Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap

The Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap is a seemingly simple piece of kit, but in the tactical world, efficient and reliable magazine carriage can be the difference between success and failure. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality law enforcement and military gear, this pouch promises durability and ease of access. Its “face out” magazine orientation and robust SafariLaminate construction are designed to save space and withstand harsh conditions, making it an interesting contender in the crowded market of magazine pouches.

What led me to this pouch was a recurring issue with bulkier magazine carriers digging into my side during extended patrols. I needed a low-profile, dependable solution that wouldn’t compromise magazine retention or accessibility. The Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap arrived in a simple plastic package, typical of Safariland’s no-frills approach.

My initial impression was positive; the SafariLaminate felt incredibly durable, and the flaps seemed secure without being overly cumbersome. Compared to some nylon pouches I’ve used, the Safariland offered a more rigid structure and a more professional look. I’ve primarily used open-top pouches in the past, specifically the Blackhawk! Double Stack Magazine Pouch and the HSGI Taco, but wanted to test a flapped design for added security in dense brush and adverse weather.

My first impression was a pleasant surprise. It felt far more substantial than its size would suggest, instilling confidence in its ability to handle the rigors of daily use.


Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap was at a local shooting range during a practical pistol course. I used it throughout the day, drawing and re-indexing magazines repeatedly during drills. The pouch was exposed to light rain, and some mud from prone shooting positions.

The Safariland pouch performed admirably under these conditions. The flaps provided a secure hold on the magazines, preventing them from dislodging during dynamic movements, while still allowing for relatively quick access once I got the hang of the release. Initially, manipulating the flaps with gloved hands was a bit awkward, but after a few repetitions, it became second nature. There were no issues with the magazines becoming waterlogged, which can be a concern with open-top designs.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including weekly range visits and two weekend-long training exercises in woodland environments, the Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of tearing or fraying, and the flaps retain their shape and closure strength. The SafariLaminate has resisted abrasion remarkably well, showing only minor scuff marks despite rubbing against trees and other gear.

Cleaning is straightforward, usually just requiring a wipe-down with a damp cloth. This pouch has outperformed several nylon alternatives I’ve used in the past, which tend to degrade more quickly with exposure to the elements and constant abrasion. This Safariland pouch provides a noticeable improvement in longevity and resilience.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap

Specifications

  • The Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap features magazines oriented “face out,” designed to minimize belt space. This is particularly useful when carrying multiple pouches or other essential gear.
  • It’s constructed from durable SafariLaminate, a Safariland proprietary material known for its resistance to abrasion, moisture, and chemicals. This construction ensures the pouch can withstand harsh environments and prolonged use.
  • The pouch includes both vertical and horizontal belt slots, allowing for versatile mounting options. This adaptability ensures compatibility with a wide range of belts and tactical platforms.
  • It is designed to fit 2.25″ (58mm) belt widths, a common standard for law enforcement and military belts. The secure fit prevents unwanted movement during rigorous activity.
  • The pouch is part of the Safariland 6004/6005 tactical system, allowing seamless integration with other compatible gear. This modularity can be valuable for building a cohesive and efficient loadout.
  • The pouch holds two pistol magazines, offering increased capacity without excessive bulk. This ensures ample ammunition is readily available during critical situations.

These specifications matter because they directly contribute to the pouch’s usability, durability, and compatibility. The “face out” orientation improves space efficiency, while SafariLaminate construction ensures longevity. The belt slots and compatibility with the Safariland system offer flexibility in how the pouch is integrated into a tactical setup.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap performs its primary function – securely holding and providing quick access to magazines – exceptionally well. The flaps offer reliable retention, preventing magazines from falling out even during strenuous activity, while the “face out” orientation allows for a relatively streamlined draw. The magazine pouch is easy to use.

The main strength of this pouch is its robust construction and reliable retention. A potential weakness is the flap design; while secure, it may be slightly slower to access compared to open-top pouches, requiring a deliberate action to unfasten before drawing the magazine. Overall, the pouch meets my expectations for a durable and dependable magazine carrier.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap is excellent. The SafariLaminate material feels incredibly robust, and the stitching is clean and reinforced in high-stress areas. The pouch is relatively lightweight considering its durability, and the “face out” design minimizes its footprint on the belt.

There is a slight learning curve associated with the flap closure, but once mastered, it becomes a non-issue. The vertical and horizontal belt slots provide flexibility in positioning, allowing for optimal comfort and accessibility. The pouch is designed for use with duty belts, which contributes to overall comfortable wear.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the SafariLaminate construction and reinforced stitching, I expect the Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap to last for many years with regular use. The material is highly resistant to abrasion, moisture, and chemicals, minimizing the risk of premature wear and tear.

Maintenance is simple, typically only requiring a wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. The durable material is resistant to staining.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap is primarily designed as a standalone magazine carrier and doesn’t offer extensive customization options. However, its compatibility with the Safariland 6004/6005 tactical system allows for seamless integration with other compatible gear, such as holsters and other pouches.

While not designed for specific accessories like optics or grips, the pouch’s robust construction and secure retention make it suitable for carrying magazines with various baseplates and extensions. The pouch fits most common pistol magazine sizes.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap

Pros

  • Extremely durable SafariLaminate construction for long-lasting performance.
  • Secure flap closure provides reliable magazine retention, even in demanding environments.
  • Space-saving “face out” magazine orientation minimizes bulk on the belt.
  • Versatile vertical and horizontal belt slots for flexible mounting options.
  • Compatible with the Safariland 6004/6005 tactical system for seamless integration.

Cons

  • Flap closure may be slightly slower to access compared to open-top pouches.
  • Limited customization options beyond belt mounting.


Who Should Buy Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap?

The Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and competitive shooters who prioritize durability and secure magazine retention. It’s also an excellent choice for individuals who operate in harsh environments where open-top pouches may be vulnerable to the elements.

This pouch might not be the best choice for competitive shooters who require the absolute fastest magazine changes. These users might prefer open-top designs.

A must-have accessory would be a good quality duty belt. Also, a quick-release system that is compatible with Safariland products could enhance usability.

Conclusion on Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap

Overall, the Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap is a well-designed and exceptionally durable magazine carrier that prioritizes security and longevity. While the flap closure may introduce a slight delay in access compared to open-top designs, the added retention and protection from the elements make it a worthwhile trade-off for many users.

The price is justified given the quality of materials and construction. This pouch is built to withstand years of hard use.

I would personally recommend the Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap to anyone seeking a reliable and durable magazine carrier for duty, tactical, or recreational use. Its robust construction, secure retention, and space-saving design make it a valuable addition to any loadout. Upgrade your gear today!

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