What Makes Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models Stand Out?
For over five decades, Safariland has been a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear. The Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models is a testament to their commitment to quality and functionality, designed specifically for those who rely on their gear in demanding situations. Its rugged construction, secure retention, and ease of access set it apart from many other magazine pouches on the market, offering a reliable solution for carrying extra ammunition.
I was looking for a dependable magazine pouch for my Glock 20 while participating in a wilderness survival course. I needed something that could withstand harsh conditions and provide quick access to extra magazines if needed.
Upon receiving the Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models, my initial impression was positive. The STX finish felt durable, and the pouch had a solid, well-built feel. The weight was reasonable, suggesting a good balance between ruggedness and portability.
I considered a few similar products, including the Blackhawk! Single Stack Mag Pouch and the Uncle Mike’s Kydex Single Mag Carrier. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models due to Safariland‘s reputation for quality and the specific fit for Glock 20/21 magazines.
My first impression was excitement; the pouch appeared to be precisely what I needed for the course, a robust and reliable way to carry spare magazines. This promised to be a solid piece of kit.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models at both an outdoor shooting range and during a three-day wilderness survival course in the Appalachian Mountains. At the range, I focused on drawing and re-indexing magazines, assessing the speed and ease of access. The survival course exposed the pouch to rain, mud, and brush, evaluating its durability in challenging conditions.
The pouch performed admirably in both settings. The STX finish proved to be water-resistant, and the magazine remained secure even during strenuous activity. The draw was consistently smooth, and the retention was just right—secure enough to prevent accidental loss, but not so tight as to hinder quick access.
The only initial issue was adjusting the tension screw to achieve my desired level of retention. It took a few minutes to find the sweet spot, but once set, it remained consistent throughout the testing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models has held up remarkably well. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, mainly some minor scuff marks on the STX finish. The pouch has retained its shape and functionality, demonstrating excellent durability.
Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. I occasionally apply a silicone-based lubricant to the tension screw to ensure smooth operation. This pouch significantly outperforms other magazine carriers I’ve used in the past, especially those made from nylon. The rigid STX construction is a game-changer.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models
Specifications
The Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models is designed for double-stack Glock 20/21 magazines chambered in 10mm and .45 ACP. It features a durable STX (Safariland Thermal-molded Exterior) finish for enhanced resistance to scratches and abrasion. The pouch utilizes an adjustable tension device, allowing users to customize the magazine retention to their preference.
The pouch is compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms, including belt loops, MOLLE adapters, and drop-leg platforms. It’s lightweight, adding minimal bulk to your gear, and the compact design ensures it doesn’t snag on clothing or equipment. These specifications ensure reliable performance, durability, and compatibility with existing tactical setups.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models performs its job exceptionally well. The adjustable tension allows for a customized draw, preventing magazines from falling out during movement while still allowing for rapid access in high-stress situations. The pouch securely holds the magazine without excessive pressure, ensuring smooth and consistent draws.
One minor weakness is the limited adjustability of the mounting platform. While compatible with various systems, fine-tuning the pouch’s angle or cant may require additional accessories. Overall, the pouch meets and exceeds expectations, delivering reliable performance in demanding environments. Its robust construction and secure retention make it a top-tier choice.
Design & Ergonomics
The pouch is designed with a focus on functionality and durability. The STX finish provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions, and the molded design ensures a snug fit for the magazine. The low-profile design minimizes bulk, and the rounded edges prevent snagging on clothing or other gear.
The learning curve is minimal; adjusting the tension screw is intuitive, and the pouch is easy to attach to various mounting platforms. The design prioritizes ease of use and reliability, making it a valuable addition to any tactical loadout.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models is built to last. The STX finish is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impacts, ensuring long-term durability. The molded design maintains its shape even after extensive use, and the tension screw is made from corrosion-resistant materials.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Regular lubrication of the tension screw will ensure smooth operation. With proper care, this pouch should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models comes with an adjustable tension device. The primary customization option is the ability to swap out the mounting platform. This allows for compatibility with belt loops, MOLLE systems, and drop-leg platforms.
The pouch is compatible with other Safariland accessories, such as the ELS (Equipment Locking System) and QLS (Quick Locking System), enabling rapid attachment and detachment. The wide range of compatible accessories makes this pouch highly adaptable to various user preferences and tactical setups.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models
Pros
- Extremely durable STX finish provides excellent resistance to wear and tear.
- Adjustable tension allows for customized magazine retention.
- Securely holds magazines during movement, preventing accidental loss.
- Compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms for versatile attachment options.
- Low-profile design minimizes bulk and prevents snagging.
Cons
- Limited adjustability of the mounting platform angle.
- The tension screw may require occasional lubrication.
Who Should Buy Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models?
The Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, competitive shooters, and anyone who carries a Glock 20 or 21 and requires reliable magazine retention and rapid access. It is also well-suited for hunters and survivalists who may need extra ammunition in the field.
Individuals who primarily use single-stack magazines or require extremely lightweight gear may find this pouch less suitable.
A must-have accessory would be a compatible Safariland QLS or ELS adapter for rapid attachment and detachment from belts or other gear.
Conclusion on Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models
The Safariland 73 Mag Pouch STX Black For Glock 20 21 – 1 out of 16 models is an excellent investment for anyone who relies on their gear in demanding situations. At $39.99, the price is justified by the pouch’s exceptional durability, reliable retention, and versatile compatibility.
I would highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a top-tier magazine pouch for their Glock 20 or 21. If you need a magazine pouch that can withstand abuse and provide quick access to your ammunition, look no further than the Safariland 73. Upgrade your kit today and experience the difference.