Safariland 875 Stitched Edge w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 875-XX-8 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 875 Stitched Edge w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 875-XX-8

As a gear specialist, I’ve seen countless duty belts come and go, each promising the world. But the Safariland 875 Stitched Edge w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 875-XX-8 caught my eye for its seemingly simple, yet robust design, a hallmark of Safariland‘s commitment to quality. This isn’t some flashy, over-engineered piece of kit; it’s a classic duty belt built for the long haul, featuring a plain border stitch, double-tongued buckle, and that instantly recognizable Safariland durability.

My current duty belt, while functional, has begun to show its age, with fraying edges and a buckle that’s starting to loosen. I needed a replacement that could withstand daily wear and tear while providing a secure and comfortable platform for carrying essential gear. This belt promised exactly that.

Upon unboxing, the Safariland 875 exuded quality. The leather felt thick and substantial, the stitching was clean and precise, and the buckle had a reassuring weight to it. The plain basket weave finish gave it a professional look without being overly ostentatious.

Compared to a Bianchi Accumold Elite and a 5.11 Tactical Sierra Bravo Duty Belt, the Safariland 875 stood out in its simplicity and apparent robustness. While the Bianchi offered a more modular, customizable platform, and the 5.11 boasted lighter weight, the Safariland seemed more focused on raw durability and a classic, no-nonsense design. I chose it for its promise of longevity and reliability, crucial qualities in a duty belt.

My first impression was positive, a feeling of understated confidence. It wasn’t flashy or revolutionary, but it felt like a reliable workhorse, exactly what I was looking for. I was eager to see how it performed in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 875 Stitched Edge w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 875-XX-8 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 875 during a week-long firearms instructor course. The course involved hours on the range, moving and shooting in various positions, and generally putting the belt through its paces. The weather ranged from sunny and dry to drizzly and humid.

The belt performed admirably in all conditions. It stayed securely in place, even during dynamic movements, and the buckle never loosened unexpectedly. The 2.25-inch width provided ample support for my holster, magazine pouches, and other gear without feeling overly bulky.

Initially, the leather felt a bit stiff, requiring some breaking-in time. However, after a few days, it began to conform to my body, becoming more comfortable with each use. There were no major issues after the first week, just a growing appreciation for its simple, effective design.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use, the Safariland 875 has proven to be exceptionally durable. The leather has softened slightly, enhancing comfort, but it hasn’t stretched or deformed. The stitching remains intact, with no signs of fraying or unraveling.

Despite being subjected to sweat, dirt, and abrasion, the belt shows minimal wear and tear. I’ve cleaned it regularly with leather cleaner and conditioner, which has helped maintain its appearance and flexibility. The buckle still functions perfectly, providing a secure and reliable closure.

Compared to my previous duty belts, the Safariland 875 has significantly outperformed them in terms of durability and long-term comfort. While other belts have stretched, frayed, or become uncomfortable over time, the Safariland 875 continues to perform like new. It’s a testament to its quality materials and construction.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 875 Stitched Edge w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 875-XX-8

Specifications

• The Safariland 875 is a standard duty belt with a plain border stitch. This provides a clean and professional look while reinforcing the edges for added durability.
• It features a double-tongued buckle and center belt stud. This design ensures the belt is firmly fastened around the waist, preventing slippage and providing a secure platform for gear.
• The belt is available in even sizes from 24″ to 44″. Larger sizes (46″ and above) are available at an additional cost.
• It is categorized as a duty belt. This means it is specifically designed for law enforcement, security, and other professionals who carry heavy gear on their belts.
• The belt is available in a basket weave finish. This provides a textured surface that enhances grip and prevents gear from sliding.
• The standard color is black. This is a classic and professional color that is suitable for most duty uniforms.
• The fastener is available in chrome or brass. The finish provides corrosion resistance and a polished look.
• The belt width is 2.25 inches. This is a standard width for duty belts, providing ample support without being overly bulky.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the belt’s performance and usability. The double-tongued buckle ensures a secure fit, the 2.25-inch width provides adequate support, and the durable leather construction ensures longevity. The simple design minimizes potential points of failure, making it a reliable choice for demanding environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 875 Stitched Edge w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 875-XX-8 excels at its primary function: securely and comfortably supporting duty gear. It provides a stable platform for holsters, magazine pouches, and other accessories, preventing them from shifting or sagging. The belt’s stiffness is crucial for maintaining its shape and preventing it from rolling or digging into the wearer’s sides.

The belt’s main strength lies in its simplicity and durability. It doesn’t have any fancy features or gimmicks, but it performs its core function exceptionally well. The only area for potential improvement would be the initial stiffness of the leather, which requires a break-in period.

The Safariland 875 meets and exceeds expectations for a traditional duty belt. It’s a reliable and well-made piece of kit that delivers on its promise of durability and functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 875 features a classic and understated design. The plain border stitch and basket weave finish give it a professional and timeless look.

The build quality is excellent, with thick, durable leather and precise stitching. The weight is substantial but not excessive, providing a reassuring sense of quality and stability. The leather requires a break-in period to conform to the wearer’s body, but once broken in, it becomes comfortable for extended wear.

There is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the double-tongued buckle, but it’s relatively straightforward. Overall, the design is simple, functional, and ergonomic.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 875 is built to last. The thick leather and durable stitching are designed to withstand years of use in demanding environments.

Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only regular cleaning and conditioning with leather care products. With proper care, the Safariland 875 should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 875 itself doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of duty belt accessories from Safariland and other manufacturers, including holsters, magazine pouches, handcuff cases, and more.

The belt is designed to be used with standard 2.25-inch belt keepers, which are essential for securing the belt to the wearer’s trousers. While the belt itself is not highly customizable, the ability to add and configure various accessories allows for a high degree of personalization.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 875 Stitched Edge w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 875-XX-8

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Who Should Buy Safariland 875 Stitched Edge w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 875-XX-8?

The Safariland 875 Stitched Edge w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 875-XX-8 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and other professionals who require a durable and reliable duty belt. It’s also a good choice for anyone who appreciates a classic and understated design.

Those looking for a lightweight or highly customizable duty belt might want to consider other options. Also, individuals sensitive to stiff materials may find the break-in period challenging.

Essential accessories include 2.25-inch belt keepers, a high-quality holster, and appropriate pouches for carrying essential gear. Leather cleaner and conditioner are also recommended for maintaining the belt’s appearance and longevity.

Conclusion on Safariland 875 Stitched Edge w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 875-XX-8

The Safariland 875 Stitched Edge w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 875-XX-8 is a classic duty belt that delivers on its promise of durability, reliability, and functionality. While it may lack the bells and whistles of some modern duty belts, its simple design and robust construction make it a dependable choice for demanding environments.

The price is justified by the quality of materials and the long-term value it provides. This belt is an investment in a piece of gear that will likely last for years.

I would definitely recommend the Safariland 875 to anyone looking for a traditional duty belt that can withstand the rigors of daily use. If you value durability, reliability, and a classic design, the Safariland 875 is an excellent choice. Invest in quality and experience the difference.