SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black Review

First Thoughts on the SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless attachment systems come and go. The SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black from Safariland immediately caught my attention due to its reputation for secure and reliable gear attachment. Is it just hype, or does this kit really live up to its name?

I was looking for a way to quickly and securely attach and detach various pieces of gear from my belt without sacrificing stability. I’ve dealt with flimsy attachments that rattle, wobble, or worse, fail at critical moments. The promise of a robust locking system from a trusted brand like Safariland was precisely what I needed.

My first impression upon unboxing the kit was positive. The polymer felt incredibly durable and the components had a solid, reassuring weight. The black finish was clean and professional. Comparing it to cheaper, generic MOLLE attachment systems I’ve used in the past, the SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black felt significantly more robust. It seemed like a worthy investment for securing essential gear.

At $34.00, it’s more expensive than some basic attachment options, but cheaper than complete holster and accessory systems. I ultimately chose this kit over a full platform due to its modularity and ability to integrate with my existing gear setup. My initial excitement stems from the potential for creating a highly customizable and secure load-bearing system.

Real-World Testing: Putting SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black at my local shooting range and during a weekend hiking trip in the nearby mountains. At the range, I used it to secure a spare magazine carrier to my belt. Out in the field, it held a small first-aid kit and a multi-tool pouch.

The kit performed admirably in both environments. Even during rapid movements and transitions at the range, the magazine carrier remained rock solid. The same was true during the hike, where the first-aid kit and multi-tool stayed securely attached despite scrambling over rocks and uneven terrain.

The locking mechanism took a few minutes to familiarize myself with, but it was very intuitive. Depressing the locking lever and sliding the gear on or off the platform became second nature after a few repetitions. No issues or surprises arose during the initial use, just solid, reliable performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The polymer construction shows no signs of wear and tear, even with exposure to sun, rain, and dirt. The locking mechanism continues to function smoothly and securely.

Cleaning the kit is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove any accumulated grime. Compared to some of my previous MOLLE attachments, the Safariland system requires far less maintenance and remains consistently secure. It significantly outperforms less expensive and lower quality attachment methods.

Breaking Down the Features of SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black

Specifications

  • The SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black (ELS-KIT1-2) is manufactured by Safariland. It is designed to provide a secure and rapidly detachable platform for attaching accessories to belts, vests, or other platforms.

  • The kit includes 2 male and 2 female ELS (Equipment Locking System) components. These components allow for quick attachment and detachment of accessories, offering unparalleled modularity.

  • The kit comes with all necessary screws for installation. This allows users to easily attach the ELS components to their desired gear.

  • The ELS components are constructed from durable polymer. This ensures long-lasting performance even in demanding environments.

  • The black color provides a low-profile look. This makes it suitable for tactical and everyday carry applications.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and reliability of the attachment system. The durable polymer construction ensures longevity and resistance to wear and tear. The included hardware simplifies installation and the black finish allows it to blend in with most tactical gear setups.

Performance & Functionality

The SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black excels in its primary function: providing a secure and easily detachable platform for accessories. The locking mechanism is robust and dependable, ensuring that gear stays in place until intentionally released. The system allows for quick and efficient changes in gear configuration.

The strength of the SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black lies in its simplicity and reliability. The only area for improvement might be making the locking lever slightly larger for easier manipulation with gloved hands. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a professional-grade attachment system.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black is exceptional. The polymer feels incredibly strong and well-molded. The system adds minimal bulk and weight to the overall gear setup, enhancing comfort.

The design is intuitive and user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The locking mechanism is easily mastered and provides positive feedback when engaged, confirming that the gear is securely attached.

Durability & Maintenance

The SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black is built to last. The durable polymer construction ensures resistance to impact, abrasion, and environmental factors. With proper use, the system should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the locking mechanism will keep the system functioning smoothly.

Accessories and Customization Options

The SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black is primarily designed as a modular attachment system. However, it seamlessly integrates with a wide range of Safariland holsters, magazine carriers, and other accessories. It’s compatible with any gear designed to interface with the Safariland Equipment Locking System (ELS).

There aren’t really any specific ‘accessories’ for the kit itself other than other ELS-compatible gear. The strength of this system is its broad compatibility, allowing users to create highly customized gear setups.

Pros and Cons of SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black

Pros

    • Exceptionally secure and reliable locking mechanism
    • Durable polymer construction for long-lasting performance
    • Quick and easy attachment/detachment of accessories
    • Highly modular and customizable gear setup
    • Compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories

Cons

    • The locking lever could be slightly larger for easier manipulation with gloves.
    • It requires investing in ELS-compatible accessories.


Who Should Buy SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black?

The SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, competitive shooters, and serious outdoor enthusiasts who require a secure and rapidly customizable gear attachment system. It is also well-suited for anyone looking to upgrade from less reliable MOLLE or other attachment methods.

Individuals who are only occasionally carrying gear or who prioritize minimal weight over maximum security might find the SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black to be overkill.

A must-have accessory is any Safariland holster or accessory designed to work with the ELS system. Also, consider purchasing multiple kits to create a truly modular and adaptable gear setup.

Conclusion on SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black

The SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black is a top-tier attachment system that delivers on its promise of security, reliability, and modularity. While it might require an initial investment in ELS-compatible gear, the long-term benefits are well worth it. The $34.00 price tag is justified considering the quality and performance.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black to anyone seeking a professional-grade attachment solution. Upgrade your gear setup and experience the confidence that comes with knowing your equipment is securely attached! Get your SL EQUIP LOCKING KIT Black today.


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