Let’s Dive into High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount
The High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount is more than just a pouch; it’s a testament to practical design meeting real-world needs. High Speed Gear has built a reputation on durable, adaptable gear, and this magazine mount looks to continue that legacy. Featuring a covered top and universal fit, it promises to secure a wide range of rifle magazines on your belt, protecting them from the elements and ensuring quick access when seconds count.
I’ve been searching for a reliable magazine pouch that offers both retention and protection without sacrificing speed. My current setup relies on open-top pouches, which work well on the range, but I worry about magazine security and debris in more demanding environments. I wanted something that could withstand the rigors of field training and potential tactical situations, where keeping my magazines clean and secure is paramount.
Upon unboxing, the High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount felt solid and well-constructed. The 1000D Cordura fabric immediately gives a sense of durability, and the injection-molded polymer sides provide reassuring rigidity. It strikes a good balance between being lightweight and robust, not feeling overly bulky despite its covered design.
I considered other covered magazine pouches from companies like Blue Force Gear and Esstac, but the TACO’s universal fit and adjustable retention system appealed to me. Other pouches I researched seemed to be designed for specific magazine types, which would require me to buy multiple pouches to accommodate my different rifles. The High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount promised to handle most of my magazines with a single pouch.
My first impression was positive. The pouch seemed very adaptable, and the materials felt very high quality. I was excited to see how it would perform in real-world scenarios, especially compared to my existing open-top pouches.
Real-World Testing: Putting High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount at an outdoor shooting range during a carbine course. The range was relatively dry and dusty, providing a good test of the pouch’s ability to protect the magazine from the elements.
The pouch performed admirably in varying scenarios. The covered top ensured that dust and debris were kept out of the magazine, and the adjustable retention system allowed me to fine-tune the draw resistance to my liking. Acquiring a fresh magazine was intuitive and relatively quick, even with the added step of releasing the buckle.
There was a slight learning curve associated with the buckle release. However, after a few repetitions, it became second nature, and the added security of the covered top was worth the minor adjustment to my technique.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple range sessions and a weekend-long field training exercise, the High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount has proven to be very reliable. The pouch has held up extremely well, with no signs of stitching failures or significant wear and tear.
The 1000D Cordura fabric has resisted abrasion and held its color. The polymer sides have retained their shape even after being subjected to impacts and rough handling. Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove dust and dirt.
Compared to my previous open-top pouches, the High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount offers superior protection and retention, especially in adverse conditions. The trade-off is a slightly slower draw, but the added security and peace of mind are well worth it.
Breaking Down the Features of High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount
Specifications
The High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance and versatility. It’s constructed with 1000D Cordura, known for its exceptional durability and resistance to abrasion.
The pouch features injection-molded polymer sides for added rigidity and shape retention, ensuring easy magazine insertion and extraction. It holds one rifle magazine and utilizes a covered top design with a buckle closure for secure retention and protection from the elements. The overall height is 8 inches. It is designed to attach to belts, with a belt loop/slot attachment type and it fits most rifle mags.
These specifications are significant because they directly impact the pouch’s ability to perform its primary function: securely holding and protecting a rifle magazine while allowing for rapid access when needed. The Cordura ensures long-term durability, while the polymer sides maintain the pouch’s shape and facilitate smooth magazine changes.
Performance & Functionality
The High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount excels at its core job: securely holding and protecting a wide variety of rifle magazines. The adjustable shock cord lacing system allows you to fine-tune the retention to your preference, ensuring that the magazine stays in place even during vigorous movement.
The covered top provides an extra layer of security and protection, preventing dust, dirt, and debris from entering the magazine. Releasing the buckle is relatively quick and easy, allowing for rapid magazine changes when needed. One potential improvement is to make the buckle easier to manipulate with gloved hands.
Overall, the High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount meets and exceeds my expectations for a covered magazine pouch. It provides a good balance of retention, protection, and accessibility.
Design & Ergonomics
The High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes functionality and user comfort. The use of high-quality materials, such as 1000D Cordura and injection-molded polymer, ensures that the pouch is both durable and lightweight.
The belt loop/slot attachment system is secure and stable, preventing the pouch from shifting or moving around on your belt. The adjustable shock cord lacing system allows you to customize the fit and retention of the pouch to your specific magazine and preferences. While there is a slight learning curve associated with the buckle release, the pouch is generally user-friendly and intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount is built to last. The 1000D Cordura fabric and injection-molded polymer sides are highly resistant to abrasion, tearing, and impacts.
With proper care, the pouch should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove dust, dirt, and grime.
Accessories and Customization Options
The High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount comes standard with the HSGI clip for attachment to PALS webbing, providing flexibility in mounting options. The strip of loop Velcro sewn inside provides limited customization options, such as attaching hook-backed dividers or inserts for specific magazine types.
While the pouch doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its universal design and adjustable retention system make it compatible with a wide range of magazines and accessories. You could potentially add a bungee retention strap for added security, or use different types of buckles for quicker release.
Pros and Cons of High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount
Pros
- Universal Fit: Accommodates a wide range of rifle magazines, reducing the need for multiple pouches.
- Exceptional Durability: Constructed with 1000D Cordura and injection-molded polymer for long-lasting performance.
- Secure Retention: Adjustable shock cord lacing system and covered top ensure magazines stay in place.
- Protection from the Elements: Covered top design prevents dust, dirt, and debris from entering the magazine.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple wipe-down is all that’s needed to keep the pouch clean.
Cons
- Slightly Slower Draw: The buckle release adds a minor step compared to open-top pouches.
- Limited Customization Options: While the pouch is adaptable, it doesn’t offer extensive customization options beyond the adjustable retention system.
Who Should Buy High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount?
The High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount is perfect for tactical shooters, law enforcement professionals, and military personnel who require a secure and reliable magazine pouch that can withstand demanding conditions. It’s also a great choice for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who want to protect their magazines from the elements.
Competitive shooters who prioritize lightning-fast reloads may find the buckle release slightly slower than open-top pouches. Individuals who require highly specialized magazine pouches for specific platforms may also prefer dedicated designs.
A reliable tactical belt is a must-have accessory. A good quality cleaning kit for your magazines is also useful for ensuring that your magazines remain in perfect working order.
Conclusion on High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount
The High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount is a well-designed, durable, and versatile magazine pouch that offers a great balance of retention, protection, and accessibility. While the buckle release may add a slight delay compared to open-top pouches, the added security and protection are well worth it for many users.
At $49.99, the High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount is a worthwhile investment for anyone who needs a reliable and versatile magazine pouch. Its durability, universal fit, and protective design make it a standout product in its class.
I would definitely recommend the High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount to anyone looking for a high-quality, adaptable, and reliable magazine pouch. It’s a great choice for tactical professionals, hunters, and anyone who wants to keep their magazines secure and protected in demanding environments. Upgrade your kit today and experience the difference!