Let’s Dive into Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 77-419-9
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 77-419-9 is a duty-grade piece of kit designed for professionals who require quick and reliable access to spare magazines. Made by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, this pouch promises durability and ambidextrous functionality, wrapped in a sleek, high-gloss black finish. It’s built to integrate seamlessly with existing duty belts and tactical systems, offering a streamlined and professional look while ensuring magazines are always at the ready.
My department recently transitioned to a new sidearm, and with it came the need for a new magazine pouch that offered both security and rapid access. I was specifically looking for a pouch that could accommodate the magazines for the S&W M&P 45, offered ambidextrous use, and maintained a professional, high-gloss appearance for formal occasions. The Safariland 77 seemed to tick all those boxes.
The pouch arrived in a simple, no-frills package, but the moment I held it, I could feel the quality. The high-gloss finish was immaculate, and the rigidity of the material inspired confidence. The ambidextrous design was immediately apparent, with no awkward angles or one-sided features.
Compared to some of the cheaper, nylon magazine pouches I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 77 felt like a significant upgrade. It’s more robust than the Bianchi Accumold Elite double mag pouch, and the high-gloss finish provides a better match for my dress uniform than a standard basketweave. It felt more secure than some open-top designs I’ve experimented with from Blackhawk.
Initially, I was excited by the promise of a durable, professional-looking magazine pouch. My biggest concern was whether the high-gloss finish would be prone to scratching and wear, but I was eager to put it to the test. I immediately appreciated the robust construction and professional finish.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 77-419-9 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch took place at the police academy’s firing range during a mandatory weapons qualification exercise. I subjected it to rapid draws, reloads, and movement drills. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing the pouch’s accessibility and retention.
Even with gloved hands, drawing magazines from the pouch was smooth and efficient. The magazines remained secure during dynamic movements. I did not experience any issues with retention or accessibility.
There was a slight learning curve to getting the draw angle just right, but after a few practice runs, I found it intuitive. The only minor issue was the initial stiffness of the retention, which eased up after a few uses. Overall, the first-time experience was positive and confidence-inspiring.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the Safariland 77 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. It has been exposed to a variety of conditions, from rain and snow to dusty environments, all while maintaining its functionality and appearance. There are no signs of significant wear or tear.
The high-gloss finish has held up remarkably well, showing only minor scuffs from routine use. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it looking professional. It remains rigid and secure, retaining magazines consistently and reliably.
The Safariland 77 outperforms cheaper nylon pouches in terms of durability and retention. The Safariland 77 significantly improves on the performance of previous magazine pouches I’ve used, offering superior retention and a more professional appearance. Its long-term reliability and ease of maintenance have made it a valuable addition to my duty gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 77-419-9
Specifications
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 77-419-9 is specifically designed to fit belts 2.25″ wide. The pouch is available in Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss or STX TACTICAL finish. It is also designed to be part of the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System.
The Hi Gloss Black finish offers a professional and clean aesthetic, ideal for formal duty wear. The ambidextrous design ensures that the pouch can be comfortably and efficiently used by both right- and left-handed individuals, increasing its versatility in dynamic situations.
The fact that it’s designed for 2.25″ belts is crucial for law enforcement officers, as this is the standard duty belt width. The compatibility with the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System allows for seamless integration with existing tactical gear, streamlining the overall loadout.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch performs its primary function exceptionally well: securely holding and quickly dispensing handgun magazines. The retention is firm enough to prevent accidental loss of magazines during movement but loose enough to allow for rapid draws when needed. This provides the officer confidence in the field.
The pouch’s ambidextrous design is a major strength, providing equal accessibility for both right- and left-handed users. The high-gloss finish is aesthetically pleasing but could be susceptible to scratches over time. This finish doesn’t impact the functionality of the pouch.
The Safariland 77 meets expectations for a duty-grade magazine pouch. The pouch provides secure retention and quick access to magazines, offering a reliable and functional addition to a duty belt.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 77 is constructed from durable, rigid material that maintains its shape and provides excellent retention. The Safariland 77 feels substantial and well-made. The weight is appropriate for its size and purpose.
The design is simple and functional, with no unnecessary frills. There is a slight learning curve involved to get used to the retention, but the overall design is user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction and materials, the Safariland 77 is expected to last for years with proper care. The smooth, high-gloss surface is easy to clean and maintain with a damp cloth. The rigid construction ensures that it will not deform or lose its shape over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 77 does not come with any accessories. The pouch is primarily designed for use with standard 2.25″ duty belts. There are no specific customization options available beyond the choice of finish (Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, or STX TACTICAL).
The pouch is compatible with the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System. The Safariland system allows integration with other tactical gear like holsters and radio pouches. This allows for a streamlined and efficient duty loadout.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 77-419-9
Pros
- Robust Construction: The rigid material and solid build quality ensure long-term durability.
- Ambidextrous Design: Allows for easy and efficient use by both right- and left-handed individuals.
- Secure Retention: Magazines are held firmly in place, preventing accidental loss during movement.
- Professional Appearance: The Hi Gloss Black finish offers a clean and polished look, suitable for formal duty wear.
- Compatibility with Safariland Systems: Integrates seamlessly with the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System.
Cons
- Potential for Scratches: The high-gloss finish may be prone to scratching over time.
- Initial Stiffness: The retention may be initially stiff, requiring a break-in period.
Who Should Buy Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 77-419-9?
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and military personnel who require a durable, reliable, and professional-looking magazine pouch. It is especially well-suited for those who appreciate ambidextrous functionality and the ability to integrate with the Safariland Tactical System. Those who need a highly polished, professional appearance in formal settings would benefit greatly from the high-gloss finish.
This product may not be ideal for individuals who prioritize lightweight gear or those who operate in environments where a high-gloss finish is not appropriate. Civilians carrying concealed may find the pouch too bulky or too rigid for their needs.
Consider purchasing additional Safariland accessories such as the 6004 or 6005 tactical holsters to maximize the benefits of the integrated system. Regularly cleaning the pouch with a damp cloth is recommended to maintain its appearance and functionality.
Conclusion on Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 77-419-9
Overall, the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 77-419-9 is an excellent choice for professionals seeking a durable, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing magazine pouch. Its robust construction, ambidextrous design, and secure retention make it a valuable addition to any duty belt or tactical loadout. While the high-gloss finish may be susceptible to scratches, its professional appearance and easy maintenance make it a worthwhile trade-off.
At $51.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and overall performance. The price point puts it slightly above some budget-friendly options, but well below the very high-end custom pouches.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 77 to any law enforcement officer or security professional who values quality, reliability, and a polished appearance. If you’re looking for a magazine pouch that will stand up to the rigors of daily duty while maintaining a professional look, the Safariland 77 is an excellent choice. Invest in your gear, invest in your safety, and get yours today!