Let’s Dive into Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-49
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-49 are designed for professionals who rely on both a tactical flashlight and an Electronic Discharge Weapon (EDW), like a Taser. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, this holder allows for the convenient and secure carry of both essential tools. The combination aims to improve officer readiness and efficiency.
As a gear specialist, I’ve often encountered the challenge of optimally distributing weight and accessibility on a duty belt. The need for readily accessible Taser cartridges alongside a dependable flashlight is a common requirement in many operational scenarios I’ve observed. The Safariland 307 promised a solution to this, merging these two needs into a single, streamlined design.
Upon unboxing, the build quality immediately impressed me. The Safariland 307 felt sturdy and well-constructed, showcasing a durable STX Hi-Gloss finish in black. The retention flap felt secure, giving me confidence that the contents wouldn’t accidentally dislodge during rigorous movement.
Compared to separate light and cartridge holders, which can clutter a duty belt, the Safariland 307 offers a more organized approach. It seemed potentially superior to universal pouches, lacking the tailored fit and retention features crucial for professional use. My initial pick was based on brand reputation and the specific design catering to both items.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for improved belt organization. However, I needed to evaluate how it held up during real-world use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-49 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 307 at a local shooting range, simulating tactical movement drills. This allowed me to assess its retention capabilities and ease of access. I incorporated it into my regular duty belt setup alongside other essential gear.
In relatively dry conditions, the holster performed adequately. The flashlight and Taser cartridge remained secure throughout the exercises. Drawing both the light and cartridge was straightforward.
The initial use did expose a minor drawback. The flap closure, while secure, required a deliberate motion to open, potentially slowing down deployment speed slightly compared to open-top designs.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of incorporating the Safariland 307 into my daily carry on a simulated security patrol, I have a clearer picture of its long-term reliability. The holster has held up remarkably well. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after repeated use and exposure to moderate abrasion.
The STX Hi-Gloss finish has proven to be surprisingly resilient. It shows only slight scuff marks, which are easily buffed out. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps it clean and functional.
The Safariland 307 outperforms generic pouches in terms of secure retention and specialized design. However, dedicated, single-purpose, high-speed light or cartridge carriers might offer marginally faster access at the cost of increased belt space. This Safariland model strikes a balance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-49
Specifications
- Category: Tactical Accessories, indicating its intended use for professionals and serious enthusiasts. This placement reflects its design prioritizing functionality and durability over casual use.
- Description: Taser Cartridge, highlighting its primary function of securely holding an Electronic Discharge Weapon cartridge. While designed for a Taser cartridge, the light carrier aspect broadens its utility.
- Finish: STX Hi-Gloss, providing a durable and somewhat reflective surface for added visibility. This finish is known for resisting scratches and abrasions, extending the product’s lifespan.
- Color: Black, offering a professional and low-profile appearance suitable for tactical applications. Black is a standard color for law enforcement and military gear due to its non-reflective properties.
- Belt Compatibility: Designed to fit 2″ – 2.25″ duty belts, ensuring compatibility with standard law enforcement and security equipment. This range accommodates most common duty belt sizes, maximizing user convenience.
- Closure Type: Flap closure, offering secure retention of the flashlight and EDW cartridge. This design minimizes the risk of accidental dislodgement during rigorous activity.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate the product’s usability, durability, and compatibility within a tactical environment. The Safariland 307 is clearly geared towards professionals. It prioritizes secure carry and ease of integration with existing duty belt setups.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 307 performs its job adequately, providing a secure and accessible carrying solution for both a tactical light and a Taser cartridge. The flap closure ensures that the contents remain in place during dynamic movements. However, it comes at the cost of slightly slower access.
A significant strength is its space-saving design, consolidating two essential tools into a single unit on the duty belt. A potential weakness is that it is not ambidextrous. Thus, the user’s handedness determines its placement on the belt.
The product mostly meets expectations for secure carry and durable construction. Faster access to both tools would be a significant improvement.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 307 features a practical, albeit utilitarian, design. The materials used are durable polymers, contributing to a lightweight yet robust construction. The weight distribution is acceptable, although a fully loaded carrier can add noticeable bulk to the duty belt.
The holster is reasonably user-friendly. The flap closures require a deliberate action to open. There is a slight learning curve to efficiently drawing both the flashlight and the Taser cartridge.
Durability & Maintenance
Given Safariland’s reputation and the materials used, the 307 should last for several years with regular use. The STX Hi-Gloss finish is resistant to scratches and abrasions.
Maintenance is minimal; regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it in good working condition. There are no user-serviceable parts requiring specialized tools or expertise.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-49 doesn’t come with additional accessories. However, it’s designed to accommodate various tactical flashlights and standard Taser cartridges.
Compatibility with aftermarket belt attachments is limited by its fixed belt loop design. There are no options to adjust the cant or ride height. However, it will integrate well with belts in the specified range.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-49
Pros
- Provides secure retention of both a tactical light and Taser cartridge.
- Space-saving design: Consolidates two essential tools into one unit on the duty belt.
- Durable construction with STX Hi-Gloss finish.
- Easy to maintain.
- Compatible with standard 2″ – 2.25″ duty belts.
Cons
- Flap closure may slow down deployment speed compared to open-top designs.
- Not ambidextrous; design favors a specific draw hand.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-49?
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-49 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and other professionals who require secure and accessible carry of both a tactical light and a Taser cartridge on their duty belt. It’s also ideal for individuals who prioritize secure retention over the absolute fastest draw speed.
Individuals who require extremely rapid access to either their light or Taser cartridge might find an open-top design more suitable. Those who prefer highly customizable gear with adjustable cant and ride height should also consider alternative options.
A recommended modification would be testing different flashlight and Taser cartridge models to ensure a snug and secure fit within the holder. Adding a small lubricant to the flap closure snap can improve its ease of use over time.
Conclusion on Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-49
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-49 offers a practical and durable solution for professionals needing to carry both a tactical light and a Taser cartridge. Its space-saving design and secure retention are significant advantages. The flap closure might not be the fastest, but it ensures contents stay put.
At $45.99, the price is reasonable for a Safariland product. It is a compromise between cost, durability, and functionality. The value is justified for those prioritizing a secure and organized duty belt.
I would recommend the Safariland 307 to professionals who require a reliable, space-saving solution for carrying a tactical light and a Taser cartridge. If you are looking for a no-frills, durable, and secure option, this is it. Consider the need for rapid deployment against the security of the flap retention. Take the leap; clean up your belt and get organized!