TacMed SOFTT-W tourniquet

A tourniquet is a must-have piece for any first aid kit. The The SOFTT-W tourniquet by TacMed excels in extreme reliability and strength. The machined aluminum hardware can take a beating and works flawlessly in any temperature and climate.

The SOFTT-W is supplied with an illustrated user manual.

We recommend this folding method if you find the standard packing style too "fat": DIY Flat Fold Method for SOFTT-W Tourniquets

Why a tourniquet?

The modern battlefield and mass shootings have shown that the risk of having to amputate a limb because of a tourniquet was applied is not really an issue, while blood loss is among the most common reason for loss of life. This has changed the approach to tourniquets and instead of the last option to treat limbic hemorrhage, they are now pretty much the first thing you do. There's not an IFAK on the market today which doesn't include a CAT.

For more info, here's a clear article with dos and don'ts along with other verified info.

SOFTT-W or CAT?

Both of these tourniquets are superb, but there are some subtle differences. The CAT is a bit easier to use one-handed and lighter (65 g / 2.29 oz). The SOFTT-W is extremely durable an can be easily buckled on or off. It's also a bit heavier (110 g / 3.88 oz) but folds into a flatter package for easy carry.

The CAT is often preferred for personal use as a part of an IFAK whilst the SOFTT-W is better suited for CLS and medic use. Nevertheless, both work perfectly in any role and the most important factor in choosing a tourniquet is probably personal preference!