Let’s Dive into Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-13
The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-13 is designed to provide a low-profile, secure, and easily accessible means of carrying two magazines. Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, aims to deliver comfort and functionality with this ambidextrous paddle-style magazine holder. Its features include an adjustable tension device and a self-locking belt hook for quick on-and-off capability.
As a seasoned gear specialist, I’m always on the lookout for reliable and practical solutions for carrying essential equipment. I needed a double magazine carrier that could be quickly attached and detached without needing to thread it through a belt, as I often switch between range days and more formal attire. The paddle design promised to be the perfect solution.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 572 felt solid and well-constructed. The STX Tactical Black finish looked professional and durable. The paddle was rigid, inspiring confidence that it would stay securely in place. My initial impression was that this was a quality piece of kit, made to last.
Compared to similar double magazine carriers from Blackhawk and Uncle Mike’s, the Safariland 572 stood out due to its adjustable tension and the more robust paddle design. While the others felt flimsy or lacked adjustability, the Safariland seemed to offer a more refined and customizable experience. I hoped the higher price point would be justified by superior performance.
I was cautiously optimistic. I had high expectations for Safariland gear based on their reputation, but I also knew that not every product lives up to the hype. I was eager to test it in real-world scenarios and see if it could meet the demands of daily carry.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-13 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 572 at an outdoor shooting range during a practical pistol competition. I ran several drills, focusing on reloads and movement while ensuring the magazines stayed secure. The weather was mild and dry, typical for Southern California in the late summer.
The initial draw of the magazines felt stiff, even with the tension screw adjusted. I found myself having to exert more force than expected to retrieve the magazines, slowing down my reloads. Also, the paddle dug into my hip during movement, creating discomfort that became increasingly noticeable as the day went on.
There were some surprises. The self-locking belt hook worked flawlessly, staying firmly in place even during rapid movements. However, the overall discomfort and the difficulty in drawing the magazines were significant drawbacks.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Safariland 572 showed no signs of wear and tear in terms of material degradation. The STX Tactical Black finish remained intact, and the paddle retained its rigidity. However, the discomfort persisted, and the magazine draw remained challenging.
The Safariland 572 requires minimal maintenance. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. However, the tension adjustment screw can become gritty over time, requiring occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Unfortunately, it disappointed me. The discomfort and difficulty in drawing magazines significantly impacted my overall experience, making it less practical than I had hoped. It doesn’t outperform simpler, less expensive magazine pouches that attach directly to the belt.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-13
Specifications
The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-13 has a few key specifications. It is a double magazine holder, designed to carry two magazines. It features a low-cut design for faster access to magazines. The paddle design includes a self-locking belt hook. Finally, it features an adjustable tension device and is available in a plain black finish.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the usability and comfort of the magazine holder. The low-cut design should allow for quicker reloads, while the adjustable tension should allow for a custom fit to different magazine types. The paddle and self-locking hook should provide secure and convenient attachment. In my experience, some of these features didn’t live up to their potential.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Safariland 572 is to securely hold and provide easy access to two magazines. While it does hold the magazines securely, the “easy access” aspect is questionable due to the stiff draw. This significantly impacts reload speed and efficiency.
The Safariland 572‘s strengths include its robust construction and secure attachment. Its weaknesses are the uncomfortable paddle design and the difficult magazine draw. The magazine holder doesn’t quite meet expectations, as the discomfort outweighs its convenience.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 572 is constructed from durable polymer materials. The STX Tactical Black finish gives it a professional look. However, the paddle design lacks ergonomic consideration, digging into the hip and causing discomfort during extended wear.
There is a slight learning curve with the tension adjustment. Figuring out the optimal tension for a smooth draw without sacrificing retention takes some experimentation. The paddle design, however, is straightforward and requires no special skills to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 572 is built to last. The materials used are resistant to wear and tear, suggesting a long lifespan. The paddle is strong and rigid, capable of withstanding regular use without breaking or bending.
Maintenance is simple. The polymer construction is easy to clean, and the tension adjustment screw can be lubricated to ensure smooth operation. The magazine holder is likely easy to repair, though parts are not readily available for individual replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 572 comes with minimal accessories. The only included feature is the adjustable tension screw. There are no additional customization options beyond adjusting the tension to accommodate different magazine sizes.
The Safariland 572 is not designed to be compatible with accessories from other brands, such as MOLLE attachments. It is strictly a paddle-style magazine holder.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-13
Pros
- The self-locking belt hook provides a secure and reliable attachment.
- The polymer construction is durable and resistant to wear and tear.
- The adjustable tension screw allows for some customization of the magazine draw.
- The STX Tactical Black finish is professional and discreet.
- The double magazine capacity allows for carrying two magazines in a single unit.
Cons
- The paddle design is uncomfortable and digs into the hip.
- The magazine draw is stiff, even with the tension adjusted, slowing down reloads.
- The adjustment screw can be difficult to fine-tune.
Who Should Buy Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-13?
The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-13 might be perfect for law enforcement officers or security personnel who need a quick-detach magazine carrier. This could be for those who frequently enter secure areas where they must remove their gear. It may also be suitable for range users who prioritize easy on-and-off capability over long-term comfort.
Anyone who values comfort and ease of access should skip this product. This magazine holder might be too uncomfortable for extended use. Those who prioritize speed reloads or need to carry heavier magazines might also find it inadequate.
Must-have accessories might include a padded hip sleeve to reduce discomfort and potentially some lubricant to improve magazine draw smoothness.
Conclusion on Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-13
The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-13 offers a mix of durability and convenience with its quick-detach paddle design. However, the discomfort and difficulty in drawing magazines are significant drawbacks. The $49.99 price tag feels a bit high, considering these issues.
I would not personally recommend this product. The discomfort outweighs the convenience. There are better options on the market that offer both comfort and accessibility at a similar price point.
Consider your priorities carefully before purchasing. If quick detachment is crucial and you’re willing to tolerate some discomfort, it might be worth a try. But for most users, there are better alternatives. Explore other magazine carriers before settling on this one.