Let’s Dive into Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22
The Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22 is a seemingly simple piece of gear, yet it’s absolutely critical for anyone who relies on a Glock 17 or 22 for duty or personal defense. This isn’t just another magazine pouch; it’s a precisely engineered piece designed for speed and reliability when every second counts.
My need for this particular mag case stemmed from years of frustration with retention straps that snagged and bulky pouches that slowed down reloads during training. I needed something streamlined, secure, and utterly dependable, specifically tailored for my Glock 17 magazines.
Unboxing the Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22 revealed a surprisingly robust piece of kit. The initial impression was one of quality; the polymer felt dense and durable, and the fit and finish were impeccable. It was significantly lighter and less bulky than the nylon double mag pouch I was previously using.
I considered a few other options before landing on the Safariland. I looked at the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse mag pouch and the Blackhawk! SERPA magazine carrier. I opted for the Safariland due to its reputation for durability and its open-top design, promising faster access than the retention systems on the Blade-Tech or the Blackhawk!.
My first impression was a mix of excitement and relief. I was excited about the potential for faster reloads, and relieved to find a product that seemed genuinely built to last under demanding conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22 was at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training session. I ran drills involving multiple reloads in varied positions, focusing on drawing and indexing my spare magazines quickly. The weather was typical for that time of year: hot, humid, and dusty.
The mag case performed admirably in these conditions. The open-top design allowed for lightning-fast access to my magazines, and the retention was surprisingly secure, even during rapid movement. I didn’t experience any issues with dust or debris interfering with the draw.
It took only a few minutes to get used to the draw stroke required by the Safariland case. It quickly became second nature.
The only minor issue I noticed after the first use was a slight bit of initial stiffness in the polymer, which quickly wore away with subsequent draws.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in training and on duty, the Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22 has proven its worth. It continues to hold up exceptionally well.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear despite being subjected to daily use and abuse. The polymer construction has resisted scratches and abrasions.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. I wipe it down with a damp cloth after each range session to remove dust and grime.
The Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22 outperforms the generic nylon mag pouches I used previously in terms of speed, security, and durability. The difference is night and day.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22
Specifications
- The Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22 is designed specifically for Glock 17 and Glock 22 magazines. This ensures a snug and secure fit.
- It is constructed from durable, injection-molded polymer. This material offers excellent resistance to impact and abrasion.
- The case features an open-top design for rapid access. This allows for incredibly fast magazine changes.
- It is compatible with a variety of Safariland mounting options. This includes belt loops, MOLLE attachments, and drop leg platforms.
- The case has adjustable retention. This feature lets you fine-tune the amount of force required to draw the magazine.
These specifications are crucial for duty use where speed and reliability are paramount. The tailored fit, durable materials, and customizable retention contribute to a superior user experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22 excels at its primary function: providing secure and rapid access to magazines. During timed drills, I consistently shaved fractions of a second off my reload times compared to using traditional flap-covered pouches.
Its strengths lie in its simplicity and efficiency. It works perfectly, with no unnecessary bells or whistles.
The adjustable retention is a standout feature, allowing users to dial in the precise level of security they need. The Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22 exceeded my expectations in terms of speed and reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The polymer feels solid and well-made.
The case is lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to my duty belt. It’s remarkably user-friendly with almost no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22 is clearly built to last. The robust polymer construction should withstand years of hard use.
Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down is all that’s needed to keep it in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22 doesn’t come with any specific accessories, as it’s designed to be a standalone product. However, its compatibility with various Safariland mounting platforms allows for significant customization.
It is compatible with Safariland’s ELS (Equipment Locking System) and QLS (Quick Locking System). These systems allow for rapid attachment and detachment from belts, vests, and other gear. You can also mount it to MOLLE platforms using compatible adaptors.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22
Pros
- Lightning-fast magazine access: The open-top design facilitates rapid reloads, crucial in high-stress situations.
- Durable polymer construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily use and demanding environments.
- Adjustable retention: Allows users to customize the draw resistance for optimal security and speed.
- Versatile mounting options: Compatible with Safariland’s extensive range of mounting platforms.
- Lightweight and low profile: Doesn’t add unnecessary bulk or weight to your gear.
Cons
- The open-top design might not be ideal for extremely dusty environments without occasional cleaning.
- The initial retention might require some adjustment to find the perfect balance between security and speed.
Who Should Buy Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22?
This mag case is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, competitive shooters, and anyone who relies on a Glock 17 or 22 and prioritizes rapid magazine access.
Individuals who frequently operate in extremely dusty environments might want to consider a mag case with a retention flap or alternative retention system.
A must-have accessory is a compatible Safariland mounting platform, such as a belt loop or MOLLE attachment, to securely attach the mag case to your gear.
Conclusion on Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22
The Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22 is a well-designed, durable, and highly functional piece of gear that delivers on its promise of rapid magazine access.
The price of $49.99 is justified by the quality of construction, the performance benefits, and the peace of mind it provides knowing your magazines are secure and readily accessible.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland Open Top Mag Case Hg Gl17/22 to anyone who needs a reliable and efficient magazine carrier for their Glock 17 or 22. Don’t settle for inferior mag pouches that can slow you down; invest in the Safariland and experience the difference.