Let’s Dive into Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 81-83-06
The Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 81-83-06 is a single magazine carrier designed for low-profile, everyday carry. Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical gear, brings its expertise to the civilian market with this simple yet effective accessory. Its ambidextrous design and compatibility with common pistol magazine types make it an attractive option for concealed carry permit holders and anyone needing a secure and discreet way to carry a spare magazine. This unassuming piece of gear promises to be a game-changer for preparedness and peace of mind, something I was keen to experience.
I was seeking a comfortable and reliable magazine carrier that wouldn’t print through my clothing. Many concealed carry options felt bulky or shifted around too much during daily activities. The appeal of the Safariland 81 was its lightweight design and promise of secure retention, addressing my need for a minimalist and dependable solution.
Upon receiving the Safariland 81, I was immediately struck by its compact size and the quality of the cordovan leather. The leather felt supple yet sturdy, and the stitching appeared clean and durable. Its lightweight nature was a welcome change from the rigid polymer carriers I’d previously used.
Compared to a double magazine pouch from another manufacturer, the Safariland 81 offered a significantly slimmer profile. Another polymer clip-on carrier felt bulky and less secure. I chose the Safariland 81 for its promise of comfort, discreetness, and the reliability that the Safariland brand typically delivers.
I was excited to test the Safariland 81. I hoped its lightweight design would truly translate to all-day comfort and that its low-profile nature would eliminate printing issues. This product seemed to offer the perfect blend of functionality and concealability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 81-83-06 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 81 at my local shooting range during a self-defense pistol course. I wore it with a Glock 19 magazine, concealed under a light jacket. The holder performed admirably during drills involving rapid reloads and movement.
Even while sweating from the drill and the summer heat, the magazine stayed securely in place. The draw was smooth and consistent, and the ambidextrous design allowed me to practice reloads from both sides of my body. The Safariland 81 quickly felt like a natural extension of my gear.
The Safariland 81 proved to be comfortable and secure from the first use. No adjustment period was needed. The magazine retained well in the holder with no issues and was easy to use throughout drills.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 81 has proven its durability and reliability. The cordovan leather has held its shape well, showing only minor signs of wear around the edges. The stitching remains intact, and the snap closure of the belt loop continues to function flawlessly.
Despite daily wear and tear, the leather has softened slightly, conforming to my body and further enhancing comfort. The magazine retention remains consistent, providing a secure hold without being overly tight. Regular cleaning with leather conditioner has kept the holder in excellent condition.
Compared to other magazine carriers I’ve used, the Safariland 81 has significantly outperformed them in terms of comfort and concealability. It allows for a consistent secure hold while also not being too bulky. I was impressed by its durability and comfortable design.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 81-83-06
Specifications
The Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 81-83-06 boasts several key specifications. It is a single magazine holder crafted from plain cordovan leather. Its ambidextrous design caters to both left- and right-handed users.
The holder features a low-cut design, allowing for a quick and easy draw. The back side folds over to form a snap-type belt loop, accommodating belts up to 1.75 inches wide. It is compatible with a wide range of pistol magazines, including those for Beretta, FNP, Glock, Heckler & Koch, HSAmerica, Ruger, Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson, Springfield Armory, Steyr, Taurus, and Walther pistols. These specifications are important because they ensure compatibility with many magazine sizes.
These specifications contribute to the holder’s overall functionality and user experience. The ambidextrous design makes it versatile for different users. The secure belt loop ensures the holder stays in place during movement. The low-cut design enhances accessibility and draw speed.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 81 excels at its primary function: securely holding a spare magazine while allowing for a quick and efficient reload. The magazine retention is firm enough to prevent accidental dislodging but loose enough to allow for a smooth draw. Its low profile helps with concealed carry.
The Safariland 81 is well-suited to its purpose, providing a good balance of retention and accessibility. The only potential weakness is that a user can feel limited in how far they can practice or carry the device, given it only holds one spare magazine. The product overall meets expectations for its low-profile and secure hold.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 81 features a simple yet effective design. The cordovan leather feels comfortable against the body, and the low profile minimizes printing. The holder’s lightweight construction makes it barely noticeable when worn.
The Safariland 81 is very user-friendly. The design is such that it slides onto the belt easily and is ready to use. There’s virtually no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 81 appears to be a durable piece of gear. The quality cordovan leather and robust stitching suggest it will withstand years of use. Regular cleaning and conditioning will extend its lifespan.
The Safariland 81 is easy to maintain. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional leather conditioning are all that’s needed. The simple design leaves very little to be concerned with.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 81 is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. The design doesn’t lend itself to extensive customization options. Users can potentially apply leather treatments to alter the finish or add aftermarket belt clips for different carry styles.
Compatibility with various belt sizes is a key consideration. While the Safariland 81 is designed for belts up to 1.75 inches, users may find that it works best with slightly narrower belts for optimal security. There isn’t a big need for modifications to a product like this.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 81-83-06
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable for all-day carry. Its minimalist design ensures it won’t weigh you down or cause discomfort.
- Low-profile design minimizes printing. Its slim profile makes it ideal for concealed carry, even under light clothing.
- Durable cordovan leather construction. The quality materials ensure long-lasting performance and a professional appearance.
- Ambidextrous design offers versatility. Suitable for both left- and right-handed users.
- Secure magazine retention with easy draw. Strikes the perfect balance between retention and accessibility.
Cons
- Limited to single magazine carry.
- The price point is high, given that it’s a single magazine holster.
Who Should Buy Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 81-83-06?
The Safariland 81 is perfect for concealed carry permit holders seeking a comfortable and discreet magazine carrier. It is also a solid choice for law enforcement officers or security personnel who want a low-profile backup magazine solution. Anyone who values comfort, concealability, and quality construction will appreciate this product.
Individuals who need to carry multiple spare magazines or prefer a more tactical-oriented carrier should skip this product. Those on a tight budget may find the price point to be a barrier. Someone who prefers a more visible holster on a duty belt should use an open carry option instead.
A sturdy belt designed for concealed carry is a must-have accessory. Users might also consider a high-quality leather conditioner to maintain the holder’s appearance and prolong its lifespan. Other modifications depend on personal needs and belt setup.
Conclusion on Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 81-83-06
The Safariland 81 Concealment Magazine Holder, Lightweight – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 81-83-06 is a well-designed and thoughtfully executed accessory that delivers on its promise of comfort, concealability, and reliability. Its simple yet effective design makes it a valuable addition to any concealed carry setup. Although it carries a higher price point than some competitors, the quality of materials and craftsmanship justify the investment.
The price is justified given the materials and comfort of the holster. Other products may save a user money, but they are often uncomfortable or unwieldy. The Safariland 81 is an excellent value given its blend of utility and comfort.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 81 to anyone seeking a high-quality, low-profile magazine carrier. If you value comfort, concealability, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a spare magazine readily available, this product is for you. Equip yourself with the Safariland 81 and experience the difference a quality magazine carrier can make.