The Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black Made a Bold First Impression
The Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black isn’t just another piece of tactical gear; it’s a statement. This MOLLE shingle from an undisclosed manufacturer promises to keep your rifle and pistol magazines readily available and securely mounted. For a seasoned professional like myself, having reliable and accessible gear is paramount, whether on the range, in the field, or during training. The promise of holding three rifle and three pistol magazines simultaneously, coupled with a durable, laser-cut laminate base, immediately piqued my interest, making me eager to put it through its paces.
My previous magazine carrying solutions have always felt either bulky or lacking in retention. I was specifically looking for a streamlined system that could accommodate a variety of magazine types without sacrificing accessibility. Upon unboxing, the Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black felt solid and well-constructed. The laser-cut laminate base looked clean and robust. It was noticeably more compact than some of the bulkier chest rigs I’ve used, and the matte black finish gave it a professional, low-profile appearance.
I had considered similar options from Blue Force Gear and Esstac, known for their quality and innovative designs. However, the “Triple Double Decker” concept, offering both rifle and pistol magazine retention in a single, easily mountable unit, seemed like a potentially more efficient solution for my needs. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. This shingle looked promising, but the true test would be how it performed under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black was at my local shooting range, simulating various tactical scenarios. I mounted it on my plate carrier and loaded it with a mix of AR-15 magazines, Glock 17 magazines, and some larger .45 ACP magazines to test its versatility. The range offered a mix of static shooting drills and more dynamic movement exercises.
The weather that day was unexpectedly damp, with a light drizzle throughout the morning. I wanted to see how the magazine retention held up under less than ideal circumstances. Initially, I was impressed with how securely the magazines stayed in place, even while running and transitioning between positions. The shingle felt surprisingly stable, and I didn’t experience any magazines shifting or falling out. The ease of drawing and re-indexing magazines was also noteworthy, with the open-top design allowing for quick and intuitive access. I did notice a slight stiffness in the magazine pouches initially. I expect that they will break in over time with more use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black has proven to be a reliable addition to my tactical gear setup. I’ve taken it to multiple training sessions, including a full weekend of force-on-force simulations, and it has consistently performed well. The laminate base shows no signs of wear, and the stitching remains tight and secure.
The black finish has held up surprisingly well, even after exposure to dirt, mud, and abrasive surfaces. Cleaning is straightforward, typically requiring just a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth. Compared to some of my previous magazine carriers, which required frequent adjustments and re-tightening, the Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black has been remarkably low-maintenance. It has definitely exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black
Specifications
- Three rifle magazine pouches: Each capable of holding a standard AR-15, AK-47, or similar-sized rifle magazine. The flexibility to accommodate various rifle magazine types is a huge plus.
- Three pistol magazine pouches: Designed to hold most common pistol magazine sizes, from 9mm to .45 ACP. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of users.
- Laser-cut laminate base: Provides a rigid and stable platform for mounting on MOLLE-compatible gear. This ensures the shingle stays securely in place.
- MOLLE-compatible: Allows for easy attachment to vests, plate carriers, and battle belts. The universal compatibility is a key feature for anyone with existing tactical gear.
- Color: Black: Offers a low-profile and professional appearance. Black is a common and versatile color choice for tactical gear.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the shingle’s performance and usability. The magazine capacity allows for ample ammunition carriage, while the durable construction ensures reliability in demanding environments. The MOLLE compatibility ensures seamless integration with existing gear setups.
Performance & Functionality
The Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black excels at its primary function: securely holding and providing quick access to magazines. The open-top design of the magazine pouches allows for rapid draws and reloads, which is crucial in dynamic situations. The magazine retention is excellent, keeping magazines firmly in place without hindering accessibility.
The shingle’s strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. However, the initial stiffness of the magazine pouches could be improved. Overall, the Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black meets and, in many ways, exceeds expectations for a MOLLE magazine carrier.
Design & Ergonomics
The Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black features a streamlined and practical design. The laser-cut laminate base is lightweight yet robust. The shingle’s low profile minimizes bulk and maximizes mobility.
The user-friendly design requires no special skills to operate. Just mount it and load the magazines. The shingle’s intuitive layout minimizes any learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black, constructed with high-quality materials, feels like it’s built to last. The laser-cut laminate is resistant to abrasions and wear. It can withstand rigorous use in the field.
Maintenance is simple. The shingle can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black does not come with any additional accessories. However, its MOLLE compatibility allows for extensive customization. Users can easily attach other pouches, tools, or accessories to the shingle, tailoring it to their specific needs.
The shingle is also compatible with various magazine inserts and retention devices from other brands. This allows for further customization of magazine retention and accessibility. Be sure to use bold and italic text where necessary to emphasize important points.
Pros and Cons of Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black
Pros
- Holds both rifle and pistol magazines, consolidating gear.
- Durable laser-cut laminate base provides a stable platform.
- Excellent magazine retention, even during dynamic movement.
- MOLLE-compatible for easy integration with existing gear.
- Low-profile design minimizes bulk and maximizes mobility.
Cons
- Initial stiffness of magazine pouches may require break-in period.
- Price point of $138.00 might be a barrier for some buyers.
Who Should Buy Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black?
The Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black is perfect for:
- Tactical professionals, including law enforcement and military personnel.
- Competitive shooters who need quick and reliable access to magazines.
- Serious airsoft players who prioritize realistic gear setups.
Those who should skip this product:
- Casual shooters who only occasionally visit the range.
- Individuals on a very tight budget.
Must-have accessories or modifications:
- High-quality magazines.
- MOLLE-compatible plate carrier or battle belt.
Conclusion on Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black
The Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black is a well-designed and highly functional piece of tactical gear. It offers a practical and efficient solution for carrying both rifle and pistol magazines. The durable construction, combined with the MOLLE compatibility, makes it a versatile addition to any tactical setup.
At $138.00, the price is justified by the quality and performance it delivers. I would definitely recommend the Triple Double Decker Shingle | Black to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile magazine carrying solution. Invest in your gear, and it will invest in you. Gear up, train hard, and stay safe.