First Thoughts on the SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black
The SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black from Safariland is a seemingly simple yet crucial piece of gear for anyone serious about optimizing their load carriage. It provides a versatile platform for attaching various accessories to belts, vests, or other tactical platforms. This kit, consisting of two male and two female polymer screws, is designed for use with the Safariland Equipment Locking System (ELS).
My need for this kit arose from a frustrating experience at a recent three-gun competition. Switching between my pistol, rifle, and shotgun required constant adjustments to my belt-mounted gear, costing me valuable time and hindering my performance. I needed a rapid and reliable attachment system to quickly swap accessories without fumbling with traditional belt loops or MOLLE webbing.
Unboxing the SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black, the first thing I noticed was the lightweight yet robust feel of the polymer screws. The black finish provides a low-profile appearance. The build quality felt solid, suggesting durability under stress.
Compared to using standard MOLLE attachments or fixed belt loops, the SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black promised a significant improvement in speed and flexibility. I chose this over other quick-release systems because of Safariland’s established reputation for quality and the ELS system’s widespread compatibility within the tactical community. My initial impression was excitement tempered with cautious optimism; I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black was at the local shooting range during a dynamic pistol course. I configured my belt with several Safariland ELS platforms, allowing me to quickly switch between different holsters and magazine pouches. The system performed flawlessly.
Even with gloved hands, the locking mechanism was easy to manipulate, allowing for swift accessory changes. The platforms held securely even during rapid movement and simulated combat scenarios. No issues arose from using it on that dusty and sunny range.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of wear or loosening of the screws, even after repeated attachment and detachment cycles. Minimal maintenance is required; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove any dirt or debris.
In comparison to my previous setup, which relied on MOLLE straps and malice clips, the SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black offers a vastly superior experience. The speed and ease of accessory changes are unmatched. It has exceeded my expectations for both reliability and convenience.
Breaking Down the Features of SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black
Specifications
- The SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black includes two male and two female ELS polymer screws. These screws are specifically designed for use with the Safariland Equipment Locking System.
- The kit weighs approximately 0.8 ounces. This minimal weight ensures that it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to your gear.
- The screws are constructed from high-strength polymer. This ensures durability and resistance to impact and environmental factors.
- They are finished in black. This provides a low-profile, professional appearance.
- The screw lengths are designed for compatibility with a wide range of Safariland ELS accessories and platforms. This allows for secure attachment to belts, vests, and other tactical gear.
These specifications matter because they directly contribute to the system’s reliability, weight, and ease of use. The polymer construction ensures that the system can withstand the rigors of tactical environments without adding significant weight, while the black finish ensures a professional appearance.
Performance & Functionality
The SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black excels at its primary function: providing a secure and rapid attachment system for tactical gear. It offers unparalleled speed and convenience when switching between accessories. The locking mechanism is intuitive and reliable.
One minor improvement would be to include variations in screw length for greater compatibility with thicker platforms. However, the existing design works exceptionally well for the majority of Safariland ELS applications. It undoubtedly exceeds expectations, streamlining gear changes in demanding situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black boasts a simple yet effective design. The polymer construction provides a good balance of strength and weight. The screws are comfortable to manipulate, even with gloves.
The system requires minimal learning; it’s intuitive and easy to use right out of the box. The design prioritizes functionality and ease of use.
Durability & Maintenance
The high-strength polymer construction ensures excellent durability. The screws are resistant to impact, abrasion, and environmental factors. With proper care, this kit is expected to last for years, even under heavy use.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the system clean and functioning optimally.
Accessories and Customization Options
The SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black is specifically designed for use with the Safariland ELS system. This includes a wide range of compatible accessories, such as holsters, magazine pouches, and other gear-carrying platforms. The ELS system is widely adopted within the tactical community.
This makes it easy to find compatible accessories from various brands. While the SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black itself doesn’t offer many customization options, the Safariland ELS system is highly customizable in terms of accessory selection and placement.
Pros and Cons of SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black
Pros
- Rapid and secure attachment for quick gear changes.
- Durable polymer construction for long-lasting performance.
- Lightweight design that doesn’t add unnecessary bulk.
- Easy to use with an intuitive locking mechanism.
- Widely compatible with Safariland ELS accessories and platforms.
Cons
- Limited customization options for the screws themselves.
- May require longer screws for thicker platforms in niche setups.
Who Should Buy SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black?
The SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, competitive shooters, and tactical enthusiasts. Anyone who needs to quickly and reliably switch between different pieces of gear will benefit from this system.
Those who rely on fixed gear setups or rarely need to change their loadout might not find this system necessary. A must-have accessory is a compatible Safariland ELS platform for your belt, vest, or other tactical gear.
Conclusion on SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black
The SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black is an essential component of the Safariland Equipment Locking System. It provides a significant upgrade over traditional attachment methods. At a price of $32.80, the value proposition is excellent; the time saved and increased efficiency are well worth the investment.
I would highly recommend the SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black to anyone looking to optimize their gear setup and improve their tactical efficiency. Invest in your performance, and upgrade to the SAF ELS KIT-1 34/35 COMBO Black today!