Let’s Dive into Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL is a classic piece of kit from a company synonymous with duty gear. This pouch promises a reliable and accessible way to carry two spare magazines, a crucial component for anyone in law enforcement, security, or even competitive shooting. Safariland built this particular model for belts up to 2.25″ wide and the nylon-look finish offers a professional, low-profile aesthetic.
For years, I’ve relied on kydex magazine carriers, seeking ultimate speed and retention, but their rigid nature wasn’t always comfortable during long shifts or extended training. I needed a pouch that could hold two magazines securely, wouldn’t dig into my side while seated in a patrol car, and offered a professional appearance without screaming “tactical.” I needed something versatile, and Safariland’s reputation for quality duty gear made the Model 77 an easy choice to explore.
My initial impression upon unboxing the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL was that it felt incredibly robust. The nylon-look material felt thick and durable, and the stitching appeared clean and well-reinforced. It certainly felt like it could take a beating on the range or in the field.
I considered a few other options like the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse mag pouch (kydex, very rigid), and the HSGI TACO (adjustable, but bulkier and more overtly tactical). Ultimately, the Safariland 77 won me over with its blend of professional appearance, known Safariland durability, and lower profile compared to some of the more modular, “tactical” options. My kydex options were just too stiff for all-day wear.
I was cautiously optimistic about the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL. I knew Safariland had a solid reputation, but I was curious to see if the nylon-look construction would hold up to the rigors of daily use, and how it would compare to the speed and retention of my kydex carriers. Would the lower profile be worth any potential sacrifices?
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL at my local shooting range during a pistol training session focused on malfunction drills and rapid reloads. I was running drills in a variety of positions, trying to simulate real-world stress. The weather was hot and humid, typical for a summer day at the range.
The pouch performed admirably, retaining the magazines securely during movement drills. Accessing the magazines was smooth and consistent. The nylon-look material, surprisingly, didn’t seem to soak up sweat excessively, maintaining a secure grip on the magazines even with damp hands.
One initial concern was the snap closure. I was worried about it failing under stress. However, after several rapid reload drills, the snaps held securely.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL during weekly range sessions and incorporating it into my duty gear rotation, it has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the nylon-look material. The stitching remains intact and the snaps still function perfectly.
The Safariland 77 has proven to be quite durable. Even after being exposed to rain, mud, and constant friction against other gear, it shows minimal signs of wear. The Safariland 77 easily wipes clean with a damp cloth, making maintenance straightforward.
Compared to my previous kydex magazine carriers, the Safariland 77 offers a significant improvement in comfort. The nylon-look material conforms to the body better, reducing pressure points and making it much more comfortable to wear for extended periods, especially while seated. The trade-off in draw speed, while present, felt minimal compared to the comfort benefits.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL
Specifications
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL is designed to fit belts up to 2.25″ wide. It is available in several finishes, including Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, and STX TACTICAL, but this particular model is the Black, Nylon-Look. It is an ambidextrous design.
The pouch is compatible with the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System. The fastener uses a black snap closure. It fits magazines for the following handguns: SigSauer P239 and P225, Smith & Wesson 908, 909, 3904, 3906, 3913, 3913LS, 3913TSW (7 Round Mag), 3913TSW, 3953TSW, 3913NL, 3914, 3914LS, 3953, and 3954, as well as Walther P5, P7, and P38.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The belt width compatibility ensures a secure and stable attachment to the duty belt. The variety of finishes allows users to match their existing gear. The ambidextrous design caters to both left- and right-handed shooters.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL performs its job of securely holding two magazines exceptionally well. Magazines are retained securely during movement but are easily accessible when needed. The retention is a good balance between security and speed.
The strengths of the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL lie in its secure retention, low-profile design, and durability. It is also comfortable to wear for extended periods. The main area for potential improvement would be the snap closure. Some users might prefer a different type of retention system, such as adjustable friction or bungee cords, for even faster reloads.
The Safariland 77 meets my expectations for a reliable and professional-looking magazine pouch. It offers a good balance of security, comfort, and durability. It is an excellent choice for law enforcement, security, and anyone who needs to carry spare magazines securely and comfortably.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL features a simple, yet effective design. The nylon-look material is durable and professional-looking. The ambidextrous design is a welcome feature.
The build quality is excellent, as expected from Safariland. The stitching is clean and reinforced. The material feels robust. The weight is minimal. The pouch sits comfortably against the body.
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL is exceptionally user-friendly. There is no learning curve. It attaches easily to the belt and magazines are easy to insert and remove.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL is built to last. The durable nylon-look material and reinforced stitching should withstand years of use. I anticipate it lasting for many years with proper care.
Maintaining the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL is incredibly easy. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. Occasionally, I’ll use a nylon brush to clean out any debris that gets caught in the seams.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL does not come with any accessories. It is primarily designed to be used as a standalone magazine carrier. It is part of the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System, allowing it to be integrated with other compatible Safariland gear.
While the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL itself is not highly customizable, its compatibility with the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System allows for a degree of modularity. You can easily attach it to other Safariland platforms or swap it out for other pouches as needed.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL
Pros
- Secure and Reliable Retention: Holds magazines firmly in place during dynamic movement.
- Professional Appearance: The nylon-look finish is discreet and suitable for duty or professional use.
- Comfortable to Wear: Conforms to the body better than rigid kydex pouches, increasing comfort during extended wear.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials and reinforced stitching, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Ambidextrous Design: Suitable for both left- and right-handed shooters.
Cons
- Snap Closure: Snap closure, while secure, might not be as fast as friction-based or bungee cord retention systems for reloads.
- Limited Customization: Offers limited customization options compared to more modular pouch systems.
Who Should Buy Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL?
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who needs a reliable and professional-looking magazine pouch for duty use. It’s also a good choice for competitive shooters who prioritize comfort and secure retention over the absolute fastest reload times. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a low-profile design.
This product may not be the best choice for competitive shooters who demand the absolute fastest reloads possible or those who prefer highly customizable, modular pouch systems. People requiring retention adjustability should look elsewhere.
A sturdy duty belt is a must-have accessory for the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL. A good gun belt will ensure that the pouch stays securely in place and doesn’t shift during movement.
Conclusion on Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL is a solid and dependable piece of gear that offers a good balance of security, comfort, and professional appearance. It has proven its worth during extended use and stands up to the Safariland reputation for quality.
At $45.99, the price is justified considering the quality of materials, durability, and the reputation of the Safariland brand. You are paying for reliability and peace of mind.
I would absolutely recommend the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22PBL to anyone looking for a dependable and comfortable magazine pouch for duty or professional use. It’s a classic for a reason. Consider adding this reliable pouch to your kit, and experience the Safariland difference for yourself!