Let’s Dive into Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-23PBL
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-23PBL is a duty-grade piece of kit designed for professionals and serious shooters. Safariland is a well-respected name, and this pouch lives up to their reputation with its robust construction and practical design. It is built to securely hold two handgun magazines, offering quick access and reliable retention in demanding situations.
I needed a reliable and durable magazine pouch for my duty belt after years of using cheaper, less reliable options. My old pouches were constantly shifting, and the retention was questionable, leading to some close calls on the range. I wanted something that wouldn’t let me down during competitions or in a real-world tactical scenario.
Out of the box, the Safariland 77 feels incredibly solid. The STX Tactical Black finish provides a professional, low-glare appearance. The molded design is rigid and gives me confidence that the magazines will stay put, even during vigorous movement.
I considered the Blackhawk! Double Stack Mag Pouch and the Uncle Mike’s Open Top Mag Carrier. The Safariland stood out because of its superior construction and proven track record in law enforcement and military applications, justifying the higher price point for enhanced durability and peace of mind. My first thought was, “This thing is built like a tank!” It exudes quality and durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-23PBL to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 77 at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The weather was moderately humid, adding a slickness to the magazines. It was designed to simulate real-world tactical encounters.
The pouch performed flawlessly, providing quick and consistent access to my magazines even with sweaty hands. I didn’t need any adjustment period; the magazines drew smoothly and re-indexed with no fumbling. One surprise was how securely the magazines were held without feeling overly tight, which resulted in fast, confident reloads.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use in training exercises and range sessions, the Safariland 77 has proven to be incredibly durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. Even after being exposed to rain, mud, and direct sunlight, the STX Tactical Black finish shows no fading or damage.
Maintenance is simple; I occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. Compared to my previous nylon pouches that required frequent cleaning and stitching repairs, the Safariland 77 is a breeze to maintain, outperforming them significantly in terms of durability and reliability. The design and function are both holding strong.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-23PBL
Specifications
- Fits belts 2.25″ wide: This width accommodates standard duty belts, ensuring a secure and stable fit. A proper fit is essential for maintaining a consistent draw and preventing the pouch from shifting during movement.
- Available in Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss or STX Tactical finish: The STX Tactical finish offers a low-profile, non-reflective appearance. This finish is critical for tactical applications where minimizing visibility is a priority.
- Part of the 6004/6005 Tactical System: This integration allows for seamless compatibility with other Safariland tactical gear. This modularity allows for a custom setup for each user.
- Category: Tactical Accessories: This categorization accurately reflects the pouch’s intended use and design. It’s built for demanding tactical environments.
- Finish/Color: STX Tactical Black: The black finish offers a low-profile, professional appearance. It’s ideal for law enforcement, military, and tactical applications.
- Fits: Glock 20, 21; Heckler&Koch USP45Compact.45ACP; USP40, USP9; ParaOrdance P-16LDA; P-14, 9mm&.45: The wide compatibility ensures it can accommodate a variety of popular handgun magazines. Knowing your magazines will fit securely is a huge confidence booster.
- Fastener: Black Snap: The snap closure offers a secure and reliable method of attachment. It is easy to operate even with gloved hands.
- Type: Ambidextrous: The ambidextrous design allows for use by both left- and right-handed shooters. This is crucial for ensuring accessibility and adaptability in different tactical situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 77 performs its primary function of securely holding and providing quick access to magazines exceptionally well. The retention is firm enough to prevent accidental release but allows for a smooth and consistent draw. The pouch meets my expectations and exceeds them in terms of durability and reliability, instilling confidence in its performance during critical moments.
The pouch’s strengths include its robust construction, secure retention, and ambidextrous design. The only area for potential improvement is the fixed magazine tension. Some users might prefer adjustable tension, though the current level has worked well for me.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 77 is outstanding. The molded polymer construction feels incredibly durable and provides excellent structural integrity. The pouch sits comfortably on the belt and doesn’t dig into the body, even during extended wear.
The pouch is very user-friendly; there’s no learning curve involved. The magazines slide in and out smoothly, and the snap closure is easy to operate. The design is intuitive and focused on practical functionality.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 77 is built to last. The durable polymer construction and robust snap closure are designed to withstand rigorous use and harsh conditions. With minimal maintenance, I expect this pouch to last for many years.
Maintenance is incredibly simple; just wipe it down with a damp cloth as needed. The polymer material resists dirt and moisture, preventing corrosion or damage. The design is simple and rugged enough to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 77 doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it’s designed to integrate seamlessly with other Safariland tactical gear, such as the 6004/6005 series holsters and accessories. The pouch is also compatible with various belt attachments, allowing users to customize their setup.
The built-in belt loop is a common and reliable interface.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-23PBL
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The STX Tactical Black polymer construction ensures long-lasting performance. This pouch is built to handle years of hard use.
- Secure Magazine Retention: The molded design provides a secure fit, preventing magazines from falling out during movement. Knowing your magazines are secure provides peace of mind.
- Ambidextrous Design: Suitable for both left- and right-handed shooters. It provides maximum flexibility for all users.
- Easy to Clean and Maintain: The polymer material is resistant to dirt and moisture, making cleaning a breeze. It’s perfect for duty or every-day carry.
- Professional Appearance: The STX Tactical Black finish offers a low-profile, non-reflective look. It helps to maintain a tactical advantage.
Cons
- Fixed Magazine Tension: Some users may prefer adjustable tension. The tension might not be perfect for all magazine types or personal preferences.
- Limited Customization: Lacks modular attachments beyond belt loop. Those looking for MOLLE webbing for more integration will need to look elsewhere.
Who Should Buy Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-23PBL?
Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, competitive shooters, and anyone who requires a durable and reliable magazine pouch. Those who need a pouch they can depend on will find the Safariland 77 to be a solid choice.
Who should skip this product? Those looking for a low-cost, minimalist option or those who require extensive customization options. If budget is your primary concern, there are less expensive options available.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality duty belt is essential for a secure and stable fit. I also recommend using magazines that are specifically designed for your handgun to ensure optimal compatibility and performance.
Conclusion on Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-23PBL
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-383-23PBL is a top-tier piece of gear that delivers exceptional durability, reliability, and performance. The price is justified by the quality of construction and the peace of mind it provides. I absolutely recommend this pouch to anyone who needs a dependable magazine carrier for duty or tactical applications.
If you’re looking for a magazine pouch that won’t let you down, the Safariland 77 is an excellent investment. It will likely be the last magazine pouch you need to buy!