I have a couple of the CATS, but luckily haven't had to use them. But, I'd rather have and not need...
I have to agree with you Strig, I like the CATs better. I do wish they had a metal windlass though. The new Gen 4 SOFT-T added in a second windlass catch, which should make self application easier.
I use CATS and RATS, I like the ease of use of the CAT and have the RATS because the cats don’t fit kids and with my daughter, school and church volunteering I am around a good amount of kids.
Buddy of mine is a surgeon, medical instructor and avid 2 gunner. He steered me to the SAM-XT's which I like just a bit better than the gen7 CAT's.
I have everything from CATS, SOF-T, SWAT-T, to a homemade one using doubled up 1/4" shock cord encased in 1" tube webbing (it generates WAY TOO MUCH force and would probably result in a limb / tissue/ muscle damage or amputation as a result (bare limb) HOWEVER, using it over a heavy sweater or jacketed limb it generates forces just slightly higher than a CAT or SOF-T)
This is what I can reach from the driver's seat. We have them staged everywhere. I'm happy with the SOFT-TW or CAT, but generally carry a SOFT-TW. The SWAT-T is for children or children sized adults, etc.
SOF-T Gen 4 is my favorite. But I have a few RATS tucked away in various kits just because they are so packable. And honestly, I don't really understand why the RATS have been so controversial. I've tested them and properly applied, they do exactly what they claim to do.