High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT Review

First Thoughts on the High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT

The High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT promises to be a game-changer in the world of tactical gear. This adaptable pouch, manufactured by High Speed Gear, aims to securely hold almost any pistol magazine, flashlight, multitool, or knife while remaining significantly lighter than its predecessor. I was immediately intrigued by the promise of versatility and weight reduction, which are crucial considerations for anyone carrying gear for extended periods.

For years, I’ve struggled with bulky, specialized pouches that take up valuable real estate on my belt or vest. Finding a truly universal solution has always been the goal, and the High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT seemed to offer that much-needed adaptability. My primary objective was to consolidate my carry, reduce weight, and improve access to essential tools and magazines.

Unboxing the TACO LT revealed a well-constructed pouch with a no-nonsense design. The nylon material felt durable yet lightweight, and the overall build quality inspired confidence. The initial impression was positive; it seemed like a well-thought-out piece of gear that balanced functionality with weight savings.

Compared to similar universal pouches from Condor and Blackhawk, the High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT stood out due to its noticeably lighter weight and slimmer profile. I chose it over others because of High Speed Gear’s reputation for quality and innovation, and the positive user reviews highlighting its reliable retention. I wanted something that would last.

My first impression was definitely excitement mixed with a touch of skepticism. Could it really live up to the hype of being a truly universal and lightweight solution? Only real-world testing would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT primarily at the shooting range and during a recent backcountry hiking trip. At the range, I used it to hold magazines for my Glock 19, Sig Sauer P320, and 1911, rotating them through the pouch during drills. In the backcountry, I carried a Leatherman multitool and a small flashlight in it, assessing its comfort and accessibility during movement.

The TACO LT performed surprisingly well in both environments. In wet conditions at the range, the magazine remained secure. The dusty trails during the hike didn’t seem to affect its retention or ease of use. Accessing the magazine, multitool, or flashlight was consistently smooth and silent, even under pressure.

Getting used to the retention system took only a few minutes. Adjusting the tension cords allowed me to customize the fit for each item I carried. The ease of adjustment and secure retention was a big plus.

One minor surprise was the snug fit for some wider double-stack magazines. It required a bit more effort to insert and remove them initially. However, this seemed to improve with repeated use as the nylon material broke in slightly.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT continues to impress. It has become an indispensable part of my everyday carry and tactical loadout. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, from dry range days to humid outdoor environments, and it has performed consistently well.

The TACO LT has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, such as fraying stitching or stretching of the elastic cords. The nylon material has resisted abrasions and held its shape well.

Maintaining the TACO LT is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. I haven’t needed to perform any specialized cleaning or maintenance, which is a testament to its robust construction.

Compared to my previous experiences with other universal pouches, the High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT significantly outperforms them in terms of weight, versatility, and retention. Where other pouches felt bulky and cumbersome, the TACO LT feels streamlined and efficient. The High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT exceeded my initial expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT

Specifications

• Material: Constructed from durable nylon, the TACO LT offers a balance of lightweight design and long-lasting durability. The nylon is resistant to abrasions, tears, and water, making it suitable for demanding environments.
• Mount Type: Available in both MOLLE and ABM (Adaptable Belt Mount) versions, the TACO LT provides versatile attachment options. The MOLLE version includes HSGI Clips for secure attachment to vests and platforms, while the ABM version allows for direct mounting to belts up to 2.25″ wide.
• Compatibility: Designed to hold almost any pistol magazine, the TACO LT is incredibly versatile. It also accommodates flashlights, multitools, knives, and even mini smoke grenades, offering a flexible carry solution.
• Weight: The TACO LT is 25% lighter than the original TACO, making it ideal for minimizing weight. This is crucial for extended operations and everyday carry.
• Color: Available in OD Green, allowing for effective camouflage in various tactical environments. Other colors may be available at retail.
• Attachment System: High Speed Gear’s ABM (Adaptable Belt Mount) system is a standout feature. This provides a secure and customizable belt attachment. The ABM system allows for easy adjustment to fit different belt widths and locks the pouch in place.

These specifications are vital because they contribute to the overall performance and user experience. The durable nylon ensures longevity, while the MOLLE and ABM options provide flexibility in attachment. The lightweight design and universal compatibility make it an invaluable tool for anyone carrying multiple items.

Performance & Functionality

The High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT performs its job exceptionally well, providing secure retention and easy access to carried items. The adjustable tension cords allow for a customized fit, ensuring that magazines, tools, and other gear are held firmly in place.

The main strength of the TACO LT is its versatility. It readily adapts to different magazine sizes and shapes, as well as other gear. The only area for potential improvement is the initial stiffness of the nylon material, which can make it slightly difficult to insert wider magazines at first.

The High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT exceeded my expectations in terms of its adaptability and ease of use. The ability to quickly adjust the retention for different items is a game-changer, and the lightweight design makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT is impressive. The materials used are high-quality, and the stitching is clean and robust. The pouch is lightweight, yet feels durable and well-constructed.

The design is user-friendly, and there is virtually no learning curve. The tension cords are easy to adjust, and the MOLLE or ABM attachment options are intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the robust nylon construction and reinforced stitching, the High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT is built to last. It should withstand years of use in demanding conditions.

Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the TACO LT clean and functional.

Accessories and Customization Options

The MOLLE version of the High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT comes with HSGI Clips for attachment. The ABM version is ready to attach to a belt.

While the TACO LT doesn’t require specific accessories, its modular design makes it compatible with a wide range of MOLLE-compatible pouches and platforms. Users can customize their loadout by adding additional pouches for extra magazines, medical supplies, or other essential gear.

Pros and Cons of High Speed Gear Pistol TACO LT