First Impressions of Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch
The Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch aims to offer a simple and accessible solution for carrying spare magazines. Rothco, known for their budget-friendly tactical gear, presents this pouch as a practical option for range days or field use. It promises compatibility with standard rifle magazines, MOLLE attachment, and rapid access.
I needed a reliable yet inexpensive way to carry extra magazines on my range belt without adding unnecessary bulk or complexity. I was looking for something that could securely hold both AR-15 and AK-47 magazines, offering quick and easy access during drills. This seemed like it could fit the bill.
Upon unboxing, the pouch felt surprisingly robust for its price point. The 600 Denier Polyester material appeared durable, and the stitching seemed adequate. My initial assessment pointed towards a product that prioritized function over aesthetics, a characteristic I often appreciate in tactical gear.
Compared to some higher-end, rigid magazine pouches, the Rothco felt less refined but potentially more versatile due to its adaptability to different magazine sizes. I considered Condor’s similar offerings and some more expensive options from Magpul, but the affordability of the Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch won me over for an initial trial. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping it would perform as well as it looked.
My first impression was a mix of practicality and slight apprehension. The price was right, and the design seemed functional, but I needed to see how it held up under actual use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch was at my local outdoor shooting range. I attached it to my MOLLE-compatible range belt and loaded it with both AR-15 and AK-47 magazines. The weather was mild and sunny, providing ideal testing conditions.
During rapid-fire drills, the elastic cord closures allowed for surprisingly quick magazine changes. Access was unhindered, and the magazines remained securely in place during movement. There were no initial signs of slippage or loosening.
Initially, I did notice that the AK-47 magazines were a slightly tighter fit than the AR-15 magazines, requiring a bit more force to seat and extract. However, this didn’t significantly impede the speed of reloads. Overall, my first impression was favorable, with the pouch performing adequately.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch has held up reasonably well, though some wear and tear is noticeable. The 600 Denier Polyester shows some fraying around the edges of the MOLLE straps. The elastic cords have maintained their elasticity, but I anticipate they will eventually degrade over more extended use.
Cleaning is relatively simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The pouch has retained its shape and functionality despite regular exposure to the elements and repeated magazine insertions and removals.
Compared to higher-end magazine pouches I’ve used in the past, the Rothco lacks some of the refined construction and robust materials. However, considering its price point, the Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch offers acceptable performance. It has met my initial expectations for a budget-friendly option.
Breaking Down the Features of Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch
Specifications
The Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch is constructed from 600 Denier Polyester. It is designed to hold two rifle magazines, with one magazine per compartment. The pouch features MOLLE compatibility, with four straps on the back for secure attachment.
The design is intended to accommodate M16 and AK-47 magazines, though it can likely fit other standard rifle magazine types. The elastic cord closures with pull tabs provide rapid access to the magazines. These specifications highlight the pouch’s focus on compatibility, durability, and ease of use, essential considerations for tactical gear.
These specifications matter because they determine the pouch’s versatility, weight, and durability. The MOLLE compatibility allows for seamless integration with a variety of tactical vests and belts. The 600 Denier Polyester strikes a balance between weight and resistance to abrasion.
Performance & Functionality
The Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch performs its primary function adequately, securely holding and providing quick access to magazines. Its retention is solid, and I haven’t experienced any magazines falling out during movement. The elastic cord closures are easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands.
The pouch’s main strength lies in its simplicity and ease of use. Its weakness is its relatively basic construction, which sacrifices some durability compared to higher-end alternatives. It meets expectations for a budget-friendly option, but it is not a top-tier performer.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch features a straightforward design focused on functionality. The 600 Denier Polyester is reasonably lightweight, minimizing added bulk. The MOLLE attachment straps are easy to weave through webbing, allowing for secure and stable mounting.
The pouch is user-friendly, with no real learning curve. Loading and unloading magazines is intuitive, and the elastic cord closures are easy to adjust.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch, with its 600 Denier Polyester construction, is expected to last for a reasonable amount of time with regular use. It’s unlikely to withstand extreme conditions or heavy abuse.
The pouch is easy to maintain. Spot cleaning with a damp cloth and mild detergent is typically sufficient to keep it in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch does not come with any additional accessories. However, its MOLLE compatibility allows for integration with a wide range of tactical vests, belts, and packs.
There are no specific customization options for the pouch itself, but users can enhance its functionality by adding MOLLE-compatible accessories, such as small utility pouches or trauma kits. It’s compatible with most standard MOLLE attachments from other brands.
Pros and Cons of Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for budget-conscious users.
- MOLLE compatibility allows for easy attachment to various tactical gear.
- Open-top design provides rapid access to magazines during drills.
- Durable 600 Denier Polyester construction balances weight and abrasion resistance.
- Accommodates both M16 and AK-47 magazines, adding to its versatility.
Cons
- The 600 Denier Polyester, while durable enough, is less robust than materials used in higher-end pouches.
- The elastic cord closures may degrade over extended use, potentially requiring replacement.
Who Should Buy Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch?
The Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch is perfect for casual range shooters, airsoft enthusiasts, and individuals who need a budget-friendly way to carry extra magazines. It’s also suitable for those just starting to build their tactical gear setup and don’t want to invest heavily upfront.
Those who require extreme durability, operate in harsh environments, or prioritize premium materials should consider a higher-end alternative.
A must-have modification for this pouch is to periodically inspect and, if necessary, replace the elastic retention cords as they wear out. Using paracord as a replacement is a cheap and easy fix.
Conclusion on Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch
The Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch offers a compelling value proposition for those seeking an affordable and functional magazine carrying solution. While it may not boast the premium materials and refined construction of more expensive options, it delivers reliable performance at a fraction of the cost.
The price is definitely justified, considering its functionality and durability.
I would recommend it to anyone looking for a budget-friendly option for carrying extra magazines on the range or in the field. If you need a reliable and affordable solution, give the Rothco MOLLE Open Top Double Mag Pouch a try. You might be surprised at how much value you get for your money.