Let’s Dive into Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175
For over 50 years, Safariland has been a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, and their Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175 aim to extend that legacy. These belt loops are designed to offer a more belt-specific and higher-riding holster position for users of the Safariland Model 567 series holsters. Priced affordably, they promise to be a simple solution for those seeking a slight adjustment in their carry setup, offering a potential improvement in concealment and accessibility.
I’ve always valued a secure and comfortable holster setup, especially for extended periods of carry, and the factory belt loops on my Model 567 holster felt a little too low, printing through my cover garment more than I’d like. I was looking for a solution that would raise the holster slightly and provide a tighter fit to my belt without sacrificing security or ease of draw. Upon unboxing the Safariland 567BL Belt Loops, the first thing I noticed was the simple, no-frills design.
The plastic construction felt adequate, though not particularly premium, and the loops were lightweight and seemed well-formed, but there was a definite sense that Safariland prioritized function over aesthetics here. Compared to options from Blade-Tech or G-Code, which often feature more robust construction and adjustable cant, the 567BL appeared basic. I chose the Safariland offering primarily for its direct compatibility with my existing holster and Safariland’s reputation for reliable duty gear. My first impression was cautiously optimistic – these looked like they could solve my problem, but I wondered if they would truly stand up to daily wear and tear.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 567BL Belt Loops at my local shooting range during a practice session focused on drawing and re-holstering drills. I wanted to evaluate the holster’s new ride height and stability under rapid movements. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The increased ride height was immediately noticeable and welcome; the holster sat higher on my belt line, making it easier to conceal under a light jacket. Drawing felt slightly more natural, as less reaching was required. However, the flexibility of the plastic loops caused a small amount of wobble during aggressive draws, a concern I hadn’t anticipated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily carry, including duty shifts and personal protection training, the Safariland 567BL Belt Loops began to show their limitations. While the increased ride height remained a positive, the durability became a significant concern. The plastic showed noticeable wear and tear around the belt slots, and the flexibility caused the holster to shift position slightly throughout the day.
Cleaning was simple – a quick wipe with a damp cloth was sufficient. However, the material seemed prone to scuffing and scratching. Compared to my previous experience with more rigid belt loops made from Kydex or reinforced nylon, the 567BL felt less secure and reliable. Although it provided the initial adjustment I was looking for, it didn’t inspire confidence in its long-term performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175
Specifications
The Safariland 567BL Belt Loops are designed specifically for the Safariland Model 567 series holsters, offering a replacement belt attachment point. They are constructed from a flexible, yet durable polymer, designed for daily use. The specified belt slot width accommodates belts ranging from 1.5 inches to 1.75 inches.
The primary function is to raise the ride height of the holster, improving concealment and accessibility. The polymer material is designed to withstand moderate stress but lacks the rigidity of Kydex or metal alternatives. This material choice impacts both weight and durability, aiming for a balance between comfort and longevity.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 567BL Belt Loops perform adequately in their primary function of raising the holster ride height. This adjustment definitely aids in concealment, especially with cover garments that are slightly shorter. However, the flexibility of the polymer leads to noticeable wobble during dynamic movements, impacting the overall stability.
The strengths lie in its ease of installation and the immediate improvement in concealment. The weakness is its lack of rigidity, which undermines its long-term reliability. It meets the basic expectation of raising the holster, but it falls short of delivering a secure and stable platform.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional, prioritizing ease of use. The polymer material is lightweight and relatively comfortable against the body, though it lacks the polished feel of premium materials. There is virtually no learning curve; installation is straightforward, requiring only a screwdriver.
However, the lack of adjustability (e.g., cant) limits its ergonomic customization. The build quality feels adequate for light to moderate use, but the flexibility of the plastic raises concerns about long-term durability, and it does not inspire confidence for heavy duty applications.
Durability & Maintenance
The longevity of the Safariland 567BL Belt Loops is questionable, based on my testing and user feedback. The plastic is prone to scratching, scuffing, and potentially cracking under stress. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
However, the material’s inherent flexibility makes it susceptible to deformation over time. Repair is not an option; replacement is the only viable solution if damage occurs. This speaks to a product designed for relatively low-impact use, where durability is not a primary concern.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 567BL Belt Loops are primarily designed as a direct replacement for the factory belt loops on the Safariland Model 567 holster, and do not offer any extensive customization or accessory options beyond that intended use. There are no additional included accessories besides the belt loops themselves. The polymer composition does not lend itself to easy modification or drilling for custom attachments.
While it’s technically possible to experiment with aftermarket hardware, the limited rigidity of the loops would undermine the stability of any added accessories. Therefore, the primary function remains a simple replacement, with minimal flexibility for further personalization or add-ons.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it an accessible option for users seeking a simple upgrade.
- Increased ride height improves concealment, particularly for those wearing shorter cover garments.
- Easy installation requires only basic tools and minimal effort.
- Lightweight design adds minimal bulk to the overall carry setup.
- Direct compatibility with Safariland Model 567 holsters ensures a seamless fit.
Cons
- Flexible polymer construction leads to noticeable wobble and movement during dynamic activity.
- Limited durability raises concerns about long-term reliability, especially under heavy use.
- Lack of adjustability restricts customization options, such as cant angle.
Who Should Buy Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175?
The Safariland 567BL Belt Loops are perfect for users who want a quick, inexpensive way to slightly raise the ride height of their Safariland Model 567 holster and prioritize concealment over absolute stability. It is also suitable for those who engage in light to moderate activity and are not overly concerned about the long-term durability of the attachment. They are a viable option for casual concealed carriers who primarily wear their holster for short periods or in low-stress environments.
Individuals who should skip this product include law enforcement officers, security personnel, or anyone who relies on their holster for high-intensity situations. Those who demand maximum stability, durability, and adjustability should look for belt attachments made from more robust materials, such as Kydex or metal.
A must-have modification, if one considers the purchase, might include adding a shim or stiffener between the belt loop and the holster body to reduce wobble.
Conclusion on Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175
The Safariland 567BL Belt Loops offer a budget-friendly solution for those seeking a minor adjustment in their holster ride height. While they achieve this primary goal and improve concealment, their flexible polymer construction sacrifices stability and long-term durability.
The price of $21.99 is certainly justified for a quick fix, but potential buyers should be aware of the limitations. Ultimately, while the Safariland 567BL Belt Loops may serve a purpose for casual users, I would not personally recommend them for serious duty or tactical applications.
If you’re looking for a reliable, long-lasting attachment for your Safariland Model 567 holster, consider investing in a more robust Kydex or metal alternative, or perhaps a more substantial upgrade.