Let’s Dive into Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-9PBL
The Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-9PBL is a duty belt staple, designed to streamline gear carriage for law enforcement and security personnel. This pouch offers a combined solution for carrying two magazines and a pair of handcuffs, crucial items for anyone in the field. Its ambidextrous design caters to both left and right-handed users, and the adjustable angle positions provide personalized comfort and accessibility.
I was searching for a more efficient way to organize my duty belt. My existing setup was bulky, with separate pouches for magazines and cuffs, leading to unnecessary clutter and slower access. The Safariland 72 promised to consolidate these items into a single, streamlined unit.
Unboxing the Safariland 72, I immediately noticed its robust construction and the high-gloss black finish. The SAFARILAND laminate felt durable, promising resistance against the daily wear and tear of duty use. It felt heavier than my individual pouches, but I expected this trade-off for the consolidated design.
Compared to separate magazine and cuff pouches from Bianchi and Uncle Mike’s, the Safariland 72 offered a cleaner, more integrated look. I chose it primarily for its space-saving design and the ability to adjust the carry angle, something lacking in my older pouches. It was also significantly more expensive but promised a longer lifespan and better functionality.
My first impression was positive; the pouch felt solid and well-made. The glossy finish was aesthetically pleasing, though I wondered if it would be prone to scratching. I was eager to test its functionality and see if it lived up to its promise of streamlining my gear.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-9PBL to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 72 at the shooting range during a training exercise that simulated real-world scenarios. The range demanded quick reloads and efficient access to handcuffs, simulating the pressures of a dynamic situation. The weather was dry and sunny, typical for a Southern California day.
The pouch performed well, allowing for relatively quick magazine changes after some adjustment. The magazine tension screw needed to be adjusted to find the right balance between retention and ease of access. I found the handcuff pouch readily accessible, even while wearing gloves.
It took about an hour of practice to become fully comfortable with the draw angles of both the magazines and the cuffs. Initially, I fumbled a bit, but the adjustable angle feature proved invaluable in finding the optimal position for my body mechanics. There were no immediate issues, though I noticed the glossy finish attracted dust.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of daily use on duty, the Safariland 72 has held up admirably. The SAFARILAND laminate shows minimal wear, with only a few minor scuffs. It’s become an integral part of my daily loadout.
The pouch has proven durable, with no signs of stitching failures or material degradation. The black snaps remain secure and functional. The high-gloss finish, while initially a concern, has proven surprisingly resilient.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth keeps it clean. The SAFARILAND laminate is resistant to dirt and grime. It outperforms my previous separate pouches in terms of both durability and ease of maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-9PBL
Specifications
The Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-9PBL is designed to carry two magazines of ammunition and one pair of standard-size chain or hinged handcuffs. It is compatible with 2.25″ (58mm) duty belts. The pouch features adjustable angle positions, allowing for both vertical and horizontal carry.
A magazine tension screw allows for easy magazine retention adjustment, ensuring a secure but accessible fit. It is constructed of rugged SAFARILAND laminate, offering scuff resistance. The finish is hi-gloss black.
The pouch is ambidextrous, accommodating both left and right-handed users. The fastener utilizes black snaps for secure closure. It is designed to fit a wide range of magazines, including those for Glock (34, 35; 17, 22, 31), Heckler & Koch (USP9C, 40C Compact), Ruger (SR9), Sig Sauer (SIGProSP2340), and Smith & Wesson (Sigma9C, 40C, 9E; Sigma 40F, SW9V, SW40V, SW99).
These specifications matter because they directly impact the pouch’s versatility and usability. The adjustable angle and magazine tension screw allow for personalized customization. The durable SAFARILAND laminate ensures long-term reliability.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 72 performs its job effectively, providing secure and accessible storage for magazines and handcuffs. The magazine tension screw allows for fine-tuning of retention, preventing magazines from falling out while allowing for quick reloads. The ambidextrous design caters to a wide range of users.
The main strength is its ability to consolidate essential duty gear into a single, space-saving pouch. The adjustable angle feature is also a significant advantage, allowing users to customize the carry position for optimal comfort and accessibility. A potential weakness is that the handcuff pouch is not ideally suited for larger, rigid-frame handcuffs.
The Safariland 72 generally meets expectations, providing a durable and functional solution for carrying magazines and handcuffs. The high-gloss finish may not be to everyone’s taste, but it is easy to clean and maintain. The ambidextrous design is a welcome feature.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 72 features a streamlined design that minimizes bulk on the duty belt. The SAFARILAND laminate is rigid and durable, providing excellent support for the carried items. It feels comfortable against the body, even during extended wear.
The pouch is relatively user-friendly, though adjusting the magazine tension screw requires some trial and error. Finding the optimal carry angle also takes some experimentation. The top flaps provide secure closure and protect the magazines and handcuffs from the elements.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 72 is built to last, thanks to its rugged SAFARILAND laminate construction. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. The stitching is reinforced at key stress points.
Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The SAFARILAND laminate is resistant to most common stains and spills. Repair, while possible, would likely require professional assistance due to the specialized materials and construction techniques.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 72 comes with the pouch itself. There aren’t extensive customization options, but the adjustable angle feature allows for personalized carry. The magazine tension screw allows for fine-tuning magazine retention.
While not specifically designed for accessories, the pouch is compatible with a wide range of standard-size magazines and handcuffs. Aftermarket belt keepers can be used to further secure the pouch to the duty belt. Compatibility with other SAFARILAND products is generally excellent.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-9PBL
Pros
- Consolidates magazines and handcuffs into a single pouch, saving space on the duty belt.
- Adjustable angle positions allow for personalized carry and improved accessibility.
- Durable SAFARILAND laminate construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Ambidextrous design accommodates both left and right-handed users.
- Magazine tension screw enables fine-tuning of magazine retention.
Cons
- High-gloss black finish may be prone to scratching and may not be suitable for covert operations.
- The handcuff pouch might not comfortably accommodate larger, rigid-frame handcuffs.
Who Should Buy Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-9PBL?
The Safariland 72 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who needs to carry magazines and handcuffs on their duty belt. It’s especially beneficial for those seeking to streamline their gear and improve accessibility. The ambidextrous design makes it suitable for both left and right-handed users.
This product might not be ideal for individuals who require specialized pouches for specific types of handcuffs or magazines. Those who prefer a more low-profile, matte finish might also want to consider alternative options. It’s also perhaps not the best option for plain-clothes or covert operations.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality set of belt keepers to ensure the pouch remains securely attached to the duty belt. Regularly check and adjust the magazine tension screw to maintain optimal retention. Consider the SAFARILAND cleaner to keep the hi-gloss finish looking pristine.
Conclusion on Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-9PBL
The Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Hi Gloss Black, Ambidextrous 72-83-9PBL is a well-designed and durable solution for consolidating essential duty gear. Its adjustable angle positions and magazine tension screw provide personalized customization. It’s an invaluable piece of kit.
The price is justified by the pouch’s durability, functionality, and space-saving design. It’s an investment in a more efficient and comfortable duty belt setup. The SAFARILAND name speaks to its quality and longevity.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 72 to anyone seeking a streamlined and reliable way to carry magazines and handcuffs. If you’re tired of bulky, disorganized duty gear, this pouch is definitely worth considering. Invest in the Safariland 72 and experience the difference a well-organized duty belt can make.