Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175 Review

Behind the Box: Testing the Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175

The Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175 are designed to offer a higher, more belt-specific holster carry. Marketed as a standard-sized loop for the Safariland Model 567 holster, they promise enhanced concealment and stability. But do these unassuming loops live up to the Safariland name, or are they just another generic attachment in a sea of tactical gear?

My journey to these belt loops began with a common problem: holster wobble. I was seeking a more secure and streamlined carry for my duty weapon without sacrificing accessibility. After all, a holster that shifts and sways is not only uncomfortable but can also slow down your draw in critical situations.

Upon receiving the Safariland 567BL, I immediately noticed its simple, almost utilitarian design. The black polymer felt robust enough, but its flatness gave me pause. The provided user feedback mentioned threading difficulty, which already had me wary of thick belts.

Compared to other belt attachments I’ve used – such as the Blade-Tech Tek-Lok or the Safariland ELS system – the 567BL seemed almost too basic. These alternatives offer adjustability and often a more secure clamping mechanism. I ultimately chose to test the 567BL because I already had a Safariland 567 holster and wanted to see if this “standard” loop would improve its fit and stability.

My initial excitement was muted, replaced by a healthy dose of skepticism. I was eager to see if its simplicity translated to effective functionality, or if it would be just another piece of gear gathering dust in my kit bin.


Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 567BL at an outdoor shooting range during a practical pistol course. The course involved movement, drawing from concealment, and shooting from various positions. The weather was dry and moderately warm.

The initial installation was indeed a bit of a struggle. Threading the 567BL through my 1.75-inch tactical belt required some serious effort. Once mounted, the holster did sit higher, as advertised, but there was still more movement than I preferred.

After the first few draws, I noticed the loop seemed to loosen slightly, requiring occasional tightening of the screws. This was especially noticeable when moving quickly or transitioning between shooting stances. The plastic felt adequate, but I wondered about its long-term resilience against the stresses of repeated use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including daily wear during training and range sessions, the Safariland 567BL showed some signs of wear. Scuff marks were visible on the plastic, and the screws required more frequent tightening. The holster wobble, while improved compared to the original belt loops, was still present, especially with heavier pistols.

Cleaning the 567BL was straightforward—a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth was sufficient. The material held up well against sweat and minor abrasions, but I wouldn’t subject it to harsh solvents or cleaners. It certainly did not outperform my expectations.

Compared to my experiences with more robust belt attachment systems, the Safariland 567BL felt somewhat lacking. It served its basic purpose of attaching the holster to my belt, but its limitations in stability and durability were evident. The enhanced stability claim falls short in real-world application.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175

Specifications

The Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175 are designed primarily as a belt attachment for the Safariland Model 567 series holsters. It accommodates belts ranging from 1.5 inches to 1.75 inches in width.

  • The material is a molded polymer, offering a balance between flexibility and rigidity.
  • The overall profile is flat, contributing to a higher holster ride.
  • The belt loop is specifically sized to fit belts from 1.5″ to 1.75″. This width specificity can be crucial for a secure fit.
  • The package includes the belt loop and mounting hardware (screws and washers).
  • The 1.75″ belt slot is intended to provide a snug fit for duty belts.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s stability, ride height, and overall comfort. A well-fitting belt loop can prevent unwanted movement and enhance concealment.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 567BL performs its primary function: attaching a Safariland 567 holster to a belt. It accomplishes this task, but not without some shortcomings.

  • The main strength is its simplicity and compatibility with the Model 567 holster.
  • However, the flat design and polymer construction limit its stability and durability.
  • The threading difficulty, particularly with thicker belts, is a significant weakness.

The 567BL meets the basic requirement of holster attachment, but it doesn’t exceed expectations in terms of stability or ease of use.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Safariland 567BL is minimalistic and functional. The flat profile aims to keep the holster close to the body, aiding concealment.

  • The polymer material is lightweight, but it lacks the rigidity of metal alternatives.
  • The belt loop is relatively narrow, which can concentrate pressure and reduce comfort during extended wear.
  • The lack of adjustability is a significant drawback, limiting its adaptability to different body types and carry positions.

The ergonomics are acceptable, but the limited adjustability and basic design leave room for improvement.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 567BL is reasonably durable for its intended use, but it’s not indestructible. The polymer material can withstand everyday wear and tear, but it’s susceptible to scratches and abrasions.

  • The screws can loosen over time, requiring periodic tightening.
  • The material is easy to clean with mild soap and water.
  • With frequent use, expect to replace every 12-18 months.

Maintenance is minimal, but the overall lifespan may be shorter compared to more robust belt attachment systems.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 567BL doesn’t offer many customization options. It’s a simple belt loop designed for a specific purpose.

  • There are no aftermarket accessories specifically designed for the 567BL.
  • However, it’s compatible with any Safariland 567 series holster.
  • As the reviewer mentioned, for mounting on the ELS belt system, consider QLS over ELS as QLS is more stable.

The lack of customization options limits its versatility, but it’s a functional attachment for the specific holsters it’s designed for.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175

Pros

  • Specifically designed for Safariland Model 567 holsters, ensuring compatibility.
  • Provides a higher holster ride, aiding concealment.
  • Lightweight and relatively low profile.
  • Simple design and easy to clean.
  • Affordable price point.

Cons

  • Difficult to thread through thicker or stiffer belts.
  • Limited adjustability, making it less adaptable to different body types and carry positions.
  • Polymer construction lacks the rigidity and durability of metal alternatives.
  • Screws tend to loosen over time, requiring periodic tightening.
  • Provides less stability compared to other belt attachment systems.


Who Should Buy Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175?

The Safariland 567BL is perfect for law enforcement officers or security professionals who need a simple, affordable belt loop for their Safariland 567 series holster. It’s also suitable for casual shooters who prioritize concealment and a higher holster ride.

Those who should skip this product are individuals who require maximum holster stability and durability. If you frequently engage in strenuous activities or use a heavy pistol, consider investing in a more robust belt attachment system.

A must-have modification would be to replace the screws with ones that feature thread locker. This may help mitigate the issue of screws loosening over time.

Conclusion on Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175

The Safariland 567BL Belt Loops for Model 567 567BL-1-2-175 offer a basic, functional solution for attaching a Safariland 567 holster to a belt. While it succeeds in providing a higher holster ride and enhanced concealment, its limitations in stability and durability are noticeable.

At a price of $21.99, the 567BL is an affordable option, but its value proposition is questionable considering its shortcomings. While it gets the job done, it’s not the most reliable or versatile choice.

I would cautiously recommend it to individuals on a tight budget who need a simple belt loop for their Safariland 567 holster. However, I strongly advise exploring alternative options that offer better stability and durability for serious users. Consider investing in a more robust attachment system for duty use, as the 567BL is better suited for casual or backup applications.

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