First Thoughts on the Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single
The Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single from High Speed Gear (HSGI) promises a versatile and secure method for carrying a pistol magazine or similarly sized item on a duty belt or MOLLE platform. As a seasoned gear specialist constantly searching for better ways to streamline my loadout, the “universal” nature of this pouch immediately piqued my interest. The promise of a single pouch that can adapt to various carry needs is a significant advantage, especially in dynamic operational environments.
I was on the hunt for a pistol mag pouch that could seamlessly transition between my range belt and my plate carrier. I needed a pouch that wouldn’t break the bank and could hold various pistol mags reliably. My initial unboxing revealed a robustly constructed pouch. The 1000D Cordura nylon felt durable, and the overall construction instilled confidence.
Compared to similar offerings from Blue Force Gear and Esstac, the Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT stood out due to its hybrid MOLLE and belt mounting solution. This offered greater flexibility than the dedicated MOLLE or belt-only options I’d used previously. Honestly, I was cautiously optimistic; I’ve been burned by “universal” designs before, but the reputation of HSGI gave me hope. I was eager to see if the Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single lived up to the hype and provided a truly adaptable and secure carry solution.
Real-World Testing: Putting Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single was at an outdoor shooting range during a practical pistol course. I mounted it to my duty belt using the included HSGI clips. The weather was mild, but the environment was dusty.
The Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single performed admirably. Drawing and re-indexing magazines felt smooth and consistent throughout the day, even with gloves on. The retention system held my Glock 19 magazine securely without being overly tight, and I had no accidental magazine releases during dynamic movement.
The initial setup took a few minutes to adjust the HSGI clips to my belt width. I was initially concerned about the dust ingress impacting retention, but the internal shock cord kept the magazine securely in place.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use in various scenarios, including range days and a tactical training exercise, the Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single has proven its reliability. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after repeated use and exposure to abrasive surfaces. The 1000D Cordura has resisted abrasion well.
I have been impressed with its durability. Cleaning has been straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Compared to my previous open-top magazine pouches, the Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT offers superior retention and protection for my magazines. It’s definitely an upgrade!
Breaking Down the Features of Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single
Specifications
The Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single is constructed from proprietary 1000D Cordura. It is available in black and can mount to both MOLLE and belts up to 2 inches. It is designed to hold most pistol and rifle caliber magazines, radios, shotgun shell trays, flash bangs, multitools, small flashlights, pocket knives and more.
The versatility provided by its design allows users to carry a multitude of equipment, reducing the need for multiple specialized pouches. The universal HSGI clips provide a secure and adaptable mounting solution to a range of platforms.
Performance & Functionality
The Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single performs its primary job of magazine retention extremely well. The adjustable retention allows for smooth and consistent draws, and the pouch securely holds magazines of varying sizes. The only weakness I observed was its slightly bulky profile compared to minimalist pouches.
It exceeded my expectations regarding versatility. The pouch retains magazines securely and adapts to other items like flashlights or multi-tools efficiently.
Design & Ergonomics
The Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single has a streamlined design with a focus on functionality. The build quality is excellent, with reinforced stitching and durable materials. The pouch feels robust and well-made, despite its light weight.
The hidden shock cord system offers a clean, snag-free profile. There is a slight learning curve in adjusting the retention initially, but the process is simple once you understand the mechanism.
Durability & Maintenance
The 1000D Cordura construction ensures excellent durability. It has shown no signs of wear and tear after significant use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
The Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single is built to last, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals and serious enthusiasts. The robust construction and ease of maintenance contribute to its long-term usability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single is designed to be used as is, without any specific proprietary accessories. However, its MOLLE compatibility allows users to attach it to a wide range of platforms, and it can accommodate various aftermarket magazine extensions. The modular design allows users to tailor their setup to their specific needs. The compatibility with most standard MOLLE platforms allows for a wide range of customization options.
Pros and Cons of Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single
Pros
- Versatile design: Holds various pistol magazines and other similarly sized items.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality 1000D Cordura.
- Secure Retention: Adjustable retention system ensures magazines stay in place.
- Hybrid Mounting: Compatible with both MOLLE and belts up to 2 inches.
- Streamlined Profile: Hidden shock cord for a clean look and snag-free operation.
Cons
- Slightly Bulky: The pouch can be wider than minimalist options.
- Initial Adjustment: Requires some initial adjustment to optimize retention.
Who Should Buy Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single?
The Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, competitive shooters, and tactical training enthusiasts. These users require a reliable and versatile magazine pouch that can adapt to different scenarios. The adaptability to multiple platforms makes it ideal for users who frequently switch between belt and MOLLE carry systems.
Users who prioritize the absolute lowest profile possible may prefer a minimalist pouch. I highly suggest purchasing a quality tourniquet if you are a shooting enthusiast. The Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single will work best with high quality magazines that are well maintained.
Conclusion on Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single
The Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single from HSGI is a well-designed, durable, and versatile magazine pouch that delivers on its promises. The price of $39.00 is justified given the quality of materials, construction, and the pouch’s adaptability. It offers excellent value for those seeking a single solution for carrying pistol magazines and other similarly sized items on various platforms.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Duty Pistol TACO U-MOUNT | Black | Single to anyone looking for a dependable and adaptable magazine pouch. It’s a worthwhile investment that will serve you well in demanding situations. Gear up, train hard, and stay safe!