First Impressions of BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop promises a simple yet effective solution for duty belt setup, specifically addressing holster positioning. As a seasoned tactical gear user, I’ve always sought the optimal balance between accessibility and comfort, a dance this seemingly simple accessory aims to master. It hails from BlackHawk, a name synonymous with tactical gear, and offers a mid-ride height adjustment for your duty holster.
For years, I struggled with holsters that sat too low, hindering quick draws and impacting mobility. My existing setup felt cumbersome, particularly when seated in a patrol vehicle or navigating tight spaces. I chose the BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop hoping it would raise my holster to a more natural and accessible position, improving my overall efficiency and comfort on duty.
Upon unboxing, the BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop presents itself as a no-nonsense piece of kit. The injection-molded polymer feels solid and durable, and the included screws give the impression that it’s ready to work. Compared to similar belt loops from Safariland and Blade-Tech, the BlackHawk loop appeared less bulky, a potential advantage for maneuverability, even though I was looking for adjustability.
Initial impressions are cautiously optimistic; the BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop looks like it will solve the issue but will require testing. I was initially excited, envisioning a smoother draw and improved comfort, but also slightly apprehensive about potential wobble or instability with a raised holster.
Real-World Testing: Putting BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop at the shooting range, integrating it into my standard duty belt setup. It replaced the original belt loop that came with my BlackHawk SERPA holster, and I secured my Glock 17 inside. The range provided a controlled environment to assess draw speed, holster stability, and overall comfort during various drills.
The conditions were dry and sunny, ideal for evaluating the loop’s performance without the added challenges of adverse weather. Installation was straightforward, and the holster felt secure once mounted on the mid-ride loop. During the first few draws, I immediately noticed the improved accessibility; my hand found the grip more naturally, resulting in a slightly faster draw time.
One initial surprise was the minimal change in holster cant after installation. I had anticipated a larger shift in angle, but I quickly realized that the adjustment was more about height than cant. There were no issues with the loop after the first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use on duty, the BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop has proven to be a reliable addition to my gear. It has weathered daily wear and tear, including exposure to rain, heat, and the occasional bump against doorways. The injection-molded polymer shows no signs of cracking or deformation, a testament to its durability.
Cleaning the loop is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes any dirt or grime. Compared to my previous setup, the mid-ride height has significantly improved comfort during prolonged periods of sitting in my patrol vehicle. It neither outperforms or disappoints other options I have tried.
Breaking Down the Features of BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop
Specifications
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop is specifically designed to raise the position of injection-molded duty holsters on the belt. Here’s a breakdown of the key specifications:
- Manufacturer: BlackHawk
- Color: Black
- Quantity: 1 (includes mounting screws)
- Belt Loop/Snap Width: 2.25 inches
- Fastener/Closure Type: Designed for 2.25-inch duty belts.
- Application: Duty use
- Holster Type: Compatible with BlackHawk injection-molded belt holsters.
- Age Group: Adults
These specifications are crucial for ensuring compatibility with your existing duty belt and holster. The 2.25-inch belt width is standard for most law enforcement and military applications. The loop is specifically designed to work with BlackHawk injection-molded holsters, ensuring a secure and wobble-free fit.
Performance & Functionality
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop performs its primary function admirably: raising the holster to a more accessible height. This translates to a smoother, faster draw stroke, particularly in dynamic situations. The loop is sturdy and provides a stable platform for the holster, minimizing movement or shifting during movement.
A notable strength is its simplicity; it’s a straightforward piece of kit that does exactly what it promises. One minor weakness is the lack of adjustability in cant angle. However, that limitation can be mitigated by selecting a compatible holster with built-in cant adjustment. It meets my expectations of a product in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop features a minimalist design, prioritizing function over aesthetics. The injection-molded polymer is lightweight yet robust, and the contoured shape conforms comfortably to the body. While it won’t win any design awards, it does its job without adding unnecessary bulk or discomfort.
The loop is user-friendly, requiring only a few minutes to install with a screwdriver. There is essentially no learning curve, making it an ideal upgrade for officers of all experience levels. However, it would be nice to be able to adjust the height.
Durability & Maintenance
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The injection-molded polymer is resistant to impacts, scratches, and temperature extremes. With proper care, this loop should last for years, making it a worthwhile investment.
Maintenance is minimal; simply wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. The durable materials means it does not require any special treatments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, as it is a fairly simple accessory. However, its compatibility with BlackHawk injection-molded holsters opens up a range of possibilities. This allows you to pair the loop with a variety of holster models, each offering unique features like adjustable retention or optic compatibility.
There are no included accessories beyond the mounting screws. Since it is meant to be used with a BlackHawk product, most accessories or customizations would come with that product.
Pros and Cons of BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop
Pros
- Provides a more natural and accessible draw position.
- Lightweight yet durable injection-molded polymer construction.
- Simple installation with minimal learning curve.
- Improves comfort during prolonged periods of sitting.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Lacks adjustability in cant angle.
- Limited to BlackHawk injection-molded holsters.
Who Should Buy BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop?
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and military members who use BlackHawk injection-molded duty holsters. It will also appeal to anyone seeking a more comfortable and accessible holster position. Those using duty belts from 2.25 inches, or who have issues reaching for their holstered firearm, would benefit from this product.
Anyone who wants a cant adjustment, or has a holster that is not made by BlackHawk, should skip this product. Also, those requiring maximum holster adjustability should find other options.
Must-have accessories include a compatible BlackHawk injection-molded holster and a quality duty belt.
Conclusion on BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop offers a simple, effective, and affordable solution for optimizing holster positioning on a duty belt. While it lacks some of the advanced features of more expensive options, it delivers on its core promise of improved accessibility and comfort. The price is justified by the durability and increased performance it provides.
I would personally recommend it to anyone using a BlackHawk injection-molded duty holster and seeking a more natural draw position. If you’re tired of your holster sitting too low, give this loop a try; you won’t be disappointed. Upgrade your duty belt setup with the BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loop today and experience the difference firsthand!