First Impressions of High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO Rifle/Pistol Magazine Pouch
The High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO Rifle/Pistol Magazine Pouch promises to be a significant upgrade from its predecessor, offering a lighter, sleeker, and more versatile solution for carrying both rifle and pistol magazines. As someone who’s spent over a decade in the tactical and outdoor gear world, I’m always searching for gear that blends durability, functionality, and ease of use. This pouch, with its laser-cut nylon laminate and adjustable retention, immediately piqued my interest.
I needed a pouch system that could consolidate my magazine carry without adding unnecessary bulk or complexity to my kit. Having multiple pouches for different magazine types always felt cluttered and inefficient. The Double Decker TACO seemed like a potential solution to streamline my loadout.
Upon receiving the High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO, I was immediately impressed by its construction. The laser-cut nylon laminate felt robust yet lightweight, and the contoured molded sides gave it a modern, streamlined look. The integrated shock cord appeared well-secured and ready to provide reliable retention.
Compared to other combination magazine pouches I’ve used, such as the Condor Triple Kangaroo Mag Pouch and the Blue Force Gear Ten-Speed Double M4 Mag Pouch, the TACO stood out for its hybrid construction. While the Condor offered similar magazine retention through flaps and bungee cords, it felt bulky and less adaptable. The Blue Force Gear pouch was lightweight and low-profile, but it lacked the structured retention I desired for both rifle and pistol magazines. I chose the High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO for its promise of a perfect balance between weight, retention, and versatility.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see if the High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO Rifle/Pistol Magazine Pouch could live up to its promises of being a lighter, more versatile, and more efficient magazine carrying solution.
Real-World Testing: Putting High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO Rifle/Pistol Magazine Pouch to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO at my local shooting range, during a full day of drills incorporating both rifle and pistol platforms. The weather was typical for early spring – damp and cool, with a light drizzle throughout the morning. I mounted the TACO to my plate carrier using the included High Speed Gear clips and loaded it with an AR-15 magazine and a Glock 17 magazine.
The pouch performed admirably, even in the less-than-ideal conditions. The magazines remained securely in place during movement drills. Drawing and re-indexing were surprisingly smooth, even with wet hands. I didn’t experience any slippage or fumbling.
Initially, I had some concern about the retention of the pistol magazine, but the adjustable shock cord allowed me to dial in the perfect amount of tension. The only initial “issue” was getting used to the draw angle required due to the stacked design.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including weekly range sessions and a weekend-long tactical training course, the High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of fraying or degradation in the laser-cut nylon laminate. The shock cord still retains its elasticity, and the molded sides have maintained their shape.
Maintenance has been simple: occasional brushing to remove dust and dirt, and spot cleaning with a damp cloth when necessary. The pouch has shown no signs of being difficult to care for.
Compared to my previous setup of individual rifle and pistol magazine pouches, the High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO has significantly streamlined my loadout. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability, retention, and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO Rifle/Pistol Magazine Pouch
Specifications
The High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO Rifle/Pistol Magazine Pouch is designed to hold one rifle magazine and one pistol magazine, or similarly sized items. The pouch is constructed from laser-cut nylon laminate wrapped over a woven thermoplastic core. This construction significantly reduces weight, making it almost 20% lighter than the original TACO pouch.
The integration of 1/2 inch MOLLE on the back allows for versatile mounting options. It accepts both MOLLE webbing and belts, providing flexibility for different load-bearing systems. The addition of the optional HSG OTR Cover allows the user to configure the pouch for either open-top or covered carry.
Performance & Functionality
The High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO excels at its primary function: securely holding magazines. The adjustable shock cord provides excellent retention for a wide variety of magazine types and sizes. The molded sides facilitate easy insertion and extraction of magazines, even under stress.
Its primary strength lies in its versatility and adaptability. However, the stacked design might require some adjustment in draw angle for users accustomed to side-by-side magazine pouches. Overall, the pouch meets and exceeds expectations for a combined rifle and pistol magazine carrier.
Design & Ergonomics
The High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO boasts a sleek, low-profile design. The laser-cut nylon laminate provides a durable yet lightweight construction. The contoured molded sides enhance both aesthetics and functionality, providing a secure and comfortable fit for magazines.
The pouch is undeniably user-friendly. The adjustable shock cord is easy to manipulate. The MOLLE mounting system allows for seamless integration with existing gear.
Durability & Maintenance
The High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO is built to withstand the rigors of field use. The nylon laminate and thermoplastic core are highly resistant to abrasion and tearing. The pouch is easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal effort to keep it in top condition.
With proper care, the High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO Rifle/Pistol Magazine Pouch comes standard with two HSG clips for MOLLE mounting. The most significant customization option is the HSG OTR Cover, which converts the open-top pouch into a covered magazine carrier. The pouch is also compatible with a variety of aftermarket MOLLE attachments and belt mounting systems.
Pros and Cons of High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO Rifle/Pistol Magazine Pouch
Pros
- Unmatched Versatility: Accommodates a wide range of rifle and pistol magazine types and sizes.
- Lightweight Design: Almost 20% lighter than the original TACO, reducing overall load burden.
- Durable Construction: Laser-cut nylon laminate and woven thermoplastic core provide long-lasting performance.
- Adjustable Retention: Integrated shock cord allows for customized magazine retention.
- Streamlined Profile: Sleek design minimizes bulk and maximizes efficiency on gear.
Cons
- Slightly Increased Draw Angle: The stacked design may require adjustment for users accustomed to side-by-side pouches.
- HSG OTR Cover Sold Separately: Covered carry requires an additional purchase.
Who Should Buy High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO Rifle/Pistol Magazine Pouch?
The High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO Rifle/Pistol Magazine Pouch is perfect for:
- Tactical professionals (law enforcement, military) seeking a versatile and reliable magazine carrying solution.
- Competitive shooters looking to streamline their gear and improve reload times.
- Hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who need to carry both rifle and pistol magazines in a compact and secure manner.
This product might not be ideal for users who:
- Prefer dedicated, single-purpose magazine pouches.
- Require covered magazine carry as standard.
Must-have accessories or modifications:
- HSG OTR Cover for covered carry.
Conclusion on High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO Rifle/Pistol Magazine Pouch
The High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO Rifle/Pistol Magazine Pouch is a well-designed and highly functional piece of gear. Its versatility, lightweight construction, and durable materials make it an excellent choice for anyone who needs to carry both rifle and pistol magazines. The price of $56.00 is justified by the pouch’s performance and long-term durability.
I would absolutely recommend the High Speed Gear Gen 2 Double Decker TACO to anyone looking to streamline their magazine carrying system. Its reliability and adaptability make it a valuable addition to any tactical or outdoor loadout. Upgrade your gear today and experience the TACO difference!