Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic Review

First Thoughts on the Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic

The Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic, a seemingly simple kit, holds the key to unlocking a new level of modularity for tactical gear. Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in law enforcement and military equipment, offers the Equipment Locking System (ELS) to allow users to rapidly configure their belts and vests. This is more than just a few pieces of plastic; it’s about optimizing your loadout for peak performance and adaptability, and for a price of just $17.60, it promises an affordable upgrade.

As a gear specialist, I’m always looking for ways to improve efficiency and organization on the field. For years, I struggled with fixed pouches that limited my ability to adjust my gear setup based on the mission. I needed a system that would allow me to quickly swap out magazine pouches, holsters, and other accessories without having to completely disassemble my belt.

Upon unboxing, the Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic components felt sturdy and well-made. The locking forks and receiver plates are constructed from a rigid polymer that inspires confidence. The black finish is clean and professional, blending seamlessly with most tactical gear. My initial reaction was positive; the simplicity of the design hinted at a user-friendly experience.

Compared to similar MOLLE-based attachment systems, the ELS system promises a faster and more secure attachment method. While MOLLE provides versatility, it can be time-consuming to weave pouches in and out. The Blade-Tech Tek-Lok system also offers quick attachment, but isn’t quite as universally adopted as the Safariland system. I chose the Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic because of its reputation for reliability, widespread compatibility, and the potential for significant time savings during gear changes.

The initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the possibilities, but also skeptical about whether such a simple system could truly deliver on its promise of rapid modularity and secure attachment. It was time to put it to the test.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic came at a local shooting range during a training session. I configured my duty belt with a pistol holster, two rifle magazine pouches, and a medical kit, all attached using the ELS system. This allowed me to quickly change which magazines were placed where on my person.

The ELS system performed flawlessly in dry conditions. The attachments were secure, and the ability to quickly detach and reattach pouches proved invaluable when transitioning between drills. I experienced no wobble or movement of the attached gear, giving me confidence in the system’s ability to withstand rigorous use.

The ease of use was remarkable. After a brief learning curve, I could swap out pouches with one hand in a matter of seconds. There were no frustrating buckles, straps or snaps to fiddle with. I only needed a firm push and twist.

However, I did notice that the receiver plates can sometimes snag on clothing when moving quickly. This was a minor issue, but something to be aware of. Additionally, the hand-tightened screws can loosen slightly over time, requiring occasional retightening.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic system has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of cracking or deformation in the plastic components, despite exposure to heat, humidity, and rough handling. However, the screws holding the ELS 35 Receiver Plate in place do require periodic tightening.

The black finish has held up well, with only minor scratches and scuffs. The system remains easy to clean and maintain; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed. The reliability of the system has been consistently high. The speed and ease with which I can reconfigure my gear has been a game-changer, especially in dynamic training scenarios.

Compared to my previous MOLLE-based setup, the Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic offers a significant improvement in terms of speed and convenience. While MOLLE is still a viable option for certain applications, the ELS system has become my go-to choice for quick and easy gear changes. I’m very satisfied with the performance and durability of this system.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic

Specifications

The Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic kit includes two ELS 34 Locking Forks and two ELS 35 Receiver Plates. The locking forks are designed to attach to the accessory (e.g., holster, magazine pouch), while the receiver plates are mounted on the belt or vest. The system utilizes a simple yet effective locking mechanism that allows for rapid attachment and detachment.

• Material: High-strength, injection-molded hard plastic. The durability of this polymer is crucial for withstanding the stress of everyday use.
• Color: Black. This allows the system to blend seamlessly with most tactical gear and duty belts.
• Attachment Method: Hand-tightened screws. This provides a secure and adjustable fit, though occasional retightening may be necessary.
• Compatibility: Designed for use with most Safariland tactical accessories and other compatible brands. The widespread adoption of the ELS standard enhances its versatility.
• Price: $17.60. Making it an affordable upgrade for improving gear modularity.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the system’s performance and usability. The high-strength plastic ensures durability and longevity, while the black finish provides a professional appearance. The hand-tightened screws allow for easy adjustment and customization, while the compatibility with other brands expands the system’s versatility.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic excels at its primary function: providing a rapid and secure attachment method for tactical gear. The locking mechanism is intuitive and easy to use, allowing for quick swaps and adjustments on the fly. The system holds accessories firmly in place, even during rigorous activity.

The main strength of the ELS system is its speed and ease of use. Swapping out pouches takes only a few seconds, compared to the minutes it takes with MOLLE. The system’s modularity allows users to customize their loadout for specific missions or tasks, increasing efficiency and effectiveness.

One potential weakness is the occasional loosening of the hand-tightened screws. Regular checks and retightening are necessary to ensure that the attachments remain secure. Also, some users may find the receiver plates slightly bulky or obtrusive.

Overall, the Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of rapid modularity and secure attachment, making it a valuable addition to any tactical gear setup.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic is simple yet effective. The locking forks and receiver plates are lightweight and compact, minimizing bulk and weight on the belt or vest. The black finish is aesthetically pleasing and blends well with most tactical gear.

The build quality is excellent. The plastic components feel solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in their durability. The system is comfortable to wear, with no sharp edges or pressure points.

The ELS system is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. The locking mechanism is intuitive and easy to operate, even with gloves on. The hand-tightened screws allow for quick adjustments without the need for specialized tools.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic is designed to withstand the rigors of tactical use. The high-strength plastic is resistant to cracking, deformation, and wear. The black finish is durable and resists scratches and scuffs.

The system is easy to maintain. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove dirt and grime. The screws may require occasional retightening, but this is a simple task that can be done with your fingers.

With proper care, the Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic should last for years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic kit itself doesn’t come with any additional accessories, but it’s designed to be compatible with a wide range of Safariland and other brands of tactical accessories. This includes holsters, magazine pouches, flashlight holders, and other essential gear. The real power of the Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic lies in its capacity to integrate seamlessly with a wide range of tactical gear.

• Holsters: The ELS system is particularly useful for quickly changing holsters based on mission requirements or personal preference.
• Magazine Pouches: ELS allows you to easily adjust the number and placement of magazine pouches on your belt or vest.
• Other Accessories: The system can be used to attach a variety of other accessories, such as medical kits, breaching tools, and communication devices.

The compatibility of the Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic with popular accessories from other brands is a major advantage. This allows users to mix and match gear from different manufacturers to create a truly customized loadout.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic

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Who Should Buy Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic?

The Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, competitive shooters, and anyone who needs to quickly and easily reconfigure their tactical gear. It’s a must-have for those who value efficiency, modularity, and reliability.

Those who prefer a more permanent gear setup or who prioritize maximum weight savings may want to skip this product.

A must-have modification is using thread locker on the screws to prevent loosening, and a good quality duty belt to mount the receiver plates on.

Conclusion on Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic

The Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic is a simple yet highly effective system for improving the modularity and efficiency of tactical gear. It provides a rapid and secure attachment method that allows users to quickly reconfigure their loadout for different missions or tasks. The system is durable, reliable, and compatible with a wide range of accessories.

At a price of just $17.60, the Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic offers excellent value for money. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants to optimize their gear setup and improve their performance.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland ElS Black Hard Plastic to anyone in need of a versatile and reliable attachment system. Upgrade your gear setup today and experience the difference.

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