The X2R Taco | OD Green Made a Bold First Impression
The X2R Taco | OD Green magazine pouch isn’t just another piece of tactical gear; it’s a statement. This pouch promises to hold virtually any rifle magazine securely, offering versatility that’s rare in the often-rigid world of tactical equipment.
As someone who’s spent years in the field, I’ve learned that adaptability is key, and I was looking for a solution that could handle the diverse magazine types I encounter during training exercises and range days. The promise of a single pouch that could manage USGI, PMAG, AK, and even M14 magazines piqued my interest immediately. Upon unboxing, I was impressed by the X2R Taco | OD Green’s solid construction; the Cordura fabric felt durable, and the polymer sides exuded quality.
Compared to some of my older double magazine pouches, which are often caliber-specific or made of less robust materials, the X2R Taco seemed like a significant upgrade. I had considered the HSGI TACO (single version) and the Blue Force Gear Ten-Speed double mag pouch, but the X2R Taco’s ability to carry two magazines of various types in a single pouch, combined with its seemingly rugged build, swayed my decision. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited to see if it could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting X2R Taco | OD Green to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the X2R Taco | OD Green was at an outdoor shooting range during a carbine course. The conditions were relatively dry, but the ground was dusty, providing a decent initial challenge. I ran drills using both AR-15 PMAGs and AK-47 magazines, loading and reloading from various positions. The pouch performed admirably, holding both magazine types securely without any slippage, even during rapid movements.
I found the draw to be smooth and consistent, and I appreciated the ability to adjust the tension via the shock cord lacing. There was a slight learning curve in terms of optimizing the shock cord tension for different magazine types, but after a few adjustments, the X2R Taco | OD Green felt intuitive and reliable. I did notice that the polymer sides could potentially snag on brush or gear during more dynamic movements, but this was a minor concern.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple range sessions and a weekend-long force-on-force training exercise, the X2R Taco | OD Green has held up remarkably well. The Cordura fabric shows no signs of wear, and the polymer sides remain structurally sound. The shock cord lacing, while showing some minor cosmetic wear, retains its elasticity and continues to provide secure retention.
Cleaning the pouch is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and grime. In comparison to some of my older nylon pouches, which tend to accumulate dirt and require more thorough cleaning, the X2R Taco is a breeze to maintain. It has definitely outperformed my expectations in terms of durability and versatility.
Breaking Down the Features of X2R Taco | OD Green
Specifications
- Color: OD Green; a practical and versatile color for blending into various environments. This helps maintain a low profile in tactical situations.
- Magazine Compatibility: Handles any type of rifle magazines; including USGI, HK, PMAG, ARC, FAL, AK 30/40, LR20, and M14. This versatility eliminates the need for multiple specialized pouches.
- Capacity: Carries 2 magazines in a single pouch; maximizing space efficiency on your gear. This allows for a streamlined setup without sacrificing ammunition capacity.
- Construction: Cordura fabric on the front and back; providing excellent abrasion resistance and durability. This ensures the pouch can withstand rigorous use in harsh conditions.
- Sides: Injection-molded polymer; offering structural support and magazine retention. These sides contribute to the pouch’s overall durability and secure hold.
- Retention: Thin sheet of HDPE (high-density polyethylene); locking magazines into place. This feature, combined with the shock cord, provides adjustable and reliable retention.
- Lacing: Shock cord lacing; creating a flexible yet snug fit for your magazines. This allows for accommodating magazines of different sizes and shapes.
These specifications are crucial because they contribute to the X2R Taco’s exceptional versatility and durability. The ability to carry virtually any rifle magazine in a single pouch significantly simplifies loadout management, while the rugged construction ensures the pouch can withstand the rigors of field use.
Performance & Functionality
The X2R Taco | OD Green performs its primary job – securely holding and providing quick access to rifle magazines – exceptionally well. The adjustable shock cord tension allows for fine-tuning the retention to match the specific magazine type being used, ensuring a snug and reliable fit. The smooth draw and consistent retention contribute to faster reloads, which can be crucial in dynamic shooting scenarios.
One potential weakness is the previously mentioned snagging potential of the polymer sides on brush or gear, but this is a minor concern that can be mitigated with careful placement of the pouch on your belt or vest. Overall, the X2R Taco meets and even exceeds expectations in terms of performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The X2R Taco | OD Green’s design is simple yet effective. The combination of Cordura fabric and injection-molded polymer creates a durable and lightweight pouch that is comfortable to wear.
There is a slight learning curve associated with adjusting the shock cord tension for different magazine types, but once the pouch is properly configured, it is very user-friendly. The open-top design allows for quick and easy access to magazines, even while wearing gloves.
Durability & Maintenance
The X2R Taco | OD Green is built to last. The use of high-quality materials and robust construction techniques ensures that it can withstand years of use and abuse.
Maintenance is minimal; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The shock cord lacing may eventually need to be replaced, but this is a relatively inexpensive and straightforward task.
Accessories and Customization Options
The X2R Taco | OD Green does not come with any specific accessories, but its modular design makes it compatible with a wide range of MOLLE-compatible mounting systems. This allows for attaching the pouch to virtually any tactical belt, vest, or pack.
While there are no specific customization options offered by the manufacturer, the shock cord lacing can be easily replaced with different colors or types of cord to personalize the pouch. The X2R Taco is compatible with a wide range of MOLLE attachment hardware from various brands.
Pros and Cons of X2R Taco | OD Green
Pros
- Unmatched Versatility: Holds virtually any rifle magazine type, eliminating the need for multiple specialized pouches.
- Durable Construction: Made with high-quality Cordura fabric and injection-molded polymer for long-lasting performance.
- Adjustable Retention: Shock cord lacing allows for fine-tuning the retention to match specific magazine types.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple wipe-down cleaning keeps the pouch in top condition.
- MOLLE Compatible: Attaches easily to any MOLLE-compatible gear.
Cons
- Polymer sides can potentially snag on brush or gear.
- Slight learning curve associated with adjusting shock cord tension.
Who Should Buy X2R Taco | OD Green?
The X2R Taco | OD Green is perfect for tactical professionals, law enforcement officers, and competitive shooters who need a versatile and durable magazine pouch that can accommodate a variety of rifle magazine types. It’s also an excellent choice for airsoft players and recreational shooters who appreciate the convenience of a single pouch that can handle multiple platforms.
Those who prioritize absolute minimalism and are only concerned with carrying a specific type of magazine might find a more streamlined, dedicated pouch to be a better option. Additionally, individuals who frequently operate in extremely dense vegetation might find the snagging potential of the polymer sides to be a significant concern.
A must-have accessory would be high-quality MOLLE attachment straps to ensure a secure and stable mounting platform. Some users may also benefit from experimenting with different types of shock cord to further customize the retention.
Conclusion on X2R Taco | OD Green
The X2R Taco | OD Green is a well-designed and highly versatile magazine pouch that delivers on its promise of accommodating virtually any rifle magazine. Its durable construction, adjustable retention, and easy maintenance make it a valuable addition to any tactical loadout.
At a price of $49.00, the X2R Taco offers excellent value for the money, especially considering its versatility and durability. While some may balk at the price compared to simpler pouches, the ability to consolidate multiple specialized pouches into a single, adaptable solution justifies the investment.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the X2R Taco | OD Green to anyone seeking a reliable and versatile magazine pouch. If you’re tired of juggling multiple pouches for different rifle platforms, the X2R Taco is the perfect solution. Upgrade your gear and experience the convenience and durability of the X2R Taco | OD Green today!