Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13HS Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13HS

Every seasoned shooter knows that a reliable magazine pouch is as crucial as the firearm itself. A fast reload can be the difference between winning a competition and going home empty-handed or, in more serious scenarios, between life and death. The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13HS promises just that: reliability and speed.

As a gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen my share of mag pouches, some fantastic, others downright disastrous. My primary need was a pouch that could withstand rigorous use on the range and in tactical training scenarios while providing quick and easy access to spare magazines. I was hoping for a product that melds durability, functionality, and a low-profile design.

Upon unboxing, the Safariland pouch immediately impressed me with its robust construction and sleek STX Tactical Black finish. The material felt durable, and the stitching appeared meticulously done, ensuring long-term use. Its weight felt substantial enough to suggest quality materials, but not so heavy as to become burdensome on a belt setup.

Compared to my older nylon pouches, which tended to fray and lose retention over time, the Safariland 77 felt like a serious upgrade. I had considered pouches from Blackhawk and HSGI, but ultimately chose the Safariland for its reputation for law enforcement-grade durability and the ambidextrous design, which offered versatility. My initial excitement was definitely justified.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13HS to the Test

First Use Experience

I first put the Safariland 77 to the test at a local shooting range, during a practical pistol match. The temperatures were moderate, and the environment was relatively dry, providing an ideal testing ground. I immediately noticed how easily my Glock 17 magazines slid in and out of the pouch, offering secure retention without being overly tight.

The hidden snap closure felt secure and didn’t impede access to the magazines, even under the pressure of a timed stage. Even during rapid movements and transitions, the magazines stayed firmly in place. There were no noticeable issues during the first use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use in various conditions, including a particularly dusty outdoor training session and a rainy range day, the Safariland 77 has held up remarkably well. The STX Tactical Black finish shows minimal signs of wear, resisting scratches and abrasions effectively. The stitching remains intact, and the retention has remained consistent.

Maintaining the pouch is incredibly simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to some of the cheaper nylon pouches I’ve used in the past, which began to sag and lose their shape within weeks, the Safariland 77 has significantly outperformed expectations, proving its worth as a durable and reliable piece of kit. It gives me confidence knowing my spare magazines are secure and readily accessible.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13HS

Specifications

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13HS is designed for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike. It features a durable STX Tactical Black finish for enhanced resistance to wear and tear. The pouch is specifically designed to fit belts up to 2.25″ wide, providing a secure and stable attachment.

The ambidextrous design ensures compatibility for both left- and right-handed users. A hidden snap closure provides both retention and ease of access. The pouch is confirmed to fit a variety of magazines, including those for Glock 20/21, Heckler & Koch USP45 Compact/USP40/USP9, and Para Ordnance P-16LDA/P-14 9mm/.45 models. These specifications ensure versatility and reliable performance in demanding situations.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 77 excels in its primary function: securely holding and providing quick access to handgun magazines. Its retention is excellent, preventing magazines from falling out during rigorous movement, while still allowing for rapid deployment when needed. The ambidextrous design is a significant advantage.

One area that could potentially be improved is the tightness of the magazine compartments for slimmer magazines; however, this is a minor issue that can be mitigated with adjustable tension screws (not included). Overall, the Safariland 77 meets and even exceeds expectations for a high-quality magazine pouch, providing reliable performance and peace of mind.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland 77 is exceptional. Safariland has a reputation for quality, and this pouch reflects that. The STX Tactical Black material feels rugged and durable, while the overall weight is well-balanced. The design is sleek and low-profile, minimizing bulk on the belt.

The pouch is also user-friendly, requiring no significant learning curve. Its intuitive design allows for quick and easy magazine deployment, even under stress.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 77 is built to last. The durable materials and robust construction ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. Proper care for this pouch is straightforward, enhancing its lifespan and maintaining its professional appearance.

Maintenance involves simply wiping it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. The durable STX finish resists scratches and abrasions, further contributing to its longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 77 comes as a standalone unit, meaning there are no included accessories in the traditional sense. However, its compatibility with various belt systems and attachment methods offers a degree of customization. While it doesn’t offer direct customization in terms of adjustable tension or modular attachments, its robust construction and universal fit make it compatible with a wide range of tactical belts and MOLLE systems via adapters. Its simple, yet effective, design makes it a versatile addition to any tactical loadout.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-13HS