Let’s Dive into Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22HS
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22HS is a seemingly simple piece of kit, but for anyone who carries a firearm, a reliable magazine pouch is non-negotiable. This offering from Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and durability in the law enforcement and tactical communities, aims to provide secure and accessible magazine storage in a low-profile design. It boasts ambidextrous functionality and a durable nylon-look finish, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of users.
My search for this particular pouch stemmed from a growing frustration with flimsy, generic magazine carriers that failed to securely hold my magazines during dynamic training drills. I needed something that could withstand the rigors of regular use, offered quick and easy access to spare magazines, and wouldn’t break the bank. The Safariland 77 seemed to check all the boxes on paper, with its promise of Safariland‘s legendary build quality and a design focused on practical functionality.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 77 immediately impressed me with its solid construction and clean aesthetics. The nylon-look finish gives it a professional appearance that blends seamlessly with other tactical gear. It felt substantial in hand, suggesting a level of durability that budget-oriented pouches often lack.
Compared to a cheaper, no-name nylon pouch I had been using, the Safariland 77 felt leagues ahead in terms of material quality and overall sturdiness. I also considered a kydex option from Blade-Tech, but ultimately chose the Safariland for its more subdued appearance and the perceived comfort of the nylon-look material against my body. The other option was a leather double mag pouch, but I wanted something that could hold up to the abuse of tactical drills and the elements.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The pouch looked and felt like a quality piece of gear, but I knew the real test would come in the field. I was eager to see how it performed under pressure and whether it lived up to the Safariland name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22HS to the Test
First Use Experience
I first put the Safariland 77 through its paces at a local shooting range during a day of drills focused on reloading efficiency and malfunction clearing. The range provided a controlled environment to assess the pouch’s retention and accessibility with various magazines. It was a hot, sunny day, and I was sweating profusely, which would test the pouch’s ability to maintain a secure grip on the magazines even in less-than-ideal conditions.
The pouch performed admirably, holding the magazines securely in place even during rapid movements and awkward shooting positions. Accessing the magazines was intuitive and fast, thanks to the slightly flared opening and secure but not overly tight retention. I found the hidden snap closure to be reliable and easy to operate, even with gloved hands. There were no initial issues or surprises; the pouch performed exactly as I had hoped.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use at the range and during force-on-force training scenarios, the Safariland 77 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being subjected to considerable abuse. The nylon-look material has held up well to abrasion and exposure to the elements.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to my previous experience with cheaper pouches that quickly lost their shape and retention, the Safariland 77 has consistently maintained its form and functionality. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and overall performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22HS
Specifications
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22HS boasts the following specifications:
- Category: Tactical Accessories
- Finish/Color: Black, Nylon-Look
- Fits:
- SigSauer – P239; P225
- Smith&Wesson – 908, 909, 3904, 3906, 3913, 3913LS; 3913TSW7RoundMag; 3913TSW, 3953TSW; 3913NL, 3914, 3914LS, 3953, 3954
- Walther – P5, P7, P38
- Fastener: Hidden Snap
- Type: Ambidextrous
- Belt Compatibility: Fits belts 2.25″ wide
- Material: Durable synthetic with a nylon-look finish.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The specific handgun magazine compatibility ensures a proper fit, preventing magazines from rattling or falling out. The 2.25″ belt loop allows it to seamlessly integrate with most law enforcement and tactical belts. The ambidextrous design is a huge plus, giving flexibility to the user regardless of their dominant hand.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 77 excels in its primary function: securely holding and providing quick access to spare handgun magazines. The retention is excellent, ensuring the magazines stay in place even during strenuous activity. Magazine draw is smooth and consistent, thanks to the well-designed interior and the secure snap closure.
The pouch’s main strength is its reliability and ease of use. One area for improvement would be a slight adjustment to the retention strength. While secure, some users might prefer slightly easier access with less resistance. Overall, the Safariland 77 meets and even exceeds expectations for a duty-grade magazine pouch.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 77 features a simple yet effective design. The nylon-look material provides a professional appearance while also being comfortable against the body. It has a low profile, minimizing bulk on the duty belt.
The pouch is inherently user-friendly; no break-in period is required, and the snap closure is intuitive to operate. The belt loop is easy to thread onto a duty belt. The ambidextrous design allows for flexible placement on the belt, and provides a comfortable fit.
Durability & Maintenance
Given Safariland‘s reputation, the Safariland 77 is built to last. The durable synthetic material and reinforced stitching can withstand years of use. Regular maintenance is minimal, usually just requiring cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap. The hidden snap is robust and unlikely to fail under normal use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 77 is fairly straightforward and doesn’t require accessories. It is designed to work well with standard 2.25″ duty belts. There are no specific aftermarket accessories designed for this particular model. Its main feature is how well the magazines stay put.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22HS
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: Built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Secure Magazine Retention: Keeps magazines firmly in place, preventing accidental loss during movement.
- Ambidextrous Design: Accommodates both left- and right-handed users, providing versatility and convenience.
- Professional Appearance: The nylon-look finish blends seamlessly with other duty gear, maintaining a polished look.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple cleaning requirements ensure hassle-free upkeep.
Cons
- Retention could be slightly looser for even faster magazine draws.
- Magazine fit is specific to the handguns listed; not a universal fit pouch.
Who Should Buy Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22HS?
The Safariland 77 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical shooters who need a reliable and durable magazine pouch. It’s ideal for those carrying Sig Sauer P239/P225, Smith & Wesson 908/909/39xx series, or Walther P5/P7/P38 handguns. The ambidextrous design makes it a great choice for both left- and right-handed individuals.
Individuals who prefer a more universal magazine pouch that fits a wider range of handgun magazines should skip this product. Those who prefer more adjustability in magazine retention may also want to consider alternative options. A quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure secure and comfortable carry of the Safariland 77 and other essential gear.
Conclusion on Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22HS
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Black, Nylon-Look, Ambidextrous 77-118-22HS is a reliable and durable magazine pouch that offers excellent value for its price. It may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive options, but it excels in its core function: securely holding and providing easy access to spare magazines. At $45.99, the price is more than justified, considering the quality of construction and the peace of mind it provides.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 77 to anyone seeking a dependable and professional-looking magazine pouch for duty or tactical use. If you are looking for a magazine pouch that works, this is it. Invest in a Safariland 77 today and experience the difference that quality gear can make!