Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch Review

The Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch Made a Bold First Impression

The Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch immediately struck me as a no-nonsense, duty-ready piece of kit. Its purpose is simple: securely carry two magazines and provide rapid access when needed. Having spent over a decade working with various tactical gear, magazine pouches have always been a critical component of my loadout.

My need for this pouch stemmed from a growing frustration with flimsy, ill-fitting magazine carriers that failed under pressure during training exercises. I sought a durable, reliable solution that wouldn’t compromise my draw speed or retention, and the Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch seemed to fit the bill. The initial impression was one of ruggedness and functionality, hinting at a design crafted for serious use.

Compared to generic nylon pouches I’ve used in the past, the Safariland offering appeared far more robust and intentionally designed. Specifically, it seemed to offer superior retention compared to a Blackhawk! universal pouch I had been using that never felt quite secure. The rigidity of the Safariland also promised a faster, cleaner draw than a softer Condor pouch that tended to collapse when a magazine was removed.

My first impressions were positive; this wasn’t a cheaply made afterthought. It felt like a tool designed by professionals for professionals, and I was eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test of the Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch took place at a local shooting range during a practical pistol course. The range was a mix of sunny and slightly overcast conditions, presenting a fairly typical environment for training. Drawing magazines from the pouch was intuitive, and the low-cut design provided ample space for a solid grip.

I encountered no fumbling or delays during magazine changes, which was a significant improvement over previous pouches I’d used. Even with sweaty hands, the magazines were extracted smoothly and efficiently. There were no initial issues.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use in various training scenarios and outdoor activities, the Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch has proven remarkably resilient. It has weathered exposure to rain, dust, and the occasional accidental impact without any significant signs of wear and tear. The SafariLaminate construction seems to be truly scuff-resistant, maintaining a professional appearance despite the abuse.

Cleaning has been minimal, typically requiring just a wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. Compared to cheaper nylon pouches that quickly lose their shape and structural integrity, the Safariland pouch maintains its form and function flawlessly. It has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch

Specifications

The Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance:

• Construction Material: SafariLaminate. This layered material provides exceptional durability and resistance to scuffs, abrasions, and moisture.
• Belt Width Compatibility: 2.25″ (58mm) duty belts. This ensures a secure and stable attachment to standard law enforcement and military belts.
• Carry Options: Vertical and Horizontal. The versatility in carry positions allows users to customize the pouch to their specific needs and preferences.
• Retention: Adjustable Tension Screw. This feature allows users to fine-tune the magazine retention to their desired level of security and draw speed.
• Magazine Orientation: Butt-Up. This orientation provides a natural and ergonomic grip for quick magazine retrieval.
• Available Finishes: Plain, Basket, Hi Gloss, STX Tactical. A range of finishes allows users to match the pouch to their existing gear and uniform.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the pouch’s reliability, functionality, and overall user experience. The durable SafariLaminate ensures longevity, while the adjustable tension screw provides a customizable level of security.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch excels at its primary task: securely holding and providing quick access to two magazines. The retention is excellent, preventing magazines from accidentally dislodging, even during rigorous activity. The adjustable tension screw is crucial, allowing the user to precisely dial in the desired level of retention.

One minor weakness is that the tension screw, while effective, can be slightly difficult to adjust with gloved hands. Despite this small issue, the pouch meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade magazine carrier.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional, with tight stitching and a rigid construction that inspires confidence. The pouch maintains its shape even when fully loaded, preventing any sagging or collapsing that could hinder magazine retrieval. Its weight is reasonable, adding minimal bulk to the duty belt.

The design is user-friendly, requiring no special training or techniques to master. The low-cut design and ample spacing between pouches facilitate a natural and efficient draw stroke.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its SafariLaminate construction, the Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch is built to withstand years of use and abuse. The material is highly resistant to wear, tear, and environmental factors. Maintenance is simple, typically requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch is primarily designed as a standalone unit and doesn’t come with extensive accessories. The main customization option is the choice of finish, allowing users to match their existing gear. It is compatible with standard 2.25″ duty belts from various brands, ensuring broad compatibility within existing setups.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch

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Who Should Buy Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch?

The Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch is ideal for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a durable, reliable, and easily accessible magazine carrier. It is also well-suited for anyone who prioritizes quality and performance over cost. Someone looking for a simple, no-nonsense pouch that gets the job done reliably will also appreciate it.

This product may not be the best choice for casual range shooters on a tight budget who only need a basic magazine pouch. In those cases, cheaper nylon alternatives might suffice.

A must-have modification, while not strictly necessary, would be to use a thread locker on the tension screw to prevent it from loosening over time with use.

Conclusion on Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch

The Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch is a well-designed and expertly crafted piece of gear that delivers on its promises. It provides a secure and readily accessible solution for carrying spare magazines in demanding environments. The SafariLaminate construction, adjustable retention, and versatile carry options make it a worthwhile investment for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike.

At $35.20, the price is justified by the pouch’s superior durability, reliability, and performance compared to cheaper alternatives. I would highly recommend the Safariland Open Top Double Magazine Pouch to anyone seeking a top-tier magazine carrier that can withstand the rigors of daily use. If you are ready to upgrade your load-bearing equipment with a pouch that will likely outlast your duty belt, then look no further than Safariland.

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