Let’s Dive into Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-9B
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-9B are designed for law enforcement and security professionals who need quick access to essential tools. Specifically, these holders provide a secure and convenient way to carry a flashlight and Electronic Disablement Weapon (EDW) cartridges on a duty belt. As an experienced tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless iterations of duty belt accessories, but Safariland always manages to impress with their dedication to quality and functionality. These holders are more than just belt attachments; they’re a critical component of an officer’s readiness.
I was looking for a way to streamline my duty belt setup, reducing clutter while ensuring essential equipment was readily accessible. My existing setup was bulky and made it difficult to move quickly in confined spaces. I needed a solution that was both low-profile and secure.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the Safariland quality. The material felt robust and durable, clearly designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. The stitching was clean and precise, indicating careful craftsmanship. The weight was surprisingly light, which is always a plus when you’re carrying a full duty belt.
Compared to cheaper, generic cartridge holders I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 307 offers a significant upgrade in terms of build quality and retention. I considered the Bianchi Accumold Elite Light/OC Carrier and the BLACKHAWK! Universal Light Carrier, but ultimately chose the Safariland for its dedicated EDW cartridge capability and the brand’s reputation for reliability. The secure flap closure also provides additional peace of mind.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see how the Safariland 307 would perform in the field, but also aware that even well-designed gear can have unforeseen drawbacks. I hoped that this would finally be the solution I was searching for, but only time and real-world testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-9B to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland 307 during a week-long firearms training course and several patrol shifts. This course involved a significant amount of movement, including running, climbing, and navigating tight spaces. The conditions were varied, ranging from bright sunshine to heavy rain. The Safariland 307 performed admirably.
The ease of use was immediately apparent. Attaching the holder to my duty belt was quick and straightforward, and the flashlight and EDW cartridges were held securely in place. There was no noticeable bouncing or shifting, even during vigorous activity. Accessing the flashlight and cartridges was intuitive, even with gloved hands.
After the first day of training, I noticed a slight bit of wear on the high-gloss finish where it rubbed against other gear, but it was purely cosmetic. I was also pleasantly surprised by how well the flap closure protected the EDW cartridges from the elements, even during a downpour. There were no malfunctions to note.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the Safariland 307 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of structural weakness or degradation. The stitching remains intact, and the flap closure still functions perfectly. The high-gloss finish shows minor scuffs, but this is to be expected with daily use.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I’ve occasionally used a leather conditioner to keep the material supple, but this is more for aesthetic reasons than functional necessity.
Compared to previous nylon holders I’ve used, the Safariland 307 is significantly more robust and reliable. It outperforms them in terms of retention, durability, and overall build quality. This is a product that I expect to last for many years.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-9B
Specifications
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-9B are designed to attach to a 2″ – 2.25″ duty belt, a standard size for most law enforcement and security applications. It is made of a durable synthetic material with a Hi Gloss finish, providing a professional and polished appearance. The primary purpose of the holder is to securely carry a flashlight and Taser cartridges, ensuring quick and easy access when needed.
The dimensions are compact and lightweight, minimizing bulk on the duty belt. This is important for comfort and mobility, especially during extended periods of wear. The flap closure provides an extra layer of security, preventing accidental dislodging of the contents. The black color ensures compatibility with most uniform requirements.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 307 excels at its primary function: securely holding and providing quick access to a flashlight and EDW cartridges. The retention is excellent, preventing accidental loss even during strenuous activity. The flap closure is easy to operate with one hand, even while wearing gloves.
One potential improvement would be to offer adjustable retention for the flashlight compartment, allowing users to customize the fit based on the size of their light. However, the current design works well with a variety of common flashlight models. The Safariland 307 meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty belt accessory.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 307 features a streamlined and functional design. The materials used are high-quality and durable, providing a comfortable and secure fit on the duty belt. The weight is well-distributed, preventing the holder from feeling bulky or cumbersome.
There is a slight learning curve associated with operating the flap closure quickly and efficiently, but this is easily overcome with practice. The overall design is user-friendly and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 307 is built to last. The durable synthetic material and robust stitching ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily use. With proper care and maintenance, this holder should provide many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Occasional conditioning can help maintain the material’s suppleness and appearance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 307 does not come with any additional accessories. It is designed to be a standalone holder for a flashlight and EDW cartridges. There are no specific customization options available.
However, the Safariland 307 is compatible with a wide range of standard duty belts and can be easily integrated into an existing gear setup. Its universal design allows it to be used with various flashlight and EDW cartridge models, making it a versatile addition to any officer’s equipment.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-9B
Pros
- Excellent retention: Holds flashlight and EDW cartridges securely.
- Durable construction: Built to withstand the rigors of daily use.
- Easy to use: Quick and intuitive access to equipment.
- Professional appearance: Hi Gloss finish provides a polished look.
- Flap closure: Adds extra security and protects cartridges from the elements.
Cons
- Finish prone to scuffing: Hi Gloss finish can show minor cosmetic wear.
- Fixed retention: No adjustable retention for different sized flashlights.
Who Should Buy Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-9B?
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-9B are perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who needs to carry a flashlight and EDW cartridges on a duty belt. The rugged construction and secure retention make it ideal for high-stress environments. It is especially useful for those who need quick and easy access to their equipment while maintaining a professional appearance.
Those who prioritize lightweight gear or require highly specialized retention systems might want to explore other options. If you are not required to carry an EDW, you might consider simpler flashlight holders.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality duty belt that fits the Safariland 307 properly. Also, ensure that the flashlight and EDW cartridges you use are compatible with the holder’s dimensions.
Conclusion on Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-9B
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-9B are a well-designed and durable duty belt accessory that provides secure and convenient access to essential equipment. Its robust construction, excellent retention, and professional appearance make it a valuable addition to any law enforcement or security professional’s gear. While the Hi Gloss finish may be prone to minor scuffing, this is a minor drawback compared to the overall benefits.
The price of $49.89 is justified by the quality of materials and construction, as well as the added peace of mind that comes with knowing your equipment is secure. This is an investment in your safety and efficiency.
I would definitely recommend the Safariland 307 to anyone who needs a reliable and professional way to carry a flashlight and EDW cartridges on their duty belt. Upgrade your gear and experience the Safariland difference!