Let’s Dive into Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-4
The Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-4 is a streamlined solution for law enforcement and security personnel who need to carry spare magazines and handcuffs efficiently. This pouch, manufactured by Safariland, is designed for duty belts and offers a convenient way to consolidate essential gear in a single, easily accessible location. The combination of magazine and handcuff storage is a space-saving design, but the overall package must be reliable and well-built to make it worth the investment.
For years, I’ve struggled with bulky setups that dig into my side, especially during long shifts. I needed a more ergonomic way to carry essential gear without sacrificing accessibility or comfort. After researching several options, the Safariland 72 seemed to offer the best compromise between capacity and streamlined design.
Out of the box, the Safariland 72 feels solid and well-constructed. The SAFARIL-LAMINATE material feels durable, and the basket weave finish adds a touch of professionalism. It’s lightweight, especially compared to carrying separate magazine and cuff pouches.
I considered the Bianchi 7906 AccuMold Elite Open Top Double Mag Pouch and the Gould & Goodrich B80-2 Double Mag/Single Cuff Case. The Safariland 72 won out because of its adjustable angle positions and reputation for Safariland’s quality. The open-top design was quicker to access magazines in my opinion, but the need to retain the contents during physical altercations made me choose the Top Flap version of Safariland 72.
My first impression was positive; the pouch appeared well-made and intelligently designed. I was excited to test its durability and ease of use in real-world scenarios. Now let’s get to it and see if this product performs as expected in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-4 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 72 during a week-long firearms training course. The course involved a lot of movement, including running, crawling, and engaging targets from various positions. I specifically tested it at the range during drills which required rapid magazine changes and occasional handcuff deployment scenarios.
The pouch performed well in dry conditions, allowing me to quickly access magazines when needed. However, during a simulated rain drill, I found that the top flap design, while secure, slowed down reloads slightly compared to open-top pouches. Despite this, the security afforded by the flaps during movement was a worthwhile trade-off.
The pouch was relatively easy to use, but the magazine tension screw required some initial adjustment to achieve the desired retention. Once adjusted, the magazines stayed securely in place without being too difficult to draw. There were no major issues, but the slight delay in reloading in wet conditions was something to note.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use, the Safariland 72 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the SAFARIL-LAMINATE material. The stitching remains intact, and the snaps on the top flaps are still secure.
The pouch has proven to be durable, withstanding the rigors of daily duty. I’ve bumped it against walls, scraped it against vehicles, and exposed it to various weather conditions. It still looks and functions like new.
Maintenance is straightforward; I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth when needed. The material resists dirt and grime, making it easy to keep clean. In comparison to my previous setup of separate pouches, the Safariland 72 offers a much more streamlined and reliable solution.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-4
Specifications
The Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-4 is specifically designed to carry two magazines and one pair of standard-size chain or hinged handcuffs on a 2.25″ (58mm) duty belt. This pouch is constructed from rugged SAFARIL-LAMINATE, ensuring durability and resistance to scuffs and abrasions. The “Basket Black” finish provides a professional appearance, while the ambidextrous design accommodates both left- and right-handed users.
It is important to note that this pouch fits Glock 17, 22, 31, 34, and 35 magazines, as well as Heckler & Koch USP 40C and USP 9C, Sig Sauer SP2340, and Smith & Wesson 40C, 40F, 9E, 9mm, Sigma 9C, SW40V, SW99, and SW9V magazines. The pouch also features adjustable angle positions for vertical or horizontal carry. Understanding these specifications is crucial for ensuring compatibility with your duty gear.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 72 performs its job effectively, providing secure and accessible storage for magazines and handcuffs. The adjustable magazine tension screw allows for customized retention, preventing magazines from falling out while still allowing for quick draws. The top flaps offer an added layer of security, particularly in situations where the wearer is running or engaging in physical activity.
A notable strength is its consolidated design, which saves space on the duty belt and reduces overall bulk. One area for improvement would be the cuff holder; some users may find the retention to be less firm than desired. Overall, it meets expectations as a reliable and space-saving duty gear accessory.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, thanks to the use of SAFARIL-LAMINATE material and sturdy stitching. The weight is relatively light, considering its capacity, and it sits comfortably on the duty belt. The basket weave finish adds a professional touch, blending seamlessly with other duty gear.
The design is user-friendly, with easy-to-adjust tension screws and secure top flaps. The ambidextrous design is a welcome feature, accommodating both left- and right-handed users. There is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the magazine tension, but once set, the pouch is intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The SAFARIL-LAMINATE construction ensures that this pouch is built to last. It can withstand the daily wear and tear of duty use without showing signs of damage. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it in good condition.
Due to the rugged construction, maintenance is minimal and repairs are unlikely to be needed. The longevity of the pouch is a major selling point, making it a worthwhile investment for law enforcement and security personnel.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 72 does not come with additional accessories, but its compatibility with standard 2.25″ duty belts allows for seamless integration with existing gear. While there are no direct customization options, the adjustable angle positions offer some flexibility in terms of carry style. Some users have reported successfully fitting AR-15 magazines in the handcuff portion, showcasing some versatility.
While not designed for extensive customization, the pouch works well with a variety of duty belts and gear setups. The main benefit is its plug-and-play compatibility with standard equipment, making it an easy addition to any duty loadout.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-4
Pros
- Consolidated Design: Combines magazine and handcuff storage, saving valuable belt space.
- Durable Construction: Built from rugged SAFARIL-LAMINATE, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Adjustable Tension: Magazine tension screw allows for customized retention.
- Professional Appearance: Basket weave finish provides a sleek, uniform look.
- Ambidextrous Design: Accommodates both left- and right-handed users.
Cons
- Top Flaps Hinder Speed: The top flap design can slow down magazine reloads compared to open-top options.
- Cuff Retention: Handcuff retention might not be as firm as some users prefer; there is no tension adjustment for the handcuff portion of the product.
Who Should Buy Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-4?
The Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who needs to carry spare magazines and handcuffs on a duty belt efficiently. It is especially useful for those who want to streamline their gear and reduce bulk. This pouch is a particularly good fit for officers who appreciate the added security of the top flaps and work in environments where magazine retention is critical.
Individuals prioritizing the fastest possible magazine reloads should consider open-top alternatives. Those who require exceptionally firm handcuff retention might also want to explore other options. It’s not ideal for plainclothes or undercover work where concealment is paramount, as the pouch’s size may be noticeable.
A must-have modification is to adjust the tension screw to achieve the ideal balance between magazine retention and ease of draw. Some users might also consider adding additional retention straps for the handcuffs if they find the stock retention insufficient.
Conclusion on Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-4
The Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-4 is a well-designed and durable solution for consolidating essential duty gear. Its consolidated design, adjustable tension, and professional appearance make it a worthwhile addition to any duty belt setup. While the top flaps may slow down reloads slightly, the added security and retention are valuable benefits.
At $64.40, the price is justified considering the quality of materials and construction. This pouch is a solid investment for professionals who rely on their gear to perform under pressure.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 72 to any law enforcement or security professional looking to streamline their duty belt. If you value durability, functionality, and a professional appearance, this pouch is an excellent choice. Upgrade your gear today and experience the difference!