First Impressions of Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok is a unique piece of kit, designed to consolidate your magazine carrying needs into a streamlined package. This combo system promises to let you carry both pistol and rifle magazines with minimal bulk, a feature that immediately piqued my interest.
As someone who spends a lot of time at the range and participates in various tactical training exercises, efficient and low-profile gear is crucial. I needed a system that could handle both pistol (.45 ACP, specifically) and AR magazines, without feeling cumbersome or adding unnecessary weight. Several options were available, but the “kangaroo” style and the reputation of Zero9 Holsters for durable, duty-grade gear made this combo particularly appealing.
My initial impression upon receiving the Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok was positive. The Wolf Grey colorway looks professional and blends well with a variety of tactical gear. The build quality appears solid, with no obvious flaws in the molding or Tek-lok attachment.
Compared to running separate magazine pouches for my AR and .45 pistol, this combo promised a significant reduction in belt space. I also considered a similar setup from a different manufacturer, but the Zero9 Holsters product seemed to offer a slightly slimmer profile and better retention based on initial inspection. My excitement was high; I was eager to see if it could live up to its potential on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok at my local shooting range during a full day of drills. The range provided a variety of scenarios, from static shooting to dynamic movement exercises, which allowed me to thoroughly assess its performance.
The weather was dry and warm, with a slight breeze. The magazine combo performed reasonably well, though it took a few repetitions to get used to drawing both the pistol and rifle magazines smoothly. I initially found the AR mag slightly harder to access than the pistol mags, requiring a more deliberate grip and pull.
After the first few drills, I adjusted the Tek-lok to optimize positioning on my belt. This improved accessibility significantly. No major issues arose, but I did notice some minor rubbing against my side during more dynamic movements.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok has held up remarkably well. The Kydex material shows no signs of cracking or deformation.
I’ve used it during several all-weather training sessions, including a particularly muddy and rainy day. Even under duress, the magazine retention remained solid. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes any dirt or debris.
Compared to my previous setup of individual magazine pouches, the Zero9 Holsters combo offers a significant improvement in terms of space saving and overall weight distribution. However, the draw stroke is still not quite as fluid as with dedicated pouches, a trade-off for the streamlined design.
Breaking Down the Features of Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok
Specifications
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok is designed to carry one AR-15 magazine and two .45 ACP pistol magazines in a single, compact unit. It is constructed from durable Kydex material. The combo is specifically molded to fit “Other 45 Cal” magazines, including those from M&P, Sig, XD, and Staccato 2011 pistols.
The Wolf Grey color provides a neutral, low-profile appearance. The Tek-lok attachment allows for secure and adjustable mounting on belts up to 2.25 inches wide. This mounting system provides versatility in terms of ride height and cant angle.
Manufacturer: Zero9 Holsters
Color: Wolf Grey
Caliber: .45 ACP (and 5.56/.223 for AR mag)
Attachment: Tek-lok
Configuration: One AR mag, two .45 ACP pistol mags
These specifications are important because they dictate the compatibility and usability of the system. The Tek-lok ensures secure attachment, and the Kydex construction provides long-lasting durability. The specific molding for “Other 45 Cal” magazines ensures a snug and secure fit for a variety of popular pistol platforms.
Performance & Functionality
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok performs its primary function – carrying magazines – effectively. The retention is firm enough to prevent accidental magazine release but not so tight as to hinder quick reloads.
One strength is its slim profile. This significantly reduces bulk on the belt compared to separate magazine pouches. The AR magazine sits slightly higher, making it a touch slower to draw than the pistol magazines.
The design could benefit from adjustable retention screws. This would allow users to fine-tune the magazine draw to their personal preferences.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is impressive. The Kydex is thick and rigid, and the molding is precise. The Wolf Grey finish is evenly applied and resists scratching.
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok is relatively lightweight, especially considering its capacity. The Tek-lok attachment is robust and allows for easy on and off. The ergonomics are generally good, though the AR magazine position could be improved for faster access.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kydex construction ensures excellent durability. I expect this combo to last for many years of hard use. The material is resistant to water, chemicals, and abrasion.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it clean. No specialized cleaning products are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok comes with the Tek-lok attachment pre-installed. No other accessories are included.
Customization is limited to adjusting the Tek-lok position. It is not designed to accommodate aftermarket retention devices or other modifications. The Tek-lok does allow for attachment to various belt systems.
Pros and Cons of Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok
Pros
- Slim and compact design saves valuable belt space. The “kangaroo” style efficiently combines rifle and pistol magazine carrying into a single unit.
- Durable Kydex construction ensures long-lasting performance. This resists wear and tear from demanding use in the field.
- Tek-lok attachment provides secure and adjustable mounting. It can be easily attached and removed from belts.
- Secure magazine retention prevents accidental releases. The magazines stay firmly in place during movement.
- Wolf Grey color provides a low-profile and professional appearance. It blends well with most tactical gear.
Cons
- AR magazine draw can be slightly slower than pistol magazines. The positioning could be improved for faster access.
- Limited customization options. Users cannot adjust magazine retention or add aftermarket accessories.
Who Should Buy Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok?
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and competitive shooters who need to carry both rifle and pistol magazines efficiently. It’s also ideal for those who prioritize a slim and low-profile setup on their belts.
Those who need extremely fast reloads or require adjustable magazine retention might want to consider separate, dedicated magazine pouches. Similarly, if you anticipate needing to customize your magazine carrier extensively, this combo may not be the best choice.
A good quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to properly support the weight and maintain stability. Proper placement on the belt is also crucial for optimizing draw speed and comfort.
Conclusion on Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok offers a compelling solution for those seeking to streamline their magazine carrying needs. While it may not be the absolute fastest option for reloads, its compact design and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment.
At $78.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials and construction. The value proposition lies in its ability to consolidate multiple magazine pouches into a single, low-profile unit.
I would personally recommend the Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Other 45 Cal / Wolf Grey / Tek-lok to anyone looking to reduce belt clutter without sacrificing functionality. If you need to carry both a rifle and pistol, give this a serious look.