Let’s Dive into Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2
Every seasoned shooter knows the importance of a reliable magazine carrier. Quickly reloading can be the difference between winning a competition or, more seriously, surviving a dangerous encounter. That’s why I was immediately drawn to the Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2, a product promising both concealment and rapid access.
I needed a magazine carrier that could easily adapt to different carry positions without sacrificing comfort or security. Having a double magazine carrier that wouldn’t print through clothing was paramount. After years of using bulkier options, I wanted something streamlined and dependable, especially for concealed carry during off-duty hours or low-profile operations.
The Safariland holder arrived in simple packaging, immediately showcasing its minimalist design. The plain black finish looked professional and discreet, perfect for blending with various clothing styles. Its lightweight construction surprised me, feeling significantly less bulky than other double magazine carriers I’ve used.
I had been considering a similar double magazine carrier from Blackhawk, as well as a modular option from HSGI. However, the Safariland seemed to strike a better balance between concealability and ease of access. The Blackhawk felt too bulky, and the HSGI, while versatile, appeared unnecessarily complicated for my specific needs.
My first impression was positive, bordering on excited. The build quality appeared solid, the paddle design looked comfortable, and the ambidextrous configuration offered welcome flexibility. I was eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder occurred at my local shooting range during a practice session focused on defensive drills. I wore it under a light cover garment, simulating a concealed carry scenario. The relatively low profile of the magazines against my body meant that I could move without restriction.
The holder performed flawlessly in dry conditions, providing smooth and consistent magazine draws. Its adjustable tension screw allowed for quick fine-tuning of the retention, preventing magazines from slipping out during rigorous movements. I noticed the low-cut design allowed me to acquire a full grip on the magazine before pulling it free, reducing fumbling and accelerating reloads.
No issues arose during this first use, but I did notice the paddle could shift slightly during rapid movement, which concerned me. I decided to address this by increasing the tightness of the paddle against my belt, which improved retention during subsequent drills.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of incorporating the Safariland 572 into my everyday carry rotation, its true character started to emerge. The durability of the polymer construction proved impressive, showing no signs of cracking or deformation even after consistent use. The adjustable tension screw had maintained its position, requiring no further adjustments.
Despite being molded polymer, the paddle showed no signs of fatigue or cracking. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth kept it free of dirt and debris, preventing potential abrasion against clothing. Compared to my previous experience with cheaper magazine carriers that quickly became loose and unreliable, the Safariland 572 demonstrably outperformed them, remaining secure and functional.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2
Specifications
The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder is a double magazine carrier designed for concealed carry. It features a plain black finish for discreetness and is constructed from durable, injection-molded polymer. The holder is ambidextrous, catering to both left- and right-handed users.
The holder is compatible with a range of popular pistol magazines, including those for Glock 17, 19, 22, 23, 26, 27, 34, and 35. It also fits Heckler & Koch P2000 (12-round), Sig Sauer P229 and SP2340 magazines, and Smith & Wesson Sigma series magazines. Its paddle design features a self-locking belt hook for added security.
The low-cut design facilitates rapid magazine access, while the adjustable tension device provides customizable retention. This adjustability prevents magazines from falling out during strenuous activity while ensuring a smooth draw. The ability to fine-tune the tension is critical for optimizing performance and maintaining consistent reloads.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 572 excels at its primary function: securely holding two magazines while maintaining a low profile for concealed carry. The adjustable tension provides excellent retention, and the low-cut design enables a full firing grip on the magazine during the draw. This feature is invaluable for speed and consistency in high-stress situations.
One minor weakness is that the paddle, while comfortable, can shift slightly depending on belt thickness and tightness. This issue is easily mitigated by ensuring a snug fit and utilizing a high-quality belt. Ultimately, the Safariland 572 far exceeded my expectations for a concealment magazine holder.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is typical of Safariland products: robust and well-engineered. The polymer construction is both durable and lightweight, ensuring all-day comfort without adding unnecessary bulk. The paddle design conforms well to the body, minimizing printing through clothing.
The Safariland 572 is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no complex setup or adjustments. The adjustable tension screw is easily accessible and allows for on-the-fly modifications. The ambidextrous design further enhances usability.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its polymer construction and simple design, the Safariland 572 is built to last. It is resistant to impacts, abrasions, and environmental factors. Routine maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 572 is primarily designed as a standalone magazine carrier and does not offer extensive customization options. The key adjustment is the tension screw, which allows users to dial in the perfect level of retention for their magazines. While it doesn’t directly accept accessories, its compatibility with various magazine types makes it a versatile choice.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2
Pros
- Low-profile design is ideal for concealed carry.
- Adjustable tension ensures secure magazine retention.
- Ambidextrous design accommodates both left- and right-handed users.
- Durable polymer construction ensures long-lasting reliability.
- Compatible with a wide range of popular pistol magazines.
Cons
- Paddle can shift slightly depending on belt thickness and tightness.
- Limited customization options beyond tension adjustment.
Who Should Buy Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2?
The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible citizens who prioritize concealed carry. It’s ideal for individuals who need quick access to spare magazines without sacrificing discretion. Its ambidextrous design also makes it suitable for anyone, regardless of their dominant hand.
Those who prefer more modular systems or require mounting options for additional accessories may want to explore other options. Individuals who require extreme levels of retention, such as during high-speed operations, might consider holsters with active retention devices.
A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure the paddle sits securely and minimizes shifting. Also, users may want to experiment with different tension settings to find the optimal balance between retention and draw speed.
Conclusion on Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2
The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder is a well-designed, durable, and highly functional piece of kit. Its low-profile design, adjustable tension, and ambidextrous configuration make it an excellent choice for concealed carry. At $50.99, the price is justified considering the quality of construction and the reliability it offers.
I would definitely recommend the Safariland 572 to anyone seeking a dependable and discreet magazine carrier. It’s a solid investment for those who take their personal protection seriously. If you value concealability, ease of use, and robust construction, the Safariland 572 won’t disappoint. Add it to your EDC and experience the peace of mind that comes with being prepared.