Let’s Dive into Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On
The Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On is a duty-grade piece of kit designed to securely hold two magazines while providing rapid access when seconds count. Made by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical gear, this pouch aims to offer a reliable and professional solution for carrying extra ammunition. It boasts a low-cut design for an enhanced grip and adjustable tension for personalized magazine retention.
My journey to acquiring this pouch was driven by a need for a more streamlined and reliable magazine carrying system. My previous setup, a generic nylon pouch, lacked both the secure retention and rapid access I needed during training exercises. I was looking for something that would perform consistently under stress and hold up to daily wear and tear.
Upon receiving the Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On, my initial impression was one of robust quality. The SafariLaminate™ construction felt durable and well-made, instilling confidence that it could withstand the rigors of field use. The pouch felt lightweight, which is always a plus when adding gear to a duty belt.
Compared to other options I considered, like the Blackhawk! Double Stack Magazine Pouch and the Blue Force Gear Ten-Speed Double M4 Mag Pouch, the Safariland stood out for its adjustable tension and snap-on design. The Blackhawk! felt bulky, and the Ten-Speed, while lightweight, didn’t offer the same level of secure retention. I chose the Safariland for its balance of speed, security, and durability.
My first impression was definitely positive. The Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On appeared to be a well-designed and thoughtfully constructed piece of kit. I was excited to put it to the test and see how it performed under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On at a local shooting range during a practical pistol course. The course involved rapid reloads and movement drills, providing an excellent opportunity to evaluate the pouch’s performance under pressure. The pouch was attached to my duty belt and loaded with two Glock 17 magazines.
During the drills, the pouch performed admirably in dry conditions. The low-cut design allowed for a secure and positive grip on the magazines, enabling quick and efficient reloads. I experienced no issues with magazines slipping out unintentionally, even during dynamic movements.
The ease of use was immediately apparent. The adjustable tensioning device allowed me to fine-tune the retention to my preference, finding the perfect balance between security and accessibility. I didn’t need a break-in period or any significant adjustment to my technique.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. I’ve used it in various conditions, including hot, humid days at the range and during simulated scenarios in cooler weather. The pouch has consistently held up, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.
The SafariLaminate™ construction has resisted abrasions and scuffs, maintaining its professional appearance. The snap-on attachment remains secure, with no loosening or slippage on my belt. The adjustable tensioning device has also held its setting, requiring no readjustment.
Maintenance is straightforward. I simply wipe down the pouch with a damp cloth after each use to remove any dirt or debris. It’s a vast improvement over my previous nylon pouches, which required more frequent cleaning and still showed signs of wear quickly. The Safariland outperforms my previous experience in every aspect: durability, retention, and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On
Specifications
The Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On is designed to hold two magazines, typically pistol magazines (9mm, .40, .45 ACP). The pouch is constructed from durable SafariLaminate™, offering a professional and long-lasting finish. It features a low-cut design to facilitate a secure grip on magazines for rapid deployment.
The adjustable tensioning device allows users to customize the retention level to their preference. The snap-on attachment is designed for belts up to 1.75 inches (45mm) wide. These specifications matter because they directly impact the pouch’s performance in real-world scenarios. The SafariLaminate™ ensures longevity, the low-cut design enhances reload speed, the adjustable tension offers personalized security, and the snap-on attachment provides easy mounting and removal.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On excels at its primary job: securely holding two magazines while providing quick and easy access. Its accuracy in terms of retention is impressive, preventing magazines from accidentally falling out during movement. It is also highly reliable, with the adjustable tension mechanism maintaining its setting over time.
The key strength lies in its balance of speed and security. The low-cut design and adjustable tension work together to allow for fast reloads without sacrificing retention. A potential weakness could be its fixed capacity; users needing to carry more than two magazines would require additional pouches. It meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade magazine pouch.
Design & Ergonomics
The SafariLaminate™ construction provides a professional and durable finish. The weight is minimal, adding little bulk to a duty belt. The design is straightforward and functional, prioritizing ease of use.
The pouch is very user-friendly with virtually no learning curve. The adjustable tensioning device is intuitive to adjust, and the snap-on attachment is simple to install and remove.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust SafariLaminate™ construction suggests a long lifespan. With proper care, this pouch should last for years of regular use.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional wiping down with a damp cloth. No specialized cleaning products or procedures are necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On does not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited to the adjustable tensioning device, which allows for personalized retention.
The pouch is compatible with most standard 1.75-inch duty belts. However, it’s not designed for use with MOLLE webbing or other attachment systems.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On
Pros
- Fast and efficient reloads due to the low-cut design.
- Secure magazine retention with the adjustable tensioning device.
- Durable and professional construction with SafariLaminate™.
- Easy to install and remove with the snap-on attachment.
- Lightweight design minimizes bulk on a duty belt.
Cons
- Limited to carrying two magazines only.
- Not compatible with MOLLE attachment systems.
Who Should Buy Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On?
Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, security personnel, competitive shooters, and anyone who requires a reliable and fast magazine carrying system. It’s especially well-suited for those who prioritize speed and accessibility without sacrificing security.
Who should skip this product? Individuals who need to carry more than two magazines or require MOLLE compatibility might find this pouch limiting. Those working in extremely harsh environments demanding specialized materials (e.g., extreme heat or chemical resistance) may also want to explore alternative options.
Must-have accessories or modifications? While the pouch is excellent as is, consider adding a quality duty belt if you don’t already have one. This will ensure a stable and secure platform for carrying the pouch and other essential gear.
Conclusion on Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On
The Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On is a well-designed and expertly crafted piece of tactical gear that delivers on its promise of speed, security, and durability. It’s a significant upgrade over generic nylon pouches, offering a noticeable improvement in both retention and reload speed. The SafariLaminate™ construction ensures long-lasting performance, and the adjustable tensioning device allows for personalized customization.
At a price of $39.99, the value proposition is excellent. The quality and performance justify the cost, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone who relies on quick and efficient access to spare magazines.
I would personally recommend the Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch, Snap On to anyone looking for a reliable and professional magazine carrying solution. It’s a solid piece of kit that will undoubtedly enhance your performance and confidence in the field. If you’re serious about your gear, this pouch is a must-have. Upgrade your magazine carry system today and experience the Safariland difference!