What Makes Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle Stand Out?
The Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle is designed for those who prioritize discreet carry and quick access to spare ammunition. Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical gear, engineered this magazine holder with both comfort and functionality in mind. The paddle design allows for easy on and off, while still maintaining a secure fit.
My journey to finding the perfect concealment magazine holder was born out of necessity. I needed a reliable and comfortable solution for carrying extra magazines during tactical training and competitive shooting events. The Safariland 573 promised both, and its reputation preceded it.
Upon receiving the Safariland 573, my initial impression was one of solid construction. The polymer felt durable, and the paddle design seemed well-thought-out for comfortable all-day wear. Its minimalist approach also appealed to me.
I considered the Galco Single Magazine Carrier and the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse Magazine Pouch before settling on the Safariland 573. The Galco was a bit too bulky for my needs, and the Blade-Tech, while versatile, didn’t offer the same level of quick on/off convenience as the paddle design. The Safariland 573 seemed the perfect balance of concealment and accessibility.
My first impression was positive – this appeared to be a well-made, functional piece of gear. I was eager to put it to the test and see if it lived up to the Safariland name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle at an outdoor shooting range during a defensive pistol course. I wore it with a light cover garment as part of my typical concealed carry setup.
The weather conditions were relatively dry and sunny, which didn’t pose any immediate challenges. The true test was how well it would perform during dynamic movement and rapid magazine changes. Accessing magazines was easy, and the retention was secure during sprints and kneeling drills.
Initially, the paddle felt a bit stiff against my skin, but I quickly adjusted to it. There were no unexpected issues or malfunctions; the Safariland 573 performed as expected.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 573 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. I’ve used it in various training scenarios, including force-on-force exercises and low-light drills.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear, primarily some minor scuff marks on the polymer paddle. Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use is sufficient. It consistently outperforms cheaper, less robust magazine holders I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle
Specifications
The Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle is a lightweight, injection-molded polymer magazine carrier designed for concealed carry. It’s compatible with a wide range of double-stack 9mm/.40 caliber magazines. It features an adjustable tension screw for customized retention.
The paddle design allows for easy attachment and removal from the waistband, providing convenience without sacrificing security. Its relatively low profile ensures discreet concealment. The adjustable tension is crucial for accommodating magazines from different manufacturers, which often vary slightly in dimensions.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle excels at its core function: securely holding and quickly deploying spare magazines. The adjustable tension screw allows for fine-tuning the retention to your preference.
The greatest strength is its ease of use and reliable retention. A minor weakness is that the paddle can sometimes feel less stable than belt-mounted options when engaging in extremely vigorous activity. Overall, it meets my expectations for a concealment magazine holder.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 573 features a straightforward, functional design. The injection-molded polymer is lightweight and durable, and the paddle is contoured for comfort.
There is virtually no learning curve; it’s intuitive to use right out of the box. The minimalist design contributes to its concealability.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 573 is built to last. Its robust polymer construction can withstand daily wear and tear.
Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is typically all that’s needed. The design is simple, reducing the chances of any parts breaking or requiring repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle itself doesn’t come with any accessories. The primary customization option is the adjustable tension screw.
While not specifically designed for compatibility with other brands, the Safariland 573‘s retention system can often accommodate magazines from various manufacturers, making it versatile. It is crucial to adjust the tension screw appropriately to ensure proper magazine retention and prevent accidental loss.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle
Pros
- Easy on/off paddle design for convenient carry.
- Adjustable tension screw allows for customized magazine retention.
- Durable polymer construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Low-profile design for discreet concealment.
- Compatible with a wide range of double-stack 9mm/.40 caliber magazines.
Cons
- Paddle design may not be as stable as belt-mounted options during intense activity.
- Paddle can sometimes feel stiff against bare skin.
Who Should Buy Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle?
The Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and concealed carry permit holders who prioritize convenience, discreetness, and quick access to spare magazines. Competitive shooters who need a reliable and easily accessible magazine holder for stage changes would also benefit.
This product may not be ideal for individuals who engage in extremely rigorous physical activities where maximum stability is required. Those with particularly sensitive skin may also find the paddle design less comfortable.
A quality belt designed for concealed carry is a must-have accessory to ensure proper weight distribution and prevent the magazine holder from shifting. Consider a light cover garment to further enhance concealment.
Conclusion on Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle
The Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle is a well-designed and executed piece of kit that delivers on its promise of convenience and reliability. At a price of $48.59, it offers excellent value for the money.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 573 to anyone looking for a comfortable and discreet way to carry spare magazines. It is a solid investment that will provide years of reliable service. If you value quick access and comfortable all-day carry, the Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle is definitely worth considering.