First Impressions of Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Glock 9/40 / Plain Black / Molle Loks
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Glock 9/40 / Plain Black / Molle Loks is an intriguing piece of kit designed to streamline your loadout. As someone who’s carried a variety of tactical gear for over a decade, the promise of consolidating magazine carriage into a smaller footprint immediately piqued my interest.
For years, I’ve struggled with finding the optimal balance between accessibility and space when carrying both rifle and pistol magazines. My standard setup usually involves separate magazine carriers for my AR and Glock, often taking up valuable real estate on my MOLLE vest or belt. The Zero9 Holsters combo rig seemed like a potential solution to this problem, offering a “kangaroo” style configuration for a slimmer profile.
Upon receiving the Zero9 Holsters combo, my initial impression was positive, though slightly reserved. The plain black finish is understated and professional, and the overall construction felt solid, if a bit rigid. I immediately appreciated the potential space savings, imagining the reduced bulk on my gear. This could be a real game changer.
Compared to my existing setup using a dedicated Safariland pistol mag carrier and a Blue Force Gear AR mag pouch, the Zero9 Holsters combo offered a noticeably smaller combined footprint. I also considered a similar setup from HSGI, but their system seemed bulkier and more expensive. Ultimately, the price point of the Zero9 Holsters product, at $70.95, made it an attractive option for experimentation.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic; excited about the potential for improved efficiency but also slightly concerned about the rigidity and how it would perform during dynamic movement. Only real-world testing would reveal its true value.
Real-World Testing: Putting Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Glock 9/40 / Plain Black / Molle Loks to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Glock 9/40 / Plain Black / Molle Loks took place at a local shooting range, during a training session focused on transitions between rifle and pistol. I mounted the combo rig on my plate carrier using the included MOLLE Loks, ensuring a secure and stable attachment.
I ran several drills involving rapid magazine changes for both my AR-15 and Glock 19, simulating various tactical scenarios. The weather was relatively mild, but the dusty environment of the range presented a minor challenge. While the magazines were securely held, I did notice that drawing the AR mag felt slightly slower than my usual dedicated pouch, due to the tighter fit and the positioning behind the pistol magazines.
The initial concern about rigidity proved to be valid; the stiff construction of the Zero9 Holsters combo made it somewhat less comfortable during more dynamic movements, particularly when bending or kneeling. I didn’t experience any catastrophic failures, but I found myself constantly adjusting the rig to alleviate pressure points. The “kangaroo” style configuration, while saving space, definitely impacted draw speed for the rifle magazine compared to a standalone pouch.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple range sessions and a force-on-force training exercise, the Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Glock 9/40 / Plain Black / Molle Loks showed minimal signs of wear and tear. The Kydex material remained structurally sound, and the MOLLE Loks held firm without loosening.
The inherent rigidity of the material, however, continued to be a factor, especially during prolonged use. While the overall durability was commendable, the comfort level remained lower compared to more flexible, fabric-based magazine carriers. Cleaning the Zero9 Holsters combo was straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth was sufficient to remove dust and grime.
Compared to my previous setup, the Zero9 Holsters combo offered a significant space advantage, but at the cost of draw speed and comfort. It’s a trade-off that might be acceptable for some, but I found myself missing the faster access and improved comfort of my individual magazine carriers. The Zero9 Holsters combo proved to be a durable and space-saving solution, but not necessarily the most practical for high-speed, dynamic operations where fractions of a second matter.
Breaking Down the Features of Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Glock 9/40 / Plain Black / Molle Loks
Specifications
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Glock 9/40 / Plain Black / Molle Loks is designed for users who want to minimize their gear footprint. This combo carrier holds two Glock 9mm or .40 caliber pistol magazines, along with one standard AR-15 magazine.
The holster is manufactured by Zero9 Holsters and features a plain black color. The magazines are secured via friction and the entire unit attaches via MOLLE. The description lists “.40 Special” as the caliber, however, this is likely a data entry error as the primary listing refers to Glock 9mm/.40 compatibility.
These specifications are relevant because they highlight the intended user: someone carrying a Glock 9mm or .40 pistol, along with an AR-15. The MOLLE attachment allows for versatile mounting options on vests, belts, and other tactical platforms.
Performance & Functionality
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Glock 9/40 / Plain Black / Molle Loks performs its primary function of holding magazines securely. Retention is tight, preventing magazines from accidentally falling out, even during rigorous activity.
The main strength lies in its space-saving design, allowing users to carry three magazines in a relatively compact package. However, the tight retention also contributes to its biggest weakness: slower magazine draws, especially for the AR magazine. The AR magazine is situated behind the pistol magazines, which adds an extra step to the retrieval process. It meets the basic expectations of a magazine carrier, but falls short in terms of speed and efficiency compared to dedicated pouches.
Design & Ergonomics
The Zero9 Holsters combo features a minimalist design with a focus on functionality. The build quality is solid, utilizing durable Kydex material. The weight is reasonable for its size, but the rigid construction impacts comfort.
The ergonomics are adequate but not ideal; the close proximity of the magazines can make it challenging to get a solid grip, particularly with gloved hands. There is a noticeable learning curve involved in mastering the draw stroke, requiring practice to achieve consistent results. It’s user-friendly in terms of attachment and magazine insertion, but less so in terms of rapid deployment.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kydex construction suggests a long lifespan for the Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Glock 9/40 / Plain Black / Molle Loks. It’s resistant to abrasions, impacts, and most common solvents.
Maintenance is minimal; occasional cleaning with soap and water is all that’s required. The simple design minimizes potential failure points, contributing to its overall reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Glock 9/40 / Plain Black / Molle Loks comes standard with MOLLE Loks for attachment. There are no additional accessories included.
Customization options are limited, as the design is specific to Glock 9mm/.40 magazines and standard AR-15 magazines. While users can potentially adjust the retention screws (if equipped), there are no readily available aftermarket upgrades. It is compatible with any MOLLE platform, allowing for versatile placement on various gear setups.
Pros and Cons of Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Glock 9/40 / Plain Black / Molle Loks
Pros
- Space-saving design allows for a smaller overall footprint on gear.
- Durable Kydex construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Secure magazine retention prevents accidental loss.
- Easy to maintain requiring minimal cleaning.
- Compatible with standard MOLLE platforms for versatile mounting options.
Cons
- Slower magazine draws compared to dedicated pouches.
- Rigid construction can impact comfort during dynamic movements.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Glock 9/40 / Plain Black / Molle Loks?
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Glock 9/40 / Plain Black / Molle Loks is perfect for law enforcement officers or security personnel who prioritize a low-profile, streamlined loadout. It’s also suitable for recreational shooters or airsoft players who want to minimize bulk without sacrificing magazine capacity.
This product may not be ideal for competitive shooters or tactical operators who require the fastest possible magazine changes. Anyone who values comfort above all else may also find the rigid design less appealing. Must-have modifications would likely include adjusting the retention screws (if possible) to find the optimal balance between security and draw speed.
Conclusion on Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Glock 9/40 / Plain Black / Molle Loks
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Glock 9/40 / Plain Black / Molle Loks offers a compelling solution for those seeking to reduce the footprint of their magazine carriers. It provides a durable and secure platform for carrying both rifle and pistol magazines in a compact package.
The price is justified for the space-saving benefits and robust construction. While it may not be the fastest or most comfortable option on the market, it serves its intended purpose effectively.
I would recommend this product to users who understand the trade-offs involved and prioritize a streamlined setup over outright speed and comfort. Consider if the space saving is worth a potentially slower reload. If you’re looking for a durable, space-saving solution for carrying both AR and Glock magazines, give the Zero9 Holsters combo a try!