Let’s Dive into Safariland Mag Pouch, Stx Basketweave Rh W/els Kit
The Safariland Mag Pouch, Stx Basketweave Rh W/els Kit is designed to provide secure and readily accessible storage for a single magazine, crucial for law enforcement, security personnel, and competitive shooters. Safariland is a well-known and trusted name in the industry, known for their durable and reliable duty gear. This particular pouch features the STX Basketweave finish, offering a professional and classic look, and comes with the ELS (Equipment Locking System) kit for versatile mounting options.
As a seasoned gear specialist, I’ve seen countless mag pouches, some exceptional, many subpar. My primary reason for exploring this Safariland option was its reputation for retention and quick access, attributes vital in high-stress situations. I was looking for a duty-grade pouch that would reliably hold a magazine securely, but also allow for rapid deployment during drills or potential real-world scenarios.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction and the familiar basketweave pattern. The weight felt substantial, suggesting a durable build, and the materials appeared to be high-quality, promising longevity. The included ELS kit looked well-made and ready for integration with my existing duty belt setup.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa magazine pouch and the Bianchi Accumold Elite before settling on the Safariland. The Blackhawk! offered a similar retention system, but I’ve found their release mechanisms can sometimes be finicky under duress. The Bianchi, while comfortable, lacked the secure retention I was seeking. The Safariland seemed to strike the perfect balance of accessibility, retention, and professional appearance.
Initial impressions were positive. I was excited to integrate this pouch into my duty rig and put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Mag Pouch, Stx Basketweave Rh W/els Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland Mag Pouch, Stx Basketweave Rh W/els Kit was at an outdoor shooting range during a law enforcement training exercise. I used it to hold a Glock 17 magazine, repeatedly drawing and re-holstering it during various drills involving rapid target acquisition and engagement. The weather was slightly damp, with intermittent light rain.
The pouch performed admirably even with slightly wet hands. Drawing the magazine was smooth and consistent, and the retention remained secure throughout the drills. I did not experience any slippage or accidental magazine release.
The initial use was problem-free. The Safariland Mag Pouch required no break-in period, and the ELS system provided a stable and secure attachment to my duty belt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use in various training scenarios and range sessions, the Safariland Mag Pouch has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. The STX Basketweave finish shows minimal signs of wear, and the internal retention mechanism remains strong and consistent.
The pouch’s durability is impressive. It has withstood the rigors of daily wear and tear, including exposure to sunlight, rain, and minor abrasions. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to other magazine pouches I’ve used in the past, the Safariland stands out for its superior retention and ease of access. It instills confidence knowing that my magazine is securely held in place, yet readily available when needed.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Mag Pouch, Stx Basketweave Rh W/els Kit
Specifications
- The Safariland Mag Pouch, Stx Basketweave Rh W/els Kit is designed to hold a single double-stack 9mm/.40 caliber magazine. The specific magazine compatibility varies based on the firearm model.
- It features a durable STX Basketweave finish, providing a professional and aesthetically pleasing look. This finish is known for its resistance to scratches and abrasions.
- The pouch comes with the ELS kit, allowing for quick and easy attachment to any ELS-compatible platform. This modular system allows for customization and versatility in gear arrangement.
- The “Rh” designation signifies “Right Hand,” indicating that the pouch is designed for right-handed users. This refers to the orientation of the magazine release and draw.
- The pouch’s construction utilizes a sturdy, molded polymer material, ensuring durability and longevity. This robust construction can withstand the demands of duty use.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Mag Pouch excels at its primary function: securely holding and providing quick access to a magazine. The retention is excellent, preventing accidental release even during rigorous activity. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, allowing for rapid magazine changes.
A notable strength is the adjustable tension, allowing users to customize the retention level to their preference. A potential area for improvement would be clearer instructions for tension adjustment, as it may not be immediately obvious to all users.
Overall, the pouch meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade magazine carrier. Its secure retention and reliable draw stroke make it a valuable asset for any professional.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland Mag Pouch’s design prioritizes functionality and durability. The molded polymer construction provides excellent rigidity and protection for the magazine. The STX Basketweave finish adds a touch of professionalism and resists scratches and abrasions.
The pouch is relatively lightweight, minimizing bulk and discomfort on the duty belt. The ELS system allows for easy and secure attachment to various platforms. There is a slight learning curve associated with the ELS system, but once mastered, it provides a highly versatile mounting solution.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction of the Safariland Mag Pouch suggests excellent longevity. The molded polymer material is resistant to impacts and extreme temperatures. The STX Basketweave finish holds up well to daily wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. The pouch can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent. The internal retention mechanism is designed to be durable and requires minimal maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary accessory included with the Safariland Mag Pouch, Stx Basketweave Rh W/els Kit is the ELS kit. This kit allows for attachment to any ELS-compatible platform, such as duty belts, MOLLE vests, and other tactical gear.
While the pouch itself offers limited customization options, the ELS system opens up a wide range of possibilities for gear arrangement. Users can easily swap the pouch between different platforms as needed. This modularity makes the pouch adaptable to various mission requirements.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Mag Pouch, Stx Basketweave Rh W/els Kit
Pros
- Secure magazine retention, preventing accidental release.
- Smooth and consistent draw stroke for rapid magazine changes.
- Durable STX Basketweave finish for a professional look and scratch resistance.
- ELS kit provides versatile and secure attachment to various platforms.
- Relatively lightweight, minimizing bulk and discomfort.
Cons
- ELS system may require a slight learning curve for new users.
- Tension adjustment instructions could be clearer.
- Priced at the higher end compared to some competing mag pouches.
Who Should Buy Safariland Mag Pouch, Stx Basketweave Rh W/els Kit?
This Safariland Mag Pouch is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and competitive shooters who require a reliable and secure magazine carrier. The professional appearance and durable construction make it well-suited for duty use.
This product may not be necessary for casual shooters or individuals who prioritize affordability over performance and durability. Those seeking a minimalist or low-profile magazine carrier may also find this pouch too bulky.
A must-have accessory for this pouch is a compatible ELS receiver plate for your duty belt or tactical gear. Proper training in drawing and re-holstering magazines is also essential to maximize the pouch’s effectiveness.
Conclusion on Safariland Mag Pouch, Stx Basketweave Rh W/els Kit
The Safariland Mag Pouch, Stx Basketweave Rh W/els Kit is a top-tier magazine carrier that delivers exceptional performance and durability. Its secure retention, smooth draw stroke, and versatile ELS mounting system make it a valuable asset for any professional.
The price is justified by the quality of construction and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your magazine is securely held and readily accessible. For those who rely on their gear in high-stakes situations, this pouch is a worthwhile investment.
I would highly recommend this pouch to anyone seeking a reliable and professional-grade magazine carrier. Invest in the Safariland Mag Pouch, Stx Basketweave Rh W/els Kit and experience the difference that quality gear can make. Don’t compromise on your safety and efficiency – equip yourself with the best.