Let’s Dive into Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch
The Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch is a seemingly simple piece of gear, but in the world of tactical and law enforcement equipment, efficient use of space and reliable retention are paramount. Designed by Safariland, a trusted name in duty gear, this pouch aims to provide a streamlined solution for carrying extra magazines on a duty belt or tactical rig. The promise of a slim profile without sacrificing accessibility immediately caught my attention, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
For years, I’ve struggled with bulky magazine pouches that snag on everything from car doors to doorways, making me slower and more cumbersome in critical situations. I needed a solution that would hold my magazines securely, allow for rapid deployment, and minimize the footprint on my already crowded duty belt. I was specifically looking for a pouch that wouldn’t print under clothing during undercover operations and also be comfortable to wear during long patrol shifts.
Upon receiving the Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch, my initial impression was positive. The SafariLaminate™ material felt robust and well-constructed, and the overall design was noticeably slimmer than my existing double magazine pouches. It was lighter than I expected, which is always a bonus when you are carrying a full loadout.
Compared to the standard Safariland Model 7300 double magazine pouch, or even the slightly more compact Blue Force Gear Ten-Speed double magazine pouch, the 79 Slimline appeared to offer a significant reduction in width. This was exactly what I was hoping for. I ultimately chose this pouch over the others because of its open-top design, allowing for quicker access to magazines, and the Safariland reputation for quality and durability.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The pouch felt well-made, and the slim profile was definitely appealing. I was excited to put it through its paces and see how it performed under real-world conditions, but also a bit wary of whether the open-top design would truly provide adequate retention.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch was at a local shooting range during a training exercise. I ran several drills focused on reloading under pressure, timing myself to see how quickly I could access and reload my magazines. The pouch performed admirably, allowing for smooth and rapid magazine changes.
During the training exercise, it started to rain, creating slick conditions. Even with wet hands and a wet magazine, the magazines were still easily accessible and the grip on them was secure enough to pull them out quickly. There were no issues with magazine slippage or accidental ejection, which was a relief.
The open-top design definitely required some getting used to. I was initially concerned about magazine security, but after a few hours of practice, I felt confident in the pouch’s ability to retain the magazines even during dynamic movement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to the rigors of daily duty. The SafariLaminate™ material has held up well, resisting abrasions and maintaining its shape.
Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove dirt and grime. The material doesn’t seem to absorb sweat or other contaminants, which is a huge plus. Compared to my previous nylon magazine pouches, the Safariland 79 Slimline is significantly easier to maintain.
In comparison to my previous magazine pouches, the Safariland 79 Slimline has exceeded my expectations in terms of comfort and accessibility. The slim profile makes a noticeable difference, reducing bulk and increasing freedom of movement. It’s a simple, yet effective, upgrade that has improved my overall efficiency and comfort on duty.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch
Specifications
The Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch is designed to carry two magazines, oriented “face out” to minimize space on the duty belt. It features a durable SafariLaminate™ construction, a vertical belt slot, and is designed to fit a 2.25″ (58mm) belt width. It is also a component of the Safariland 6004/6005 tactical system.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the pouch’s functionality and compatibility with existing duty gear. The slim profile is crucial for officers who need to minimize bulk, while the durable construction ensures that the pouch can withstand the demands of daily use. The compatibility with the Safariland tactical system allows for seamless integration with other Safariland holsters and accessories.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch performs its job exceptionally well, providing secure magazine retention and rapid accessibility. The open-top design allows for quick and efficient magazine changes, while the slim profile reduces bulk and increases comfort. The pouch is also surprisingly durable, withstanding the rigors of daily duty without showing signs of wear and tear.
The main strength of the pouch is its combination of slim profile, secure retention, and rapid accessibility. A potential weakness could be the lack of adjustable retention; however, the design has proven to be effective in most situations. The pouch definitely meets expectations, providing a reliable and comfortable solution for carrying extra magazines.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch boasts a simple, yet effective design. The SafariLaminate™ material is durable and lightweight, while the slim profile minimizes bulk. The pouch is comfortable to wear, even for extended periods, and doesn’t interfere with movement.
The pouch is very user-friendly, requiring no special tools or adjustments. The vertical belt slot allows for easy attachment to a duty belt, and the open-top design ensures rapid magazine access. There is virtually no learning curve; it’s a simple and intuitive piece of gear.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch is built to last. The SafariLaminate™ material is highly resistant to abrasions, tears, and other forms of damage. With proper care, this pouch should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. The pouch can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth, and the material doesn’t require any special treatments or conditioners. The simple design also makes it easy to inspect for damage and replace if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it is compatible with a variety of Safariland duty belts and tactical systems. There are no specific customization options for this particular pouch.
The key is its compatibility with the Safariland ecosystem. You can easily integrate it with other Safariland products, such as holsters and radio pouches, to create a customized duty belt setup. This versatility is a major selling point for users who are already invested in the Safariland brand.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch
Pros
- Slim profile saves valuable space on duty belt and increases comfort.
- Open-top design allows for rapid and efficient magazine changes.
- Durable SafariLaminate™ construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Secure magazine retention prevents accidental ejection or slippage.
- Easy to clean and maintain, keeping it in optimal condition.
Cons
- Non-adjustable retention may not be ideal for all magazine types or user preferences.
- Limited customization options restricts the ability to personalize the pouch.
Who Should Buy Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch?
The Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical professionals who need a low-profile, high-performance magazine pouch. Its slim design makes it ideal for those who need to minimize bulk on their duty belt, while its open-top design allows for rapid magazine changes in critical situations. It is also a great option for concealed carry permit holders who carry spare magazines.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who prefer adjustable retention or require a fully enclosed magazine pouch. Those who frequently operate in extremely rugged environments might also prefer a pouch with a more robust retention system.
A must-have accessory would be high-quality magazines that are compatible with your firearm. Regularly inspect your magazines for wear and tear to ensure reliable performance.
Conclusion on Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch
The Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch is a well-designed and durable piece of gear that offers a valuable combination of slim profile, secure retention, and rapid accessibility. It has proven to be a reliable and comfortable solution for carrying extra magazines on duty. The Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch is also ideal for range days, making reloads quicker without any complicated procedures.
The price of $35.49 is more than justified for the quality and performance that this pouch delivers. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who relies on their equipment to perform flawlessly in high-pressure situations.
I would definitely recommend the Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Dbl Mag Pouch to anyone looking for a slim, reliable, and accessible magazine carrying solution. Upgrade your duty belt today and experience the difference that a well-designed piece of gear can make!