What Makes Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models offers a unique blend of accessibility and low-profile design. Safariland is renowned for their durable and reliable law enforcement and military gear, and this magazine carrier is no exception. It promises quick access to spare magazines without adding unnecessary bulk to your belt.
My career has involved constantly assessing gear, often under duress. The biggest issues? Fumbling for reloads, bulky pouches hindering movement, and magazine retention failing at the worst time. This led me to seek a streamlined, reliable magazine carrier, which is where the Safariland 79 caught my eye.
The initial unboxing revealed a product that felt solid and well-constructed, despite its slim profile. The materials felt robust and the stitching was clean, suggesting a focus on durability. It’s clearly designed to be a minimalist solution without sacrificing performance.
Compared to some bulkier, more tactical-looking double magazine pouches I’ve used from BlackHawk and Condor, the Safariland 79 offered a noticeably smaller footprint. I chose it for its promise of enhanced comfort and reduced printing under concealment, crucial for plainclothes operations. My first impression was cautiously optimistic. This could be the answer to years of frustration or just another piece of kit destined for the gear bin.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland 79 was at an outdoor shooting range. I ran drills involving rapid magazine changes, simulating a dynamic shooting scenario. The weather was dry and sunny, ideal for assessing draw speed and retention.
The open-top design allowed for incredibly fast magazine acquisition. Magazines were easy to grip and extract, even with gloved hands. I noticed no slippage or movement of the magazines within the carrier during movement drills.
After the first day, the only minor issue was adapting to the slightly different draw angle compared to my previous pouches. However, this was a matter of adjusting my muscle memory, not a design flaw.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland 79 has proven its worth. I’ve worn it during training exercises in varying conditions, from sweltering heat to light rain. The carrier has remained secure and functional in all environments.
There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear. The stitching remains intact, and the retention hasn’t loosened. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to some nylon magazine pouches that become flimsy and lose retention over time, the Safariland 79 maintains its structural integrity. It definitely outperforms my previous experiences with cheaper, less robust options.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models
Specifications
Caliber Compatibility: Designed to fit most double-stack 9mm, .40 cal, and .45 ACP magazines. This versatility makes it adaptable to a variety of firearms.
Construction Material: Constructed from durable SafariSeven™ nylon blend. This material offers excellent resistance to abrasions, chemicals, and extreme temperatures.
Attachment Method: Belt loop attachment fits up to 2.25″ belts. This is a standard belt width for law enforcement and tactical applications.
Open Top Design: Allows for rapid magazine acquisition. This is crucial for quick reloads in high-pressure situations.
Slimline Profile: Minimizes bulk and printing. This is especially important for concealed carry and plainclothes operations.
Retention: Adjustable tension screws for customized magazine retention. This allows users to fine-tune the draw resistance to their preference.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 79 excels in its primary function: carrying and providing quick access to spare magazines. The open-top design truly shines, allowing for instinctive and rapid reloads. The adjustable tension screws allow for customization.
The strengths lie in its speed, slim profile, and robust construction. The only area for slight improvement would be a more aggressive texturing on the magazine carrier body for enhanced grip, especially in wet conditions. Overall, it exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and clean stitching. The slimline design makes it comfortable to wear. The rounded edges prevent snagging on clothing or gear.
The design is intuitive and user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment or learning curve. It’s a simple, effective design that prioritizes function over unnecessary features.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is remarkably durable, resisting abrasions, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. This suggests the Safariland 79 is built to last. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 79 is relatively straightforward and doesn’t offer extensive customization options in terms of adding accessories. However, the adjustable tension screws allow for a degree of personalization. It’s compatible with various belt attachment systems, depending on user preference.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models
Pros
- Rapid Magazine Acquisition: The open-top design enables incredibly fast and intuitive reloads, crucial in dynamic situations.
- Slimline Profile: Minimizes bulk and printing, making it ideal for concealed carry or plainclothes duty.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is highly resistant to abrasions, chemicals, and extreme temperatures, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Adjustable Retention: Allows users to fine-tune the draw resistance for personalized preference and security.
- Reliable Safariland Quality: Backed by Safariland’s reputation for producing high-quality law enforcement and military gear.
Cons
- Open-Top Design: The open design can expose magazines to the elements (rain, dust) more readily compared to covered pouches.
- Limited Customization: Offers minimal customization options beyond tension adjustment.
Who Should Buy Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models?
The Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models is perfect for: law enforcement officers, security personnel, competition shooters, and anyone who prioritizes rapid magazine access and a low-profile design.
Who should skip this product? Individuals who require maximum magazine protection from the elements or prefer more modular and customizable pouch systems might find the Safariland 79 too minimalist.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality duty belt is essential for secure and comfortable carry.
Conclusion on Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models
The Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models is a well-designed, durable, and highly functional magazine carrier. Its open-top design provides unparalleled speed, and its slim profile enhances comfort and concealment.
At $31.99, the price is justified considering the quality of materials and construction. It’s a valuable investment for anyone who relies on quick and reliable magazine access.
I would absolutely recommend the Safariland 79 to anyone seeking a streamlined, high-performance magazine carrier. If speed and discretion are your priorities, look no further. Upgrade your kit today and experience the difference!