What Makes Safariland 99 Buckleless Reversible Belt, 1.50 – 1 out of 25 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 99 Buckleless Reversible Belt, 1.50 – 1 out of 25 models, manufactured by Safariland, is a seemingly simple piece of kit that promises a significant upgrade to your duty or tactical setup. It’s a 1.5-inch, reversible belt designed to integrate seamlessly with Safariland’s buckleless system, offering a streamlined and potentially more comfortable alternative to traditional buckled belts. The core feature of reversibility, coupled with the hook-and-loop lining, allows it to function as the foundation for attaching various pouches and accessories without needing a conventional buckle, a concept that initially piqued my interest as someone who spends long hours in the field.
I was searching for a way to reduce the bulk and potential pressure points caused by traditional duty belt buckles, especially when seated in vehicles or working in confined spaces. The promise of a smoother, more streamlined profile led me to explore the Safariland 99.
Upon unboxing, my first impression was that of understated quality. The Safari-Laminate material felt robust and durable, while the hook-and-loop lining was neatly and securely stitched. The belt’s lightweight nature was also immediately apparent.
I considered several alternatives, including the Blue Alpha Gear Hybrid EDC Belt and the 5.11 Tactical Trainer Belt. I ultimately chose the Safariland 99 because of its specific integration with the Safariland ecosystem, allowing for a more secure and cohesive attachment of my existing Safariland holsters and pouches.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The design seemed sound, but I needed to see how it performed under real-world conditions before fully embracing the buckleless concept.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 99 Buckleless Reversible Belt, 1.50 – 1 out of 25 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland 99 was a day at the shooting range, followed by a training exercise simulating a search and rescue operation in a wooded area. I wanted to assess its performance both in a static shooting environment and during periods of high physical activity.
The belt performed well in both dry and slightly damp conditions; however, I purposely avoided extreme conditions initially to gauge its basic functionality. The hook-and-loop system proved secure, keeping my holster and magazine pouches firmly in place, even during rapid movements.
The ease of use was surprisingly straightforward. Once I understood the concept of the buckleless system and how it integrated with my other Safariland gear, the setup was quick and intuitive. The initial adjustment to the feel of a buckleless belt took a few minutes, but the comfort and low profile were immediately noticeable.
The only minor issue I encountered during the first use was a slight “scratchiness” from the hook-and-loop against my underbelt, which was easily resolved by ensuring a snug fit and proper alignment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, including law enforcement duties and tactical training scenarios, the Safariland 99 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the Safari-Laminate material or the hook-and-loop lining.
Cleaning the belt is simple; I usually just wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove any dirt or debris. The hook-and-loop is easily cleaned with a brush to remove any lint.
Compared to my previous experiences with traditional buckled duty belts, the Safariland 99 offers a significant improvement in comfort and reduced bulk. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of stability and ease of integration with my existing gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 99 Buckleless Reversible Belt, 1.50 – 1 out of 25 models
Specifications
- Material: Safari-Laminate – This material provides durability and resistance to abrasion.
- Width: 1.5 inches – A standard width for most duty and tactical belt accessories.
- Reversibility: Allows the belt to be worn with either the hook or loop side facing outwards.
- Hook and Loop Lining: A 1.5-inch band of hook and loop runs along the entire length of the belt. This feature enables the attachment of compatible accessories and underbelts for a secure, buckleless system.
These specifications are important because they dictate the belt’s compatibility with other gear, its durability, and its overall functionality. The 1.5-inch width ensures that most standard pouches and holsters will fit securely. The Safari-Laminate material provides resistance to the wear and tear that is expected in a duty environment.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 99 performs its job admirably, providing a stable and secure platform for carrying essential gear. The hook-and-loop system ensures that pouches and holsters remain firmly in place, even during strenuous activity.
One of its strengths is the streamlined profile, which reduces bulk and enhances comfort. The reversibility is also a plus, allowing for flexibility in how the belt is used and configured. A potential weakness is the dependence on compatible hook-and-loop accessories; it may require a complete overhaul of your existing gear setup.
The belt meets my expectations by offering a comfortable and secure alternative to traditional buckled belts.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The Safari-Laminate material feels durable and well-constructed.
The belt is lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods, and it presents a minimal learning curve. The hook and loop attachment system is intuitive and easy to use.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the robust construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland 99 should last for several years with proper care.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and brush. The belt is not designed to be repaired, but its durable construction minimizes the need for repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 99 is designed to be used with compatible accessories that utilize a hook-and-loop attachment system.
While it doesn’t offer traditional customization options like interchangeable buckles, its reversibility and compatibility with a wide range of Safariland and other brands’ accessories provide a high degree of flexibility in configuration. The most vital accessory is a compatible hook-and-loop underbelt.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 99 Buckleless Reversible Belt, 1.50 – 1 out of 25 models
Pros
- Streamlined design reduces bulk and enhances comfort.
- Secure hook-and-loop attachment system keeps gear firmly in place.
- Reversible design offers flexibility in configuration.
- Durable Safari-Laminate construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Requires compatible hook-and-loop accessories, potentially necessitating a gear overhaul.
- The hook-and-loop can be abrasive against certain underbelts.
Who Should Buy Safariland 99 Buckleless Reversible Belt, 1.50 – 1 out of 25 models?
This belt is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical professionals who prioritize comfort, a low profile, and secure gear attachment. It’s ideal for those already invested in the Safariland ecosystem or willing to switch to compatible hook-and-loop accessories.
This product might not be suitable for individuals who prefer traditional buckles or who are unwilling to invest in compatible hook-and-loop accessories. It’s also not the best choice for those who frequently switch gear between different belt systems.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality hook-and-loop underbelt to provide a comfortable and secure base for the Safariland 99.
Conclusion on Safariland 99 Buckleless Reversible Belt, 1.50 – 1 out of 25 models
The Safariland 99 Buckleless Reversible Belt, 1.50 – 1 out of 25 models offers a compelling alternative to traditional duty belts, prioritizing comfort, a streamlined profile, and secure gear attachment. At $44.99, the price is justified given the quality of construction and the potential benefits it offers in terms of comfort and efficiency.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 99 to anyone seeking a more comfortable and streamlined duty belt solution, provided they are willing to invest in compatible hook-and-loop accessories. If you’re tired of bulky buckles and pressure points, give the Safariland 99 a try; you might be surprised at how much of a difference it makes.