
A tourniquet is not something you want to have to use, but when it comes down to it, it should work right away. In this guide to the best tourniquets in the test, we go through two options that are easy to use, easy to carry and designed to quickly stop heavy bleeding - regardless of the situation.
The difference between a good and a bad tourniquet can be crucial. It's about stopping the blood flow quickly, even with one hand, in cold or stress. Below we take a closer look at two models that are often used in both civilian and tactical contexts - and what sets them apart.
A tourniquet is a pressure bandage used to stop heavy bleeding, usually from the arms or legs. It works by cutting off blood flow to the injured body part, which buys time until more advanced care is available. Unlike regular bandages, a tourniquet is built to create pressure that is really enough - even for arterial bleeding.
The C-A-T, Combat Application Tourniquet, is a specific model that has been developed to be used quickly, with one hand, and that can withstand high pressure. It is designed with Velcro, a buckle and a turning pin (windlass) to gradually increase the pressure until the bleeding is stopped. The C-A-T is one of the most widespread models among military personnel, paramedics and civil rescue services - largely thanks to its simplicity and reliability.
The Combat Application Tourniquet Gen7 is a compact and effective tourniquet designed to stop heavy bleeding in the arms or legs. It is specifically designed to be used with one hand, making it perfect for both self-use and in situations where time is limited.
The self-adhesive tape together with the friction buckle makes the tourniquet suitable for different body types. The twist stick provides sufficient pressure to stop arterial bleeding, and is easily locked with hook and loop fasteners. The C-A-T is used in both military and civilian environments, and is available in several colors depending on the area of application.
Specifications:

The BCB Tourniquet is an easy-to-use, one-handed tourniquet that can quickly stop heavy bleeding in the arm or leg. The design is simple: tighten the strap, secure it with Velcro and use the twist pin to create the pressure needed to stifle blood flow.
A clear time recording area makes it easy to mark when the tourniquet was applied - something important for continued care. The tourniquet is manufactured according to ISO 13485, which means that it meets the standard for medical devices.
Specifications:

This is a holder only - no tourniquet included. The 5.11 Tactical Tourniquet Holder was developed in collaboration with Fieldcraft Survival and is specifically designed to carry a C-A-T Tourniquet in a safe and accessible way.
The holder is made of injection-molded polycarbonate and has a construction that protects both the twist pin and the clamp from wear. The smart opening in both the top and bottom allows you to quickly extract the tourniquet with either hand, regardless of position.
Two clips are included - one for belts up to 2.25 inches and one for MOLLE attachment, which allows the holder to fit on both equipment belts and backpacks.
Specifications:

A tourniquet is used to stop heavy bleeding, usually from an arm or leg, when a regular pressure bandage is not enough. It should fit tightly, completely stop the blood flow and be applied quickly. Here's how to do it in short steps:
A properly applied tourniquet hurts and feels uncomfortable - but it saves lives. It should not be removed until medical personnel take over.
A tourniquet is used in both tactical and civilian contexts. In the military, police and emergency services, it is standard equipment to quickly stop life-threatening bleeding directly on site. In civilian contexts, such as certain outdoor situations, the need may arise - especially if help is delayed.
In addition, a tourniquet is something that should be in every emergency kit and in all forms of prepping equipment. In the event of major accidents, crises or disasters where medical care may be unavailable for a while, a tourniquet is a simple but powerful tool to have ready. It takes up little space, weighs almost nothing - but can make a big difference when it is really needed.