First Impressions of 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch
The 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch is designed for professionals and serious enthusiasts who need a reliable and accessible magazine carrier. 5.11 Tactical has a reputation for building gear that can withstand demanding environments, and this pouch appears to continue that trend. I was immediately drawn to the promise of a secure, yet rapidly deployable, magazine solution that integrates seamlessly with my existing tactical setup.
For years, I’ve wrestled with magazine pouches that were either too bulky, difficult to access under pressure, or prone to wear and tear. I needed a low-profile, durable pouch that could hold two AR magazines securely without hindering my movement or slowing down my reloads. My current setup involved a mix of MOLLE-attached pouches from various manufacturers, none of which provided the perfect balance of retention, accessibility, and durability.
Out of the box, the 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch felt solid and well-constructed. The 500D Nylon felt durable, and the stitching appeared clean and robust. Compared to my older Condor double mag pouch, the 5.11 Tactical pouch felt significantly more refined and less bulky, while also seeming more durable than my Blackhawk! single mag pouches. I chose this pouch specifically for its Flex-HT Mounting System, which promised a more secure and versatile attachment method compared to traditional MOLLE straps.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch looked promising, but the real test would be how it performed under real-world conditions. I was excited to see if it could live up to the 5.11 Tactical name and solve my magazine carriage woes.
Real-World Testing: Putting 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch at my local shooting range during a carbine training session. The day was partly cloudy with a slight drizzle, providing a decent test of the pouch’s water resistance. I attached the pouch to my battle belt using the Flex-HT Mounting System, finding the weaving process relatively straightforward and the resulting connection very secure.
Drawing magazines from the pouch was surprisingly smooth and quick, thanks to the concealed PC retention insert. I experienced no issues with magazines snagging or sticking, even when my hands were slightly wet. The ease of access allowed me to perform reloads efficiently, and the pouch maintained its position on my belt without any noticeable shifting or wobbling.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use at the range and during a weekend-long tactical training course, the 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, even after repeated exposure to dirt, mud, and abrasion against other equipment. The double layer N500D nylon on the front and bottom is definitely contributing to the added durability.
Cleaning the pouch is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to some of my older pouches that required frequent scrubbing and even occasional machine washing, the 5.11 Tactical pouch is significantly easier to maintain. It outperforms my previous magazine carriers in terms of both durability and ease of maintenance, providing a noticeable upgrade in performance and longevity.
Breaking Down the Features of 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch
Specifications
The 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch is designed to hold two AR-15 magazines. It measures 4.5 inches in height, 6.25 inches in width, and 1.125 inches in depth. The pouch is constructed from 500D Nylon, providing a good balance of durability and weight.
The pouch features the Flex-HT Mounting System for secure attachment to MOLLE platforms, a concealed PC retention insert for magazine security, and a laser-cut MOLLE front panel for attaching additional accessories. The Duraflex G.C. snap adds to the overall robust construction of the pouch. These specifications are crucial because they dictate the pouch’s compatibility with standard tactical gear, its ability to withstand harsh conditions, and its effectiveness in retaining magazines during dynamic movements.
Performance & Functionality
The 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch excels at its primary function: securely holding and rapidly deploying AR-15 magazines. The concealed PC retention insert provides excellent retention without the need for cumbersome flaps or bungee cords, allowing for quick and intuitive access to magazines. The pouch’s low-profile design minimizes bulk and prevents snagging, enhancing mobility and comfort.
The pouch’s strengths lie in its ease of use, secure magazine retention, and durable construction. The only area for potential improvement would be the addition of adjustable retention, allowing users to fine-tune the draw resistance to their personal preference. Overall, the pouch meets and slightly exceeds my expectations, offering a significant improvement over my previous magazine carriers.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch is excellent. The 500D Nylon feels durable and resistant to abrasion, and the stitching is clean and robust. The pouch is lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to my gear.
The pouch is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no break-in period or complicated adjustments. The magazine retention is perfectly tuned from the factory, providing a secure hold without hindering the draw. Its ergonomic design ensures that magazines are easily accessible, even when wearing gloves.
Durability & Maintenance
The 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure that it can withstand the rigors of regular use in demanding environments. The TPU coated straps on the Flex-HT Mounting System should also add to the long-term durability.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the pouch clean and functional. The drain hole on the bottom panel prevents water from accumulating inside the pouch, further enhancing its durability. With proper care, the 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch is primarily designed as a standalone magazine carrier, and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, the laser-cut MOLLE front panel allows for the attachment of smaller pouches or other accessories, providing some degree of customization. The pouch also features webbing loops for optional Pouch Bungee Kit attachment, providing an alternative retention method if desired.
The pouch is compatible with most standard MOLLE platforms, allowing it to be integrated seamlessly with a wide range of tactical gear. Its universal design also makes it compatible with most AR-15 magazines, regardless of brand or manufacturer. Be sure to also check out other 5.11 Tactical pouches and accessories to complete your setup.
Pros and Cons of 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch
Pros
- Secure magazine retention thanks to the concealed PC retention insert.
- Durable construction using 500D Nylon and reinforced stitching.
- Rapid magazine deployment for efficient reloads.
- Low-profile design minimizes bulk and prevents snagging.
- Flex-HT Mounting System provides a secure and versatile attachment method.
Cons
- Retention is not adjustable.
- Priced higher than some competing pouches.
Who Should Buy 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch?
The 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and competitive shooters who demand reliable and accessible magazine carriage. It’s also a great choice for serious enthusiasts who prioritize durability and performance in their gear. Anyone looking for a secure, low-profile, and easy-to-use magazine pouch will find this product to be an excellent investment.
Individuals who prioritize affordability above all else might want to consider alternative options. Also, those who prefer adjustable retention might find the fixed retention of this pouch to be limiting. A must-have accessory would be a high-quality battle belt or MOLLE platform to which the pouch can be securely attached.
Conclusion on 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch
The 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch is a well-designed and expertly constructed magazine carrier that delivers on its promises. Its secure magazine retention, durable construction, and rapid deployment capabilities make it a valuable addition to any tactical gear setup. While it may be slightly more expensive than some competing pouches, the added value in terms of performance and longevity justifies the price.
I would definitely recommend the 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch to anyone seeking a reliable and high-performing magazine carriage solution. If you value quality, durability, and ease of use, this pouch is an excellent investment. Upgrade your gear today and experience the difference that the 5.11 Tactical Flex Double AR 2.0 Pouch can make!