Let’s Dive into Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2
The Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2 is designed for competitive shooters and tactical users who demand rapid access to their revolver speedloaders. This holder promises to keep your reloads secure yet readily available, shaving precious seconds off your competition times.
I was looking for a way to streamline my reloads during IDPA matches. My old method of keeping speedloaders in my pockets was slow and cumbersome, often costing me valuable points.
Upon receiving the Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2, I immediately noticed the robust construction and the positive retention of the molded loader cups. The external clips looked sturdy and promised secure attachment to my belt.
Compared to other speedloader pouches I’ve used, like the Blade-Tech Revolution, the Safariland model seemed more streamlined and specifically designed for competition use. I chose this Safariland model over a generic nylon pouch, betting on the brand’s reputation for quality and speed.
My first impression was excitement; this looked like it could be the solution I needed to improve my reload times and overall performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2 at a local IDPA match. The weather was dry and sunny, ideal conditions for shooting.
The holder performed reasonably well, allowing for quicker access to my speedloaders than my previous pocket-carry method. I initially struggled with grasping the speedloaders when all three were fully loaded, which slowed down my reloads slightly.
It took a few practice runs to get used to the draw angle and the amount of force needed to extract the speedloaders smoothly. I did not expect it to be so difficult to get speedloaders out when fully loaded.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use at the range and in matches, the Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2 has held up well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the molded cups or the belt clips.
The polymer material is durable and easy to wipe clean after a dusty day at the range. The Safariland product outperforms my old improvised solutions.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2
Specifications
The Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2 is designed to hold three revolver speedloaders. It is compatible with Safariland Comp I, Comp II, and Comp III speedloaders.
The holder features external clips that fit 1.75″ (45mm) or 2.25″ (58mm) belt widths. The molded loader cups provide secure retention and quick access.
- Manufacturer: Safariland
- Compatibility: Safariland Comp I, Comp II, Comp III speedloaders.
- Belt Width: Fits 1.75″ (45mm) or 2.25″ (58mm) belts.
These specifications are important because they determine the compatibility of the holder with my existing gear and the overall comfort and convenience of use. A secure fit and easy access are crucial for competitive shooting.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2 performs adequately, providing a secure and relatively quick method for accessing speedloaders. However, the tightness of the fit when fully loaded is a significant weakness.
The primary strength is the secure retention provided by the molded cups. The main area for improvement is the ease of grasping and removing the speedloaders when all three are loaded. It meets expectations for security but falls short on ease of access.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with durable polymer materials. The molded cups are well-shaped and provide a snug fit for the speedloaders.
The holder is relatively lightweight and doesn’t add excessive bulk to my belt. There is a small learning curve associated with mastering the draw angle and force required to remove the speedloaders smoothly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2 appears to be durable and should last for several seasons of competitive shooting. The polymer material is easy to clean with a damp cloth.
There are no small parts that are likely to break or require frequent replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2 doesn’t come with any accessories. There are no customization options available beyond adjusting the belt clip for different belt widths.
It is compatible with standard Safariland belt attachment systems if you want to use a different mounting method.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2
Pros
- Secure retention of speedloaders during movement.
- Durable polymer construction that withstands regular use.
- External clips allow for easy attachment and removal from belt.
- Compatibility with Safariland Comp I, Comp II, and Comp III speedloaders.
- Streamlined design minimizes bulk on the belt.
Cons
- Speedloaders are difficult to grasp and remove when all three are loaded.
- In stock configuration, it may be illegal for some competition types that restrict side-by-side loaders.
Who Should Buy Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2?
This product is perfect for competitive shooters and tactical users who prioritize secure retention and quick access to their speedloaders, especially if they are using only one or two speedloaders in the holder. This is a must-have for users seeking to improve reload times in fast-paced scenarios.
People who may want to skip this product are those who require extremely rapid access even when all three speedloaders are loaded, and those who are unwilling to modify the holder if it does not meet specific competition requirements.
A must-have modification might be separating the three pouches for IDPA compliance.
Conclusion on Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2
The Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2 is a decent, but flawed, option for competitive shooters. While it provides excellent retention and durability, the difficulty in grasping speedloaders when fully loaded is a significant drawback.
At $45.99, the price is reasonable for the level of quality and security it offers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the limitations and consider whether they are willing to modify the holder or deal with the tight fit.
I would cautiously recommend it to shooters who prioritize retention over ultimate speed, or who plan to carry only one or two speedloaders at a time. Consider the Safariland 333 Competition Speedloader Holder 333-X-2 to gain a competitive edge.