Let’s Dive into Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 72-76-2B
The Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 72-76-2B is a duty-grade piece of kit designed to streamline an officer’s or security professional’s loadout. It’s a combination pouch, allowing carriage of two magazines and one pair of standard handcuffs, maximizing space on the duty belt. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and durability, and this pouch promises to uphold that reputation.
I needed a solution to consolidate my gear. I was tired of the clunky, disorganized feel of separate magazine and handcuff pouches digging into my sides during long shifts. This Safariland pouch seemed like the perfect way to achieve a more streamlined and efficient setup.
My initial impression upon unboxing was positive. The plain black SAFARIL-LAMINATE material felt rugged and professional. The stitching was clean, and the top flaps snapped securely, inspiring confidence in the pouch’s ability to retain its contents.
I considered separate magazine and handcuff pouches from Bianchi and Uncle Mike’s, both reputable brands. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland 72 for its integrated design and the promise of superior durability known to the Safariland brand. The ambidextrous design was also a significant factor, providing flexibility for different carry preferences.
I was excited to try it out! My initial impressions were positive, and I had high hopes that this pouch would solve my organizational issues and improve my overall comfort and efficiency on duty.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 72-76-2B to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 72 at the shooting range during a firearms qualification course. I wanted to assess how easily I could access the magazines during drills and whether the handcuff pouch would interfere with my movements. The weather was mild and dry.
The pouch performed exceptionally well. Magazine access was smooth and consistent, and the handcuff pouch didn’t impede my draw stroke or movement. The adjustable tension screw proved invaluable, allowing me to fine-tune the magazine retention for optimal draw speed.
The only minor issue I encountered was that the magazine flaps required a bit of breaking in. Initially, they were a bit stiff, making re-holstering the magazines one-handed slightly challenging.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the Safariland 72 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. There are no significant signs of wear and tear. The SAFARIL-LAMINATE material has held up well to daily abrasion and exposure to the elements.
Cleaning is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I occasionally use a leather conditioner on the flaps to keep them supple and prevent cracking.
The Safariland 72 significantly outperforms my previous setup of separate pouches. It is more comfortable, more streamlined, and allows for faster and more efficient access to my magazines and handcuffs. It’s been a game changer in terms of duty belt organization.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 72-76-2B
Specifications
The Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 72-76-2B is designed to carry two magazines and one pair of standard-size chain or hinged handcuffs. It fits belts up to 2.25″ (58mm) in width. The pouch is constructed from rugged SAFARIL-LAMINATE material and features a plain black finish.
The pouch features an adjustable belt loop, allowing for both vertical and horizontal carry. It also features a magazine tension screw for adjustable magazine retention. The specifications are important because they dictate the pouch’s compatibility with your gear and its ability to meet your specific needs.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 72 excels at its intended purpose: carrying magazines and handcuffs securely and accessibly. The adjustable magazine tension screw is a particularly valuable feature, allowing users to customize the retention to their preference. It’s a key feature for any pouch intended for duty use.
The pouch’s main strength lies in its ability to consolidate gear without compromising accessibility. A potential weakness is the flap design, which, while secure, might be slower to access than open-top designs. Overall, the Safariland 72 meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 72’s build quality is excellent. The SAFARIL-LAMINATE material is durable and resistant to wear and tear. The pouch is lightweight and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods.
The design is user-friendly. The adjustable belt loop allows for customized carry positions, and the magazine tension screw is easy to adjust. There’s no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 72 is built to last. The SAFARIL-LAMINATE material is highly resistant to abrasion, moisture, and UV damage. With proper care, this pouch should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional leather conditioning for the flaps is all that’s required. The robust construction minimizes the need for repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 72 doesn’t come with any additional accessories, focusing on its core functionality. The primary customization option is the adjustable belt loop, allowing users to choose their preferred carry angle. However, there are no options for adding more pouches, laser modules or other accessories.
While not explicitly designed for cross-brand compatibility, the magazine pouches should accommodate most standard double-stack magazines. The handcuff pouch is designed for standard chain or hinged handcuffs and may not be suitable for oversized models. It is best to verify that your magazines and handcuffs fit appropriately before use.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 72-76-2B
Pros
- Consolidates essential gear, reducing bulk and clutter on the duty belt.
- Durable construction using SAFARIL-LAMINATE material ensures long-lasting performance.
- Adjustable magazine tension allows for customized retention and draw speed.
- Ambidextrous design provides flexibility for left- or right-handed users.
- Professional appearance with a plain black finish suitable for law enforcement and security professionals.
Cons
- Flap design may be slower to access than open-top pouches.
- Limited customization options beyond the adjustable belt loop.
Who Should Buy Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 72-76-2B?
The Safariland 72 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who needs to carry magazines and handcuffs on their duty belt. It’s ideal for those seeking a streamlined and organized gear setup. It also works well for range use!
Individuals who prefer open-top magazine pouches for faster access or those who require extensive customization options might want to consider alternatives. It is also not meant for concealed carry as the pouch is rather large.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality duty belt that can accommodate the pouch’s width and weight. Ensure the magazine tension screw is adjusted for optimal retention and draw speed with your specific magazines.
Conclusion on Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 72-76-2B
The Safariland 72 Mag/Cuff Pouch, Top Flap – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 72-76-2B is a well-designed and durable piece of kit that effectively consolidates essential gear. The SAFARIL-LAMINATE material and adjustable features make it a reliable and versatile choice for duty use.
The price is justified given the pouch’s quality, durability, and functionality. It offers excellent value for professionals who rely on their gear.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 72 to anyone seeking a streamlined and organized duty belt setup. Upgrade your gear today and experience the difference!