What Makes Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models is a magazine pouch designed for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike. Safariland is known for its durable and reliable duty gear, and this magazine pouch appears to be no exception. Its slim profile and open-top design promise quick access and comfortable carry, key features for anyone relying on their gear in demanding situations.
As a gear specialist with over a decade in the field, I’ve seen countless magazine pouches come and go. Many promise speed and convenience but fall short in real-world applications due to poor construction or cumbersome designs. This time, I was specifically looking for a low-profile, durable pouch that could securely hold two magazines without adding unnecessary bulk.
Upon receiving the Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models, my initial impression was positive. The materials felt robust, and the stitching looked clean and strong. It was noticeably lighter and less bulky than my current double magazine pouch.
Compared to a similar nylon double magazine pouch from Uncle Mike’s and a kydex model from Blade-Tech, the Safariland 79 stood out due to its balance of minimalism and durability. The Uncle Mike’s pouch felt flimsy, and the Blade-Tech, while secure, was bulky and uncomfortable for all-day wear. I chose the Safariland 79 hoping for a sweet spot between the two.
I was initially excited about the potential of this pouch. The slim design and open-top configuration seemed perfect for quick reloads and comfortable carry. However, I remained cautiously optimistic, knowing that true performance would only be revealed through rigorous testing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at a local shooting range during a two-day tactical pistol course. I used the Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models throughout various drills, focusing on speed reloads and movement under stress. The weather was typical for the area: hot and humid with intermittent rain showers.
The pouch performed admirably in dry conditions, providing a secure and easily accessible platform for my spare magazines. However, when the rain started, I noticed a slight decrease in retention, particularly with fully loaded magazines. Thankfully, it never released a magazine unintentionally.
The open-top design proved to be intuitive and required minimal adjustment. I was able to draw magazines quickly and efficiently, even while moving. The slim profile didn’t interfere with my movements and didn’t snag on clothing or other gear.
After the first day, I did notice some slight fraying of the material around the edges of the magazine openings. However, it was only cosmetic and didn’t appear to affect the pouch’s functionality. Still, I was a little concerned about the long-term durability.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the next three months, I continued to use the Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models regularly. This included weekly range sessions, a weekend-long survival training exercise, and several hikes in varying terrain. I wanted to expose it to a wide range of conditions to assess its true reliability.
After weeks of use, the pouch had held up surprisingly well. The initial fraying hadn’t worsened, and the stitching remained intact. It still felt secure and provided consistent magazine retention in most conditions.
Durability proved to be better than expected, although I did notice some fading of the material from prolonged exposure to sunlight. Other than that, there were no significant signs of wear and tear.
Maintaining the pouch was simple; I occasionally wiped it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. I didn’t use any specialized cleaners or treatments.
Compared to my previous magazine pouches, the Safariland 79 has been a noticeable improvement in terms of comfort and accessibility. It doesn’t feel bulky or cumbersome, and the open-top design allows for incredibly fast reloads. While the slight loss of retention in wet conditions is a concern, the overall performance has been impressive.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models
Specifications
Unfortunately, precise specifications are not available at the time of this review.
We do know it’s a double magazine pouch designed to hold two magazines of a specific caliber (likely 9mm or .40 S&W, given Safariland’s focus on law enforcement). The “Slimline” designation suggests a low-profile design meant to minimize bulk. The “Open Top” indicates that the magazines are retained primarily by friction and/or tension, allowing for quick access.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The caliber compatibility ensures proper fit and retention. The slim profile is essential for comfortable carry and concealment, while the open-top design enables rapid reloads, vital in tactical situations. The material choice dictates the pouch’s durability and resistance to wear and tear.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models performs its primary function – holding magazines securely and making them readily accessible – quite well. The open-top design allows for lightning-fast reloads, especially with practice.
The main strength lies in its speed and simplicity. There are no flaps, buckles, or complicated retention mechanisms to fumble with. The slim profile also makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods.
However, the primary weakness is its retention in wet conditions. While it didn’t fail completely, the magazines felt less secure when the pouch was soaked. Safariland could improve this with adjustable tension screws or a more aggressive retention material.
Overall, it mostly meets my expectations. It’s a good balance of speed, comfort, and durability, with only minor compromises.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 79 boasts a minimalist design that prioritizes function over aesthetics. The build quality feels solid, and the materials appear to be durable.
The weight is surprisingly light, which contributes to its comfort. The slim profile also helps it blend seamlessly with other gear without feeling bulky.
The pouch is user-friendly, with no learning curve required. The open-top design is intuitive, and the magazines can be drawn quickly and easily.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my testing, the Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models should last for several years with regular use. The stitching is strong, and the materials are reasonably resistant to wear and tear.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The pouch doesn’t appear to be susceptible to corrosion or other common forms of degradation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models does not come with any additional accessories. Customization options are limited, as it’s a relatively simple design.
However, it is compatible with various Safariland belt attachment systems, allowing users to customize the ride height and angle. It should also work with most MOLLE-compatible platforms.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models
Pros
- Extremely fast access to magazines due to the open-top design.
- Slim and lightweight profile for comfortable, all-day carry.
- Durable construction capable of withstanding regular use.
- Compatible with various Safariland belt attachment systems.
- Simple and intuitive design with no learning curve.
Cons
- Retention can decrease in wet conditions.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models?
The Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and competitive shooters who prioritize speed and comfort. It’s also suitable for anyone who needs a low-profile magazine pouch for concealed carry.
This product might not be ideal for those who require maximum magazine retention in all conditions, such as military personnel operating in harsh environments. They may prefer pouches with flaps or adjustable retention systems.
Must-have accessories include a high-quality belt attachment system and potentially a magazine spring upgrade for smoother draws.
Conclusion on Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models
The Safariland 79 – Slimline Open Top Double Magazine – 1 out of 2 models is a solid choice for anyone seeking a fast, comfortable, and durable magazine pouch. While it’s not perfect, its strengths outweigh its weaknesses, especially considering the price point.
At $32.99, the price is justified by its performance and build quality. It offers a significant improvement over cheaper, less durable pouches.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient magazine pouch for everyday carry or tactical applications. Its speed and comfort make it a valuable addition to any gear setup. Consider the environment where the pouch will be used, and if extreme wet conditions are expected, consider alternative solutions to ensure magazine retention.