What Makes Safariland Double Mag Pouch Open Top STXFDE SW 59 – 1 out of 7 models Stand Out?
The Safariland Double Mag Pouch Open Top STXFDE SW 59 – 1 out of 7 models offers a streamlined solution for carrying two magazines, prioritizing accessibility and a minimal footprint on your duty belt. Manufactured by Safariland, this pouch features an open-top design for rapid mag deployment and is constructed from durable SafariLaminate. For law enforcement, security personnel, and competitive shooters needing fast reloads, this pouch looks like a solid option.
I was looking for a way to reduce bulk on my duty belt. My previous mag pouches were bulky and cumbersome, making movement awkward. The Safariland pouch promised a more streamlined profile and faster access to spare magazines, which is paramount in dynamic situations.
Unboxing revealed a cleanly manufactured pouch. The SafariLaminate material felt rugged and well-formed, offering a positive first impression. The stitching was clean, and the FDE (Flat Dark Earth) color was consistent, indicating good quality control.
Compared to my old Kydex mag pouches and a similar nylon offering from Blackhawk, the Safariland stood out due to its slim design and the “face out” magazine orientation. The Blackhawk was bulkier, and the Kydex, while durable, lacked the flexibility and low profile of the Safariland. The promise of integration with the Safariland 6004/6005 tactical system also sealed the deal.
I was cautiously optimistic. The slim design and reputation of Safariland were encouraging, but I needed to see if the open-top design could reliably retain magazines during rigorous movement.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Double Mag Pouch Open Top STXFDE SW 59 – 1 out of 7 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing occurred at an outdoor shooting range, focusing on tactical drills. I ran various scenarios involving movement, shooting from different positions, and rapid reloads. The weather was sunny and dry.
The pouch performed admirably. Magazine access was exceptionally fast thanks to the open-top design, and the SafariLaminate provided sufficient retention to keep the magazines secure during sprints and transitions. It took very little time to adjust to drawing from the face-out orientation.
After the first day, I did not encounter any major issues, but was curious if retention would hold up after a greater amount of use. The draw weight on the magazines was good, but not adjustable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in training and on duty, the Safariland Double Mag Pouch Open Top STXFDE SW 59 – 1 out of 7 models has proven its reliability. The SafariLaminate shows minimal wear and tear, and the stitching remains intact. No fraying or loosening has been observed.
Maintenance is straightforward. Wiping down the pouch with a damp cloth after use is sufficient to remove dust and debris. No specialized cleaning products are required.
Compared to my previous pouches, the Safariland outperforms them in terms of both speed and comfort. The reduced bulk makes a noticeable difference during prolonged wear, and the fast access has improved my reload times in drills. The retention remains reliable, even with partially depleted magazines.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Double Mag Pouch Open Top STXFDE SW 59 – 1 out of 7 models
Specifications
- Magazine Orientation: Magazines are oriented “face out” to save space on duty belt. This is incredibly helpful for minimizing bulk and ensuring a snag-free profile when navigating tight spaces.
- Construction Material: Durable SafariLaminate construction. This material is known for its resistance to abrasions, moisture, and chemicals, crucial for demanding environments.
- Belt Attachment: Vertical belt slot. This simple, yet effective, attachment method ensures the pouch stays securely in place on your belt.
- Belt Width Compatibility: Fits 2.25″ (58mm) belt width. This is a standard size for duty belts, ensuring compatibility with most law enforcement and military setups.
- Tactical System Compatibility: Part of the 6004/6005 tactical system. This allows seamless integration with other Safariland components, creating a cohesive and customizable setup.
These specifications contribute directly to the pouch’s performance and user experience. The “face out” orientation, combined with the open-top design, dramatically speeds up reloads, a critical advantage in high-pressure situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Double Mag Pouch Open Top STXFDE SW 59 – 1 out of 7 models excels at its primary function: providing fast and reliable access to spare magazines. The open-top design allows for instinctive and efficient reloads, making it a valuable asset in tactical situations.
The main strength is its speed and low profile. The retention is solid, but the lack of adjustability could be a weakness for some users who prefer a customized draw weight. It meets my expectations for speed and comfort, but those used to adjustable tension may want to explore other options.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The SafariLaminate feels robust and the stitching is clean and reinforced in stress areas. The weight is minimal, contributing to overall comfort when worn on a duty belt for extended periods.
The design is user-friendly, requiring no learning curve. The vertical belt slot makes for easy attachment and removal from the belt.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariLaminate construction ensures long-term durability. The pouch is resistant to abrasions, moisture, and chemicals, ensuring it can withstand harsh conditions.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. No specialized cleaning or maintenance is required.
Accessories and Customization Options
This specific model doesn’t offer extensive customization options. The primary focus is on a streamlined, open-top design.
However, being part of the Safariland 6004/6005 tactical system allows integration with other compatible accessories, such as holsters, radio pouches, and flashlight holders. This provides a degree of customization by creating a cohesive and modular gear setup.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Double Mag Pouch Open Top STXFDE SW 59 – 1 out of 7 models
Pros
- Extremely fast magazine access: The open-top design allows for incredibly quick and efficient reloads, crucial in high-pressure situations.
- Low-profile design: The slim profile and “face out” magazine orientation minimize bulk on the duty belt, enhancing comfort and mobility.
- Durable SafariLaminate construction: The rugged material resists abrasions, moisture, and chemicals, ensuring long-term reliability.
- Seamless integration with Safariland tactical systems: The pouch is compatible with other Safariland 6004/6005 series accessories, creating a modular and customizable setup.
- Simple and reliable: Easy to attach to your belt and go. The product works with your gear from day one.
Cons
- Non-adjustable retention: The magazine retention is fixed, which may not suit users who prefer a customized draw weight.
- Limited customization options: The design is primarily focused on functionality and simplicity, offering few opportunities for personalization beyond system integration.
Who Should Buy Safariland Double Mag Pouch Open Top STXFDE SW 59 – 1 out of 7 models?
Perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and competitive shooters who prioritize speed and efficiency in their reloads. Also a good option for anyone looking to minimize bulk on their duty belt or tactical rig.
This product might not be ideal for individuals who prefer adjustable magazine retention or require a highly customizable pouch system. Those operating in environments where magazine retention is paramount over speed (e.g., extreme terrain, dense brush) might also consider pouches with more secure closures.
A must-have accessory would be a compatible Safariland duty belt for optimal integration and stability. Using high-quality magazines is also essential to ensure smooth and consistent draws.
Conclusion on Safariland Double Mag Pouch Open Top STXFDE SW 59 – 1 out of 7 models
The Safariland Double Mag Pouch Open Top STXFDE SW 59 – 1 out of 7 models is a well-designed and durable pouch that excels at providing fast and reliable access to spare magazines. Its low-profile design and robust SafariLaminate construction make it a valuable asset for professionals and competitive shooters alike.
At $51.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and performance. It offers a significant improvement over bulkier or less durable alternatives.
I would absolutely recommend this pouch to anyone seeking a streamlined and efficient magazine carrying solution. If speed and comfort are your priorities, the Safariland Double Mag Pouch Open Top STXFDE SW 59 – 1 out of 7 models is a solid investment. Upgrade your gear and experience the difference a well-designed mag pouch can make!