First Impressions of Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Traditional 9/40 / Basketweave / Tek-lok
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Traditional 9/40 / Basketweave / Tek-lok offers a streamlined solution for carrying both pistol and rifle magazines, addressing a common challenge faced by law enforcement, tactical professionals, and shooting enthusiasts alike. This “kangaroo” style setup aims for a slim profile while providing quick access to essential ammunition. Its basketweave finish and Tek-lok attachment promise durability and secure carry, but the real test lies in its real-world performance.
As a tactical gear specialist, I’m always on the lookout for efficient and durable carrying solutions. My primary need was to consolidate my loadout, reducing bulk without sacrificing access to spare magazines. Many similar combo carriers exist, but the Zero9 stood out due to its promise of a slim profile and robust construction.
Upon receiving the Zero9 combo carrier, my first impression was positive. The basketweave finish lends a professional and durable aesthetic, while the Tek-lok attachment felt solid and secure. However, the true test would be in how it felt on the belt and how quickly I could draw magazines under pressure.
Compared to other combo carriers I’ve used, like the HSGI TACO Molle pouches or the Blue Force Gear Ten-Speed pouches, the Zero9 aims for a middle ground between retention and speed. I chose the Zero9 hoping to find a balance of secure carry and rapid access. Overall, I was cautiously optimistic, but the real verdict would come after putting it through its paces in training scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Traditional 9/40 / Basketweave / Tek-lok to the Test
First Use Experience
My first use of the Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Traditional 9/40 / Basketweave / Tek-lok was at a local shooting range during a dynamic shooting course. The weather was dry and mild, perfect for testing the draw speed and comfort of the rig. Initial impressions were favorable: the magazines were securely held, but easy to access with practice.
However, I quickly noticed that re-indexing the AR magazine required a deliberate motion, especially when under time pressure. The traditional pistol magazine pouches worked flawlessly, offering quick and reliable draws. After about an hour of drills, I began to feel some slight discomfort from the pressure of the carrier against my hip bone, which required some adjustments to my belt position.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Zero9 carrier in various training sessions and a weekend-long tactical course, I have a better understanding of its strengths and weaknesses. The durability of the Kydex construction is impressive; even after being bumped, scraped, and exposed to light rain, it shows no signs of significant wear. Cleaning is simple, requiring just a wipe down with a damp cloth.
The Tek-lok attachment remains secure, and I haven’t experienced any accidental detachment from my belt. Compared to my previous experiences with open-top nylon pouches, the Zero9 offers superior retention and protects the magazines from dirt and debris. However, the AR magazine re-indexing is still a bit slower than I would like, and the carrier’s bulk can become noticeable during extended periods of wear.
Breaking Down the Features of Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Traditional 9/40 / Basketweave / Tek-lok
Specifications
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Traditional 9/40 / Basketweave / Tek-lok is designed to carry two Glock 9/40 magazines in a traditional orientation alongside a single AR-15 magazine in a “kangaroo” style configuration. It features a basketweave finish for enhanced durability and a professional look. The Tek-lok attachment allows for secure and adjustable mounting on belts of various widths.
This combo carrier is specifically designed for Glock 9/40 magazines. It is built from durable Kydex, ensuring rigidity and retention, and the basketweave finish adds a layer of scratch resistance and visual appeal. The key specifications directly impact performance. The Kydex construction ensures that magazines are held securely, preventing accidental loss, while the Tek-lok provides a stable platform on the belt, minimizing movement during dynamic activities.
Performance & Functionality
The Zero9 performs admirably in its primary function: securely holding and providing access to spare magazines. The pistol magazine pouches offer a smooth and reliable draw, with excellent retention that prevents magazines from falling out during movement. The AR magazine pouch, however, requires more deliberate action for re-indexing, which can be a disadvantage in high-pressure situations.
The strengths of the Zero9 lie in its durability, secure magazine retention, and professional appearance. Its weakness is the slightly slower AR magazine re-indexing. Overall, it largely meets expectations as a rugged and reliable combo carrier, but the AR magazine pouch could benefit from some design tweaks to improve re-indexing speed.
Design & Ergonomics
The Zero9 boasts a robust build quality. The Kydex construction feels solid and durable, and the basketweave finish adds to its professional look. The weight is noticeable but manageable, and the Tek-lok attachment ensures a secure fit on the belt.
The design is relatively user-friendly, though the AR magazine pouch requires some familiarization to master the re-indexing process. There is a slight learning curve, but once the user develops a consistent technique, the draws become smoother.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its Kydex construction, the Zero9 is built to last. It’s resistant to scratches, abrasions, and exposure to the elements. Maintenance is minimal, typically requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime.
With proper care, the Zero9 should provide years of reliable service. The robust Kydex construction and secure Tek-lok attachment minimize the risk of damage during normal use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Traditional 9/40 / Basketweave / Tek-lok is fairly self-contained, focusing on its core function of magazine carriage. It doesn’t require any specific additional accessories to function as intended. The Tek-lok attachment, however, offers some adjustability, allowing users to set the ride height and angle to their preference.
While the Zero9 doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the Tek-lok is compatible with various belt widths. Aftermarket Kydex shims could potentially be added to adjust the tension on the magazines, though this may require some modification.
Pros and Cons of Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Traditional 9/40 / Basketweave / Tek-lok
Pros
- Exceptional durability due to Kydex construction and basketweave finish.
- Secure magazine retention prevents accidental loss of magazines.
- Professional appearance suitable for law enforcement and tactical professionals.
- Streamlined design minimizes bulk compared to separate magazine pouches.
- Reliable Tek-lok attachment ensures a stable and secure fit on the belt.
Cons
- AR magazine re-indexing is slower compared to dedicated open-top pouches.
- Can be slightly bulky and uncomfortable during extended periods of wear.
Who Should Buy Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Traditional 9/40 / Basketweave / Tek-lok?
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Traditional 9/40 / Basketweave / Tek-lok is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical training participants who require a compact and durable solution for carrying both pistol and rifle magazines. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who value secure magazine retention and a professional appearance.
Those who prioritize rapid AR magazine reloads above all else might find dedicated open-top pouches more suitable. Individuals who prefer extremely lightweight and minimalist gear might also find the Zero9 slightly bulky. A high-quality tactical belt is a must-have to provide a stable and comfortable platform for carrying the Zero9.
Conclusion on Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Traditional 9/40 / Basketweave / Tek-lok
The Zero9 Holsters Zero9 Rifle/pistol Combo / Traditional 9/40 / Basketweave / Tek-lok is a solid and well-built combo carrier that offers a good balance of durability, security, and professional aesthetics. While the AR magazine re-indexing could be improved, the overall performance and reliability of the Zero9 make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a streamlined magazine carrying solution. At $74.59, the price is justified by the quality of materials and construction.
I would recommend the Zero9 to anyone looking to consolidate their magazine loadout without sacrificing durability or security. Consider your priorities and training needs, and if a robust and professional-looking combo carrier is what you’re after, the Zero9 is definitely worth a look. Invest in a Zero9 today and experience a streamlined and reliable magazine carrying solution!