The Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss Made a Bold First Impression
The Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss from Safariland isn’t just another piece of kit; it’s a statement. Its hi-gloss finish immediately sets it apart, hinting at a professional-grade piece of equipment designed for duty. This pouch promises quick access to spare magazines, a critical need for law enforcement and tactical professionals.
My search for a reliable, readily accessible magazine pouch began after a particularly frustrating range session. My old nylon pouches, while functional, were slow and cumbersome, hindering my reload times. I wanted something that was both durable and provided lightning-fast access to my magazines, something that wouldn’t snag or collapse.
The Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss arrived securely packaged. The first thing I noticed was the rigidity of the SafariLaminate STX material. It felt incredibly solid and well-constructed. The hi-gloss finish, while initially striking, raised a question about potential reflections in tactical situations.
Compared to similar offerings from Blackhawk and Condor, the Safariland pouch felt distinctly more robust. The adjustable tension screws also seemed like a significant advantage over the fixed retention of some competitor models. Ultimately, I chose this pouch for its promise of speed, durability, and the reputation of Safariland.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The pouch looked fantastic, but I was eager to see if its performance would live up to its appearance. The promise of rapid access and adjustable retention was exciting, but the true test would come on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss** to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss at my local shooting range. The conditions were dry and sunny, a typical day for practicing drills. I ran several reload drills, focusing on speed and consistency.
The pouch performed admirably, allowing for incredibly fast magazine changes. The open-top design and butt-up carry position facilitated a natural and efficient draw. There were no initial snags or issues, and the magazines remained secure during movement.
<h3>Extended Use & Reliability</h3>After several weeks of consistent use, the Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. It’s been through multiple range sessions and even a force-on-force training scenario. The pouch continues to perform flawlessly.
The SafariLaminate STX material shows no signs of wear and tear, despite being exposed to various conditions. Cleaning is a breeze, typically just requiring a quick wipe down with a damp cloth. This pouch has far surpassed my previous experiences with cheaper nylon alternatives, offering both superior performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of **Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss**
Specifications
Finish: Hi Gloss. The hi-gloss finish provides a distinct, professional appearance, although it might present a slight disadvantage in situations where minimizing reflection is crucial.
Fit Code: 8373 GLOCK 17/22 HI GLS BLK. This code indicates the pouch is specifically molded to fit Glock 17, 22, 34, and 35 magazines, as well as magazines from other compatible firearms.
Material: Rigid SafariLaminate STX. This material offers exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear, ensuring the pouch can withstand harsh conditions.
Belt Attachment: Adjustable for horizontal or vertical carry on a 2.25-inch duty belt. The adjustable attachment system provides versatility in how the pouch is carried, adapting to different user preferences and tactical requirements.
Retention: Adjustable tension screws between the pouches. These screws allow for fine-tuning the retention level, ensuring magazines are secure yet easily accessible.
Design: Low-cut, open-top design with butt-up carry position. This configuration enables rapid access to spare magazines, significantly reducing reload times.
Performance & Functionality
The Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss excels at its primary function: providing rapid and reliable access to spare magazines. The adjustable retention system allows users to customize the draw resistance to their liking. This prevents accidental magazine release while still enabling quick reloads under pressure. It absolutely meets, and even exceeds, expectations.
While the hi-gloss finish may not be ideal for all tactical situations, it certainly projects a professional image. The adjustable belt attachment system is a major plus, allowing for both horizontal and vertical carry options.
<h3>Design & Ergonomics</h3>The build quality of the Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss is exceptional. The SafariLaminate STX material is incredibly rigid and durable. The pouch is lightweight despite its robust construction, and the magazines sit securely without adding unnecessary bulk.
The open-top design makes it incredibly user-friendly, with virtually no learning curve. The adjustable retention screws are easily accessible and allow for quick adjustments in the field.
<h3>Durability & Maintenance</h3>Based on my experience, the Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss is built to last. The SafariLaminate STX material is highly resistant to abrasions, impacts, and moisture. The pouch requires minimal maintenance, typically just a quick wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
With proper care, this pouch should provide years of reliable service, making it a worthwhile investment for any professional or serious shooter.
<h3>Accessories and Customization Options</h3>The Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss does not come with any specific accessories beyond its standard belt attachment system. However, its design is compatible with a wide range of 2.25-inch duty belts. The adjustable retention screws are the primary customization option, allowing users to fine-tune the draw resistance to their preferences.
It also depends on the user, but other brands that provide accessories to duty belts can be used. The Safariland brand can be expected to provide products that fit with this Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss.
Pros and Cons of **Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss**
Pros
- Rapid Magazine Access: The open-top design and butt-up carry position enable lightning-fast reloads, critical in high-pressure situations.
- Adjustable Retention: Tension screws allow for customizable draw resistance, ensuring magazines are secure yet easily accessible.
- Exceptional Durability: The SafariLaminate STX material provides superior resistance to wear, tear, and environmental factors.
- Versatile Carry Options: The adjustable belt attachment system allows for horizontal or vertical carry on a 2.25-inch duty belt.
- Professional Appearance: The hi-gloss finish projects a polished and professional image.
Cons
- Hi-Gloss Finish: May produce unwanted reflections in certain tactical environments.
- Specific Firearm Fit: Best suited for the magazine sizes of Glock 17/22/34/35, and similar sized firearms.
Who Should Buy **Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss**?
This Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss is perfect for law enforcement professionals, security personnel, and competitive shooters who require rapid and reliable access to spare magazines. It’s also well-suited for tactical training and force-on-force scenarios. Anyone who wants a professional-looking, durable magazine pouch will benefit from this product.
This pouch might not be the best choice for individuals prioritizing maximum concealment or operating in environments where minimizing reflection is paramount. Individuals carrying magazines for firearms not listed with the fit code should confirm fitment before purchasing. A user carrying a firearm not listed should skip this product.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality 2.25-inch duty belt to provide a secure and stable platform for the pouch. Additional accessories might include magazine base pads for easier gripping and faster reloads.
Conclusion on **Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss**
The Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss is a top-tier magazine pouch that delivers on its promises of speed, durability, and versatility. While the hi-gloss finish may not appeal to everyone, the pouch’s exceptional performance and robust construction make it a worthwhile investment for professionals and serious shooters. The Safariland brand has delivered again.
At $48.00, the price is justified by the quality of materials, the level of craftsmanship, and the enhanced performance it provides. I would highly recommend this pouch to anyone seeking a reliable and efficient way to carry spare magazines. Upgrade your kit with the Model 73 Open Top Double Magazine Pouch | Hi Gloss and experience the difference!
