Let’s Dive into Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Left Hand 771-950-122-150
The Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Left Hand 771-950-122-150 is a piece of kit designed to provide quick and secure access to an AR-15 or similar long gun magazine. Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and durability in the law enforcement and military communities, has crafted this pouch with the professional in mind. Its key features, including the adjustable tension device and fully adjustable belt loop, hint at a design focused on both retention and personalized comfort.
My journey to finding this pouch stemmed from a need for a more reliable and accessible magazine carry system on my tactical belt. I was tired of bulky, floppy pouches that snagged on gear and made reloads a chore. I needed something streamlined, secure, and specifically designed for left-handed operation.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was that of rugged simplicity. The Tactical Black finish looks professional and subdued, minimizing unwanted attention. The pouch felt solid, hinting at durable construction, and the adjustable belt loop immediately suggested a comfortable and customizable fit.
I considered a few alternatives, including the Blade-Tech AR-15 Single Mag Pouch and the HSGI Taco Pouch. However, I opted for the Safariland 771 due to Safariland’s reputation for quality and the 771’s slimmer profile. It seemed like the perfect balance of retention and accessibility.
My first impression was excitement tempered with cautious optimism. I was eager to test its performance in a real-world scenario, hoping it would live up to the Safariland name. Would it provide the secure and accessible magazine storage I desperately needed?
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Left Hand 771-950-122-150 to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Left Hand 771-950-122-150 at my local shooting range during a tactical training session. The day involved rapid-fire drills, movement exercises, and simulated scenarios requiring quick magazine changes. The temperature was moderate, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with clear skies.
The pouch performed admirably, even while sweating during intense repetitions of drills. The magazine remained secure during sprints and prone shooting, thanks to the adjustable tension. Accessing the magazine was intuitive and quick, allowing for seamless reloads without fumbling.
The only minor issue I encountered was adjusting the tension to my preferred level. However, this was quickly resolved with a small flathead screwdriver. I experienced no other issues or surprises during my first use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 771 has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. It has accompanied me on multiple range trips, a three-day field training exercise in varying weather conditions (from light rain to dry heat), and even a few force-on-force scenarios. The pouch has consistently delivered secure and accessible magazine storage.
Despite the rigors of field use, the pouch shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The Tactical Black finish has held up well, with no significant scratches or fading. The adjustable belt loop remains securely fastened, and the tension adjustment has not loosened over time.
Cleaning the pouch is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. I occasionally use a mild detergent to remove stubborn dirt or grime. Compared to my previous magazine pouches, the Safariland 771 offers significantly better retention, accessibility, and overall durability. It has exceeded my expectations in every aspect.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Left Hand 771-950-122-150
Specifications
The Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Left Hand 771-950-122-150 boasts a range of features designed for tactical efficiency and reliability. It is specifically designed for left-handed users, with the magazine oriented for optimal access with the left hand. The pouch features an adjustable tension device, allowing users to customize the retention force to their preference.
It includes a fully adjustable belt loop that accommodates belts up to 1.5 inches (38mm) in width. The pouch is available in Tactical Black, ensuring a low-profile appearance. While designed primarily for AR-15 magazines, it can also accommodate similar-sized long gun magazines, such as those for the Caspian Arms and EAA 38 Super pistols.
The magazine pouch is categorized as a tactical accessory, integral to the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System. The specifications of the Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch are important because they contribute directly to its functionality in the field. For instance, the adjustable tension device ensures that magazines are held securely but are still easily accessible when needed. The adjustable belt loop allows for a comfortable and secure fit on a variety of duty belts.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Left Hand 771-950-122-150 excels in its primary function: providing secure and readily accessible storage for a long gun magazine. The adjustable tension allows for a customizable level of retention, preventing magazines from accidentally falling out during movement while still allowing for quick and easy extraction. Its reliability under stress is a considerable strength.
The pouch’s design is streamlined and snag-free, minimizing interference with other gear. The left-handed orientation is ideal for left-handed shooters, ensuring optimal reload efficiency. One potential weakness is that the pouch is designed for a specific magazine size. It may not accommodate magazines with significantly different dimensions.
Overall, the Safariland 771 meets and even exceeds expectations for a tactical magazine pouch. It provides a secure, accessible, and reliable solution for carrying long gun magazines in demanding environments.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Left Hand 771-950-122-150 is excellent. The materials used are durable and rugged, capable of withstanding the rigors of field use. The pouch feels solid and well-constructed, inspiring confidence in its ability to perform reliably.
The design is user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive layout. The adjustable tension device is easily accessible, and the belt loop is straightforward to adjust. There is minimal learning curve associated with using this pouch.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the materials and construction, the Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Left Hand 771-950-122-150 is expected to last for years with proper care. The rugged materials are resistant to wear and tear, and the simple design minimizes potential failure points. Maintaining the pouch is relatively easy.
Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Occasional lubrication of the tension adjustment mechanism may be necessary to ensure smooth operation. Repairing the pouch, should it become damaged, may require specialized tools and skills. However, Safariland offers excellent customer support and may be able to provide repair services or replacement parts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Left Hand 771-950-122-150 is relatively minimalist in terms of accessories and customization options. No additional accessories are included with the pouch, focusing on the core functionality of magazine retention and accessibility. The primary customization option is the adjustable tension device, allowing users to fine-tune the level of magazine retention.
While there are no direct Safariland accessories specifically designed for this pouch, it is compatible with a wide range of tactical belts and MOLLE platforms from other brands. Users can also customize the pouch by adding aftermarket MOLLE attachments or modifying the belt loop to suit their specific needs. The pouch is also compatible with the Safariland Quick Locking System (QLS), but modification may be required.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Left Hand 771-950-122-150
Pros
- Excellent Magazine Retention: The adjustable tension device provides a secure hold on the magazine, preventing accidental drops during movement.
- Fast and Easy Access: The pouch allows for quick and efficient magazine changes, crucial in tactical situations.
- Durable Construction: Built from rugged materials, the pouch is designed to withstand the rigors of field use.
- Left-Handed Specific Design: Optimized for left-handed users, ensuring efficient and comfortable operation.
- Streamlined and Low Profile: The pouch’s slim design minimizes interference with other gear and reduces snagging hazards.
Cons
- Non-adjustable for different magazine types.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Left Hand 771-950-122-150?
The Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Left Hand 771-950-122-150 is perfect for left-handed law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical shooters who require a reliable and accessible magazine carry solution. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and efficiency in their reloads. Anyone looking for a professional-grade, left-hand-specific magazine pouch will find this to be an excellent choice.
Those who should skip this product include right-handed shooters, who would be better served by a right-handed version of the pouch. Also, if you require extreme customization or need to accommodate a wide variety of magazine types, you might consider a more adjustable or modular pouch system. A must-have accessory is a high-quality tactical belt to ensure secure and stable mounting of the pouch.
Conclusion on Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Left Hand 771-950-122-150
Overall, the Safariland 771 Single Long Gun Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Left Hand 771-950-122-150 is an excellent piece of tactical gear. It offers a winning combination of secure magazine retention, fast accessibility, and durable construction. The price of $41.49 is justified given the pouch’s performance, reliability, and the Safariland name.
I would personally recommend this pouch to any left-handed shooter seeking a professional-grade magazine carry solution. If you value quality, reliability, and tactical efficiency, the Safariland 771 is a worthwhile investment. Equip yourself with the Safariland 771 and experience the difference a well-designed magazine pouch can make!