Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-283-13HS Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-283-13HS

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-283-13HS is a duty-grade magazine pouch designed for professionals and serious firearm enthusiasts alike. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and reliability, and this pouch aims to uphold that reputation. It’s built to securely hold two handgun magazines, offering quick access and durability under demanding conditions.

My need for the Safariland 77 arose from a growing frustration with flimsy, unreliable magazine pouches that would constantly shift or fail to retain magazines during training exercises. I needed a pouch that could stand up to the rigors of tactical use, providing both security and rapid access to essential ammunition. I was looking for something that offered ambidextrous functionality and seamless integration with my existing duty belt.

Upon receiving the Safariland 77, my initial impression was one of solid construction. The STX Tactical Black finish gave it a professional look, and the pouch felt substantial without being overly bulky. The magazines snapped in with a satisfying click, indicating a secure fit.

I considered pouches from Blackhawk and Blade-Tech, both reputable brands, but Safariland’s reputation for durability and the specific design of the 77, integrating easily with my existing Safariland duty belt, ultimately swayed my decision. I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype, particularly its ambidextrous capability and the promise of quick, reliable magazine access.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-283-13HS to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 77 at an outdoor shooting range during a law enforcement training drill. This involved rapid-fire scenarios, movement under simulated stress, and multiple magazine changes. The conditions were dry and dusty, typical for our local range in late summer.

The pouch performed admirably; magazine retention was excellent, even during sprints and simulated takedowns. Accessing the magazines was quick and intuitive, requiring minimal practice. I didn’t experience any fumbling or misfeeds, even when deliberately attempting to draw magazines from awkward angles.

My only initial concern was the tightness of the magazine retention, which required a firm pull to extract the magazines initially. However, after a few practice runs, this became a non-issue as the retention eased slightly, striking a good balance between security and accessibility.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and a three-day tactical training course, the Safariland 77 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the STX Tactical Black finish, and the stitching remains intact. The pouch shows no degradation in retention even after thousands of magazine draws.

Maintenance has been minimal; I occasionally wipe down the pouch with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. The STX Tactical Black finish is remarkably resistant to scuffs and scratches, maintaining a professional appearance even under heavy use. The rugged construction and ease of maintenance have exceeded my expectations.

Compared to previous magazine pouches I’ve used, the Safariland 77 is in a different class. It’s far more durable and reliable than the nylon pouches I used previously, and the retention system is superior to the adjustable friction designs of some other brands. The secure fit and rapid accessibility make it a significant upgrade in terms of performance and peace of mind.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-283-13HS

Specifications

• The Safariland 77 is designed to fit belts up to 2.25″ wide. This ensures compatibility with most duty belts used by law enforcement and military personnel.
• It is available in Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, or STX Tactical finish. The STX Tactical finish provides a matte, non-reflective surface ideal for tactical applications.
• The Safariland 77 is part of the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System. This allows seamless integration with other Safariland tactical gear.
• It is designed to fit Glock 19, 23, 25, 32 and SigSauer P250DC magazines. This offers flexibility for officers carrying various handgun models.
• The pouch utilizes a hidden snap fastener for secure belt attachment. This minimizes the profile and prevents accidental detachment.
• The design is ambidextrous, allowing for comfortable use by both left- and right-handed shooters. This enhances versatility and caters to a wider range of users.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the pouch’s functionality and durability. The belt width compatibility, secure fastener, and ambidextrous design contribute to ease of use and versatility. The STX Tactical finish offers a low-profile appearance, and the magazine fit ensures secure retention.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 77 excels at its primary function: securely holding and providing rapid access to handgun magazines. Magazine retention is excellent, ensuring that magazines stay in place during movement and tactical maneuvers. Drawing magazines is smooth and efficient, allowing for quick reloads under pressure.

The pouch’s strengths lie in its durability, secure magazine retention, and ambidextrous design. Its weakness is the initial tightness of the magazine retention, which might require a short break-in period. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade magazine pouch.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 77 is constructed from high-quality materials, giving it a robust and durable feel. Its weight is substantial but not excessive, providing a good balance between durability and comfort. The pouch is ergonomically designed for easy access to magazines.

The pouch’s design is user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment or customization. There’s a slight learning curve in terms of mastering the draw stroke, but it’s quickly overcome with practice. The secure fit of the magazines and the low-profile design enhance its overall usability.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 77 is built to last, with a robust construction that can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The materials are resistant to wear and tear, and the stitching is reinforced for added durability. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The STX Tactical Black finish is resistant to scratches and scuffs, maintaining a professional appearance. The simple design minimizes the risk of mechanical failure and simplifies any necessary repairs.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 77 doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond its basic design. However, it’s compatible with other Safariland tactical gear, allowing for seamless integration with a larger duty belt system. There are no specific customization options for this pouch, but its design is intended to be functional and adaptable as is.

It is compatible with various Safariland belt attachments, allowing the user to adjust the ride height and angle of the pouch. It does not integrate with third-party accessories due to its design specific to the Safariland duty belt system. However, this is typically not an issue since Safariland’s system is comprehensive and well-regarded.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-283-13HS

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Who Should Buy Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-283-13HS?

The Safariland 77 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and competitive shooters who demand reliable and durable gear. Anyone who needs quick and secure access to spare handgun magazines will benefit from this pouch. Its rugged construction and ambidextrous design make it an excellent choice for those operating in demanding environments.

Those who might want to skip this product are casual shooters who do not require duty-grade gear or those seeking a highly customizable pouch with extensive third-party accessory compatibility. Users who prefer very low-profile or concealed carry setups might find it too bulky.

A must-have accessory is a high-quality duty belt that is compatible with the Safariland attachment system. The 6004/6005 tactical system components are also highly recommended for seamless integration.

Conclusion on Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-283-13HS

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – STX Tactical Black, Ambidextrous 77-283-13HS is a top-tier product that delivers on its promise of durability, reliability, and rapid access. Its rugged construction, secure magazine retention, and ambidextrous design make it an excellent choice for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike. The Safariland 77 excels where it matters most – providing dependable performance in demanding situations.

The price is justified considering the pouch’s quality and durability. Cheaper options may exist, but they often compromise on reliability and longevity. I would highly recommend the Safariland 77 to anyone seeking a duty-grade magazine pouch that can withstand the rigors of professional use.

If you’re looking for a magazine pouch that won’t let you down when the stakes are high, invest in the Safariland 77. Equip yourself with the best, and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your gear is up to the task. You won’t regret it.