Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2

The Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2 is a small but crucial component in the Safariland Equipment Locking System (ELS), designed for quick and efficient gear changes. This unassuming piece of hardware allows users to mount and detach accessories with unprecedented speed and versatility, a feature that’s become essential in competitive shooting and tactical environments. Its adaptability and ruggedness make it a popular choice among professionals and enthusiasts alike.

As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I was initially drawn to the ELS 35 by the frustration of fumbling with traditional mounting solutions. Velcro straps, MOLLE weaving, and even Tek-Loks felt cumbersome and slow when needing to swap gear quickly on the move. I needed a system that could keep up with the dynamic nature of three-gun competitions and tactical training scenarios.

Upon unboxing, the ELS 35 plates feel surprisingly robust for their size. The black finish is clean and professional, and the included hardware appears durable and well-made. My initial impression was that these small plates could handle a significant amount of abuse, a crucial factor when trusting them to secure essential gear.

Compared to other mounting systems like Tek-Loks or MOLLE attachments, the ELS 35 stood out for its simplicity and speed. While Tek-Loks offer a secure attachment, they often require removing the belt, a major inconvenience during a competition stage. MOLLE, while versatile, can be time-consuming to weave and adjust. The ELS 35 promises a far more streamlined experience.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential of the ELS 35 system, but also slightly skeptical of whether something so small could truly deliver on its promises of speed and security in demanding conditions. Would it live up to the hype or fall short under pressure?

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2 was a local three-gun competition. I used the plates to mount my pistol magazine pouches, shotgun shell caddies, and a dump pouch onto my competition belt. The goal was to assess how well the system facilitated rapid gear changes between stages.

Throughout the competition, the ELS 35 system performed admirably, even when exposed to dust and dirt from the range environment. Swapping gear was incredibly fast and intuitive – a simple push of the locking fork released the accessory, allowing for a seamless transition. This was a definite advantage over the bulkier, slower Tek-Lok systems I had used previously.

The ease of use was immediately apparent; there was virtually no learning curve. After a few practice runs, I was able to confidently and quickly swap gear without looking, a skill that saved valuable seconds during timed stages. The simple push-button mechanism allowed for intuitive adjustments and swaps even under pressure.

The only initial concern was the relatively small size of the receiver plates. While they felt secure, I wondered how they would hold up to the repetitive stress of frequent gear changes and the added weight of loaded magazines over extended use. Only time and further testing would reveal the true extent of their durability.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use in various competitions and training sessions, the Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2 has proven to be remarkably durable. Despite frequent gear changes and exposure to diverse weather conditions, the plates show minimal signs of wear and tear. The black finish has held up well, with only minor scratches in high-contact areas.

The plates have maintained their secure attachment, with no loosening or slippage observed during rigorous activity. Even with heavy loads, such as fully loaded AR-15 magazine pouches, the ELS 35 system remained stable and reliable. The robust construction of the plates inspires confidence in their ability to withstand prolonged use and demanding conditions.

Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The plates require no special cleaning agents or lubricants, making them easy to maintain in the field. Their no-fuss design ensures they remain reliable with minimal effort.

Compared to other mounting systems I’ve used, the ELS 35 has consistently outperformed them in terms of speed, versatility, and durability. Its ease of use and reliable performance have made it an indispensable part of my competition and training setup. It has become a go-to choice when the priority is rapid gear changes and secure attachment.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2

Specifications

The Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2 is designed as a mounting platform for the ELS 34 Locking Fork, forming a critical component of the Equipment Locking System. Each package includes two receiver plates and the necessary hardware for installation. These plates can be mounted at 0°, 30°, 60°, or 90° angles, offering versatile positioning options for accessories.

• Category: Duty Gear. This designation highlights its intended use in law enforcement and tactical environments, where reliability is paramount.
• Group: MLS (MOLLE Locking System). Though compatible with MOLLE through adapters, the ELS 35 represents a faster, more modular alternative.
• Description: ELS 35 Receiver Plate. Clearly defines the product’s role within the larger ELS ecosystem.
• Color: Black. Offers a low-profile, professional appearance.

These specifications are crucial for the overall user experience because they directly impact the system’s adaptability and performance. The ability to mount the plates at different angles allows users to optimize gear placement for their specific needs and preferences. The durable construction ensures that the system can withstand the rigors of demanding environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2 excels at its primary function: providing a rapid and secure mounting platform for tactical accessories. The push-button locking mechanism of the ELS system allows for incredibly fast gear changes, a significant advantage in competitive shooting and tactical scenarios. Its simple design ensures ease of use, even under pressure.

The system’s strengths lie in its speed and versatility. The ability to quickly swap gear between stages or adapt to changing mission requirements is invaluable. However, the relatively small size of the receiver plates may be a limiting factor for extremely heavy loads. While the plates are durable, there might be situations where a larger mounting platform would be more suitable.

The ELS 35 system meets and often exceeds expectations for speed and convenience. It offers a significant improvement over traditional mounting methods and provides a level of modularity that is highly desirable in dynamic environments. For users who prioritize rapid gear changes and ease of use, it’s an excellent choice.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2 features a simple, functional design. The plates are made from a durable polymer material that is both lightweight and robust. Their low-profile design minimizes bulk and prevents snagging on other gear.

The system is inherently user-friendly, with virtually no learning curve. The push-button locking mechanism is intuitive and easy to operate, even with gloves on. The plates can be quickly and easily mounted to belts, vests, or other platforms using the included hardware.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2 is built to last. The durable polymer construction and robust hardware ensure that the system can withstand the rigors of demanding use. With proper care, the plates should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The plates require no special cleaning agents or lubricants.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2 is primarily designed to interface with other components of the Safariland Equipment Locking System, such as the ELS 34 Locking Fork. However, it can also be used with other mounting platforms through the use of adapters. This opens up a wide range of customization options for users who want to integrate the ELS system with existing gear.

While the ELS 35 doesn’t directly accommodate accessories like optics or grips, its modular design allows users to mount a wide variety of pouches, holsters, and other tactical accessories. The compatibility with various mounting platforms further expands the system’s versatility.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2

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Who Should Buy Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2?

The Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2 is perfect for competitive shooters, tactical professionals, and anyone who needs to quickly and efficiently swap gear. It’s ideal for those who value speed, versatility, and durability in their equipment mounting solutions. Anyone involved in three-gun competitions, law enforcement, or military operations would find this system invaluable.

Those who should skip this product are individuals who primarily use static gear setups and do not require frequent gear changes. If your equipment needs remain constant, simpler and less expensive mounting solutions may suffice. Also, if you consistently carry extremely heavy loads, a larger mounting platform might be a better choice.

Must-have accessories or modifications include the Safariland ELS 34 Locking Fork, which is required to attach accessories to the receiver plates. Additional ELS 35 plates are also recommended for mounting multiple accessories. Adapters may be necessary for integrating the ELS system with non-Safariland gear.

Conclusion on Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2

In summary, the Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2 is a highly effective and versatile mounting solution for tactical gear. Its speed, durability, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for competitive shooters and tactical professionals. While it may not be suitable for all users, its strengths far outweigh its limitations.

The price of $18.40 is well justified, considering the performance and convenience that the ELS 35 system provides. It’s a small investment that can significantly improve efficiency and effectiveness in dynamic environments. The system is a solid upgrade to standard tek-loks or molly strap attachments.

I would personally recommend the Safariland ELS 35 Receiver Plate, Black 6004-35-2 to anyone who needs a rapid and reliable mounting solution for tactical gear. If you’re tired of fumbling with cumbersome mounting systems, give the ELS 35 a try – you won’t be disappointed. It is time to upgrade your kit and experience the speed and convenience of the Safariland Equipment Locking System.