First Impressions of Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch
The Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch is a versatile piece of tactical gear aimed at maximizing magazine capacity in a compact MOLLE-compatible format. Manufactured by Rothco, a brand known for its affordable and functional tactical equipment, this pouch combines three rifle magazine slots with three pistol magazine pouches, all in one unit. This promises efficient ammo management for shooters, law enforcement, and tactical enthusiasts.
I needed a way to consolidate my magazine loadout on my plate carrier without adding excessive bulk. I had been running separate rifle and pistol magazine pouches, and it felt cumbersome and inefficient.
My initial impression upon receiving the Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch was that it felt robust, but the material felt a little less rigid compared to some of my higher-end gear. The stitching appeared solid, and the MOLLE straps seemed adequately strong for secure attachment.
Compared to a dedicated triple rifle mag pouch from Condor and a separate double pistol mag pouch from Blackhawk, the Rothco offers a more compact footprint. However, the Condor pouch felt slightly more durable, and the Blackhawk pouch offered more retention adjustability. Ultimately, I chose the Rothco for its integrated design, aiming to streamline my setup.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The design was innovative, and the price point was attractive, but I was curious to see how well it would hold up under real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch at my local outdoor shooting range during a training session. The weather was dry, with a slight breeze, providing ideal conditions for evaluating the pouch’s usability and accessibility.
The pouch performed reasonably well, allowing me to quickly access both rifle and pistol magazines without fumbling. However, the elastic cords on the rifle mag pouches felt a little too tight initially, making re-indexing magazines slightly challenging. There were no immediately noticeable issues with the construction or stitching.
I didn’t need much time to get used to it; the placement of the magazines felt intuitive. However, the retention straps for the rifle magazines needed some adjustment for a smoother draw.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use at the range and during a weekend tactical training course, the Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch has held up surprisingly well. I have used it for roughly 30 hours in total.
While there are some minor signs of wear and tear, such as slight fraying of the elastic cords and some fading of the color, the pouch remains fully functional. The stitching has held firm, and the MOLLE straps have maintained a secure attachment to my plate carrier.
Maintaining the pouch is relatively straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is typically sufficient to remove dirt and debris. I also occasionally apply a silicone-based protectant to the material to help maintain its water resistance.
Compared to my previous setup with separate pouches, the Rothco pouch offers a significant improvement in terms of space efficiency and accessibility. However, the slightly lower durability compared to my higher-end pouches is noticeable.
Breaking Down the Features of Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch
Specifications
- The Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch features three open-top rifle magazine slots designed to accommodate standard AR-15 or AK-47 magazines. These slots utilize elastic cords with easy-grip pull tabs for retention.
- Additionally, it includes three pistol magazine pouches with hook and loop closures, suitable for accommodating most standard-sized pistol magazines, including 9mm, .40 cal, and .45 ACP. The dimensions of the entire pouch are 10 inches X 6.75 inches X 2 inches.
- The pouch is constructed from a durable material designed to withstand the rigors of tactical use. It attaches to MOLLE-compatible gear via six MOLLE straps on the back.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the pouch’s carrying capacity, compatibility with different types of magazines, and overall durability in demanding environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch performs its primary function of carrying and providing quick access to magazines adequately. It does this without being cumbersome.
The rifle magazine slots offer reasonable retention and allow for relatively fast magazine changes, although the elastic cords can be a bit tight. The pistol magazine pouches provide secure storage and easy access, thanks to the hook and loop closures. One weakness is that there is no adjustability to the hook and loop closures.
The Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch meets expectations for its price point. It is not a top-of-the-line, high-performance pouch, but it provides a functional and affordable solution for carrying magazines.
Design & Ergonomics
The Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch boasts a compact and relatively lightweight design. This is made from durable materials that can withstand moderate use.
The design is user-friendly, with intuitive placement of the rifle and pistol magazine pouches. There is a slight learning curve to get the retention cords adjusted to the right tension.
Durability & Maintenance
The Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch is expected to last for several years with regular use and proper care. The material is reasonably resistant to wear and tear, but it is not as durable as higher-end materials like Cordura nylon.
The pouch is relatively easy to maintain. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally apply a fabric protectant.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch does not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited, but users can potentially add aftermarket retention straps or modify the hook and loop closures on the pistol magazine pouches.
The pouch is compatible with any MOLLE-compatible gear, such as tactical vests, plate carriers, and battle belts. It can be used with most standard rifle and pistol magazines.
Pros and Cons of Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch
Pros
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious users.
- Compact and lightweight design minimizes bulk on tactical gear.
- Versatile design accommodates both rifle and pistol magazines.
- MOLLE compatibility allows for easy attachment to a wide range of gear.
- Decent durability for the price, providing reasonable longevity.
Cons
- Elastic cords on rifle mag pouches can be too tight.
- Material is not as durable as higher-end pouches.
Who Should Buy Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch?
The Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch is perfect for:
- Tactical enthusiasts who are looking for an affordable and versatile magazine pouch.
- Airsoft players who need a reliable and compact way to carry magazines.
- Hobbyists who need a simple solution.
This product is not ideal for:
- Professional users who require the highest level of durability and performance.
- Users who prefer highly customizable gear.
A must-have modification would be adjustable elastic retention straps.
Conclusion on Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch
The Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch is a decent entry-level option for those seeking a budget-friendly and versatile magazine carrier. The value proposition is solid, considering the price and functionality it offers.
While it may not be the most durable or feature-rich pouch on the market, it provides a functional and convenient solution for carrying both rifle and pistol magazines. It makes it accessible to many shooters.
I would recommend the Rothco MOLLE Triple Kangaroo Rifle and Pistol Magazine Pouch to users on a budget or those who are just starting to build their tactical gear setup. If you need a basic, functional, and affordable magazine pouch, give it a try.