Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless iterations of magazine carriers, from the bare-bones to the extravagantly complex. The Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy (or accessory) caught my attention because it promised a simple, effective solution for carrying spare magazines, specifically tailored to the venerable Colt 1911. It’s a straightforward piece of kit, but in the world of tactical gear, simplicity often equates to reliability.

I was looking for a low-profile, dependable way to carry an extra 1911 magazine on my duty belt without adding unnecessary bulk or complexity. I needed something that would hold the magazine securely, allow for a quick draw, and withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.

Upon unboxing, the Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy presented itself as a no-nonsense piece of gear. The epoxy-coated metal holder felt solid and durable in hand, with a reassuring heft that suggested quality construction. The mid-ride position seemed ideal for easy access without interfering with other gear on my belt.

Compared to some polymer magazine carriers I’ve used, this metal design feels significantly more robust. It also contrasts with open-top nylon pouches, offering a more secure and potentially faster draw. I chose this particular model over others due to Safariland’s reputation for quality and the specifically molded design for the 1911 magazine.

My first impression was cautiously optimistic. While the design appeared simple, I was curious to see how it would perform in real-world scenarios. Would it truly offer a secure and accessible carry solution, or would it prove to be just another piece of gear that falls short under pressure?

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy at my local shooting range during a series of drills involving rapid magazine changes. The goal was to simulate a high-stress situation where quick access to a spare magazine could be crucial. I was practicing drawing, firing a set number of rounds, and then performing a speed reload using the Safariland carrier.

The carrier performed admirably under dry conditions, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw. I also tested it in simulated wet conditions (a spray bottle!), and while the draw wasn’t quite as slick, the magazine remained secure and accessible. The mid-ride position proved to be comfortable and didn’t interfere with my range of motion.

Initially, I needed a few practice draws to get used to the angle and retention of the carrier. However, after a short period, drawing the magazine became second nature. There were no unexpected issues during the first range session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy has proven to be a reliable addition to my gear setup. It has been subjected to daily wear, including exposure to varying temperatures and occasional bumps and scrapes.

The epoxy coating has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear despite regular use. The metal construction ensures that the carrier retains its shape and secure hold on the magazine, even after repeated draws. Cleaning is as simple as wiping it down with a damp cloth.

This carrier has outperformed some of my previous nylon pouches in terms of retention and draw speed. The metal construction also provides a more secure feel compared to some of the more flexible polymer carriers I’ve tried. It gives me confidence that the magazine will be there when I need it.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy

Specifications

The Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy is designed to hold a single Colt 1911 magazine in a butt-up, mid-ride position. The holder is constructed from metal, providing a robust and durable platform for magazine carry. An epoxy coating is applied for enhanced corrosion resistance and a smooth finish.

The mid-ride position is designed to sit comfortably on the belt, allowing for easy access to the magazine without hindering movement. Its specific design for the Colt 1911 ensures a snug and secure fit. This attention to detail minimizes the risk of the magazine accidentally dislodging.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy excels in its primary function: securely holding and providing rapid access to a spare 1911 magazine. The retention is firm enough to prevent accidental loss, yet allows for a smooth and quick draw when needed. Its simplicity contributes to its reliability.

The only minor drawback is that the metal construction offers less flexibility compared to polymer or nylon carriers, which might not suit everyone’s preference. However, the benefits of durability and secure retention outweigh this minor limitation. The carrier meets my expectations for a robust and dependable magazine carrier.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy is straightforward and functional. The epoxy-coated metal construction feels solid and well-made. The mid-ride height positions the magazine conveniently on the belt.

The Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy is easy to use and requires no special training or adjustment. The design is intuitive. A user can quickly adapt to drawing and re-holstering magazines with minimal practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The metal construction and epoxy coating of the Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy suggest a long service life. The carrier has already shown impressive resistance to wear and tear during my testing.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it in good working order. The simple design also minimizes the potential for mechanical failures.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy is primarily a stand-alone product, and it does not come with additional accessories. However, its compatibility with standard duty belts allows for seamless integration with existing gear setups.

While customization options are limited, the focus on a specific magazine type ensures optimal performance. Some users might consider adding aftermarket belt clips for adjustable ride height or cant angle. The Safariland mounting system allows for easy attachment to various belt systems.

Pros and Cons of Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy?

The Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and competitive shooters who rely on the Colt 1911 platform. Anyone seeking a durable, secure, and low-profile magazine carrier will find this product a valuable addition to their gear. It’s a great choice for those who prioritize reliability and simplicity.

Those who prefer more flexible magazine carriers or require extensive customization options might want to explore alternative products. Individuals who use a different handgun platform should obviously choose a carrier designed for their specific magazine type.

There are no must-have accessories, but a high-quality duty belt is essential for proper and comfortable carry. Consider adding a retention screw to fine-tune the draw resistance.

Conclusion on Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy

The Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy is a well-designed and robust magazine carrier that delivers on its promise of secure and accessible magazine storage for the Colt 1911. The metal construction and epoxy coating ensure durability. The mid-ride position offers a comfortable and convenient carry.

At a price of $16.64, the Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy offers excellent value for the money. The quality of construction and the reliable performance justify the investment.

I would confidently recommend the Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy to anyone looking for a dependable and no-nonsense magazine carrier for their 1911. If you’re seeking a simple, effective, and durable solution for carrying spare magazines, look no further. Gear up with the Safariland EDW Cartridge Accy and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your spare magazine is always secure and within easy reach.