Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap Plain Review

The Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap Plain Review No One Else Gives You

For those who rely on quick access to their essential equipment, the Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap Plain presents itself as a no-nonsense solution. This particular model from Safariland, a name synonymous with reliable gear, is designed to carry two pistol magazines efficiently. Its core promise is to keep spare ammunition readily available without adding unnecessary bulk to your setup.

My own journey to this specific pouch was born out of necessity. During extended range days and training exercises, I found my existing magazine carrying solutions either bulky, prone to snagging, or simply not offering the secure retention I needed. The idea of magazines facing outward to save belt real estate was appealing, especially when trying to balance multiple items on a tactical belt or duty rig.

Upon initial inspection, the pouch feels solid. The SafariLaminate construction speaks to Safariland’s reputation for building gear that can withstand serious use. It’s not the lightest material, but that often translates to durability. My first impression was one of functional simplicity; it looked like it was built to do a job and do it well, without any frills.

I had briefly considered some open-top, kydex alternatives for faster access, but the inclusion of a flap on this Safariland model offered a greater degree of security against debris and accidental magazine release, which was a priority for my specific needs. The thought of a well-secured spare magazine always being there when I needed it brought a sense of quiet confidence.

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Safariland pouch was at a local outdoor shooting range. I loaded it with two spare magazines for my primary duty pistol and attached it to my belt, which typically accommodates a 2.25″ duty belt. The fit was snug, as expected, and the vertical and horizontal belt slots provided flexibility in placement.

During a series of drills, including reloads under timed pressure and movement exercises, the pouch performed admirably. The magazines stayed put, even when I was actively moving, and the outward-facing orientation did seem to make drawing the spare magazines slightly more fluid, minimizing wrist rotation compared to some other designs. I did notice a slight stiffness initially, requiring a firmer pull to release the magazines, but this is common with new gear.

After several hours and numerous reloads, the pouch showed no signs of distress. The flap closure, secured with Velcro and a snap, felt robust and held the magazines securely within. Even when brushing against my side or equipment, the flap stayed closed, which was a significant improvement over some open-top pouches I’ve used in the past that could let in dust.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the following weeks, the Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap Plain became a regular fixture on my range bag belt and even on my everyday carry (EDC) belt for specific training scenarios. It endured exposure to a fair amount of dust and grit from the range environment, and I even experienced a light drizzle one afternoon while wearing it without issue. The SafariLaminate material seemed unfazed by these minor environmental challenges.

The durability has been excellent. There are no visible cracks or signs of material fatigue despite being loaded and unloaded multiple times daily. The flap closure mechanism has maintained its integrity, with the Velcro still providing a strong hold and the snap operating smoothly.

Compared to some less expensive magazine pouches I’ve owned, this Safariland model feels leagues ahead in terms of robustness and reliability. While budget options often lose their shape or retention quickly, this pouch maintains its form and the secure grip on the magazines. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove dust or grime.

Specifications

The Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap Plain is designed to carry two standard pistol magazines. Its key construction material is the durable SafariLaminate, a proprietary blend known for its rigidity and resistance to wear. The pouch is engineered with magazines oriented “face out” to optimize belt space, a critical consideration for those running a loaded belt.

It features both vertical and horizontal belt slots, offering significant versatility in how it can be mounted. This allows users to configure their gear setup according to personal preference or specific operational requirements. The pouch is specifically designed to fit belts up to 2.25″ (58mm) widths, making it compatible with most duty and tactical belts.

This model is also noted as being part of the 6004/6005 tactical system, which implies a certain standard of quality and compatibility within Safariland’s broader product ecosystem. This integration is a significant advantage for users already invested in their tactical line.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary function – securely holding and allowing quick access to spare pistol magazines – the Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap Plain performs exceptionally well. The outward-facing orientation undeniably saves space on the belt, allowing for more gear or a less cluttered feel. This feature is particularly valuable when trying to balance the needs of a full tactical loadout.

The retention provided by the flap is excellent, ensuring magazines are protected and stay in place. For my intended use, this secure retention is a major strength, offering peace of mind in dynamic situations. The only minor drawback is that the flap adds an extra step to the magazine draw compared to an open-top design, which might be a consideration for purely speed-focused applications.

Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a durable, secure, and space-saving magazine carrier. The reliability of keeping magazines firmly in place is its strongest functional attribute.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of this magazine pouch is immediately apparent. The SafariLaminate construction gives it a stiff, robust feel, which contributes to its ability to maintain shape even when empty. The finish is typically utilitarian, designed for function rather than aesthetics, which is fitting for tactical gear.

Ergonomically, the pouch is straightforward. While it’s designed for a belt, its placement and how it interacts with other gear will significantly impact the user experience. The vertical and horizontal belt slots allow for a good degree of adjustment to find a comfortable position. The flap closure is easy to manipulate with one hand, though it does require a conscious action to open and close.

The design prioritizes secure carriage and efficient use of belt space. There’s a slight learning curve to the outward-facing draw if you’re accustomed to traditional inward-facing pouches, but it’s quickly mastered.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction, the Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap Plain is built for longevity. Under typical tactical or range use, I anticipate this pouch lasting for many years. The SafariLaminate material is known for its resilience against abrasion and the elements.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A gentle cleaning with soap and water, followed by air drying, is usually sufficient to keep it in good condition. Unlike fabric pouches that can absorb and retain moisture, this laminate material sheds water easily.

Potential failure points would likely stem from excessive force or extreme environmental exposure beyond its design parameters. However, for its intended use, the durability appears to be a significant strong suit.

Accessories and Customization Options

This specific model, the Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap Plain, is primarily a standalone piece of gear. It doesn’t come with additional accessories in the traditional sense, as its function is singular – magazine carriage. However, its designation as part of the 6004/6005 tactical system implies it integrates well with other Safariland products, such as their holsters.

While the pouch itself isn’t customizable in terms of color or features (it’s a “plain” model), users can customize its placement on their belt using the vertical and horizontal belt slots. This adaptability in mounting is its primary form of customization. For those needing faster access, Safariland offers open-top variants, but this flap-equipped version prioritizes security.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap Plain

Who Should Buy Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap Plain?

This magazine pouch is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, competitive shooters, and serious firearm enthusiasts who require reliable and secure spare magazine carriage. Its SafariLaminate construction and secure flap make it ideal for tactical environments where gear security is paramount. It’s also well-suited for individuals who need to manage limited belt space effectively.

However, individuals prioritizing the absolute fastest magazine changes above all else, such as in certain high-speed competition disciplines, might prefer open-top designs. Those looking for a pouch that can carry more than two magazines in a single unit should explore different Safariland models or other brands. A robust duty belt and potentially other Safariland tactical accessories would complement this pouch well.

Conclusion on Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap Plain

The Safariland Double Pistol Magazine Pouch w/Flap Plain stands as a testament to functional, durable design. It delivers on its promise of secure, space-efficient magazine carriage without compromise on build quality. The SafariLaminate construction and thoughtful features like vertical and horizontal belt slots make it a robust and adaptable addition to any tactical gear setup.

Considering its price point of $49.99, it offers excellent value for the peace of mind and reliability it provides. For anyone who needs their spare magazines kept safe, secure, and accessible without sacrificing precious belt real estate, I would wholeheartedly recommend this Safariland pouch. It’s a piece of kit that you can trust to perform when you need it most.