What Makes Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt,Plain Red,28in – 1 out of 50 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt,Plain Red,28in – 1 out of 50 models promises to be a durable and lightweight solution for competitive shooters needing a reliable platform for their gear. Made by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical equipment, this belt aims to provide stability and support during demanding shooting scenarios. Its hook-lined design and pre-cut holes are intended to facilitate easy attachment and adjustment of ELS (Equipment Locking System) accessories.
For years, I struggled with competition belts that either lacked sufficient rigidity or were overly bulky and uncomfortable. I needed a belt that could reliably hold my pistol, magazine pouches, and other essential gear without sagging or shifting during movement. I was hoping that the Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt would address these issues and provide a stable, low-profile platform for my competition setup.
My initial impression of the Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt was positive. The bright red color stood out, and the belt felt surprisingly lightweight yet sturdy to the touch. I appreciated the simplicity of the design and the clean finish of the pre-cut holes, which suggested attention to detail.
Compared to other competition belts I’ve used, like the Blackhawk! Riggers Belt and the 5.11 Tactical Operator Belt, the Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt seemed less bulky. I chose this particular model for its promise of being both lightweight and reinforced, hoping it would offer the perfect balance between comfort and support. I was eager to see if it would live up to the Safariland reputation.
I was initially optimistic about the Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt. The vibrant color and promise of durability created a sense of excitement, but I also held some reservations about the hook lining and its long-term ability to maintain a secure grip.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt,Plain Red,28in – 1 out of 50 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt at my local shooting range during a weekend USPSA match. I equipped it with my usual competition loadout: a Glock 17 in a Safariland holster, three magazine pouches, and a medkit. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The belt performed adequately during the initial stages. I found it relatively easy to attach my ELS accessories, and the pre-cut holes offered a decent range of adjustment. However, after a few hours of movement and stage transitions, I noticed some shifting of the accessories and minor sagging of the belt.
The main issue I encountered was the hook lining’s limited grip strength. Under the stress of movement, the belt tended to slip slightly, requiring frequent readjustments. This was especially noticeable when drawing my pistol or reloading magazines.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt showed signs of wear and tear, especially around the hook-lined area. The hooks started to lose their sharpness, further reducing the belt’s ability to securely hold accessories. The durable material started to show abrasion.
The belt was relatively easy to clean, requiring only a damp cloth to wipe away dirt and sweat. However, the hook lining proved to be a magnet for lint and debris, necessitating more frequent cleaning to maintain its limited grip. Overall the hook lined interior was not easy to keep clean.
Compared to my previous experiences with other competition belts, the Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt fell short of expectations. While it was initially comfortable and lightweight, its long-term durability and ability to maintain a secure hold on accessories were disappointing. It neither outperformed nor met the performance of other brands like 5.11 Tactical or Blackhawk!.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt,Plain Red,28in – 1 out of 50 models
Specifications
The Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt,Plain Red,28in – 1 out of 50 models features a hook-lined inner belt designed to interface with loop-lined outer belts for a secure fit. The belt is available in multiple sizes, this particular model being a 28-inch version. It is made from durable nylon and features pre-cut holes for easy attachment of ELS accessories.
The lightweight design aims to reduce bulk and improve comfort during extended use. The reinforced construction is intended to provide sufficient support for heavy ammo and handguns. These specifications are crucial for competitive shooters who require a reliable and comfortable platform for their gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt,Plain Red,28in – 1 out of 50 models functions as a basic competition belt, providing a platform for attaching accessories. Its performance is limited by the hook lining’s insufficient grip strength and the tendency of the belt to sag under heavy loads. The lightweight design comes at the cost of overall stability and rigidity.
The belt’s main strength is its ease of use, thanks to the pre-cut holes and simple hook-and-loop closure. However, its weaknesses include the lack of adjustability and the degradation of the hook lining over time. It falls short of expectations in terms of overall performance and long-term reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt boasts a clean and simple design, with a bright red color that stands out. The materials used are lightweight and relatively comfortable against the body. The pre-cut holes are evenly spaced and neatly finished.
The belt is generally user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. However, the limited adjustability and the tendency to slip can be frustrating for users who require a precise and secure fit. The ergonomics could be improved with a more robust closure system and a wider range of size options.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt is made from durable nylon, which should provide a reasonable lifespan under normal use. However, the hook lining is prone to wear and tear, which can significantly reduce the belt’s overall effectiveness. The nylon is durable, but the hook lining isn’t.
Maintenance is relatively easy, requiring only a damp cloth to clean the belt. However, the hook lining needs frequent cleaning to remove lint and debris. Repair options are limited, and the hook lining cannot be easily replaced.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt is designed to be used with Safariland’s ELS system, allowing for easy attachment and removal of accessories. No accessories come standard with the belt. The ELS system allows for good customization.
The belt is compatible with a wide range of holsters, magazine pouches, and other accessories that use the ELS system. However, it may not be compatible with accessories that require a MOLLE attachment system. Users are limited to ELS based accessories.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt,Plain Red,28in – 1 out of 50 models
Pros
- Lightweight and relatively comfortable for extended wear.
- Pre-cut holes offer easy attachment of ELS accessories.
- Simple design and user-friendly operation.
- Bright red color provides high visibility.
- Good for light-duty use or as a backup belt.
Cons
- Hook lining lacks sufficient grip strength and degrades over time.
- Limited adjustability and tendency to slip under heavy loads.
- Not compatible with MOLLE accessories.
- Durability is questionable, especially the hook lining.
- Overpriced for the level of performance offered.
Who Should Buy Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt,Plain Red,28in – 1 out of 50 models?
The Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt is perfect for casual competitive shooters who prioritize comfort and ease of use over ultimate stability and durability. It’s also suitable for individuals who need a lightweight belt for light-duty tasks. New competition shooters may find it useful.
Individuals who require a highly secure and adjustable belt for demanding shooting scenarios should skip this product. Those who carry heavy loads or prefer MOLLE-compatible accessories should also look elsewhere. It’s not for serious competitors or professionals.
A must-have modification would be replacing the hook lining with a higher-quality, more durable alternative. Additionally, adding a more robust closure system could improve the belt’s overall stability. Another belt is the best must have.
Conclusion on Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt,Plain Red,28in – 1 out of 50 models
The Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt,Plain Red,28in – 1 out of 50 models promises much but delivers little in terms of overall performance and long-term reliability. While it is lightweight and easy to use, its hook lining’s insufficient grip strength and limited adjustability are significant drawbacks. The price isn’t justified.
The value proposition is questionable, as there are other competition belts on the market that offer superior performance and durability for a similar price. The quality does not justify the price.
I would not personally recommend the Safariland 032 ELS Competition Belt to serious competitive shooters or professionals. There are better options. Consider investing in a higher-quality belt that offers greater stability, durability, and adjustability for demanding shooting scenarios. Spend a little more, and you will be happier with the results.