The Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop: A Review After Real Use
For anyone serious about competitive shooting, reliable and accessible magazine retention is paramount. I found myself in a situation where my existing range gear was proving to be a bottleneck, particularly during timed drills. The need for a secure yet rapidly deployable magazine solution became apparent, leading me to the Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop. This particular model promised an innovative approach to magazine carrying, and I was eager to see if it lived up to its reputation.
My previous magazine pouches, while functional, often required a conscious effort to ensure the magazine was fully seated and secure, especially when moving quickly. This small delay, repeated across multiple reloads, adds up. The appeal of the 773 pouch lay in its design, which seemed to balance retention with speed. I briefly considered a few other tactical pouch brands, but Safariland’s established pedigree in duty and competition gear gave me confidence.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of robust construction. The polymer felt substantial, and the adjustable components suggested a high degree of customization. It offered a promise of streamlined efficiency, and I was keen to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop to the Test
My testing grounds for this magazine pouch were primarily at my local outdoor shooting range and during several practice sessions at home. I focused on scenarios that mimic competitive shooting, involving rapid drawing, reloads, and movement. This involved scenarios where I needed to draw a fresh magazine from my belt quickly, sometimes while shifting my stance or even taking a knee.
The pouch performed admirably in various conditions, from sunny afternoons to early morning dew. I subjected it to repeated magazine insertions and withdrawals, paying close attention to any signs of increased friction or resistance. The Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop felt intuitive from the outset. There was no significant learning curve; the open-top design meant I could see and feel the magazine engaging correctly with minimal effort.
One pleasant surprise was how securely the magazine felt seated, even when I was actively moving or bending. I experienced no accidental magazine ejections or looseness. There were no immediate issues or quirks to report after my initial range days, which is always a good sign for new gear.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the performance of this Safariland pouch remained impressive. It has become a reliable fixture on my range belt, handling the rigors of frequent practice. I found myself reaching for it instinctively during drills, a testament to its ease of use and secure carry.
Durability has been excellent so far. The polymer shows no signs of cracking, nor has it become overly stiff or brittle. The rollers and tension screws remain functional, maintaining their intended grip without significant wear. There are no visible scuffs or deep gouges despite occasional brushing against door frames or other range equipment.
Maintenance is refreshingly straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dust or debris. I haven’t needed to apply any special lubricants or treatments. Compared to some fabric pouches I’ve used in the past, which could snag or fray, this model requires minimal upkeep. It certainly performs on par with, if not exceeding, other premium competition-grade pouches I’ve encountered.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop
The Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop is designed with practical competition needs in mind. Its core functionality revolves around secure retention and rapid access to spare magazines. The inclusion of a 90-degree adjustable belt loop is a key feature, allowing for personalized positioning on the belt for optimal drawing ergonomics.
The two sets of tension screws threaded through rollers are crucial for fine-tuning the magazine retention. This granular adjustment capability means shooters can dial in the exact amount of resistance they prefer, ensuring the magazine stays put under stress but releases smoothly during a reload. The closed low-cut front is another important design element, specifically engineered to prevent the magazine from being accidentally knocked out of the pouch from the front.
Specifications
This Safariland pouch is constructed from durable, injection-molded polymer, a material chosen for its resilience and resistance to environmental factors. It is designed to accommodate various pistol magazine types, though specific fits will depend on the magazine’s dimensions. The product description mentions that the belt loop can be ordered separately in two sizes: 1.5 in. (38 mm) and 2.25 in. (58 mm), offering broad compatibility with different belt widths.
The 90-degree adjustable belt loop isn’t just a specification; it’s a functional hallmark. This adjustability is vital for shooters who want to position their spare magazines at a specific angle that best suits their individual draw stroke. The inclusion of two sets of tension screws allows for a wide range of retention pressure customization. This means you can achieve a very secure hold for rigorous movement or a lighter touch for lightning-fast reloads.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of this magazine pouch is to securely hold a spare magazine and allow for its swift and unobstructed removal. The Model 773 excels in this regard. The retention system, adjustable via the tension screws, is remarkably effective. I found it possible to achieve a grip so secure that the pouch could be inverted without the magazine falling out, yet a firm pull allowed for a clean and swift draw.
Its main strength lies in this balance between high retention and speed. The open-top design, combined with the smooth rollers, facilitates a natural and efficient reloading process. One minor area for potential improvement could be the universality of fit; while it holds my primary magazines perfectly, some proprietary or slightly thicker magazines might require more extensive tension screw adjustment.
Considering its price point, the performance is exceptionally high. It reliably meets and often exceeds expectations for a competition-focused magazine carrier. It’s a clear step up from basic pouches, offering tangible benefits for competitive shooters.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop is immediately apparent. The polymer feels solid and well-finished, with no sharp edges or rough spots. The overall impression is one of a precisely manufactured piece of equipment built to withstand the demands of active use.
Ergonomically, the design is well-thought-out. The 90-degree adjustable belt loop attachment point allows for a comfortable and accessible magazine position, reducing wrist strain and facilitating a smoother draw. The open-top nature means there are no covers or flaps to manipulate, streamlining the reloading process. The closed low-cut front is a subtle but important ergonomic consideration, preventing accidental snagging or interference when drawing the magazine.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience and the materials used, this Safariland pouch is built for longevity. For its intended use as a competition and range accessory, it should last for many years. The robust polymer construction is resistant to the typical impacts and abrasions encountered in these environments.
Maintenance is minimal, as previously noted. The tension screws are easily accessible for adjustment, and the rollers themselves appear robust enough to resist wear. There are no obvious failure points that stand out, though like any adjustable mechanism, prolonged extreme use might eventually require attention to the screws. I would recommend periodically checking that the screws remain tight, especially after significant use or exposure to vibrations.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Model 773 comes standard with its integrated adjustable belt loop, which is a primary customization point itself. As mentioned, this loop is available in 1.5 in. (38 mm) and 2.25 in. (58 mm) widths, ensuring compatibility with a wide array of competition or duty belts.
Beyond selecting the correct belt loop size, the primary customization is the tension adjustment via the two sets of screws and rollers. This allows shooters to meticulously tune the magazine retention to their specific preference and the magazine they are carrying. There are no other significant accessories included or readily available for this specific pouch model, as its design is quite focused on its core function.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop
Pros
- Excellent magazine retention adjustable to user preference.
- Lightning-fast magazine access due to the open-top design.
- Secure fit preventing accidental magazine drops, even during vigorous movement.
- 90-degree adjustable belt loop allows for personalized carry angle.
- Robust polymer construction ensuring long-term durability.
- Closed low-cut front enhances security and prevents snagging.
- Available with 1.5 in. and 2.25 in. belt loop options for broad compatibility.
Cons
- Can be slightly bulkier than some softer fabric pouches.
- Specific magazine fit might require some fine-tuning of tension screws.
- Price point is higher than basic, non-adjustable pouches.
Who Should Buy Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop?
This magazine pouch is an ideal choice for competitive shooters across various disciplines, including USPSA, IPSC, and other speed-focused shooting sports. It’s also a great option for range enthusiasts who value quick and secure access to spare magazines during practice sessions. Anyone who participates in dynamic shooting drills or requires reliable magazine carry under stress will benefit greatly from this model.
Individuals who prioritize simplicity and durability over complex features might find other options more suitable. Those looking for the absolute slimmest profile for concealed carry might also want to look elsewhere, as this is a competition-oriented design. For those using it for its intended purpose, I’d recommend ensuring you have a good quality, rigid competition belt to fully leverage the stability of the Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop.
Conclusion on Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop
The Safariland Model 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch w/ Belt Loop stands out as a highly effective and well-engineered piece of gear for competitive shooters and serious range-goers. Its blend of robust retention, rapid access, and user-adjustable features makes it a standout product in its category. The build quality is excellent, promising longevity and consistent performance even under demanding use.
While it sits at a slightly higher price point than entry-level pouches, the value it delivers in terms of performance, reliability, and customization is undeniable. The ability to fine-tune retention and position the pouch exactly where you need it offers a tangible advantage during timed stages. I would absolutely recommend this pouch to anyone serious about improving their reload times and magazine security in a competitive or training environment. It’s a solid investment for anyone looking to optimize their shooting setup.