Let’s Dive into Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL are a crucial piece of kit for law enforcement and security professionals who rely on both a tactical flashlight and electronic discharge weapons (EDW). Manufactured by Safariland, these holders offer a secure and convenient way to carry essential tools on your duty belt. This review will delve into the features, performance, and overall value of these holders.
During my time as a tactical gear specialist, I’ve noticed a recurring problem: officers struggling with efficient gear deployment during high-stress situations. I needed a solution that allowed for quick access to both a light and EDW cartridges. That’s what led me to explore the Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL.
My initial impression was positive. The design is simple yet functional, and the build quality appears robust, suggesting it can withstand the rigors of daily duty. Unlike some competitors offering flimsy nylon pouches, the Safariland holder has a more rigid structure. It felt like a premium product right out of the packaging, a welcome change from some of the cheaper options I’ve encountered.
Excitement mixed with a bit of skepticism; duty gear needs to perform, not just look good. I was eager to see how the Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL would hold up under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL during a training exercise simulating low-light building searches and suspect apprehension. The holder was attached to my 2.25″ duty belt, and I used it to carry an ITI M3X illuminator and two Safariland brand EDW cartridges. The conditions were dry and mild, representing typical evening conditions.
The holder performed admirably during the exercise. The flashlight was easily accessible with one hand, and the flap closure ensured it remained secure even during rapid movement. Accessing the EDW cartridges was similarly straightforward, allowing for quick reloading during simulated scenarios. There was a slight learning curve adjusting to the exact position of the flap to ensure a smooth draw, but after a few repetitions, it became second nature.
No major issues arose during the first use. The holder stayed securely attached to my belt, and the flashlight and cartridges remained firmly in place. The retention mechanism felt solid and reliable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL has proven to be a reliable piece of equipment. There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The plain black finish has held up well, resisting scuffs and scratches.
Maintenance is simple. Wiping the holder down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I have not needed to use any specialized cleaning products. Compared to some of the nylon pouches I’ve used in the past, the Safariland holder is significantly more durable and easier to maintain.
It has undoubtedly outperformed my expectations. The secure retention, easy access, and robust construction make it a valuable asset on the duty belt.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL
Specifications
- Category: Tactical Accessories. This indicates that the product is designed for tactical or law enforcement applications, emphasizing its role in carrying essential gear.
- Description: ITI M3X or M6 Illuminator Light. This specifies the type of flashlight the holder is designed to accommodate.
- Finish: Plain. The holder has a simple, untextured surface, contributing to a professional and low-profile appearance.
- Color: Black. The black color ensures compatibility with a wide range of duty belts and uniforms.
- Fastener: Black. The fastener color matches the overall design for a cohesive look.
- Fits: Light carrier with flap closure. The holder is designed specifically to carry a light and features a flap closure for added security.
- Belt Compatibility: Fits 2″ – 2.25″ duty belt. This ensures compatibility with standard duty belt sizes used by law enforcement and security personnel.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and usability of the holder. The belt compatibility ensures a secure fit on standard duty belts, and the flashlight compatibility ensures that the holder is designed to properly accommodate specific light models. The plain finish and black color contribute to a professional appearance, which is important for law enforcement and security personnel.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a secure and easily accessible way to carry both a tactical flashlight and EDW cartridges. The flashlight is held firmly in place, and the flap closure ensures that it remains secure even during rigorous activity.
One of the key strengths of the holder is its ease of use. The flashlight can be quickly drawn with one hand, and the EDW cartridges are also easily accessible. The retention mechanism strikes a good balance between security and accessibility.
There is room for minor improvement. The flap closure can sometimes be a bit stiff, requiring some practice to ensure a smooth and efficient draw. However, this is a minor issue that can be easily overcome with a bit of familiarity.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL features a simple yet effective design. The materials used are durable and lightweight, ensuring that the holder doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the duty belt. The overall construction feels solid and well-made.
The holder is relatively comfortable to wear, even for extended periods. The design minimizes pressure points and chafing, which is important for officers who wear their duty belts for long hours. The learning curve is minimal. It’s intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL is built to last. The materials used are resistant to wear and tear, and the overall construction is robust. With proper care, this holder should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Wiping the holder down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The simplicity of the design makes it easy to clean and maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL is primarily designed to carry a tactical flashlight and EDW cartridges. The holder does not come with any additional accessories.
However, the holder is compatible with a wide range of duty belts and can be easily attached using its built-in belt loops. While not specifically designed for customization, the user can modify the tightness of the flap with minor adjustments to the velcro.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL
Pros
- Secure and reliable retention of flashlight and EDW cartridges. This ensures that essential tools are always readily available.
- Durable construction and materials. This guarantees long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Easy access to flashlight and EDW cartridges. This allows for quick and efficient deployment during critical situations.
- Compatible with standard 2″ – 2.25″ duty belts. This ensures a secure fit on commonly used duty belt sizes.
- Professional and low-profile design. This contributes to a neat and professional appearance.
Cons
- Flap closure can be a bit stiff initially, requiring some practice.
- Limited customization options beyond basic attachment.
Who Should Buy Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL?
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and other professionals who rely on both a tactical flashlight and electronic discharge weapons. It’s also useful for private security who need organized equipment.
Those who prefer modular systems with MOLLE webbing or require highly customized carry solutions might find this product too basic. If you don’t need to carry an EDW cartridge, a dedicated flashlight holder would be a better choice.
A quality flashlight compatible with the holder (ITI M3X or M6 Illuminator) is a must-have accessory. The EDW cartridges will, of course, be mandated by the user’s department or agency.
Conclusion on Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL is a reliable and well-designed piece of duty gear. It provides a secure and easily accessible way to carry both a tactical flashlight and EDW cartridges. The build quality is excellent, and the holder is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use.
At a price of $43.99, the Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL offers good value for the money. While there are cheaper options available, they often lack the durability and reliability of the Safariland product.
I would definitely recommend the Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-12-2PBL to any law enforcement officer or security professional who needs a reliable and efficient way to carry their tactical flashlight and EDW cartridges. Invest in your safety and efficiency—you won’t regret it.