Let’s Dive into Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 079-18-26
As someone who’s spent over a decade in the tactical gear world, I’ve learned that the smallest pieces of kit can make the biggest difference. Today, we’re dissecting the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 079-18-26, a piece of gear designed for discreetly carrying spare magazines. The Safariland name is synonymous with quality and reliability, so I was eager to see if this magazine holder lived up to the brand’s reputation.
I was seeking a low-profile, ambidextrous solution for carrying extra magazines without printing through my clothing. My current setup, a traditional leather pouch, was bulky and not easily adaptable for left- or right-hand carry. The promise of a “nylon-look” material that blended in with everyday attire, coupled with Safariland‘s reputation, drew me to this particular model.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the holder’s lightweight construction. The nylon-look material felt durable, yet surprisingly thin, which is crucial for concealment. The snap-on design seemed secure, and the ambidextrous configuration was immediately appreciated.
Compared to my older leather pouch and a Kydex carrier I experimented with previously, the Safariland 079 seemed like a significant upgrade in terms of concealability and versatility. The leather was too thick and rigid, while the Kydex, though slim, lacked the refined appearance suitable for plain clothes carry. I chose the Safariland model primarily for its blend of low profile and professional aesthetics.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. The design looked promising, but the real test would be how it performed under real-world conditions. I was excited to try it but also concerned about the durability of the “nylon-look” material over extended use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 079-18-26 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland 079 was a three-day defensive pistol course, which involved a variety of drills and movement. I wore it daily concealed under a light jacket or untucked shirt. The holder was primarily tested with Glock 17 and Sig Sauer P226 magazines.
The performance in a dynamic environment was impressive. The magazines stayed securely in place during running and transitions. I found the “nylon-look” material to be surprisingly resistant to sweat, even during high-intensity drills in humid conditions.
The snap-on design was intuitive and required no time to get used to. Re-indexing magazines was relatively smooth. However, it was a bit slower than with an open-top Kydex carrier, which is expected due to the retention of the Safariland pouch.
The only minor issue after the first use was a slight rubbing against my skin where the holder contacted my waistline. This was easily remedied by adjusting the position slightly or wearing an undershirt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 079 has held up remarkably well. I’ve worn it daily for concealed carry, at the range, and even during a few outdoor training exercises. There are no signs of stitching failure or significant wear on the nylon-look material.
Durability has exceeded my expectations. The snap-on mechanism remains secure, and the magazines are still held firmly in place. I have noticed some minor scuff marks on the finish, but these are purely cosmetic and don’t affect functionality.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. I haven’t needed to use any specialized cleaning products.
Compared to my previous magazine carriers, the Safariland 079 has significantly outperformed them in terms of comfort, concealment, and durability. It has become my go-to option for everyday carry. My leather pouch quickly became obsolete, and the Kydex carrier is now relegated to range use only.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 079-18-26
Specifications
The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 079-18-26 is designed for concealed carry of two magazines. The finish is a durable nylon-look material, offering a low-profile aesthetic. It features a snap-on belt loop attachment for easy on and off.
The holder is ambidextrous, allowing for comfortable carry for both left- and right-handed users. It is designed to fit a wide range of magazines, including those for Beretta, Browning, EAA, FNP, Heckler & Koch, Ruger, Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson, Sphinx, Springfield Armory, Taurus, and Walther pistols. The specific models this accommodates are listed in the product details.
These specifications are important because they dictate the holder’s versatility and suitability for concealed carry. The ambidextrous design ensures that it can be used by a wide range of individuals, regardless of their dominant hand. The nylon-look finish is crucial for discreet carry, as it blends in more seamlessly with everyday clothing than more tactical-looking materials like Kydex or leather.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 079 performs its primary function – securely holding and concealing spare magazines – exceptionally well. The magazines are held firmly in place. Yet, they are still accessible when needed. The snap-on design allows for quick and easy attachment and removal from the belt.
Its strengths lie in its low-profile design, ambidextrous configuration, and secure magazine retention. The primary weakness is the slightly slower re-indexing speed compared to open-top carriers. However, this is a trade-off for the increased security and concealment.
The Safariland 079 meets and exceeds expectations for a concealed carry magazine holder. It is comfortable, reliable, and well-suited for everyday use. It is a definite improvement over traditional leather pouches and less refined Kydex carriers.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 079 is excellent. The nylon-look material feels durable and well-stitched. The weight is minimal. It adds little to the overall carry burden.
The holder is user-friendly and requires no learning curve. The snap-on design is intuitive. The magazine retention is adjustable (though not easily adjustable in the field). This means you can customize the fit based on personal preference.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my extended use, the Safariland 079 is expected to last for years with proper care. The materials and construction are robust. This is further supported by Safariland‘s reputation for producing durable tactical gear.
Maintenance is simple. Occasional cleaning with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep the holder in good condition. The nylon-look material is resistant to most common solvents and cleaning agents.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 079 does not come with any additional accessories. The primary customization option is the adjustable magazine retention. This can be achieved by tightening or loosening the screws on the sides of the pouch, although this requires a screwdriver and is not something that can be easily done on the fly.
The holder is compatible with a wide range of standard belts up to 1.75 inches wide. Given its design, it’s not really designed for extensive modification. Its strength lies in its simplicity and out-of-the-box functionality.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 079-18-26
Pros
- Low-profile and highly concealable design, ideal for everyday carry under light clothing.
- Ambidextrous configuration, suitable for both left- and right-handed users.
- Secure magazine retention, ensuring magazines stay in place during movement.
- Durable nylon-look material, offering a professional appearance and long-lasting performance.
- Wide magazine compatibility, fitting a variety of pistol magazines.
Cons
- Re-indexing magazines may be slower compared to open-top Kydex carriers.
- Limited customization options beyond magazine retention adjustment.
Who Should Buy Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 079-18-26?
The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and licensed concealed carry holders. Specifically, those prioritizing low-profile concealment and reliable magazine retention will benefit most. It is an excellent choice for those who need to carry spare magazines discreetly in plain clothes.
This product is not ideal for competitive shooters or tactical operators who require the fastest possible magazine changes. It’s also not recommended for those who prefer extensive customization options or those carrying unusually shaped or sized magazines not on the compatibility list.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality belt designed for concealed carry. This will provide the necessary support and stability. Consider a sturdy leather or nylon belt with a reinforced core.
Conclusion on Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 079-18-26
The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 079-18-26 is a well-designed and reliable piece of gear. It excels in its primary function: discreetly carrying spare magazines. It offers a blend of comfort, durability, and versatility that makes it a standout in the concealed carry market.
The price is justified given the quality of materials and construction, as well as the brand’s reputation. At around $44, it’s an investment in reliable, discreet performance.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 079 to anyone looking for a dependable and low-profile magazine holder for concealed carry. If you need to carry spare magazines without drawing attention, this is the solution. Upgrade your carry setup today and experience the Safariland difference.