Let’s Dive into Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL
The Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL is a seemingly simple piece of kit, but for law enforcement, security personnel, and even those in demanding civilian roles, it can be a game-changer. Manufactured by Safariland, a company renowned for its high-quality duty gear, this pouch promises to silence the jangling cacophony of keys while keeping them readily accessible. This little pouch offers more than just noise reduction; it’s about professional presentation and tactical efficiency.
For years, I’ve struggled with key management on my duty belt. The constant jingle of keys was not only annoying but also a potential giveaway during stealth operations or security patrols, leading me to seek a solution. When I saw the Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL, its promise of silent operation and Safariland‘s reputation for durability immediately piqued my interest.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the pouch’s compact design and robust construction. The SAFARILAMINATE material felt tough and ready for hard use, while the hook-and-loop closure seemed secure and reliable. It felt lightweight, but solid, a hallmark of good tactical gear.
Compared to using a simple belt clip or even a retractable key chain, the Safariland pouch offered a far more professional and secure solution. I also considered using a generic nylon key pouch, but Safariland‘s dedication to law enforcement equipment and their reputation for quality ultimately swayed my decision. I was cautiously optimistic that this little pouch would finally solve my key management woes.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL was during a week-long security detail at an outdoor music festival. This environment threw everything at it: long hours on foot, exposure to rain and dust, and constant physical activity. The pouch was attached to my duty belt, holding a set of five keys, including a master key and several access keys.
The Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL performed admirably in all conditions. Even during heavy rain, the pouch retained its shape and the keys remained dry. Accessing the keys was quick and easy, thanks to the large hook-and-loop flap.
I initially had a concern that the hook-and-loop closure would be noisy when opening the pouch, potentially defeating the purpose of a “silent” key carrier. However, the sound was significantly muffled compared to the jangling of keys, making it a non-issue in practical terms.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. The SAFARILAMINATE material shows no signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to daily abrasion and exposure to the elements. The stitching remains intact, and the hook-and-loop closure continues to function flawlessly.
Cleaning the pouch is simple: a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and grime. I have occasionally used mild soap and water to remove stubborn stains, with no ill effects. Comparing it to my previous method of simply clipping my keys to my belt, the Safariland pouch is a vast improvement in terms of organization, noise reduction, and professional appearance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL
Specifications
The Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL is designed for functionality and durability. Its key features and specifications include:
- Material: SAFARILAMINATE, a proprietary nylon-based laminate known for its abrasion resistance and weather resistance.
- Closure: Hook-and-loop adjustable pouch ensuring keys are secure and accessible.
- Color: Available in black, providing a professional and discreet appearance.
- Category: Classified as a duty accessory, designed for law enforcement and security professionals.
- Finish: Nylon-look, offering a tactical and low-profile aesthetic.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the pouch’s performance and reliability in demanding environments. The SAFARILAMINATE material ensures that the pouch can withstand the rigors of daily use without tearing or fraying. The secure hook-and-loop closure prevents accidental key loss, while the black color and nylon finish contribute to a professional and understated appearance.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL is to securely and silently carry keys, and it excels at this task. The pouch effectively eliminates key jangling, allowing for discreet movement and minimizing distractions. The hook-and-loop closure provides quick and easy access to the keys when needed.
A notable strength is its simplicity and ease of use. The pouch requires no special training or adjustments, and it integrates seamlessly with existing duty belt setups. Its primary weakness lies in its limited capacity; it is designed to hold a relatively small number of keys.
The Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL more than meets my expectations. It’s a simple yet effective solution to a common problem.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL features a compact and streamlined design that minimizes bulk on the duty belt. The SAFARILAMINATE material is lightweight yet durable, providing a comfortable and secure fit. The hook-and-loop closure is easy to operate with one hand, even while wearing gloves.
The design is highly user-friendly, with no learning curve required. Attaching the pouch to a duty belt is straightforward, and accessing the keys is intuitive. The minimalist design prioritizes functionality and durability over aesthetics.
Durability & Maintenance
The SAFARILAMINATE material used in the Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL is highly resistant to wear and tear. The reinforced stitching and robust construction ensure that the pouch can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. Based on my experience, I expect this pouch to last for several years with proper care.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The SAFARILAMINATE material is resistant to stains and odors, further simplifying maintenance. The simplicity of the design means there are no small parts or intricate mechanisms to break or require repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL comes with a basic key ring and the pouch itself. There are no specific customization options offered by Safariland for this particular model.
However, the pouch can be used with a variety of third-party key rings and accessories, such as retractable key chains or carabiners. The pouch is compatible with most standard duty belts, making it easy to integrate into existing gear setups. The key ring inside the pouch can be replaced with a higher quality, more durable option if desired.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL
Pros
- Silent Operation: Effectively eliminates key jangling, ideal for stealth operations.
- Durable Construction: The SAFARILAMINATE material and reinforced stitching ensure long-lasting performance.
- Easy to Use: Simple and intuitive design requires no special training or adjustments.
- Secure Closure: The hook-and-loop flap keeps keys securely in place.
- Professional Appearance: The black color and nylon finish provide a discreet and professional look.
Cons
- Limited Capacity: Designed to hold a relatively small number of keys.
- Hook-and-Loop Noise: The hook-and-loop closure can produce a slight tearing sound when opened, though it’s much quieter than keys jangling.
Who Should Buy Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL?
The Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, corrections officers, and anyone who needs to carry keys discreetly and securely on a duty belt. It’s also a good option for hunters or outdoor enthusiasts who want to minimize noise while carrying keys in the field. Anyone working in a security sensitive role would find this extremely useful.
If you need to carry a large number of keys, or if you prefer a completely silent opening mechanism, this product might not be the best choice. A larger pouch or a key carrier with a magnetic closure might be more suitable. A higher-quality, more durable key ring could be a worthwhile addition for increased reliability.
Conclusion on Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL
The Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL is a well-designed and durable piece of gear that delivers on its promise of silent key carrying. Its simple yet effective design, combined with Safariland‘s reputation for quality, make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who needs to manage keys discreetly and securely. At around $30.00, the price is justified by the pouch’s durability and functionality.
I would absolutely recommend the Safariland 170 Key Ring, Silent Key Pouch 170-22PBL to anyone looking for a reliable and professional key carrying solution. Ditch the jangling mess and invest in a Safariland pouch – you won’t regret it!