Let’s Dive into Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-383-2
The Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-383-2 is a low-profile solution for carrying spare magazines. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, this holder promises secure and comfortable concealment. Its horizontal orientation distinguishes it from more common vertical magazine pouches, aiming to alleviate discomfort and improve accessibility.
For years, I’ve struggled with vertical magazine pouches digging into my side, especially when seated in my patrol car or on long hikes. I needed a better way to carry spare magazines discreetly and comfortably. This Safariland holder seemed like a viable solution, offering a horizontal carry option designed for concealment.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 123 felt lightweight yet robust. The plain black finish is understated and professional. The hook-and-loop closure felt secure, and the overall build quality appeared solid, reflecting Safariland’s reputation.
I considered a few other options, including some Kydex horizontal carriers and even some leather alternatives. The Safariland stood out because of its simplicity, low profile, and the trust I place in the Safariland name. The Kydex models felt too bulky and the leather ones, too bulky and potentially too slow on the draw.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for improved comfort and concealment, but I also wondered if the horizontal orientation would affect the speed of reloads. I was also skeptical of how secure the hook and loop closure would be under more strenuous movement.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-383-2 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 123 at an outdoor shooting range during a practical pistol course. The weather was typical for the region – hot and humid. I wore it with a double-stack .45 ACP magazine, concealed under a light cover garment.
The initial draw was a bit awkward, requiring a different motion than my usual vertical pouches. After a few practice runs, however, I adapted quickly. The magazine stayed secure during rapid movement and drills, even when running and transitioning between shooting positions.
The only issue I encountered during the first session was a slight tendency for the hook-and-loop closure to catch on my clothing when drawing the magazine. This slowed down my reloads slightly initially, but I adjusted my technique to minimize the snag. It was a small learning curve.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous use, including daily concealed carry and multiple range sessions, the Safariland 123 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The hook-and-loop closure still provides a secure hold.
Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. I have also used a mild detergent to remove any accumulated dirt or sweat. The material doesn’t seem prone to absorbing moisture.
Compared to my previous vertical magazine pouches, the Safariland 123 is a significant improvement in terms of comfort. The horizontal orientation eliminates the pressure points that caused discomfort, especially when seated for extended periods. It’s definitely a game changer for my daily carry.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-383-2
Specifications
- The Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder is designed for single magazine carry in a horizontal position. This differs greatly from traditional vertical mag pouches.
- It features a hook-and-loop belt attachment that wraps around the user’s belt. This provides a secure fit without needing belt loops.
- The hook-and-loop flap closure keeps the magazine firmly in place. This ensures the magazine is secure during movement.
- It is available in a plain black finish for discreet carry. This helps it blend in with clothing.
- The holder is ambidextrous. This makes it usable for both left- and right-handed shooters.
- It is compatible with Para Ordnance P14, Glock 21, Glock 30, Glock 29, and Glock 20 magazines. This covers a variety of popular pistol platforms.
- The accessory attachment system includes a belt loop, hook, and belt clip. This offers a range of carry options for the user.
These specifications matter because they contribute directly to the holder’s concealment, comfort, and functionality. The horizontal orientation enhances comfort, while the secure closure and versatile attachment system ensure reliable performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 123 performs its job effectively, providing secure and discreet magazine carry. The horizontal orientation enhances comfort, especially during extended wear.
Its main strength is its comfortable concealment. The design eliminates pressure points, allowing for all-day wear without discomfort.
A potential weakness is the draw speed compared to open-top vertical pouches. The hook-and-loop closure adds a slight delay.
Overall, it meets my expectations for a comfortable and concealable magazine holder. It may not be the fastest option for competitive shooting, but it excels in everyday carry and duty applications where comfort and security are paramount.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 123 features a simple, low-profile design. The plain black finish is understated and professional.
The build quality is good, with durable materials that feel robust. The holder is lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk.
The design is user-friendly. The hook-and-loop closure is easy to operate, and the ambidextrous design makes it suitable for all shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 123 appears to be durable. After weeks of use, there are no signs of significant wear and tear.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean and functional.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 123 does not come with many accessories. It is a relatively simple and straightforward design.
There are no readily available customization options beyond potentially modifying the belt attachment method. The plain black finish limits aesthetic customization. However, the simple design works well.
It is compatible with a wide range of double-stack magazines, as listed in the specifications. However, its generic fit may not be ideal for all magazine types.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-383-2
Pros
- Enhanced Comfort: The horizontal orientation eliminates pressure points, making it comfortable for extended wear.
- Discreet Concealment: The low-profile design and plain black finish make it easy to conceal under clothing.
- Ambidextrous Design: Suitable for both left- and right-handed shooters.
- Secure Retention: The hook-and-loop closure provides a secure hold, preventing the magazine from falling out.
- Durable Construction: Made from robust materials that can withstand daily wear and tear.
Cons
- Slower Reloads: The hook-and-loop closure can slow down reloads compared to open-top pouches.
- Generic Fit: The universal design may not provide the most secure fit for all magazine types.
Who Should Buy Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-383-2?
The Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and concealed carry permit holders who prioritize comfort and discretion. It’s ideal for individuals who spend long hours sitting or engaged in activities where a vertical magazine pouch would cause discomfort.
Those who prioritize speed over comfort and concealment should skip this product. Competitive shooters or individuals who require rapid reloads in high-stress situations may find the hook-and-loop closure too slow.
A sturdy belt is a must-have accessory to ensure stable and secure carry. Users might also consider experimenting with different carry positions to find the optimal balance between comfort and accessibility.
Conclusion on Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-383-2
The Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-383-2 is a solid choice for those seeking a comfortable and discreet way to carry spare magazines. While it may not be the fastest option on the market, its enhanced comfort and secure retention make it well-suited for everyday carry and duty applications.
The price is justified, especially considering the Safariland name and the quality of construction. It offers a significant improvement over traditional vertical pouches in terms of comfort, making it a worthwhile investment for those who value all-day wearability.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a comfortable and concealable magazine holder. If you’re tired of magazine pouches digging into your side, give the Safariland 123 a try – you might be pleasantly surprised. Upgrade your carry today.