Let’s Dive into BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops are a simple yet crucial piece of gear for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone who carries a sidearm on a duty belt. Manufactured by BlackHawk, these loops offer a way to adjust the ride height of your holster, addressing a common issue with traditional belt attachments. I have seen many officers struggle with holsters that sit too low, interfering with their ability to sit comfortably in a patrol car or access their firearm quickly.
My interest in the BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops stemmed from my own discomfort and difficulty accessing my sidearm while working in uniform. Standard belt loops often position the holster too low, causing the weapon to dig into my side when seated, especially in vehicles with bucket seats. I needed a solution that would raise the holster to a more ergonomic position, allowing for a smoother draw and increased comfort throughout my shift.
Upon receiving the BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops, I was immediately impressed by their solid construction. The loops are made from a durable polymer, and while lightweight, feel robust enough to withstand daily wear and tear. The initial build quality seemed on par with other BlackHawk products I’ve used.
Similar products include the Safariland Drop Flex Adapter and various generic mid-ride belt loops available online. However, I chose the BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops because of BlackHawk’s reputation for reliability and the positive reviews emphasizing the loops’ compatibility with Serpa holsters, which I already use. The price point was also a significant factor, offering a good balance of quality and affordability.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to potentially solve my discomfort issue, but also slightly concerned about whether the raised holster position would affect my draw speed or create new accessibility challenges. The real test would come in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops at my local shooting range during a training session, and then immediately deployed them on my regular patrol duty. The range allowed me to practice drawing and re-holstering in a controlled environment, focusing on adjusting to the new holster height. My patrol duty put the loops through the ringer, testing for all-day comfort in a multitude of situations.
The loops performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions. While the polymer material doesn’t offer any special grip, it didn’t become slippery when exposed to rain. The raised holster position made sitting in my patrol car significantly more comfortable, preventing the muzzle of my Glock 17 from digging into the seat.
There was a slight learning curve associated with the new holster height. Initially, my draw stroke felt a bit awkward, requiring me to consciously adjust my grip and arm angle. However, after about an hour of practice at the range, I felt comfortable with the new setup and confident in my ability to draw quickly and efficiently. No major issues arose during the initial testing period, other than the minor adjustment to my draw.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops have proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my duty belt. The loops show minimal signs of wear and tear, with no cracks, scratches, or deformation of the polymer material. The screws remain securely fastened, and the loops have not loosened or shifted position on my belt.
Maintaining the loops is incredibly easy. I simply wipe them down with a damp cloth as needed to remove dirt and grime. I have not needed to apply any special lubricants or protectants.
Compared to my previous experience with standard belt loops, the BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops offer a substantial improvement in comfort and accessibility. The raised holster position makes sitting, driving, and maneuvering in tight spaces much easier, and I can draw my weapon more quickly and efficiently. These loops have far exceeded my expectations, making it a vital piece of gear for long patrol shifts.
Breaking Down the Features of BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops
Specifications
- Manufacturer: BlackHawk
- Color: Black
- Attachment Type: Belt Loop/Slot
- Belt Loop/Snap Width: 2.25 inches. This allows compatibility with 2-inch and 2.25-inch duty belts, accommodating the most common sizes used by law enforcement and security personnel.
- Compatibility: Designed for duty holster use only. These loops are specifically intended for use with BlackHawk and other compatible duty holsters, providing a secure and stable platform for carrying a sidearm.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the fit, stability, and compatibility of the holster system. The correct belt loop width ensures a secure attachment to the duty belt, preventing unwanted movement or shifting during dynamic activities. The duty holster compatibility guarantees that the loops will properly interface with the holster, maintaining a safe and reliable carry platform.
Performance & Functionality
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops perform their primary function exceptionally well: raising the holster to a more comfortable and accessible position. This simple modification has a significant impact on the overall user experience, improving comfort, draw speed, and maneuverability.
One potential weakness is the lack of adjustability. The loops offer a fixed ride height, which may not be ideal for all users. While the mid-ride position works well for most people, some individuals may prefer a higher or lower holster position.
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops have exceeded my expectations by providing a simple and effective solution to a common problem. They have greatly improved my comfort and accessibility while on duty.
Design & Ergonomics
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops feature a simple yet functional design. They are constructed from a durable polymer material that is both lightweight and robust. The loops are contoured to fit comfortably against the body, minimizing friction and preventing discomfort.
The loops are incredibly easy to install and require no special tools or modifications. Simply remove the existing belt attachment from the holster and replace it with the BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops.
Durability & Maintenance
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops are built to last. The durable polymer material is resistant to cracking, scratching, and deformation. These are quality tested in the field and made of quality materials.
Maintaining the loops is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep them in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops do not come with any additional accessories. There are no specific customization options available for the loops themselves.
However, the loops are compatible with a wide range of BlackHawk and other duty holsters. This allows users to customize their holster system with various accessories, such as weapon lights, magazine pouches, and tactical platforms. These allow you to remove screws from belt loop opening to attach holster to duty belt without unthreading other gear.
Pros and Cons of BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops
Pros
- Dramatically improves comfort while sitting, especially in vehicles.
- Enhances accessibility to the sidearm, allowing for a faster and smoother draw.
- Durable polymer construction ensures long-lasting reliability.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring no special tools or modifications.
- Affordable price point offers excellent value for the performance improvement.
Cons
- Fixed ride height may not be ideal for all users.
- No included accessories or customization options.
Who Should Buy BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops?
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops are perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who carries a sidearm on a duty belt. Anyone who experiences discomfort or difficulty accessing their weapon due to a low-riding holster will benefit from this product.
Individuals who prefer a highly customized holster system with adjustable ride height and cant may want to explore other options.
A must-have accessory to go with the BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops is a high-quality duty belt that is compatible with the loops’ width and weight requirements.
Conclusion on BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops
The BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops are a simple yet highly effective accessory that can significantly improve the comfort, accessibility, and overall performance of a duty holster system. These are built to withstand the toughest terrain and environments.
The price of $32.39 is absolutely justified for the level of improvement these loops provide. They offer an excellent value proposition for anyone who carries a sidearm on a duty belt.
I wholeheartedly recommend the BlackHawk Mid Ride Duty Belt Loops to any law enforcement officer, security professional, or armed citizen who values comfort, accessibility, and reliability. If you’re tired of your holster digging into your side and hindering your draw, these loops are a must-have addition to your gear. Upgrade your holster setup today and experience the difference!