Beyond Specs: Living with the Elite Survival Systems MOLLE AR15 Rifle Double Mag Pouches
After years of needing reliable ways to carry spare magazines, especially during training evolutions and extended range days, the quest for the perfect pouch is a constant one. For AR-15 platforms, magazine retention and accessibility are paramount, and generic pouches often fall short in durability or true MOLLE compatibility. It was this persistent need for something robust and dependable that led me to seek out the Elite Survival Systems MOLLE AR15 Rifle Double Mag Pouches. The manufacturer, known for its commitment to tactical gear, offered a solution that promised to integrate seamlessly with my existing loadout.
My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction. The 1000 denier nylon felt substantial, not flimsy like some cheaper alternatives I’d encountered. It immediately suggested that these pouches were built to withstand the rigors of consistent use. I had considered other brands, but the specific mention of MOLLE attachment and the capacity claims for .223 and .308 magazines made this model stand out. A quick first reaction was a sense of practical satisfaction; this looked like it would do its job without fuss.
Real-World Testing: Putting Elite Survival Systems MOLLE AR15 Rifle Double Mag Pouches to the Test
My testing grounds for these pouches were varied, encompassing intense training sessions at the local range, where rapid magazine changes are not just simulated but a necessity, and longer days spent hiking with my rifle, ensuring I had ample ammunition readily available without significant bulk. These scenarios put the pouches through their paces, testing everything from secure retention during strenuous movement to the speed at which I could access and reload. The pouches were exposed to dust, occasional light rain, and the general wear and tear that comes from being attached to a plate carrier or battle belt in dynamic environments.
First Use Experience
The initial integration onto my plate carrier was straightforward, thanks to the well-designed MOLLE straps. The pouches felt secure from the outset, with no excessive wobble or looseness. Inserting loaded magazines was a snug affair, providing confidence in their retention, even when inverted or during rapid physical activity. The Velcro closure was the primary point of interaction, and it offered a tactile and audible confirmation of securement, which is crucial in high-stress situations.
After several intense range days, I noticed no immediate issues. The 1000 denier nylon showed no signs of fraying, and the stitching remained intact. The Velcro maintained its grip, though it did begin to collect some dust and debris, a common characteristic of this fastener type. The pouches proved to be intuitive; retrieving a magazine required a practiced pull, but it was readily achievable without fumbling.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several months of consistent use, these pouches have held up remarkably well. They’ve become an indispensable part of my kit, reliably holding four .223 magazines or two .308 magazines, depending on the rifle I’m deploying. Despite constant use, including being bumped against gear and structures, the exterior CORDURA 500D Nylon material remains largely unmarked, a testament to its durability. The internal elastic straps that help secure the magazines have also shown minimal signs of stretching or wear.
Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick brush to remove accumulated dust and debris from the Velcro and nylon surfaces is usually sufficient. Occasionally, I’ve washed them with mild soap and water, and they dry relatively quickly. Compared to older, less robust magazine pouches I’ve used, these Elite Survival Systems units are far superior in their longevity and resistance to wear. They haven’t experienced any stiffness in the material or compromised retention, unlike some other brands that can become brittle or lose their elasticity.
Breaking Down the Features of Elite Survival Systems MOLLE AR15 Rifle Double Mag Pouches
Specifications
The Elite Survival Systems MOLLE AR15 Rifle Double Mag Pouches are constructed from a robust 1000 denier nylon, a material known for its exceptional abrasion and tear resistance, making it ideal for demanding environments. Each pouch is designed to hold two magazines, with the capacity to accommodate either four (4) .223 caliber magazines or two (2) .308 caliber magazines per double pouch. The fastener system utilizes Velcro closure, providing a secure yet accessible method for retaining magazines.
The Accessory Attachment System is MOLLE compatible, ensuring seamless integration with a wide range of tactical vests, plate carriers, and backpacks. The manufacturer specifies the caliber compatibility as 7.62x51mm NATO, 5.56x45mm NATO, .308 Winchester, and .223 Remington, highlighting its versatility for common rifle platforms. Notably, these pouches are made in the USA, a factor that often correlates with higher manufacturing standards and quality control. The Ambidextrous design means they can be mounted and used equally well by left or right-handed individuals.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of core function, these magazine pouches excel. They securely hold magazines, preventing accidental loss, while still allowing for rapid and efficient reloads. The snug fit of the magazines within the pouches, combined with the Velcro closure, ensures they stay put even during vigorous movement. This reliable retention is paramount for anyone relying on their firearm for duty, training, or sport.
The primary strength lies in their durability and reliable retention. The 1000 denier nylon construction is a significant advantage, offering a level of toughness that cheaper alternatives simply cannot match. The main weakness, if one could call it that, is the Velcro closure itself, which, while effective, can be prone to collecting debris. This can slightly affect its gripping power over time and may require occasional cleaning to maintain optimal performance. For the intended purpose, however, these pouches meet and often exceed expectations, particularly given their competitive price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Elite Survival Systems MOLLE AR15 Rifle Double Mag Pouches is functional and no-nonsense. The use of 1000 denier nylon provides a textured surface that offers a decent grip, even with gloved hands. The overall feel is one of ruggedness and readiness, with clean stitching and robust seam construction.
Ergonomically, these pouches are designed for quick access. The Velcro closure allows for a swift rip to expose the magazines. While the process is generally intuitive, there is a slight learning curve to master the quickest and most efficient way to deploy a magazine under pressure, especially when performing reloads on the move. The MOLLE attachment system is standard and works as expected, allowing for versatile placement on gear.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my extended use, the Elite Survival Systems MOLLE AR15 Rifle Double Mag Pouches are built for longevity. The CORDURA 500D Nylon material is exceptionally hard-wearing, and I anticipate these pouches will last for many years under normal to heavy use. The stitching has shown no signs of pulling or fraying, and the Velcro remains functional, albeit requiring periodic cleaning.
Maintenance is straightforward and minimal. A simple brushing to remove dirt and lint from the Velcro is usually sufficient. Occasionally, a damp cloth or a gentle wash with soap and water can refresh them. There are no complex parts to maintain or lubricate. The primary potential point of wear would be the Velcro itself, but even that shows excellent resilience.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Elite Survival Systems MOLLE AR15 Rifle Double Mag Pouches come as standalone units, meaning no additional accessories are included. However, their inherent design allows for significant customization in how they are integrated with existing gear. The MOLLE system ensures compatibility with a vast array of tactical vests, plate carriers, and chest rigs.
While no specific customization options are offered by the manufacturer for these pouches themselves, their MOLLE attachment makes them highly adaptable. This adaptability is their key strength; they can be arranged in numerous configurations to suit individual loadout preferences and mission requirements. The fact that they accommodate both .223 and .308 magazines offers a degree of internal “customization” in terms of mission flexibility.
Pros and Cons of Elite Survival Systems MOLLE AR15 Rifle Double Mag Pouches
Pros
- Rugged Construction: Made from 1000 denier nylon, these pouches are built to withstand significant abuse and wear.
- Versatile Capacity: Each double pouch holds up to four (4) .223 magazines or two (2) .308 magazines, offering flexibility for different rifle setups.
- Secure Retention: The Velcro closure system, combined with the snug fit of the magazines, ensures reliable retention.
- MOLLE Compatibility: Easily attaches to standard MOLLE webbing found on most tactical gear.
- Ambidextrous Design: Suitable for both left and right-handed users without modification.
- Made in USA: Suggests adherence to higher manufacturing standards.
Cons
- Velcro Collects Debris: The Velcro closure can accumulate dust, dirt, and lint, potentially impacting its grip over time and requiring regular cleaning.
- Basic Design: While functional, the design is utilitarian and lacks any advanced features like quick-release tabs (though this can also be a pro for simplicity).
Who Should Buy Elite Survival Systems MOLLE AR15 Rifle Double Mag Pouches?
These Elite Survival Systems MOLLE AR15 Rifle Double Mag Pouches are ideally suited for range shooters, tactical enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a reliable and durable way to carry spare rifle magazines. They are particularly useful for individuals engaged in firearms training, competitive shooting sports, or those who operate in demanding environments where gear durability is paramount. If you frequently use AR-15 platform rifles or similar firearms chambered in .223/5.56mm or .308/7.62mm, these pouches will serve you very well.
Those who require exceptionally fast, one-handed magazine deployment with specialized release mechanisms might consider looking at pouches with different closure systems, such as bungee or open-top designs, although these often sacrifice some retention security. For anyone prioritizing robust construction, dependable retention, and seamless integration with MOLLE gear, this model is an excellent choice. Basic cleaning supplies like a stiff brush would be a helpful complementary item to maintain the Velcro.
Conclusion on Elite Survival Systems MOLLE AR15 Rifle Double Mag Pouches
Overall, the Elite Survival Systems MOLLE AR15 Rifle Double Mag Pouches deliver exceptional value for their price. They offer a robust build quality and reliable performance that punches well above their weight class, especially considering they are made in the USA. The 1000 denier nylon construction ensures they can withstand considerable abuse, and the Velcro closure provides secure, accessible retention for your rifle magazines.
The price point of $32.01 for a double pouch is more than justified by the durability and functionality offered. I would readily recommend these pouches to anyone in the market for dependable magazine carriers, particularly those who need MOLLE compatibility and a rugged design. If you need a no-frills, hard-wearing solution for carrying spare AR-15 or .308 magazines, these are a solid investment you won’t likely regret.