Molle Extended Pistol Taco Review

First Thoughts on the Molle Extended Pistol Taco

The Molle Extended Pistol Taco – the name itself evokes images of fast draws and tactical efficiency. I was instantly intrigued by the Molle Extended Pistol Taco, a seemingly simple piece of gear promising quick pistol deployment and versatility. This isn’t just another nylon pouch; it’s an injection-molded polymer holster designed for the modern operator.

My search for a more adaptable pistol retention system led me here. Tired of pouches specific to magazine type or pistol size, I needed something universal and fast. The promise of a 25% lighter design compared to the original intrigued me.

My first impression upon unboxing was a sense of robust simplicity. The polymer brackets felt solid, and the elastic shock cord looked durable. It’s clearly designed for business, not aesthetics. It felt lighter than I expected, and the injection molding looked clean and precise.

Compared to traditional nylon pouches and even some Kydex holsters with fixed dimensions, the Molle Extended Pistol Taco offered a more adaptable solution. I considered the Blue Force Gear Ten-Speed pistol pouch, known for its lightweight design, and the Safariland 7TS ALS holster, revered for its retention capabilities. However, the Molle Extended Pistol Taco seemed to strike a balance between speed, versatility, and minimal weight that the others couldn’t quite match. I hoped the universal design wouldn’t sacrifice retention.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The build quality looked good, but the real test would be how it performed under stress and with different pistols. Time to see if it lives up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Molle Extended Pistol Taco to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Molle Extended Pistol Taco was at the range. I mounted it to my plate carrier, securing it to a MOLLE-compatible section on my support side. I ran drills with a Glock 19, Sig Sauer P320, and even a larger 1911. The varied pistol sizes would provide a good benchmark for its ‘universal’ fit.

During the drills, the weather was typical for that time of year – humid with a chance of afternoon showers. I also purposely created a bit of dusty conditions to see if the Molle Extended Pistol Taco would impede retrieval. Surprisingly, the pistol deployed smoothly every single time, even when wet. The shock cord tension provided consistent retention without being overly difficult to overcome.

There was a slight learning curve in finding the sweet spot for tension adjustment using the shock cord. Too loose, and the pistol felt insecure. Too tight, and the draw became sluggish. After a few adjustments, it was dialed in nicely. My only initial concern was the long-term durability of the shock cord in harsh sunlight.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use in varying conditions, the Molle Extended Pistol Taco continues to impress. I’ve taken it on several training courses, hiking trips, and even integrated it into my everyday carry setup while working outdoors.

So far, there are no significant signs of wear and tear on the polymer brackets. They seem highly resistant to scratches and abrasion. I have noticed slight fading on the shock cord, but the elastic properties remain intact. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water keeps it functioning smoothly.

Compared to my experiences with some nylon pouches, which tend to fray and lose their shape over time, the Molle Extended Pistol Taco has proven to be significantly more durable. The injection-molded polymer holds its shape, even under heavy use. I’m convinced this will last much longer than traditional pouches.

Breaking Down the Features of Molle Extended Pistol Taco

Specifications

• Injection Molded Polymer Brackets: These brackets form the rigid structure of the Molle Extended Pistol Taco, providing a secure and consistent grip on the pistol. The high-strength polymer ensures durability and resistance to impact, crucial for demanding environments.
• Flexible, Elastic Shock Cord: The shock cord is the heart of the retention system. It allows the Molle Extended Pistol Taco to accommodate various pistol sizes and provides adjustable tension for a customized draw.
• 25% Lighter than Original: Weight is always a concern when adding gear to a tactical setup. Being 25% lighter than its predecessor, the Molle Extended Pistol Taco minimizes the burden without compromising on functionality or durability.
• Quick Deployment: The open-top design and adjustable shock cord tension facilitate rapid and efficient pistol deployment. This feature is essential for situations where speed and reaction time are paramount.

These specifications translate directly into enhanced performance. The polymer brackets provide structural integrity and a consistent shape, while the adjustable shock cord allows the user to fine-tune the retention to their preference. Being lightweight is crucial for prolonged use in the field. Quick deployment saves valuable seconds when it matters most.

Performance & Functionality

The Molle Extended Pistol Taco excels at its primary job: securely holding and rapidly deploying a pistol. It’s remarkably versatile, accommodating everything from compact pistols to full-size duty weapons. The adjustable shock cord allows users to dial in the perfect level of retention.

The main strength lies in its adaptability and speed. Drawing a pistol from the Molle Extended Pistol Taco is intuitive and efficient. A weakness could be the need for occasional adjustment of the shock cord tension, especially after prolonged use or exposure to extreme temperatures.

It has exceeded my expectations. I initially anticipated some compromise in retention due to the universal design, but the shock cord system provides a surprisingly secure hold.

Design & Ergonomics

The Molle Extended Pistol Taco features a minimalist, utilitarian design. The injection-molded polymer is tough and lightweight. It’s comfortable to wear against the body and doesn’t create unnecessary bulk.

It is very user-friendly. Mounting to MOLLE webbing is straightforward. Adjusting the shock cord tension is simple and requires no specialized tools.

Durability & Maintenance

The injection-molded polymer construction suggests that the Molle Extended Pistol Taco will withstand years of abuse. The shock cord is the only component that may eventually need replacement, but high-quality cordage is readily available and inexpensive.

Cleaning involves simply wiping down the polymer brackets with a damp cloth. Periodic lubrication of the shock cord with silicone spray will help maintain its elasticity. It’s a very low-maintenance piece of gear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Molle Extended Pistol Taco doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories. Its modular design allows it to seamlessly integrate with existing MOLLE-compatible gear.

While there are no direct modifications, the tension of the shock cord can be adjusted or swapped out. It’s compatible with various MOLLE attachment systems from different brands.

Pros and Cons of Molle Extended Pistol Taco

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Who Should Buy Molle Extended Pistol Taco?

The Molle Extended Pistol Taco is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, competitive shooters, and anyone who requires a versatile and reliable pistol retention system. It’s ideal for those who frequently switch between different pistols or need a pouch that can adapt to evolving equipment needs.

Someone who needs a highly specialized, form-fitted holster with active retention (like a thumb break) might want to skip this product. Also, individuals who prioritize extreme concealment may find the open-top design less suitable.

A good MOLLE-compatible mounting platform, like a rigid panel or plate carrier, is a must-have. Having extra shock cord on hand for replacement will ensure long term functionality of the Molle Extended Pistol Taco.

Conclusion on Molle Extended Pistol Taco

The Molle Extended Pistol Taco is a well-designed and highly functional piece of gear that delivers on its promises. Its versatility, lightweight design, and quick deployment capabilities make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a flexible pistol retention solution.

At $37.00, the price is justified by the quality of construction, durability, and adaptability. It’s not the cheapest option on the market, but the long-term value and performance make it a worthwhile investment.

I would highly recommend the Molle Extended Pistol Taco to anyone looking for a reliable and adaptable pistol pouch. If you are looking for one holster to hold multiple different size pistols, buy this product, and experience the freedom of modularity!

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