Let’s Dive into Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 81-18-2
The Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 81-18-2 is a minimalist yet functional solution for securely carrying a spare magazine. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical gear, this magazine holder promises discreet carry and reliable retention. Its ambidextrous design and lightweight construction make it an appealing choice for concealed carry permit holders and anyone needing a low-profile magazine solution.
I was looking for a mag carrier that wouldn’t add bulk to my concealed carry setup. I needed something simple, durable, and easily adaptable for both left and right-hand carry. The Safariland 81 seemed to check all those boxes, promising a blend of Safariland quality and practical design.
Out of the box, the Safariland 81 impressed me with its simplicity and lightweight feel. The plain black finish is understated and blends easily with most clothing. The material feels robust enough to withstand daily wear and tear, and the stitching appears solid and well-executed.
I considered the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse mag carrier and the Comp-Tac Single Magazine Pouch, both popular choices. I ultimately chose the Safariland 81 because of its lower profile and the brand’s established reputation for law enforcement-grade gear. The price point was also a significant factor, offering good value for a Safariland product.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to see how well the Safariland 81 would perform in real-world concealed carry scenarios, hoping it would live up to the brand’s reputation. The minimalist design and lightweight construction piqued my interest, making me excited to test its functionality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 81-18-2 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 81 at my local shooting range, integrating it into my usual drills. I wanted to assess its draw speed, retention, and overall comfort during dynamic movement. I also wanted to test different magazine types to assess how well it accommodated different brands.
The conditions were typical for an outdoor range – sunny, with a slight breeze, and some dust. I used the Safariland 81 during practice drills. The mag pouch held the magazine securely, even while running and transitioning between shooting positions.
The Safariland 81 was incredibly easy to use. The low-cut design allows for a quick and secure grip on the magazine. The snap-type belt loop was simple to attach and detach, making it convenient for adjusting my gear.
After my first use, I was impressed by the positive retention and the easy draw. I did notice that re-holstering the magazine required a conscious effort to guide it into the pouch. This isn’t a major drawback, but something to keep in mind during high-stress situations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 81 has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it daily for concealed carry and during multiple range sessions, including some training in less-than-ideal weather. The holder has retained its shape and functionality, showing minimal signs of wear.
The only noticeable wear is some slight creasing on the folding belt loop, but this doesn’t affect its performance. The stitching remains intact, and the magazine retention is still secure.
Maintaining the Safariland 81 is incredibly simple. I occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or debris. The material appears to be resistant to sweat and moisture, minimizing the risk of corrosion or damage.
Compared to previous mag pouches I’ve used, the Safariland 81 stands out for its low profile and reliable retention. It’s lighter and more comfortable for everyday carry than bulkier options. While some kydex pouches may offer slightly faster draw speeds, the Safariland 81 strikes a great balance between speed, comfort, and concealability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 81-18-2
Specifications
The Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 81-18-2 features a single magazine pouch design. It is constructed from a durable, yet lightweight synthetic material. The holder is designed for ambidextrous use, offering versatility for left and right-handed shooters.
The low-cut design allows for a secure grip and quick access to the magazine. The back side folds over to create a snap-type belt loop, accommodating belts up to 1.75 inches wide. The plain black finish provides a discreet and professional appearance.
These specifications are crucial for concealed carry because they prioritize comfort and ease of access. The lightweight construction minimizes bulk, while the ambidextrous design ensures compatibility with any carry style. The secure belt loop prevents the holder from shifting during movement.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 81 performs its job exceptionally well, providing secure magazine retention and easy access. The magazine stays firmly in place during dynamic movement, reducing the risk of accidental drops. Drawing the magazine is intuitive and requires minimal effort, facilitating quick reloads.
The strength of the Safariland 81 lies in its simplicity and reliability. The weakness is the lack of adjustable retention, which might be preferred by some users.
The Safariland 81 meets and slightly exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of low-profile, reliable magazine carry. While it lacks some of the advanced features found on more expensive options, it provides excellent value for its price.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 81 is designed with simplicity and comfort in mind. The materials used are lightweight and durable, minimizing bulk and maximizing comfort. The holder’s weight is negligible, making it virtually unnoticeable during everyday carry.
The Safariland 81 is exceptionally user-friendly. There is no learning curve involved. Its intuitive design allows for immediate and confident use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 81 is built to last. The durable materials and solid construction ensure long-term reliability. The holder can withstand daily wear and tear.
The Safariland 81 is easy to maintain. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s typically needed. The synthetic material is resistant to moisture and sweat, further reducing maintenance requirements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 81 doesn’t come with many accessories due to its minimalist design. The main customization option is the ability to adjust the belt loop for different belt sizes.
The Safariland 81 is generally compatible with most standard-sized magazines. However, it might not fit larger, extended magazines as securely. The holder’s open-top design means it does not support any optics or other accessories attached to the magazine.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 81-18-2
Pros
- Lightweight and Low Profile: Minimizes bulk and maximizes comfort for concealed carry.
- Ambidextrous Design: Offers versatility for left and right-handed shooters.
- Durable Construction: Ensures long-term reliability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Easy to Use: Intuitive design requires no learning curve.
- Secure Magazine Retention: Keeps the magazine firmly in place during dynamic movement.
Cons
- Fixed Retention: Lacks adjustability for fine-tuning magazine retention.
- Re-holstering Requires Attention: Requires deliberate effort to guide the magazine back into the pouch.
Who Should Buy Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 81-18-2?
The Safariland 81 is perfect for concealed carry permit holders who prioritize comfort and discretion. It’s also suitable for range shooters and tactical enthusiasts who need a reliable and lightweight magazine carrier. Law enforcement officers looking for a backup magazine solution may also find this holder appealing.
This product might not be ideal for competitive shooters who require extremely fast draw speeds and highly adjustable retention. Those who prefer a more rigid kydex-style pouch might also want to consider other options.
A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure the Safariland 81 fits securely and comfortably. A magazine loader can also be helpful for quick and easy magazine reloads at the range.
Conclusion on Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 81-18-2
The Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 81-18-2 is a reliable and affordable option for anyone seeking a low-profile magazine carrier. Its lightweight design, ambidextrous functionality, and durable construction make it a practical choice for concealed carry and range use. While it lacks some of the advanced features found on more expensive options, it provides excellent value for its price.
The price of $30.99 is justified by the product’s quality, durability, and the Safariland brand reputation. It offers a significant advantage over cheaper, less reliable alternatives.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 81 to anyone looking for a simple, reliable, and affordable magazine holder. If you value comfort, discretion, and the peace of mind that comes with a trusted brand, the Safariland 81 is an excellent choice. Invest in your preparedness – secure your spare magazine with the Safariland 81 today.