The Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’m always on the lookout for practical and efficient solutions for carrying essential equipment. When I stumbled upon the Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black, I was immediately intrigued by its minimalist design and potential for discreet magazine carry. This unassuming pouch promised a streamlined approach to reloading, something I value highly in both professional and recreational shooting scenarios.
For years, I’d relied on traditional vertical magazine pouches, but I’ve always been searching for something less bulky. I wanted a lower profile option for concealed carry and situations where speed and maneuverability are paramount. The Safariland pouch seemed to offer exactly that, promising a horizontal magazine carry solution that wouldn’t snag on clothing or equipment.
Upon receiving the Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black, my initial impression was favorable. The black leather looked clean and professional, and the construction felt solid, promising decent durability. The hook-and-loop closure seemed secure enough, but I had reservations about its long-term reliability, especially in harsh conditions.
I considered other horizontal magazine pouches before settling on the Safariland model. Some were made of nylon, which I found less aesthetically pleasing, and others used complicated retention systems that seemed overly complex. The Safariland pouch offered a simple, straightforward design that I felt confident I could rely on.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was excited to test the pouch in real-world scenarios and see if it lived up to its promise of discreet and efficient magazine carry. Only time and practical use would reveal its true value.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black at my local shooting range during a practical pistol training session. I wanted to assess its performance under pressure, simulating a real-world self-defense scenario. The magazine pouch was mounted on my belt in the 9 o’clock position, allowing for easy access with my support hand.
The pouch performed reasonably well in dry conditions. The hook-and-loop closure kept the magazine secure during movement, and drawing the magazine was relatively smooth, though not as fast as with some of my other pouches. However, I experienced some difficulty re-indexing the magazine into the pouch quickly.
One minor issue arose after a few hours of use. The leather, while initially firm, started to soften slightly, making magazine retention a little less positive. Also, the hook-and-loop flap accumulated some lint and dust, slightly reducing its stickiness.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black showed some signs of wear but remained functional. The leather developed a few scuffs and scratches, adding to its character but also indicating its vulnerability to abrasion. The stitching, however, remained intact, suggesting a reasonably durable construction.
The hook-and-loop closure continued to be a point of concern. While it still held the magazine securely, I noticed a gradual decrease in its holding power, especially after exposure to moisture and dirt. Regular cleaning with a brush helped to maintain its effectiveness, but I anticipate eventual replacement of the hook-and-loop.
Maintaining the pouch is relatively straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional leather conditioning kept it looking presentable. Compared to my Kydex magazine pouches, the Safariland leather requires slightly more care, but the aesthetic is worth it. Ultimately, while it serves a different purpose, it doesn’t quite outperform my Bladetech vertical magazine pouch in terms of speed and overall durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black
Specifications
The Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black is designed to carry a single 9mm or .40 caliber Glock magazine in a horizontal orientation. It’s specifically molded to fit Glock 17, 19, 22, 23, 34, and 35 magazines. This broad compatibility is a major selling point for users who own multiple Glock pistols.
The pouch is constructed from plain black leather, offering a classic and professional appearance. It secures to the belt using a hook-and-loop attachment system, allowing for easy on-and-off. The hook-and-loop flap provides magazine retention, keeping it securely in place during movement.
The pouch weighs approximately 2.4 ounces, making it lightweight and unobtrusive. Its dimensions are approximately 5 inches in length, 2 inches in width, and 1 inch in thickness. These dimensions contribute to its low-profile design and concealability.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black performs its core function adequately. It securely holds a Glock magazine and allows for relatively easy access. The horizontal orientation offers a discreet carry option, particularly for concealed carry purposes.
However, its performance is not without limitations. Drawing the magazine is slightly slower compared to open-top vertical pouches, requiring a deliberate grip and pull. Re-indexing the magazine can also be challenging, especially under stress.
While the pouch meets basic expectations, it doesn’t necessarily exceed them. It is a functional solution for horizontal magazine carry, but it is not the fastest or most ergonomic option available. Users seeking maximum speed and efficiency may prefer alternative pouch designs.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black features a simple and straightforward design. The leather construction provides a classic and professional aesthetic. The pouch is relatively lightweight and comfortable to wear, blending in well with typical apparel.
The hook-and-loop attachment system is easy to use, allowing for quick attachment and removal. However, the hook-and-loop closure for magazine retention is less ergonomic than other retention methods. There’s a slight learning curve to drawing and re-indexing magazines smoothly.
Overall, the design prioritizes simplicity and concealability over ultimate ergonomics. While user-friendly, it is not the most intuitive magazine pouch design.
Durability & Maintenance
The leather construction of the Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black provides moderate durability. The leather is susceptible to scuffs and scratches, but the stitching is robust. The hook-and-loop closure is the weakest point in terms of longevity.
With proper care and maintenance, the pouch can last for a reasonable period. Regular cleaning and leather conditioning will help to prolong its lifespan. Replacement of the hook-and-loop may be necessary over time.
Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only basic cleaning and conditioning. Compared to nylon or Kydex pouches, the leather requires slightly more attention to maintain its appearance and functionality.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black does not come with any included accessories. There are also limited customization options available directly for this particular pouch. However, given its simple design, some users may be able to modify it with aftermarket clips for more secure attachment.
The pouch is compatible with standard 1.5-inch belts, which is a common size for tactical and everyday carry belts. Its black color and plain design allow it to blend in well with various belt and clothing styles.
While there are no direct accessories for this specific pouch, the overall design is widely compatible with common belt systems.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black
Pros
- Classic leather aesthetic: The black leather looks professional and blends well with various outfits.
- Discreet carry: The horizontal orientation provides a low-profile carry option, especially for concealed carry.
- Lightweight: The pouch is lightweight and unobtrusive, adding minimal bulk to your belt.
- Easy attachment: The hook-and-loop belt attachment is simple to use and allows for quick on-and-off.
- Wide compatibility: Fits Glock 17, 19, 22, 23, 34, and 35 magazines.
Cons
- Slower magazine draw: Drawing the magazine is slower compared to vertical pouches.
- Hook-and-loop durability: The hook-and-loop closure is prone to wear and tear and may require replacement over time.
- Limited retention: Retention could be better, especially after the leather softens.
Who Should Buy Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black?
The Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black is perfect for individuals who prioritize discreet carry and a classic aesthetic. It’s well-suited for plainclothes law enforcement officers, concealed carry permit holders, and those who appreciate a traditional leather look. This pouch is also a good option for anyone looking for a low-profile magazine carry solution that won’t snag on clothing or equipment.
However, this pouch is not ideal for competitive shooters or individuals who require the fastest possible magazine reloads. Those who prioritize speed and efficiency should consider open-top vertical magazine pouches made of Kydex or nylon. Also, anyone operating in very harsh conditions should likely opt for a more durable nylon option.
A must-have modification could include adding stronger hook-and-loop fasteners for improved retention. Regular leather conditioning is also essential for maintaining the pouch’s appearance and prolonging its lifespan.
Conclusion on Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black
The Safariland Horizontal Single Fits Glock 17/19/22/23/34/35 Leather Black offers a classic and discreet solution for carrying Glock magazines. Its leather construction provides a professional aesthetic, while its horizontal orientation minimizes its profile. Although not the fastest or most durable option, it serves its purpose adequately for concealed carry and everyday use.
At $24.00, the price is reasonable for a leather magazine pouch. The value proposition is decent, especially for those who prioritize aesthetics and concealability. However, potential buyers should be aware of the limitations of the hook-and-loop closure and the slower magazine draw.
I would cautiously recommend this product to individuals who value a classic leather look and prioritize discreet carry. If you are seeking maximum speed and durability, alternative options may be more suitable. Consider your specific needs and priorities before making a purchase.