Let’s Talk About Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine – 1 out of 2 models
The Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine – 1 out of 2 models promises to deliver speed and reliability to competitive shooters. Safariland is a brand synonymous with quality, trusted by law enforcement and military professionals worldwide. This magazine pouch aims to bring that same level of performance to the competition circuit, but at a price point that’s accessible to many.
I decided to try the Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine because I was tired of fumbling with my old magazine pouches during local USPSA matches. My reloads were slow, and my times suffered as a result. I needed a pouch that offered secure retention while still allowing for lightning-fast access to spare magazines.
Upon receiving the Safariland Model 773, my initial impression was positive. The pouch felt robust and well-made, despite its relatively light weight. The open-top design was exactly what I was looking for, offering unobstructed access to the magazine.
Compared to some other competition-style magazine pouches I’ve used, such as the Blade-Tech Revolution or the Comp-Tac International, the Safariland Model 773 stood out due to its simplicity and reputation for durability. I chose this model hoping for a reliable pouch that wouldn’t break the bank. I was excited to try it at my next match!
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine – 1 out of 2 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine came at a local USPSA match held at an outdoor range. The weather was dry and relatively mild, making for ideal shooting conditions. I mounted the pouch on my competition belt, ensuring it was positioned for a smooth and natural reload.
The Safariland Model 773 performed admirably right out of the gate. Drawing magazines was noticeably faster and easier than with my previous pouches. The tension adjustment screw allowed me to dial in the perfect amount of retention, ensuring the magazines stayed secure during movement but were still readily accessible when needed.
There were no major issues during the match, but I did notice that the pouch tended to shift slightly on my belt after several stages. This required minor adjustments between stages to maintain optimal positioning. It didn’t impact my performance significantly, but it was something I noted for future consideration.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It has held up well to the rigors of competition, showing no signs of significant wear and tear. The polymer construction is surprisingly robust and has resisted cracking or breaking, despite being bumped and jostled during matches.
Maintenance is simple: I occasionally wipe down the pouch with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. The tension adjustment screw has remained secure and hasn’t required any adjustments since the initial setup.
Compared to some higher-end competition pouches I’ve used in the past, the Safariland Model 773 may lack some of the bells and whistles, but it delivers excellent performance at a fraction of the cost. It has consistently outperformed my expectations, providing a reliable and efficient platform for magazine reloads. It’s far superior to budget nylon pouches that lose retention over time.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine – 1 out of 2 models
Specifications
The Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine – 1 out of 2 models boasts several key specifications designed to enhance performance and usability. The pouch is constructed from durable, injection-molded polymer. It offers adjustable tension, accommodating various magazine types and user preferences.
- Material: Injection-molded polymer – Provides durability and weather resistance.
- Design: Open-top – Enables rapid magazine deployment.
- Tension Adjustment: Adjustable screw – Allows customization of magazine retention.
- Mounting: Belt loop – Attaches securely to competition belts.
- Price: $37.34 – A budget-friendly option for competition shooters.
These specifications directly impact the performance of the pouch. The open-top design ensures swift magazine access, which is crucial in competitive shooting scenarios. The adjustable tension allows users to fine-tune the retention to their liking, balancing security and accessibility. The rugged polymer construction ensures longevity and reliability, even under demanding conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine excels at its primary function: providing quick and reliable access to spare magazines. Its open-top design allows for a full firing grip on the magazine during the draw stroke, promoting consistent and efficient reloads. The adjustable tension ensures the magazine stays put during movement but is easily released when needed.
While the Safariland Model 773 offers excellent performance, there’s always room for improvement. The belt loop design could be slightly wider or more rigid to prevent shifting during dynamic movement.
Overall, the Safariland Model 773 meets and even exceeds expectations for a competition-style magazine pouch in its price range. It delivers reliable performance and provides a noticeable improvement over less specialized pouches.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine features a simple yet effective design that prioritizes functionality. Its open-top configuration and streamlined profile minimize bulk and maximize accessibility.
The pouch is user-friendly and requires minimal setup. Adjusting the tension is straightforward, and mounting the pouch to a belt is a breeze.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland Model 773 is built to last. Its rugged polymer construction can withstand the rigors of regular use in demanding environments. The pouch requires minimal maintenance; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean and functioning properly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine does not come with any additional accessories. Its simple design limits customization options. The primary adjustment available is the tension screw, allowing users to fine-tune the magazine retention.
While there aren’t extensive customization options, the Safariland Model 773 is compatible with most standard competition belts. You can easily adjust its position on the belt to optimize reload speed and comfort.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine – 1 out of 2 models
Pros
- Rapid Magazine Access: Open-top design facilitates lightning-fast reloads.
- Adjustable Tension: Customize retention to suit your preferences and magazine type.
- Durable Construction: Rugged polymer withstands the rigors of competition.
- Affordable Price: Excellent value for the performance offered.
- Simple and Effective Design: Easy to use and maintain.
Cons
- Slight shifting on the belt during dynamic movement.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine – 1 out of 2 models?
The Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine is perfect for competitive shooters, especially those in USPSA, IPSC, or 3-Gun competitions, who need a reliable and affordable magazine pouch. It is also suitable for law enforcement or military personnel who require a secure and easily accessible magazine carrier.
Those who need highly customizable pouches or those who demand the absolute highest level of retention and stability, regardless of price, might want to consider other options. A shooter who prioritizes exotic materials like carbon fiber might also look elsewhere.
For most users, no must-have accessories are required. Ensuring you have a quality competition belt that fits the pouch is essential.
Conclusion on Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine – 1 out of 2 models
The Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine – 1 out of 2 models is a solid performer that offers excellent value for the money. At $37.34, it’s an affordable option that delivers reliable performance and noticeable improvements over generic magazine pouches.
I would definitely recommend the Safariland Model 773 to anyone looking for a budget-friendly competition magazine pouch. Its speed, durability, and ease of use make it a worthwhile addition to any shooter’s gear. If you’re ready to shave seconds off your reload times, give the Safariland Model 773 a try!