Let’s Dive into Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit
The Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit is a seemingly simple piece of gear, but its utility in the tactical and competitive shooting world is undeniable. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military equipment, this mag holder promises quick access and secure retention for AR-15 magazines.
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I was drawn to this product by a persistent need for faster, more reliable magazine changes during 3-gun competitions. My current setup, while functional, lacked the speed and adaptability I craved, particularly when navigating complex stages requiring multiple reloads.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit felt robust, though lighter than expected. The SafariLaminate material had a smooth, durable feel, and the included ELS (Equipment Locking System) kit gave an immediate impression of versatility. I’ve seen similar pouches before, usually kydex based, but this offered a different approach with the Safariland name behind it. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic – intrigued by the ELS kit and the potential for seamless integration with my existing gear, but also slightly concerned about the thinness of the molding as expressed by other users.
Compared to some bulky, over-engineered mag pouches I’ve used in the past, the Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit appeared refreshingly streamlined. I had considered a dedicated kydex pouch from a smaller manufacturer, and also a more expensive modular pouch that offered more adjustability, but the Safariland’s price point and the included ELS kit tipped the scales in its favor. The promise of easy attachment and detachment without having to re-weave anything on my belt was too good to pass up. I was hoping for a quick, practical solution, and the Safariland seemed to offer just that.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test took place at a local 3-gun match on a sunny, slightly dusty Saturday. The match involved several stages with varied shooting positions and movement, providing an excellent proving ground for the Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit. I attached the mag holder to my competition belt using the ELS kit, which proved to be incredibly simple and secure.
The initial magazine changes were noticeably faster than with my old setup. The tension adjustment screw allowed me to dial in the perfect amount of retention, ensuring the magazine was secure but still easily accessible. Even in awkward positions, such as prone or while moving, I was able to retrieve magazines smoothly and efficiently. There were a couple of times when I brushed it against barricades and cover, and it held up nicely.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including multiple range sessions and another 3-gun match, the Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit has proven to be remarkably reliable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to the rigors of competition. The SafariLaminate material seems to be holding up well, showing no signs of cracking or deformation.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use is all that’s required. This pouch has proven to be significantly more convenient than my previous magazine pouch setup. My older setup required constant adjustment, which ate up valuable time during matches. The Safariland pouch simply stays put and performs consistently, allowing me to focus on my shooting rather than my gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Safariland produces high-quality gear known for its durability and reliability in demanding environments.
- Color: The Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit comes in black, a practical choice for tactical applications.
- Fabric/Material: The pouch is constructed from SafariLaminate, a proprietary material known for its resistance to abrasions and the elements. This material provides a balance between durability and flexibility.
- Accessory Attachment System: The included ELS Kit provides quick and secure attachment to belts and other gear platforms, adding modularity.
- Finish: The smooth finish reduces friction and snagging, important for quick magazine changes. The smooth finish contributes to efficient and unhindered access to magazines.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit excels at its primary function: securely holding and providing rapid access to AR-15 magazines. The adjustable tension screw is a key feature, allowing the user to customize the retention to their preference. The pouch performed admirably during drills that required rapid reloads from different positions, whether standing, kneeling, or prone.
The pouch’s greatest strength lies in its speed and ease of use, facilitated by the ELS kit. The lack of kydex construction, while a concern initially, hasn’t proven to be a significant drawback. However, those expecting the rigidity of kydex might find the SafariLaminate to be slightly less supportive.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit is simple and functional. The pouch is lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the belt. Its ambi-dextrous design allows for versatile mounting options for both left- and right-handed shooters.
The low-profile design minimizes interference with other gear and movement. There’s minimal learning curve with the pouch. Most shooters will find it easy to use right out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariLaminate material appears to be quite durable. The pouch should withstand years of regular use with proper care. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with mild soap and water.
The simple construction also means there are few parts that could break or require repair. This is not a disposable piece of gear but a durable, dependable addition to any tactical setup.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit comes standard with the ELS Kit, which is the primary accessory and provides the means for attaching the pouch to a variety of platforms. The pouch is designed to be compatible with other Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops and mounting options. The pouch is also drilled to accept Tek-Lok attachments if desired.
While there aren’t extensive customization options, the ELS Kit provides enough versatility for most users. The adjustability of the retention screw provides additional customization.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit
Pros
- Comes with ELS Kit pre-attached, offering exceptional value and immediate compatibility with ELS equipped belts and vests.
- Adjustable retention, allowing users to fine-tune the draw tension for optimal speed and security.
- Lightweight and durable construction thanks to the SafariLaminate material, providing long-lasting performance without unnecessary bulk.
- Ambidextrous design offers flexibility in mounting and use for both left- and right-handed shooters.
- Affordable price point, making it an accessible option for both beginners and experienced shooters.
Cons
- Not Kydex. The SafariLaminate construction might not appeal to those who prefer the rigidity and tactile feedback of kydex.
- Thin Molding. Some users may find the molding to be somewhat thin, potentially affecting long-term durability under extreme conditions.
Who Should Buy Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit?
The Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit is perfect for competitive shooters, law enforcement professionals, and tactical enthusiasts who require quick, reliable access to their AR-15 magazines. This pouch is a great option for individuals already invested in the Safariland ELS system.
Individuals who prefer the rigidity and feel of kydex mag pouches might want to consider alternative options. Also, if someone requires extreme durability for heavy-duty, constant field use, a more robust kydex option might be a better investment.
A must-have modification would be adding threadlocker to the tension screw to prevent it from loosening during use.
Conclusion on Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit
The Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit is a well-designed, functional piece of gear that offers excellent value for its price. Its simple yet effective design, combined with the convenience of the included ELS kit, makes it a standout option in the crowded market of magazine pouches. The adjustable tension provides a customized fit and ensures reliable magazine retention, while the SafariLaminate construction strikes a good balance between durability and weight.
The price is certainly justified, considering the included ELS kit and the overall quality of the product. The Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit may not be perfect for everyone, but for many shooters, it will be a dependable and valuable addition to their tactical gear setup.
I wholeheartedly recommend this product to anyone seeking a reliable and affordable AR-15 mag pouch. Give the Safariland Ar 15 Mag Holder With Els Kit a shot – you might just find your new go-to magazine carrier!