First Thoughts on the Model 77 Double Magazine Pouch | Black | STX Basket Weave
For years, I’ve relied on a mishmash of magazine pouches, from cheap nylon options that frayed within months to leather rigs that looked the part but offered questionable retention. Then I heard about the Model 77 Double Magazine Pouch | Black | STX Basket Weave from Safariland, a company synonymous with quality law enforcement gear. The promise of secure, accessible magazine carriage in a durable, professional-looking package piqued my interest.
My old nylon pouches were sagging and slow. I needed a reliable, durable, and professional-looking solution for carrying spare magazines on my duty belt.
The Model 77 Double Magazine Pouch arrived neatly packaged. The STX Basket Weave finish instantly stood out, providing a textured grip and a refined aesthetic. Compared to my old Blackhawk nylon pouch and a Bianchi leather rig, the Model 77 felt significantly more robust and professional, with a better magazine retention system.
I was definitely excited. The quality seemed apparent right out of the box, promising a much-needed upgrade to my duty belt setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting Model 77 Double Magazine Pouch | Black | STX Basket Weave to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Model 77 Double Magazine Pouch | Black | STX Basket Weave at the shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The scenario involved multiple magazine changes under pressure, simulating a real-world engagement. The magazine pouch performed admirably in this demanding environment.
The weather was mildly humid, but the textured STX finish provided a secure grip even with slightly sweaty hands. The pouch allowed for smooth and quick magazine draws, without requiring excessive force or awkward movements. There were no unexpected issues during the training.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of continuous use during training and range sessions, the Model 77 has proven to be incredibly durable. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, even after repeated exposure to sun, rain, and dust. The magazine retention remains consistently strong, ensuring magazines stay securely in place, even during rigorous movement.
Cleaning the pouch is simple, requiring only a damp cloth to wipe away dirt and grime. The Model 77 outperforms my previous nylon pouches in terms of durability and retention, and it offers a more professional appearance than my old leather rig. The reliability of this pouch has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Model 77 Double Magazine Pouch | Black | STX Basket Weave
Specifications
The Model 77 Double Magazine Pouch | Black | STX Basket Weave is designed to hold two magazines for a GLOCK 17/22. The pouch comes in Black with an STX Basket Weave finish. It is designed to fit on a 2.25″ (60mm) duty belt with both vertical and horizontal belt slots.
The STX Basket Weave finish provides a secure grip and professional appearance. The vertical and horizontal belt slots allow for versatile mounting options, accommodating different carry preferences.
Performance & Functionality
The Model 77 Double Magazine Pouch excels at its primary function: securely carrying and providing quick access to spare magazines. The magazine retention is firm yet allows for a smooth, controlled draw. The pouch’s design facilitates efficient reloads, even under stress.
The retention system is excellent, keeping magazines secure without making them difficult to access. There is no room for improvement regarding the basic function of holding magazines securely. The pouch meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade magazine carrier.
Design & Ergonomics
The Model 77 features a durable STX construction that provides a good balance of rigidity and flexibility. The STX material is lightweight, and the basket weave finish improves grip. The contoured shape of the pouch ensures a comfortable fit against the body.
The pouch is designed for user-friendliness, with a simple yet effective magazine retention system. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The STX construction is highly resistant to wear and tear, making this pouch a durable choice for demanding environments. The finish is scratch-resistant, and the material is easy to clean. The Model 77 is built to withstand years of use with minimal maintenance.
A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the pouch clean. The durable STX material ensures a long service life.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Model 77 Double Magazine Pouch | Black | STX Basket Weave is primarily designed as a standalone magazine carrier. However, its belt loop system is compatible with various duty belts. Since it is a standard magazine pouch, customization options are limited to aesthetic choices, such as adding a name tag.
The compatibility with standard duty belts ensures easy integration into existing gear setups. There is no need for proprietary accessories.
Pros and Cons of Model 77 Double Magazine Pouch | Black | STX Basket Weave
Pros
- Durable STX Basket Weave construction ensures long-lasting performance and a professional appearance.
- Secure magazine retention keeps magazines in place during rigorous activity.
- Versatile mounting options with both vertical and horizontal belt slots.
- Easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal upkeep.
- Streamlined design allows for quick and efficient magazine changes.
Cons
- The STX material, while durable, can become somewhat rigid in extremely cold temperatures.
- The fixed magazine retention may not be adjustable for different magazine types or tension preferences.
Who Should Buy Model 77 Double Magazine Pouch | Black | STX Basket Weave?
The Model 77 Double Magazine Pouch | Black | STX Basket Weave is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and competitive shooters who require a reliable and professional-looking magazine carrier. It is also a good choice for anyone who values durability and secure magazine retention. This pouch will benefit professionals who carry GLOCK 17/22 magazines and need quick access to reloads.
Those who require highly adjustable magazine retention or prefer a minimalist design might want to skip this product.
A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. No other modifications are needed, as the pouch performs exceptionally well in its stock configuration.
Conclusion on Model 77 Double Magazine Pouch | Black | STX Basket Weave
The Model 77 Double Magazine Pouch | Black | STX Basket Weave is a top-tier magazine carrier that delivers on its promise of durability, security, and professional appearance. At $37.60, the price is more than justified given the build quality and long-term reliability. The Model 77 offers excellent value for its cost.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Model 77 to anyone seeking a dependable and well-designed magazine pouch for duty or range use. Upgrade your gear today and experience the difference that quality makes.