Let’s Dive into Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54
The Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54 is a piece of kit designed for those who need to carry extra magazines discreetly and securely. Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, offers a solution that balances accessibility, retention, and comfort. The double magazine capacity, adjustable tension, and unique paddle design are all intended to make this a top contender in the world of concealed carry accessories.
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I was searching for a more streamlined way to carry spare magazines. My primary need was for a low-profile, yet easily accessible, solution for concealed carry during both range training and off-duty personal protection.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the STX Foliage Green finish. It’s a rugged, textured surface that feels durable and provides a good grip. The polymer construction felt solid, but not overly heavy, striking a good balance between durability and comfort. I was immediately impressed with the build quality, it felt like a product built to withstand years of use.
I considered several options before settling on the Safariland mag carrier, including single magazine pouches and IWB (Inside-the-Waistband) carriers. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland due to its reputation for quality, the double magazine capacity, and the convenience of the paddle design. Other options felt either too bulky or lacked the secure retention I was looking for.
My first impression was positive. The Safariland mag carrier seemed well-engineered and thoughtfully designed. I was particularly excited to test the adjustable tension device and see how it performed during rapid magazine changes. It felt like a professional-grade piece of gear ready to be put to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54 was at an outdoor shooting range. I spent the day running drills that involved frequent magazine changes, simulating a defensive shooting scenario. The weather was typical for a spring afternoon – sunny, but with a slight breeze and intermittent light rain.
The Safariland mag carrier performed admirably in these conditions. I experienced no issues with retention, even during rapid movement and drawing from concealed positions. The magazines stayed securely in place but were easily accessible when needed. The STX Foliage Green finish also proved to be quite resistant to scratches and scuffs from the range environment.
The paddle design made it exceptionally easy to attach and detach the mag carrier from my belt, a welcome change from some other systems I’ve used. It did take a little practice to get used to the draw angle and tension adjustment, but once dialed in, the magazine presentation was smooth and consistent. No malfunctions or issues arose after several hours of use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54 has become a staple in my training gear. It has seen action in various conditions, from hot and dusty outdoor ranges to indoor training facilities and even a few days in light rain. It has consistently performed well.
The STX finish has proven to be incredibly durable, showing only minimal signs of wear and tear despite being subjected to regular abrasion. The retention remains strong and consistent, and the adjustable tension device has not required any further adjustments.
Maintenance is simple: I occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust. Compared to other magazine carriers I’ve used in the past, the Safariland model outperforms them in terms of both retention and durability. I’ve had previous carriers that either lost their retention over time or simply fell apart after a few months of hard use, something I don’t anticipate happening with this one.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54
Specifications
The Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance:
- Double magazine capacity: This allows you to carry two magazines in a single, compact carrier, reducing bulk and streamlining your gear.
- Low-cut design: This allows for a faster, more efficient grip on the magazine during reloads, crucial in high-stress situations.
- Unique paddle design with self-locking belt hook: This provides a secure and stable attachment to the belt, while also allowing for quick and easy removal. The self-locking mechanism prevents accidental detachment.
- Adjustable tension device: This allows you to customize the retention level to your preference, ensuring a secure hold while still allowing for smooth and rapid magazine draws.
- * STX Foliage Green finish*: This provides a durable, scratch-resistant surface that blends well in various environments.
- Ambidextrous design: Suitable for both left- and right-handed users.
- Gun Fit: The product description lists a wide range of compatible firearms, primarily 1911 variants, Beretta 92, SIG Sauer P220 series, S&W 39/59 series, and Springfield Armory 1911A1.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the carrier’s ability to securely hold magazines, facilitate rapid reloads, and maintain a low profile for concealed carry. The adjustable tension and paddle design contribute significantly to the user experience and overall functionality.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54 excels at its primary function: securely carrying and quickly deploying spare magazines. Its performance is particularly noteworthy in the following areas:
- Retention: The magazines are held firmly in place, even during vigorous activity. The adjustable tension allows fine-tuning to achieve the perfect balance between security and ease of access.
- Accessibility: The low-cut design and smooth draw stroke facilitate rapid magazine changes, a critical factor in defensive scenarios.
- Usability: The paddle design makes it easy to attach and detach the carrier from the belt, and the adjustable tension is simple to set and maintain.
- Comfort: The carrier is lightweight and doesn’t dig into the body, even when worn for extended periods.
One minor weakness is that, depending on the firearm/magazine, the fit can initially be very tight and require a break-in period. The product description lists a wide range of gun fits, however I would still recommend test fitting if possible. Overall, the Safariland mag carrier meets and exceeds expectations for a concealed carry accessory.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54 features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort:
- Build Quality: The polymer construction feels robust and durable. The STX finish adds a layer of scratch resistance.
- Weight: The carrier is surprisingly lightweight, considering its double magazine capacity. This is essential for comfortable concealed carry.
- Comfort: The paddle is contoured to fit comfortably against the body, and the low profile minimizes printing under clothing.
The carrier is generally user-friendly, although the initial tension adjustment may require some experimentation to find the optimal setting. The self-locking belt hook on the paddle is also a smart feature, ensuring that the carrier stays securely in place.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54 is built to withstand the rigors of daily use. The polymer construction and STX finish are highly resistant to wear and tear, and the retention mechanism is designed for long-term reliability.
Maintaining the carrier is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and dust. No special tools or solvents are required. Based on my experience, I expect this carrier to last for many years with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54 is designed to be used as-is, with no specific accessories included beyond the carrier itself. The adjustable tension provides a degree of customization, allowing users to fine-tune the retention level.
While there are no direct customization options for the carrier itself, the paddle design is compatible with a variety of belt widths. Some users may also choose to modify the tension adjustment screw to achieve a more precise setting. This is typically not necessary, as the factory setting provides a wide range of adjustment.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54
Pros
- Secure and Adjustable Retention: Magazines are held firmly in place, but can still be drawn quickly and smoothly thanks to the adjustable tension device.
- Durable STX Finish: The STX Foliage Green finish provides excellent scratch resistance and a professional appearance.
- Comfortable Paddle Design: The contoured paddle fits comfortably against the body for all-day wear, even under rigorous conditions.
- Low-Profile Concealment: The slim design minimizes printing, making it easy to conceal under clothing.
- Double Magazine Capacity: Carries two magazines in a single carrier, reducing bulk and streamlining gear.
Cons
- Initial Tight Fit: Magazines may initially be difficult to insert and draw, requiring a break-in period.
- Specific Gun Fit: The carrier is designed for specific firearm platforms, so ensuring compatibility is crucial.
Who Should Buy Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54?
This Safariland mag carrier is perfect for:
- Law enforcement officers and security professionals who need to carry spare magazines on duty.
- Concealed carry permit holders who prioritize both security and accessibility.
- Competitive shooters who require rapid magazine changes.
- Firearms instructors who need to demonstrate reloading techniques.
Who should skip this product?
- Individuals who require a universal magazine carrier that can accommodate a wide range of magazine sizes and types.
- Those seeking an IWB (Inside-the-Waistband) carry solution.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality gun belt designed for concealed carry. A stiff belt will provide a stable platform for the mag carrier and prevent it from shifting during movement.
Conclusion on Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54
The Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54 is a well-designed and durable accessory that excels at its primary function: securely carrying and quickly deploying spare magazines. The adjustable retention, comfortable paddle design, and low-profile concealment make it an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, concealed carry permit holders, and competitive shooters alike.
At a price of $49.99, the Safariland mag carrier represents a solid value proposition. The quality of construction, combined with the practical features, justifies the price.
I would absolutely recommend the Safariland Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – STX Foliage Green 572-53-54 to anyone seeking a reliable and comfortable concealed carry solution for spare magazines. Its durability, functionality, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re serious about your preparedness and want a magazine carrier you can depend on, give this one a try. You won’t be disappointed.