Let’s Dive into Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22
The Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22 is a duty-grade piece of equipment designed to securely hold a portable radio on your duty belt. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, this carrier promises durability and reliable radio retention. Its formed protective pouch and adjustable bungie cord tiedown with snap closure are key features that caught my attention.
As a seasoned gear specialist, my work often involves evaluating the practical utility of equipment under duress. The need for a reliable radio carrier arose when the generic nylon pouch I was using kept snagging during obstacle courses. I was looking for something more robust and low-profile, something that wouldn’t hinder movement but still offered quick access to the radio.
My initial impression of the Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22 was positive. The SafariLaminate material felt rigid and well-constructed, promising a degree of protection the soft nylon carriers couldn’t offer. Compared to simpler nylon pouches or open-top designs, the Safariland offered a more secure system.
Upon unboxing, I noted the carrier’s streamlined design and the secure snap closure. I was excited to see if its rigidity would translate to enhanced durability and less snagging.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test took place during a search and rescue training exercise in a heavily wooded area. The Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22 was subjected to crawling, climbing, and navigating through dense brush. Even in damp conditions, the radio stayed securely in place thanks to the adjustable bungie cord.
The carrier performed admirably even when exposed to mud and moisture. The radio was always accessible, but well-retained. There was no noticeable drag or snagging, a significant improvement over my previous carrier.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use during training exercises and field operations, the Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22 has proven its durability. There are no significant signs of wear and tear. The SafariLaminate material has held its shape, and the bungie cord retains its elasticity.
Cleaning is simple, usually just requiring a wipe-down with a damp cloth. Compared to my previous experiences with nylon pouches that would fray or lose their shape, the Safariland carrier has performed exceptionally well. It has proven to be a reliable piece of kit that I can depend on.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22
Specifications
- Category: Duty Accessories. This clearly indicates its intended use for law enforcement, security, or other professionals requiring a secure and accessible radio carrier.
- Finish: Nylon-Look. This provides a professional, subdued appearance, avoiding unwanted attention and blending seamlessly with standard duty uniforms.
- Color: Black. The black color ensures compatibility with virtually any uniform or tactical gear setup.
- Material: SafariLaminate. This proprietary material is known for its exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear.
These specifications are important because they collectively contribute to the carrier’s suitability for demanding professional use. The SafariLaminate construction ensures it can withstand harsh conditions. Its black, nylon-look finish maintains a low profile.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22 performs its job exceptionally well. The radio is held securely in place thanks to the adjustable bungie cord with snap closure. Its formed pouch design provides a snug fit, preventing the radio from shifting or falling out during rigorous activities.
The only potential weakness is the bungee cord snap closure. While secure, it may be slightly slower to access than an open-top design in a critical situation. The carrier significantly exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and secure radio retention.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22 is designed for practicality and durability. The SafariLaminate material provides a rigid structure that protects the radio without adding excessive weight. Its low-profile design minimizes snagging.
The carrier attaches securely to a standard duty belt. There is minimal learning curve involved in using the carrier effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariLaminate material is highly resistant to abrasions, tears, and moisture. This ensures a long service life even under heavy use. Maintenance is minimal.
Simply wiping the carrier down with a damp cloth after exposure to dirt or moisture is usually sufficient. I expect the carrier to last for many years with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22 is designed to accommodate a wide range of standard portable police radios. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its core function is to securely hold the radio. Compatibility with Safariland duty belts and accessories is excellent.
The bungie cord tiedown can be adjusted or replaced if needed. However, aftermarket modifications are generally unnecessary due to the carrier’s robust design and secure fit.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22
Pros
- Extremely durable SafariLaminate construction. Resists wear and tear, ensuring long-term reliability.
- Secure radio retention. Adjustable bungie cord with snap closure keeps the radio firmly in place during rigorous activity.
- Professional, low-profile design. Blends seamlessly with duty uniforms and minimizes snagging.
- Simple to use and maintain. Requires minimal cleaning and no special tools.
- Compatible with most standard portable police radios. Offers wide applicability across different radio models.
Cons
- Bungie cord snap closure might be slower to access than open-top designs.
- Limited customization options beyond adjusting the bungie cord.
Who Should Buy Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22?
The Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and other professionals who rely on portable radios for communication. It’s ideal for those who require a durable and secure carrier that can withstand demanding conditions. Anyone needing to carry a radio in a professional capacity will benefit most from the Safariland carrier.
This product may not be necessary for casual users who only occasionally use a radio and don’t require the same level of security and durability. A simpler, less robust pouch might suffice for them. A compatible Safariland duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure a secure and stable attachment.
Conclusion on Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22
The Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22 is a well-designed and highly durable piece of equipment that provides secure and reliable radio retention. Its SafariLaminate construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of professional use. Priced at $49.99, the cost is more than justified by its durability and performance.
I would highly recommend this carrier to anyone who needs a reliable and secure way to carry a portable radio on their duty belt. If you are a law enforcement officer, security professional, or anyone who relies on a radio for communication in demanding environments, invest in the Safariland 761 SafariLaminate Radio Carrier 761-XX-22. You won’t be disappointed.