First Thoughts on the Taco – Covered
The Taco – Covered, from High Speed Gear, promises a revolution in magazine retention, offering a blend of security and rapid access that many traditional pouches struggle to achieve. As a seasoned gear specialist, I’ve seen countless iterations of magazine pouches, from the simple flaps and snaps of yesteryear to the more modern elastic and Kydex designs. What sets the Taco – Covered apart is its universal design, promising to fit nearly any rifle magazine while providing a covered top for added protection.
I’ve always struggled to find a universal magazine pouch that offered both secure retention and protection from the elements. Traditional open-top designs leave magazines vulnerable to dirt, debris, and moisture, while fully enclosed pouches can be slow and cumbersome to access. The Taco – Covered aims to bridge that gap.
Upon unboxing, my initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The Taco – Covered felt robust, constructed from what appears to be high-quality nylon. The stitching was clean and reinforced, a good sign of durability. The design seemed simple yet effective, a departure from some of the more overly complicated pouches I’ve encountered.
Compared to the open-top Taco and the fully enclosed MOLLE magazine pouches I’ve used, the Taco – Covered seems to offer the best of both worlds. It provides quick access like the open-top, with added protection against the elements. I chose this pouch specifically because of its promise of silent deployment and its universal fit, addressing two key concerns I’ve had with other systems.
My first impression was definitely positive. The build quality seemed excellent, and the design was intriguing. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Taco – Covered to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test for the Taco – Covered was at an outdoor shooting range during a tactical rifle course. I used it primarily to carry AR-15 magazines loaded with 5.56 ammunition. The weather was sunny and dry, providing a good initial testing environment.
The Taco – Covered performed admirably right out of the gate. Magazines were easy to insert and remove, with the cover providing a secure closure without hindering access. Drawing a magazine was surprisingly smooth and silent, a significant advantage over noisy Velcro closures.
There were no immediate issues, though I did notice that the cover required a slight adjustment period to get used to. After the first few draws, it became second nature. The quietness during deployment stood out as a particularly welcome feature.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Taco – Covered has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. I’ve used it in various conditions, from humid summer days to chilly autumn mornings. The nylon construction has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.
The nylon material is proving resilient, resisting abrasion and fraying despite being exposed to rough handling and repeated magazine changes. The stitching remains intact, and the MOLLE attachment points are secure. Cleaning is simple, typically requiring just a brush and some water.
The Taco – Covered has definitely exceeded my expectations. Its combination of secure retention, ease of use, and durability make it a standout performer in its class. It’s been a refreshing upgrade from traditional magazine pouches and provides a quiet, reliable platform for quick magazine deployment.
Breaking Down the Features of Taco – Covered
Specifications
The Taco – Covered from High Speed Gear is designed for versatility and durability. It is constructed primarily from nylon. It utilizes a MOLLE attachment system.
The pouch is designed to fit most rifle magazines, certain radios, flash bangs, and smoke grenades. It occupies just 3 horizontal inches on a MOLLE platform. It is available in Coyote.
These specifications are critical because they dictate the pouch’s compatibility and performance. The nylon construction ensures durability in demanding environments. The MOLLE attachment allows secure mounting on a variety of platforms.
Performance & Functionality
The Taco – Covered excels at providing both secure retention and rapid access. Magazines are held firmly in place, preventing accidental drops or movement. The cover provides added protection against the elements without impeding deployment.
The pouch’s main strengths are its versatility and silent operation. One potential weakness is the initial adjustment period required to master the cover’s opening mechanism. Overall, it exceeds expectations by providing a truly universal and functional magazine carrying solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The Taco – Covered features a streamlined design that minimizes bulk and maximizes usability. The nylon construction is lightweight yet robust, offering a comfortable feel without sacrificing durability. Its weight is negligible, so you will not notice it on your vest or belt.
The pouch is reasonably user-friendly, though mastering the cover opening mechanism requires some practice. Once familiar, drawing a magazine becomes quick and intuitive. The slim profile enhances overall ergonomics.
Durability & Maintenance
The Taco – Covered is built to withstand the rigors of tactical use. The nylon material and reinforced stitching ensure long-lasting durability. It appears capable of enduring years of heavy use without significant degradation.
Maintenance is straightforward. The nylon material is easy to clean with soap and water, and the simple design minimizes potential failure points. Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Taco – Covered doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but its MOLLE compatibility allows it to be mounted on a variety of platforms. There are no specific customization options available directly from the manufacturer. Its simplistic design avoids the need for any additional accessories.
The MOLLE system ensures compatibility with a wide range of tactical vests, belts, and packs. This universality makes it a versatile addition to any gear loadout. You can arrange them in any position you desire.
Pros and Cons of Taco – Covered
Pros
- Secure and silent magazine deployment: Ensures magazines are readily accessible without unnecessary noise.
- Universal fit: Accommodates most rifle magazines, radios, flash bangs, and smoke grenades, reducing the need for multiple pouches.
- Durable nylon construction: Withstands harsh conditions and heavy use, providing long-lasting performance.
- MOLLE compatibility: Attaches securely to a wide range of tactical platforms.
- Covered top: Provides added protection against dirt, debris, and moisture.
Cons
- Slight learning curve: Requires some practice to master the cover opening mechanism.
- Price: A single pouch costs $49.00 which may be a limiting factor.
Who Should Buy Taco – Covered?
- Perfect for tactical professionals, law enforcement, and military personnel who require a reliable and versatile magazine pouch. The Taco – Covered excels in dynamic situations where secure retention and rapid access are essential.
- Competitive shooters who value speed and efficiency will also find the Taco – Covered an excellent choice. The silent deployment and smooth draw stroke provide a competitive edge.
This product might not be ideal for casual airsoft players or recreational shooters who prioritize affordability over specialized features. Those individuals can opt for lower-priced open-top alternatives.
A quality MOLLE compatible vest or belt is a must-have to fully utilize the Taco – Covered. Additionally, consider a bungee retention system for added security in extremely demanding environments.
Conclusion on Taco – Covered
The Taco – Covered is a well-designed and highly functional magazine pouch that lives up to its promises. Its versatility, durability, and silent operation set it apart from the competition. While the $49.00 price point may be a barrier for some, the value it offers in terms of performance and reliability justifies the investment.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Taco – Covered to anyone seeking a premium magazine pouch that can handle the demands of tactical environments. It is a testament to High Speed Gear’s commitment to quality and innovation.
If you are looking for a universal, durable, and silent magazine carrying solution, the Taco – Covered is the clear choice. Invest in your gear and experience the difference. Don’t settle for less when your performance is on the line.
