Let’s Dive into Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh
The Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh isn’t just another magazine carrier; it’s a specialized piece of gear meticulously designed for the competitive shooter. Crafted by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical excellence, this magazine carrier promises rapid access and secure retention for Glock 17 and 22 magazines, specifically tailored for left-handed shooters. Its integration with the ELS (Equipment Locking System) suggests seamless compatibility with other Safariland gear, promising a unified and efficient competition setup.
I was struggling with inconsistent magazine changes during local USPSA matches. My old kydex carrier, while functional, lacked the secure retention I needed, leading to occasional fumbled reloads under pressure. I was specifically hunting for a carrier that would hold the magazine securely, allow for consistent indexing, and facilitate a lightning-fast draw.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh felt robust and well-constructed. The polymer material felt durable, and the ELS locking system was immediately intuitive. Its lightweight design was a welcome surprise, especially compared to some bulkier options I’ve handled.
I considered the Blade-Tech Revolution magazine pouch and the Ghost International 360 magazine pouch. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland due to its reputation for durability, the proven ELS system, and the specifically molded design for Glock magazines, which promised superior retention compared to the more universal pouches.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality was undeniable, and the ELS system seemed promising. The true test, however, would be on the range, under the pressure of a timer.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh through its paces at my local outdoor shooting range during a USPSA practice session. The weather was typical for a Texas summer: hot, humid, and dusty. I ran several drills involving rapid magazine changes, both from static positions and while moving.
The Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh performed admirably in the challenging conditions. The retention was secure, even during dynamic movements, and the magazines were easily accessible with a consistent grip. The holster was not affected by the high heat and dust levels, a pleasant surprise given some of my previous gear malfunctions.
Initially, I needed a few repetitions to become fully comfortable with the draw stroke. The ELS system provides a very positive lock, which requires a deliberate and consistent pull to release the magazine. However, after about an hour of practice, I found myself performing reloads faster and more smoothly than ever before.
There were no major issues, but I did notice that the magazine release button on my Glock sometimes snagged slightly on the carrier during re-holstering if I wasn’t careful. This was easily mitigated with a slight adjustment to my technique.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use in weekly practice sessions and two local USPSA matches, the Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking or deformation in the polymer, and the ELS system continues to function flawlessly.
The carrier has proven to be incredibly durable. Despite being subjected to rough handling, accidental drops, and exposure to various weather conditions, it shows no signs of significant wear and tear.
Maintenance is minimal. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use to remove any dirt or debris.
This carrier significantly outperforms my previous kydex pouch in terms of retention, speed, and durability. It’s a noticeable upgrade that has positively impacted my competition performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Safariland
- Compatibility: Glock 17, Glock 22, and similar double-stack 9mm/.40 caliber Glock magazines.
- Handedness: Left Hand (Lh)
- Retention System: ELS (Equipment Locking System)
- Material: Durable Polymer
- Mounting Options: Compatible with Safariland ELS mounting forks and other mounting platforms utilizing the standard Safariland hole pattern.
- ELS Locking System: The Equipment Locking System allows the user to attach and detach the carrier from a variety of platforms quickly and securely. This is essential for competitive shooters who need to customize their gear setup for different stages.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the carrier’s performance and suitability for competitive shooting. The Glock-specific design ensures a snug and secure fit, while the ELS system provides unparalleled versatility in mounting options.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh excels in its primary function: providing rapid and reliable access to spare magazines. The magazine retention is excellent, preventing accidental drops while allowing for a smooth and consistent draw.
The main strength is the combination of secure retention and easy access. The primary weakness is that it is specifically designed for Glock 17/22 magazines. Therefore it may not function as well with other magazine types or brands.
It meets and exceeds my expectations. My reload times have noticeably improved, and I have complete confidence that my magazines will remain secure throughout a competition stage.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is top-notch. The polymer material feels incredibly durable, yet lightweight. The overall design is streamlined and efficient, minimizing bulk while maximizing functionality.
The carrier is relatively user-friendly, although the ELS system requires a bit of practice to master. The learning curve is short, and the benefits of the system quickly become apparent.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, I expect the Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh to last for many years of regular use. The carrier is specifically built for the high-stress environment of competitive shooting, so durability is a key consideration.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is typically sufficient to keep it in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary accessory is the Safariland ELS mounting fork, which allows the carrier to be attached to a belt or other mounting platform. The ELS system is highly modular, providing a wide range of customization options.
The carrier is compatible with most Safariland ELS accessories and mounting platforms. This allows users to create a completely customized gear setup tailored to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh
Pros
- Superior magazine retention prevents accidental drops during dynamic movement.
- The ELS (Equipment Locking System) offers unmatched versatility in mounting options and gear customization.
- Durable polymer construction ensures long-lasting performance in demanding environments.
- Specifically molded for Glock 17/22 magazines for a perfect fit and smooth draw.
- Noticeably improves reload speed and consistency, leading to better competitive performance.
Cons
- Specifically designed for Glock 17/22 magazines and may not be compatible with other magazine types.
- The ELS system requires some initial practice to master.
Who Should Buy Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh?
- Perfect for competitive shooters using Glock 17 or 22 pistols. Also great for law enforcement officers or military personnel who use Glocks and require secure and rapid magazine access.
- Anyone who is left-handed and wants the convenience and speed of their dominant hand.
- Anyone who values durability and modularity in their gear setup.
Those who should skip this product include individuals who use different handgun platforms or who are not concerned with rapid magazine changes. Also not the best fit for casual shooters who do not require a highly specialized magazine carrier.
A must-have accessory is the Safariland ELS belt or mounting platform to take full advantage of the ELS system. Some users may also benefit from adding a tension adjustment screw to fine-tune the magazine retention.
Conclusion on Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh
The Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh is a high-quality, purpose-built magazine carrier designed for competitive shooters and tactical professionals who rely on Glock 17 or 22 pistols. Its superior retention, durable construction, and versatile ELS system make it a standout product in its category.
At $53.99, the price is justified given the carrier’s performance, durability, and feature set. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about improving their reload speed and consistency.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland Comp Mag Fits Glock 17 / 22 Lh to any left-handed shooter seeking a reliable and efficient magazine carrier for their Glock pistols. It’s a game-changer that has significantly improved my competition performance, and I’m confident it will do the same for you. Upgrade your gear today and experience the Safariland difference!