before you can pull it out o use it. The description should read, "for 8.1 oz size only". I don't believe that REI, whom I've always trusted, ever tried this with the 10.2 oz can for themselves, else they would agree with me.

Was on the trail and a Black Bear decided to come running down the trail at us. I was able to pull the canister out of the holster quickly and have the spray ready in seconds. Luckily the bear stopped some yards from us and moved off the trail. But it was reasuring that I could have the canister at the ready that quickly. I now carry it on my belt even on many day hikes.

Upon receiving I was surprised to find the top belt loop stitching only 50% intact and basically ready to unravel with any force. There is no functional purpose to this item without a secure loop. For the price I would expect better quality right out of the box.

GOOD: Has a retention strap to go over the canister. BAD: the belt loop needs to be higher up, lowering the canister, if you are wearing a backpack (as I imagine most users will be).

Holds bear spray, I had to get carabiner to easily attach to belt.

I should have gotten this with purchase of canister, but forgot. Pretty much essential for my style of carrying bear spray on my pack hip belt. Holster works great, easy to get at spray, but secure from falling out accidentally. Accommodates both sizes of canister.

I’ve only had this a short while but it works well so far. Contrary to what another reviewer found I had no problem putting the 10.2 oz bear spray in this holste.

I've pulled bear spray on bears a couple times using this holster. It just slides right out when needed and stays put when it's supposed to.

Doesn't easily attach in a convenient way to back pack waist strap or shoulder strap.