Let’s Dive into Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22
The Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22 is a classic, no-nonsense duty belt designed for professionals and anyone needing a reliable way to carry essential gear. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical equipment, this belt offers simplicity and durability. Its unlined design and removable square buckle are hallmarks of its straightforward functionality.
For years, I struggled with belts that either stretched, sagged under the weight of my gear, or simply weren’t robust enough for daily use on the range and in the field. I needed something dependable, a belt that could comfortably support my holster, magazine pouches, and other tools without sacrificing comfort or ease of use. That’s what led me to the Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 51 immediately impressed me with its robust feel. The leather (or nylon-look material) felt thick and substantial, promising long-lasting wear. The square buckle, simple yet effective, added a touch of classic professionalism.
Compared to other garrison belts I’ve used, such as the Bianchi B12 and the 5.11 Tactical Trainer Belt, the Safariland 51 stood out for its focus on essential functionality. The Bianchi felt overly stiff, while the 5.11, while versatile, seemed less suited for heavy-duty applications. The Safariland felt like the perfect balance of comfort, support, and durability.
My first impression was one of quiet confidence. No flashy features, no unnecessary frills – just a solid, well-made belt that looked ready to work. I was excited to put it to the test and see if it could live up to the reputation of the Safariland brand.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22 was at an all-day training course on defensive pistol tactics. I wore it with my usual setup: a Kydex holster, two magazine pouches, and a small IFAK (Individual First Aid Kit). The belt’s 1.75″ width provided excellent stability, preventing the holster and pouches from shifting during drills.
The course involved a lot of movement – running, kneeling, and drawing from various positions. Even under these demanding conditions, the belt remained comfortable and supportive. I barely noticed it was there, which is exactly what you want in a duty belt.
After a full day of use, I noticed a slight indentation where the holster had been, but no significant stretching or deformation. I was impressed by its ability to maintain its shape under load.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22 has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear or tear, even in high-friction areas. The buckle remains secure and easy to operate.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep the belt looking its best. The “Nylon-Look” finish is surprisingly resistant to scratches and scuffs.
Compared to my previous duty belt, which began to sag and lose its shape after only a few months, the Safariland 51 has been a revelation. It provides consistent support, remains comfortable even during extended wear, and shows no signs of giving up any time soon. It definitely outperforms my old belt.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22
Specifications
Category: Duty Belts. This belt is specifically designed for duty use, meaning it’s built to withstand the rigors of law enforcement, security, and tactical applications.
Description: Standard unlined 1.75″ Garrison belt. Includes removable square chrome or brass buckle. The 1.75″ width provides ample support for holsters and other gear. The unlined design keeps the belt relatively lightweight and flexible.
Finish: Nylon-Look. This finish offers a professional appearance while being durable and easy to clean.
Color: Black. The black color is standard for duty belts and blends seamlessly with most uniforms and tactical clothing.
Fastener: Chrome (or Brass). The chrome or brass buckle provides a secure and professional-looking closure.
Size: Even sizes from 24″ (60.96cm) to 44″ (111.76cm). Sizes 46″ (117cm) and above are available at additional cost.. It’s important to measure accurately and follow the Safariland sizing guide to ensure a proper fit.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the belt’s performance and user experience. The 1.75″ width provides necessary support. The durable materials ensure long-lasting wear.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22 performs its job admirably. It provides excellent support for holsters, magazine pouches, and other duty gear. It remains comfortable even during extended wear.
Its greatest strength is its simplicity and reliability. There are no fancy features to break or malfunction. Its only weakness is that it’s only a belt; it doesn’t have any MOLLE webbing or other attachment points.
It easily meets my expectations for a duty belt. It’s durable, comfortable, and provides the support I need to carry my gear safely and efficiently.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22 features a classic, no-frills design. The materials feel substantial and well-made.
The unlined design contributes to the belt’s flexibility and comfort. There’s virtually no learning curve; it’s simple to adjust and wear.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22 is built to last. The durable materials and simple design contribute to its longevity.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22 itself doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the removable buckle. However, it’s designed to be compatible with a wide range of Safariland and other brands of holsters, magazine pouches, and other duty gear.
The removable buckle allows users to customize the belt’s appearance with different buckle styles. While the belt itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its simplicity allows users to tailor their gear setup to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22
Pros
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality materials, the belt is built to withstand daily wear and tear.
- Excellent Support: The 1.75″ width provides ample support for holsters and other duty gear.
- Simple and Reliable: The no-frills design ensures dependable performance.
- Comfortable to Wear: The unlined design enhances flexibility and comfort, even during extended use.
- Professional Appearance: The “Nylon-Look” finish and square buckle offer a clean and professional aesthetic.
Cons
- Unlined: May cause discomfort during extreme heat.
- Lack of Advanced Features: It does not offer MOLLE webbing or other advanced attachment options.
Who Should Buy Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22?
The Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who needs a reliable and durable duty belt for carrying essential gear. It’s also suitable for range instructors, competition shooters, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize functionality and durability.
Anyone needing a MOLLE system should skip this product. Those seeking a more modern, feature-rich belt might find this model too basic.
A quality holster and magazine pouches are must-have accessories. Depending on the user’s needs, a flashlight pouch, handcuff case, or other specialized gear holders may also be useful.
Conclusion on Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22
The Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22 is a reliable and durable duty belt that offers excellent support and comfort. Its simple design and high-quality construction make it a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable way to carry essential gear.
At $43.99, the price is more than justified by the belt’s durability and performance. While it may lack some of the advanced features found on more expensive models, its focus on essential functionality makes it an excellent value.
I would definitely recommend the Safariland 51 Garrison Belt, Square Buckle, 1.75 51-XX-22 to anyone seeking a durable, reliable, and comfortable duty belt. If you value simplicity, durability, and functionality, this belt is an excellent choice. Invest in a belt that will stand up to the rigors of daily use and provide the support you need to carry your gear with confidence.