Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-76-22 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-76-22

The Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-76-22 is a specialized piece of gear designed for left-handed law enforcement professionals or individuals who require a secure and discreet way to carry both a spare magazine and a set of handcuffs. Made by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement equipment, this combination holder offers a unique blend of functionality and concealability. Its adjustable tension device and self-locking belt hook are noteworthy features promising secure and customizable carry.

I needed a way to streamline my duty belt setup for off-duty concealed carry. A separate magazine pouch and handcuff case added unnecessary bulk. This Safariland product promised a more compact and streamlined solution.

Unboxing it, my first impression was that it looked robust and well-made. The plain black finish gives it a low-profile appearance. The molded polymer felt durable, but not overly bulky.

Compared to a standalone Bianchi magazine pouch and a Uncle Mike’s handcuff case, this Safariland combo holder felt noticeably more streamlined. I chose it hoping for a more comfortable and discreet concealed carry option compared to carrying two separate items. I was hoping to reduce printing and overall bulk when wearing civilian clothing.

Honestly, I was excited to try it out. I appreciated the idea of combining two essential pieces of gear into one, which could potentially make my concealed carry setup more efficient and comfortable. The Safariland name gave me confidence in its quality and reliability.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-76-22 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-76-22 at the shooting range during a training session focused on reloading drills and tactical movement. The weather was moderately warm and dry. I wanted to simulate a real-world concealed carry scenario as closely as possible.

It performed well under these conditions. Accessing the magazine was relatively easy and smooth once I adjusted the tension. The handcuff pouch, though initially stiff, loosened up with repeated use.

There was a slight learning curve in drawing the magazine quickly and efficiently due to the positioning of the handcuff pouch. The paddle design, while comfortable, required a specific cant adjustment to prevent printing when worn under a light jacket. After adjustments, I found it ideal.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use in both training and off-duty carry, the Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-76-22 has held up admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the polymer. The paddle still locks securely onto my belt.

The finish has remained consistent, even with daily wear. I occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any accumulated dust or debris. It’s very low maintenance, and requires little to no real cleaning.

Compared to my previous separate pouch and case setup, this Safariland combo offers a marked improvement in comfort and concealment. The single unit distributes weight more evenly, preventing uncomfortable pressure points. I found it outperformed my previous carry.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-76-22

Specifications

The Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-76-22 is specifically designed for single-stack or double-stack magazines and standard-size handcuffs. Its plain black finish ensures a discreet appearance. It is constructed of a durable, molded polymer.

The unique paddle design with a self-locking belt hook offers a secure and stable attachment to the user’s belt, while the adjustable tension device allows for customized magazine retention. The left-hand orientation is crucial for correct draw and accessibility. These features enhance the user experience by prioritizing comfort, security, and ease of use.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-76-22 performs its intended function exceptionally well. The magazine is held securely, yet it can be drawn quickly and efficiently when needed. The handcuff pouch accommodates standard handcuffs comfortably.

The main strength is its ability to consolidate two essential pieces of gear into a single, easily concealable unit. The primary weakness might be the slight increase in width compared to a standalone magazine pouch, although this is offset by the convenience of having both magazine and handcuffs readily available. Overall, it meets my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, as expected from Safariland. The molded polymer feels robust and durable. The weight is balanced, even with a loaded magazine and handcuffs in place.

The paddle design is comfortable for extended wear. There is a slight learning curve to achieving the optimal cant and positioning for maximum concealment, but once dialed in, it’s highly user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the quality of materials and construction, I expect the Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-76-22 to last for years with proper care. It requires minimal maintenance. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it clean.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-76-22 doesn’t come with many accessories. However, the adjustable tension device is a form of customization.

Compatibility with different magazine types can be influenced by the adjustment of the tension screw. Some users may opt to add a thin layer of adhesive felt inside the magazine pouch to further customize the fit. While customization options are limited, the core functionality and durability are already top-notch.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-76-22