Let’s Dive into High Speed Gear HSGI Covered Taco Magazine Pouch
The High Speed Gear HSGI Covered Taco Magazine Pouch is designed to provide a secure and adaptable solution for carrying rifle magazines and other similarly sized items. Manufactured by High Speed Gear, this pouch leverages a unique design that blends rigid polymer brackets, robust nylon, and adjustable shock cord to accommodate a wide range of magazines and gear, all while protecting them with a buckled flap. It’s a piece of kit that promises versatility and durability, addressing a common need for a truly universal magazine carrier.
I was on the hunt for a magazine pouch system that could handle different rifle platforms without requiring a dedicated pouch for each. My problem was the ever-growing collection of AR-15, AK-47, and AR-10 magazines, each needing its own pouch. I needed a solution that could adjust on-the-fly and withstand rigorous use in various field conditions.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction. The combination of the rigid polymer brackets and heavy-duty nylon gave it a solid feel, suggesting it could withstand some serious abuse. The adjustable shock cord and buckled flap seemed well-designed for securing contents of varying sizes.
Compared to traditional nylon pouches, the HSGI Covered Taco Magazine Pouch stood out with its hybrid construction. Many other pouches felt flimsy or were explicitly tailored to a single magazine type. The appeal of the Taco was its adaptability and the added protection of the covered top, which the open-top Taco lacks.
My first impression was definitely positive. I was excited to see if it would live up to its promise of being a truly universal and durable magazine carrier, a noticeable upgrade to my current mishmash of pouches.
Real-World Testing: Putting High Speed Gear HSGI Covered Taco Magazine Pouch to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the High Speed Gear HSGI Covered Taco Magazine Pouch at an outdoor shooting range during a carbine course. The conditions were moderately dusty with temperatures in the low 70s. I loaded it with different magazines: AR-15 PMAGs, AK-47 steel magazines, and even a couple of AR-10 magazines to see how it handled the varying sizes.
The pouch performed admirably in securing each magazine type. The adjustable shock cord provided the necessary tension to keep them snug, and the covered flap added an extra layer of retention and protection. I found the pouch easy to use, requiring only a slight adjustment of the shock cord to fit each magazine properly.
No major issues arose during the initial use. The magazine retention was solid even during dynamic movements, and the covered top ensured that dirt and debris didn’t easily enter the pouch.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use at the range and during force-on-force training scenarios, the High Speed Gear HSGI Covered Taco Magazine Pouch continues to impress. The heavy-duty nylon shows no signs of significant wear, even with constant abrasion against other gear and rough surfaces. Cleaning is straightforward, usually just requiring a brush and a damp cloth.
The pouch’s durability has proven to be a major advantage. It outperforms my previous pouches in terms of both retention and resistance to wear and tear. The adjustability has also saved me time and effort by eliminating the need to switch pouches when using different rifles.
Breaking Down the Features of High Speed Gear HSGI Covered Taco Magazine Pouch
Specifications
- Number of Mag Pouch Compartments: One – This ensures a streamlined profile on your gear.
- Number of Mags Held in Each Compartment: One – This emphasizes a focus on quick access and efficient reloads.
- Stacked: No – Prevents excessive bulk and maintains a lower profile.
- Caliber: Universal – This is perhaps the most significant feature, allowing the pouch to accommodate various rifle calibers.
- Fastener/Closure Type: Covered Top – Provides added protection against the elements and increased retention.
- Accessory Attachment System: PALS, MOLLE – Ensures compatibility with a wide range of tactical vests, belts, and platforms.
- Fabric/Material: Heavy-Duty Nylon Laminate/Shock Cord/Injection Molded Polymer Brackets/Pop Lock – These materials contribute to the pouch’s overall durability and adaptability.
- Hand: Ambidextrous – Facilitates easy access for both left- and right-handed users.
- Gun Model/Make: Universal – Reinforces the pouch’s versatile design.
- Length: 3 in – A compact size that doesn’t add unnecessary bulk.
- Country of Origin: USA – Indicates a commitment to quality manufacturing and materials.
These specifications directly translate to practical benefits. The universal caliber capability saves money and space. The robust materials guarantee that the pouch can withstand harsh conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The High Speed Gear HSGI Covered Taco Magazine Pouch excels at securely holding a wide variety of magazines. The adjustable shock cord system allows for fine-tuning the retention level, ensuring that magazines stay in place during movement but can still be quickly accessed when needed. It meets and exceeds expectations for a universal magazine pouch, offering a level of versatility and security that is unmatched by many other options on the market.
Its primary strength lies in its adaptability and secure retention. A potential weakness could be the slight learning curve in initially adjusting the shock cord for different magazine types, although once set, it generally remains consistent.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional, with the heavy-duty nylon and rigid polymer brackets providing a robust and confidence-inspiring feel. The pouch is lightweight enough to not add significant weight to your gear, and the ambidextrous design accommodates a variety of users.
The design is user-friendly, with the adjustable shock cord being relatively easy to manipulate once you understand the system. There is a slight learning curve involved in finding the optimal tension for each magazine type, but the process is straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the materials and construction, the High Speed Gear HSGI Covered Taco Magazine Pouch is expected to last for years under normal use. The pouch requires minimal maintenance, typically just a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
The High Speed Gear HSGI Covered Taco Magazine Pouch is designed to be used with standard MOLLE attachment systems. While it doesn’t come with specific accessories, its MOLLE compatibility allows for attachment to a wide variety of vests, belts, and platforms.
Pros and Cons of High Speed Gear HSGI Covered Taco Magazine Pouch
Pros
- Universality: Accommodates a wide range of rifle magazines, from AR-15 to AR-10 and AK variants, reducing the need for multiple specialized pouches.
- Durability: Constructed from heavy-duty nylon and rigid polymer, the pouch is built to withstand harsh conditions and rigorous use.
- Secure Retention: The adjustable shock cord system and covered top provide excellent magazine retention, even during dynamic movements.
- MOLLE Compatibility: Easily attaches to a variety of tactical vests, belts, and platforms.
- Ambidextrous Design: Facilitates easy access for both left- and right-handed users.
Cons
- Initial Adjustment: There is a slight learning curve in adjusting the shock cord for optimal retention with different magazine types.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than basic nylon magazine pouches, though the added versatility and durability justify the cost.
Who Should Buy High Speed Gear HSGI Covered Taco Magazine Pouch?
- Perfect for: Tactical professionals, law enforcement officers, competitive shooters, and serious recreational shooters who use multiple rifle platforms. Those who value versatility, durability, and secure magazine retention will find this pouch an excellent investment.
- Who should skip this product? Individuals who only use a single rifle platform and prioritize budget over versatility may find a simpler, less expensive pouch adequate.
- Must-have accessories or modifications? A MOLLE-compatible platform (vest, belt, etc.) is necessary for attaching the pouch.
Conclusion on High Speed Gear HSGI Covered Taco Magazine Pouch
The High Speed Gear HSGI Covered Taco Magazine Pouch is a well-designed and highly versatile piece of kit that delivers on its promise of being a truly universal magazine carrier. Its robust construction, secure retention system, and compatibility with various rifle platforms make it an excellent choice for anyone who needs a reliable and adaptable magazine pouch.
The price is justified by the pouch’s durability and versatility, making it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters and professionals. I would highly recommend the High Speed Gear HSGI Covered Taco Magazine Pouch to anyone looking for a top-quality, adaptable magazine carrying solution. Upgrade your kit today and experience the Taco difference!