Let’s Dive into Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B
The Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B is a seemingly simple, yet essential piece of gear for anyone who carries a duty belt. These keepers provide a crucial link between your inner and outer belt, ensuring your gear stays exactly where you need it, when you need it. Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical equipment, has a reputation for building durable and reliable products, and these belt keepers are no exception.
I was perpetually frustrated with my duty belt shifting during foot pursuits and even just routine patrols. The weight of my sidearm, magazines, and other tools would cause the outer belt to sag and slide, creating discomfort and potentially hindering access to my equipment in a critical situation. I needed a reliable system to maintain belt stability and ensure everything remained secure.
Upon receiving the Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B, I immediately noticed the robust construction. The material felt thick and durable, and the two snaps seemed incredibly secure. Compared to some of the cheaper, thinner keepers I had used previously, these felt like a significant upgrade.
I had considered Velcro keepers and keepers with a single snap, but ultimately decided the Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B offered the best balance of security and ease of use. Velcro can wear out over time, and a single snap felt less secure under heavy loads. My initial impression was one of relief – finally, a product that seemed built to withstand the rigors of daily duty.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B was during a week-long firearms instructor course. This involved a significant amount of movement, drawing from the holster, and working in various shooting positions. The weather was typical for late summer: hot, humid, and prone to sudden downpours.
The keepers performed flawlessly under these demanding conditions. Even with a fully loaded duty belt, there was virtually no shifting or sagging. The two-snap design provided a secure hold, and the keepers remained firmly in place, even during rapid movements and transitions. The wet conditions didn’t affect their performance either; the snaps remained secure and didn’t become difficult to operate.
Installation was quick and easy, and I didn’t need any special tools. After the first day, I did adjust the positioning slightly to find the optimal balance between comfort and security, but overall, they were incredibly easy to use. There were no unexpected issues, only a newfound sense of confidence in the stability of my duty belt.
Extended Use & Reliability
After months of daily use, the Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of wear and tear on the material or the snaps. The keepers continue to provide the same level of security as they did on day one.
Maintaining these keepers is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove any dirt or grime. The brass snaps haven’t shown any signs of corrosion, even after exposure to sweat and moisture.
Compared to previous belt keepers I’ve used, the Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B is far superior. Cheaper options often stretched, frayed, or had snaps that failed prematurely. These Safariland keepers have exceeded my expectations in terms of durability, reliability, and overall performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B
Specifications
Category: Duty Accessories – This means they are designed specifically for law enforcement, security, or military personnel who require a reliable and secure way to carry their duty equipment.
Finish: Plain – The plain finish offers a professional and discreet look. This is important for maintaining a uniform appearance and avoiding unnecessary attention.
Color: Black – Black is the standard color for most duty gear. This ensures compatibility with existing belts and accessories and a consistent, professional aesthetic.
Fastener: Brass – Brass snaps are durable and corrosion-resistant. This is critical for ensuring the keepers remain functional in various environmental conditions.
Width: 1.25″ – The extra wide 1.25″ design provides a secure and stable connection between the inner and outer belts. This helps prevent shifting and sagging, ensuring equipment remains accessible and comfortable to carry.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the functionality and durability of the belt keepers. The heavy-duty construction and secure fasteners ensure that the keepers can withstand the rigors of daily duty, while the plain black finish maintains a professional appearance.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B excels at its primary function: keeping your duty belt securely in place. The two-snap design offers a level of security that single-snap keepers simply can’t match, and the heavy-duty material prevents stretching or deformation over time.
The strength is in its simplicity. There is virtually no learning curve, and the keepers are easy to install and adjust. The only potential downside is that adjusting them requires unsnapping and resnapping, which takes slightly longer than adjusting Velcro keepers.
Overall, the Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B meets and exceeds expectations. They are a reliable and effective solution for anyone who needs to maintain a stable and secure duty belt.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B is simple but effective. The materials used are high-quality and durable, and the construction is robust. They are lightweight and don’t add unnecessary bulk to the duty belt.
The ergonomics are straightforward: they’re designed to be functional, not flashy. There is no learning curve; simply snap them in place and adjust as needed.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B is built to last. The heavy-duty material and brass snaps are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use, and they have proven to be incredibly durable in my experience.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep them clean and functional.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B doesn’t require any additional accessories. They are designed to work seamlessly with any standard duty belt.
These keepers are compatible with a wide range of duty belts and accessories from Safariland and other brands. This makes them a versatile and adaptable addition to any duty gear setup.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B
Pros
- Heavy-Duty Construction: Built to withstand daily wear and tear in demanding environments.
Cons
- Adjustments Slower Than Velcro: Requires unsnapping and resnapping for repositioning.
Secure Two-Snap Design: Provides superior stability and prevents belt shifting.
Durable Brass Snaps: Resistant to corrosion and ensure long-lasting functionality.
Simple and Easy to Use: No complicated adjustments or learning curves.
Professional Appearance: Plain black finish blends seamlessly with duty gear.
Limited Customization: Basic design with no aesthetic options.
Who Should Buy Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B?
The Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, military personnel, and anyone who carries a duty belt and needs a reliable and secure way to keep their gear in place. This product is also excellent for range instructors who deal with lots of movement and gear.
Anyone prioritizing quick adjustments over maximum security might want to consider Velcro keepers instead. And if someone is simply looking for a low-cost solution without concern for long-term durability, they might find cheaper alternatives satisfactory.
A high-quality inner belt can further enhance the performance of these keepers. It provides a stable base for the outer belt and helps distribute the weight more evenly.
Conclusion on Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B
The Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B is an essential piece of gear that offers exceptional value for the price. For around $19, it is hard to beat. Its heavy-duty construction, secure two-snap design, and durable materials make it a reliable and effective solution for anyone who needs to maintain a stable and secure duty belt.
The price is more than justified given the quality and performance. These keepers are a worthwhile investment for anyone who relies on their duty belt.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 655 Belt Keeper, Heavy Duty, 2 Snap 655-2B. If you’re tired of your duty belt shifting and sagging, invest in these keepers and experience the difference a quality product can make. Don’t compromise on the security and stability of your gear – choose Safariland and ensure you’re always ready for whatever the day may bring.