CAT vs RATS

Ease of Use

One of the most significant characteristics of a tourniquet is how easy and simple it is to use. Tourniquets should be incredibly easy to use for anybody who might need to because the situations where a tourniquet might be needed are high stress situations where we often aren’t very clear-headed. Both tourniquets can be applied in a few easy steps and are designed to be applied with one or both hands. In our experience with these tourniquets, the RATS has a simpler application process to learn quickly and be performed by someone with minimal tourniquet experience, however it would be difficult to apply one-handed although it is marketed as being designed for one-handed application. The patented locking system used to keep the tourniquet locked in once it has been applied is difficult to engage because the metal cut-outs for the tourniquet strap to lock into are just big enough for the strap, making it a tight fit.

In comparison, the CAT has more moving parts in its application process that would make it a little more difficult for someone with less experience to figure out in a hurry, but the steps are relatively easy once you’ve tried doing it at least one. The CAT design is also much easier to use one-handed in comparison to the RATS because the tourniquet comes ready to apply, and the hook and loop closure with the routing buckle means the first step of application is as easy as pulling on the red tip until the tourniquet is appropriately tightened and securing it, which is easily done one-handed.

Size & Speed

Easy storage is another key component in choosing a tourniquet. The tourniquet should be small enough to fit in a small first aid kit or hip pouch, but not so small it can get lost in a larger kit. Additionally, tourniquets should store in such a way that someone can quickly pull it out of a kit and have it ready to apply in seconds. Thanks to its hook and loop closure, the CAT conveniently folds in on itself and stays self-contained very easily, but can also unfold and be applied in just a few seconds. The RATS can be folded any number of ways, however it doesn’t stay held together very easily, so if it was stored loosely in a bag, it is liable to become tangled, preventing quick application in an emergency.

The best way to store the RATS would be in a smaller bag or pocket within your larger gear bag to prevent tangling the tourniquet or any other supplies or holding it together with a rubber band.