The Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch Made a Bold First Impression
The Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch from an unnamed manufacturer immediately grabbed my attention with its promise of lightning-fast reloads for competitive shooting. As a tactical gear enthusiast with over a decade of experience, I’m always on the lookout for equipment that can shave milliseconds off my time and improve my overall performance. This pouch, specifically designed for Glock 17/22 magazines, seemed like it could be a game-changer.
I was looking for a magazine pouch that offered a secure hold on my magazines while still allowing for incredibly rapid access during high-pressure situations. My existing pouches, while reliable, felt a bit sluggish and cumbersome, hindering my reload speed. I hoped the Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch would offer a significant improvement.
Upon receiving the pouch, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction and the tactile feel of the STX TAC material. The low-cut front, designed to secure the magazine, felt reassuringly robust. The adjustable belt loop appeared well-engineered, promising a stable and customizable fit.
Compared to my existing Blade-Tech and Safariland magazine pouches, the Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch seemed more streamlined and purpose-built for speed. Its open-top design was a deliberate choice over pouches with flaps or adjustable retention covers, prioritizing quick access above all else. I picked this pouch over others because of the fine-tuning capability of the tension screws and the secure, no-nonsense design.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The design seemed promising, but I was eager to see how it performed under real-world conditions. I was excited to test its speed and retention capabilities on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and sunny, perfect for an afternoon of drills and practice. I wanted to see how quickly I could draw and reload using the pouch compared to my standard setup.
The pouch performed admirably, allowing for smooth and rapid magazine draws. The open-top design lived up to its promise, enabling me to grip and extract the magazine with minimal effort. I immediately noticed a significant improvement in my reload speed.
Initially, the magazine retention felt a bit too tight. However, after a few adjustments to the tension screws, I was able to find the perfect balance between security and accessibility. After a hundred draws, I was very impressed with the pouch’s capabilities.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use in various training sessions and local competitions, the Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. The STX TAC material shows no signs of wear and tear. The pouch remains securely attached to my belt, even during dynamic movements.
Cleaning the pouch is a breeze. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove any dirt or grime. This is a definite advantage compared to some of my other gear that requires more intensive maintenance.
Compared to my previous magazine pouches, the Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch is a clear winner in terms of speed and ease of use. It has significantly improved my reload times and overall performance. It outperforms other pouches in that it secures magazines but allows for faster access.
Breaking Down the Features of Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch
Specifications
- The Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch is specifically designed for GLOCK 17/22 magazines. This ensures a snug and secure fit, minimizing the risk of the magazine shifting or falling out during movement.
- The pouch utilizes an adjustable belt loop, accommodating various belt sizes up to 2.25 inches. This offers a secure and stable attachment to the user’s belt, preventing unwanted movement during rapid draws.
- Two sets of tension screws are threaded through rollers, allowing for precise adjustment of magazine retention. This feature enables the user to customize the pouch to their specific preferences and magazine type.
- The pouch features a closed, low-cut front. This design helps to secure the magazine and prevent it from being inadvertently knocked out of the pouch.
- The pouch is constructed from STX TAC material. This provides enhanced durability and a secure grip on the magazine.
Performance & Functionality
The Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch excels in its primary function: providing rapid access to magazines during competitive shooting. The open-top design and adjustable tension screws allow for incredibly fast reloads. The pouch is reliable, consistently holding magazines securely without hindering access.
The pouch’s main strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. The design is straightforward and functional, with no unnecessary frills or complexities. The adjustability of the tension screws is a major plus, allowing users to fine-tune the pouch to their specific needs.
One potential weakness is that the open-top design offers less protection from the elements compared to pouches with flaps. This may be a concern for users operating in harsh environments, but it is a necessary trade-off for speed. Overall, the pouch exceeds expectations in its intended role as a competition-oriented magazine carrier.
Design & Ergonomics
The Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch features a streamlined and ergonomic design. The low-profile construction minimizes bulk and maximizes comfort. The STX TAC material provides a secure and comfortable grip.
The pouch is very user-friendly. There is no learning curve involved. The adjustable tension screws are easily accessible and simple to adjust.
Durability & Maintenance
The Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch is built to last. The STX TAC material is highly resistant to abrasion and wear. The pouch is designed to withstand the rigors of competitive shooting and tactical training.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep the pouch clean and functional. The pouch is a very reliable piece of gear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch does not come with any additional accessories. However, the adjustable belt loop is compatible with a variety of belt attachments. The tension screws can be adjusted to accommodate different magazine types and brands.
The pouch is also compatible with various mounting systems. These mounting systems allow users to attach the pouch to MOLLE platforms or other tactical gear. This adds a layer of versatility.
Pros and Cons of Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch
Pros
- Lightning-fast reloads: The open-top design and adjustable tension screws allow for incredibly fast magazine changes.
- Secure magazine retention: The low-cut front and tension screws ensure that magazines are held securely in place.
- Durable construction: The STX TAC material is resistant to wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Adjustable belt loop: The belt loop accommodates various belt sizes and provides a stable and secure attachment.
- Simple and user-friendly: The pouch is easy to use and requires no special training or expertise.
Cons
- Limited protection from the elements: The open-top design offers less protection from rain, dust, and other environmental factors.
- Specific magazine compatibility: This pouch is specifically designed for Glock 17/22 magazines, so it may not be suitable for other firearm platforms.
Who Should Buy Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch?
The Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch is perfect for competitive shooters who need to shave milliseconds off their reload times. Law enforcement and tactical professionals will also appreciate its speed and reliability. Anyone who prioritizes rapid magazine access will benefit from this pouch.
This pouch may not be ideal for individuals operating in extremely harsh environments where maximum protection from the elements is essential. Those who use a wide variety of firearms with different magazine types may also want to consider a more versatile option. The Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch is highly specialized.
A high-quality competition belt is a must-have accessory. Also, experiment with different tension settings to find the sweet spot between retention and accessibility. Practice drawing and reloading with the pouch regularly to develop muscle memory.
Conclusion on Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch
The Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch is a highly effective and well-designed piece of kit. It delivers on its promise of lightning-fast reloads. It provides secure magazine retention.
At $42.99, the price is justified by the pouch’s performance and durability. It is an excellent value for competitive shooters and tactical professionals. The construction is very high quality.
I would definitely recommend the Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch to anyone looking to improve their reload speed and overall performance. It is a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. Upgrade your tactical setup today!