Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop Review

First Impressions of Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop

The Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop is designed for speed and retention, aiming to provide competitive shooters with a reliable and accessible magazine carrier. As someone who’s spent over a decade in the tactical gear realm, I’m always on the lookout for equipment that can genuinely shave seconds off reload times, especially when milliseconds matter. The pouch boasts an adjustable belt loop and rollers for tension adjustment, along with a closed-in front for enhanced retention – features that immediately piqued my interest.

For years I struggled with magazine pouches that were either too tight, slowing down my reloads, or too loose, risking magazines falling out during dynamic movement. This pouch looked like a solution. Upon unboxing, the Safariland Model 773 felt solid and well-constructed.

Compared to the Blade-Tech Revolution magazine pouch and the Blackhawk! SERPA magazine pouch, the Safariland offering seemed to prioritize both speed and retention, a combination often difficult to achieve. I chose it based on Safariland’s reputation for quality and the specific features designed for competition. I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype, especially regarding its adjustable retention system.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland Model 773 at an outdoor shooting range during a local USPSA match. The weather was typical for the area – sunny with a light breeze and a bit of dust in the air. I ran several stages, focusing on drawing and reloading my magazines as quickly and efficiently as possible. The open-top design allowed for a smooth and rapid draw, with the magazine easily clearing the pouch without snagging.

The adjustable tension was perfect, providing enough retention to keep the magazine secure during movement but loose enough to allow for a quick, unhindered draw. There were no unexpected magazine drops or fumbles during any of the stages. It took only a few minor adjustments to find the perfect angle and tension.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use in various competitions and training sessions, the Safariland Model 773 has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The pouch shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to constant use and exposure to the elements. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth removes any dirt or residue.

Compared to some other magazine pouches I’ve used in the past, the Safariland stands out in terms of durability and retention. The tension adjustment system remains consistent. It has outperformed my expectations, becoming an essential part of my competition gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop

Specifications

The Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop features an innovative design focused on speed and retention. It’s made by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear. It utilizes an adjustable belt loop and rollers for customized tension. The closed-in front area enhances magazine security.

• Manufacturer: Safariland
• Hand: Right
• Accessory Attachment System: Belt Loop
• Belt Loop/Snap Width: 1.5 in, 2.25 in
• Adjustable Belt Loop: Offers a 90-degree range for personalized placement. This is crucial for optimizing draw angle and speed.
• Tension Screws: Two sets of tension screws threaded through rollers allow for precise adjustments. This feature enables the user to fine-tune the magazine retention for lightning-fast reloads.
• Closed Front Design: The low-cut front helps secure the magazine, preventing it from being accidentally knocked out. This is particularly useful during dynamic movements or when navigating tight spaces.

These specifications are critical because they contribute to the pouch’s performance and usability. The adjustability ensures a custom fit, while the retention system guarantees quick and reliable magazine access.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Model 773 excels in its primary function: providing rapid and reliable access to magazines during competitions. The adjustable tension allows for customization, ensuring magazines are secure yet easily drawn. Its performance is excellent.

The key strength is the adjustability of the tension and angle, allowing for personalized setup. A minor weakness might be that the adjustment screws can loosen slightly over time. It has exceeded expectations in terms of speed and reliability.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional, with durable materials and sturdy construction. The weight is minimal. It ensures comfort during extended use.

The pouch is user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve. Adjusting the tension and angle is simple and straightforward. The design is practical and efficient.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland Model 773 is built to last, withstanding the rigors of regular use in competition environments. It’s made from high-quality materials. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning.

The pouch is designed for easy cleaning and maintenance, ensuring long-term reliability. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. The durable construction ensures longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland Model 773 is primarily designed as a standalone magazine pouch, and does not come with extensive accessories. However, the adjustable belt loop can be swapped out for different sizes (1.5″ or 2.25″) to accommodate various belt widths. Aftermarket accessories may include different tension rollers or belt loop adapters.

The pouch is compatible with standard MOLLE attachments, allowing it to be mounted on various platforms. The customizable belt loop adds versatility. It does not come with many accessories but its modular design allows for customization with other Safariland products.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop