Let’s Dive into Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13B
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13B isn’t just another magazine carrier; it’s a testament to Safariland’s commitment to quality and tactical efficiency. This pouch promises to securely hold two magazines, offering ambidextrous access and a durable STX Tactical Black finish. Having spent over a decade in the outdoor and tactical gear world, I’ve seen countless magazine pouches come and go, but the Safariland name always commands attention, and this particular model piqued my interest due to its reputation for reliability and compatibility with various firearms.
My old magazine pouch was worn out and offered only single-stack magazine storage. I needed a durable, double-stack magazine pouch that could handle the wear and tear of range use and potential tactical scenarios, offering quick and easy access to spare ammunition.
The pouch arrived in a simple, no-frills package, true to its tactical nature. The STX Tactical Black finish looked clean and professional, and the overall construction felt solid and well-made, immediately giving me confidence in its durability.
Compared to a generic nylon double magazine pouch I had been using, the Safariland 77 felt significantly more robust. Its molded design and rigid construction stood in stark contrast to the flimsy nylon, offering a much more secure and reliable way to carry spare magazines. I also considered a Kydex pouch, but opted for the Safariland due to its reputation for balancing retention with ease of access.
My initial excitement was tempered with a hint of anticipation, eager to see if it could live up to the Safariland legacy in real-world use. I was definitely excited about its ambidextrous design and its potential to streamline my reloads during training sessions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13B to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Safariland 77 was at an outdoor shooting range, during a pistol training session. I loaded it with two Glock 21 magazines, and attached it to my duty belt.
The pouch performed admirably under sunny and slightly dusty conditions. The magazines were held securely, yet were easy to draw quickly when needed, resulting in faster reloads.
The Safariland 77 was intuitive to use right out of the box, requiring no significant adjustment period. Its simple design ensured easy magazine insertion and extraction, even with gloves on.
Initially, the magazine retention was a little tight, requiring a firm tug to draw the magazines. However, after a few practice draws, the retention eased up slightly, becoming perfect for my use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 77 continues to perform reliably. It’s become a staple on my duty belt and a trusted companion during range sessions.
The STX Tactical Black finish has proven remarkably durable, showing minimal signs of wear and tear despite constant rubbing against other gear. The molded construction has retained its shape, and the pouch still provides secure magazine retention.
Maintenance is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. The Safariland 77 requires no special cleaning products or procedures.
Compared to my previous nylon pouches, the Safariland 77 offers a significant improvement in durability, retention, and ease of use. It has noticeably sped up my reloads and provided peace of mind knowing that my magazines are securely held in place.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13B
Specifications
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13B is designed to hold two handgun magazines. It features a STX Tactical Black finish for durability and a professional appearance.
It’s specifically designed to fit belts up to 2.25 inches wide, accommodating most standard duty belts. The ambidextrous design allows for convenient access from either side, catering to both right- and left-handed shooters.
- Category: Tactical Accessories. This clearly defines the pouch’s intended use within the broader scope of tactical gear.
- Finish/Color: STX Tactical Black. This provides a low-profile, professional appearance while also adding to the pouch’s durability.
- Fits: Glock 20, 21; Heckler & Koch USP45Compact.45ACP; USP40, USP9; Para Ordance P-16LDA; P-14, 9mm & .45. This list of compatible firearms demonstrates the pouch’s versatility and wide range of applications. Knowing that it fits a variety of common handguns is important.
- Fastener: Brass. The brass fastener ensures secure attachment to the belt while also resisting corrosion.
- Type: Ambidextrous. This is a crucial feature for many users, providing flexibility and catering to different shooting preferences.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the pouch’s functionality, durability, and compatibility with different firearms and belts. The ambidextrous design is a significant advantage for those who need to switch hands or prefer a non-dominant side draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 77 performs its job exceptionally well, securely holding two magazines while allowing for quick and easy access. The molded design provides excellent retention, preventing magazines from accidentally falling out, even during strenuous activity.
The pouch’s main strength is its balance of retention and accessibility, offering a secure hold without sacrificing speed. A minor weakness is that the initial retention can be a little tight, requiring a short break-in period.
The Safariland 77 meets and exceeds expectations, providing a reliable and efficient way to carry spare magazines. Its durability and ease of use make it a valuable addition to any tactical or range setup.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 77 features a molded design with a rigid construction, using high-quality materials that feel both durable and lightweight. The pouch is comfortable to wear and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the belt.
The pouch is extremely user-friendly, requiring no special training or expertise to operate. The ambidextrous design ensures intuitive access from either side.
Durability & Maintenance
The STX Tactical Black finish is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches, abrasions, and wear and tear. With proper care, this pouch should last for many years.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The Safariland 77 is built to withstand harsh conditions and requires minimal upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 77 doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but it is compatible with a variety of belt attachment systems. The brass fasteners can be replaced if needed, but no other significant customization options are available.
The pouch’s simple design ensures compatibility with most standard duty belts and MOLLE platforms. While there are no swappable parts or custom finishes, it is compatible with Safariland’s various attachment methods.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13B
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The STX Tactical Black finish and molded construction ensure long-lasting performance.
- Secure Magazine Retention: Magazines are held firmly in place, preventing accidental loss.
- Ambidextrous Design: Provides flexible access for both right- and left-handed shooters.
- Easy to Use: Requires no special training or expertise.
- Professional Appearance: The sleek STX Tactical Black finish looks great on any duty belt.
Cons
- Initial Retention: The magazine retention can be a little tight at first.
- Limited Customization: No significant customization options are available beyond belt attachment.
Who Should Buy Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13B?
The Safariland 77 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and competitive shooters who require a durable and reliable way to carry spare magazines. It is also ideal for anyone who values ambidextrous access and a professional appearance.
Those who prefer highly customizable gear or require specific retention adjustments might want to explore other options. It might also not be the best choice for those who need to carry magazines for very slim single stack firearms.
A sturdy duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure secure and comfortable carry. The Safariland ELS system can also be used for enhanced modularity.
Conclusion on Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13B
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13B is a top-tier magazine carrier that delivers on its promises of durability, security, and ease of use. It’s a well-built and thoughtfully designed piece of gear.
At $41.99, the price is justified given the pouch’s quality, reliability, and long-lasting performance. It’s an investment that will pay off in the long run.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 77 to anyone seeking a professional-grade magazine pouch that can withstand the rigors of daily use. If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient way to carry spare magazines, look no further – this is the pouch for you.