Discovering the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX TAC Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-13: My Take
For years, I’ve carried spare magazines in various pouches, some dedicated, others makeshift. They often felt bulky and insecure, especially when trying to maintain a low profile. When I saw the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX TAC Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-13, I knew it was worth a look.
I needed a reliable, low-profile way to carry two spare magazines for my Beretta 92FS during concealed carry scenarios and range training. My existing magazine pouches were either too bulky, lacked retention, or weren’t easily accessible. This Safariland model promised a slim design, adjustable tension, and ambidextrous use – exactly what I was looking for.
Out of the box, the Safariland 079 felt solid and well-made. The STX TAC Black finish gave it a professional, non-reflective look, and the snap-on design seemed secure and easy to use. The adjustable tension feature was immediately appealing, allowing customization for different magazine types.
I considered the Blade-Tech Double Magazine Pouch and the Galco DMC Double Magazine Carrier. I chose the Safariland 079 primarily for its adjustable tension and the reputation of Safariland products within the law enforcement community. It felt like a more versatile and secure option than the others.
My first impression was positive, though cautiously optimistic. I was excited to test the adjustable tension and see how well it held magazines during movement. The stiff snaps, noted in other user feedback, were a slight concern, but I hoped they would break in over time.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX TAC Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-13 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland 079 at an outdoor shooting range during a practical pistol course. The weather was dry and sunny, ideal for testing the magazine holder’s draw speed and retention. I ran several drills, practicing reloads from concealment while moving between shooting positions.
The Safariland 079 performed admirably, even during rapid movements. The adjustable tension screw allowed me to fine-tune the retention for both my Beretta 92FS and Browning Hi-Power magazines, preventing them from slipping out while still allowing for a quick draw. Accessing the magazines was easy and intuitive, with the low-cut design facilitating a secure grip even under pressure.
Initially, the snaps were indeed quite stiff, as reported by other users. It required a deliberate effort to close them, especially when worn on a thick belt. However, after a few hours of use, they began to loosen up, becoming slightly easier to manage.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Safariland 079 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It has been used in various scenarios, including range training, concealed carry practice, and even a few outdoor hiking trips. The magazine holder continues to provide secure retention and easy access to spare magazines.
The STX TAC Black finish has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of wear or scratching despite repeated use and contact with clothing. The snaps have become slightly easier to close with continued use, though they still require a firm press to ensure they are properly secured. Cleaning has been minimal, requiring only an occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris.
In comparison to previous magazine pouches I’ve used, the Safariland 079 offers a superior combination of retention, accessibility, and low profile. It outperforms other generic pouches in terms of security and comfort, making it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. It is now my go-to magazine carrier for both concealed carry and training.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX TAC Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-13
Specifications
The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX TAC Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-13 is designed to carry two magazines. It features a low-cut design for easy magazine grasp. It fits belts up to 1.75″ wide.
The adjustable tension device allows for customization to fit various magazine types. The finish is STX TAC Black, providing a low-profile appearance. It is ambidextrous, suitable for both left- and right-handed users.
The listed fit includes a wide range of firearms, including Beretta (8000, 8040, 92 series, 96 series), Browning (9mm BDM), Heckler & Koch (P7M13), Ruger (KP-89, KP-91, KP-944, KP-95, P-85, P-89, P-91, P-93, P-94, P-95), Sig Sauer (P226, P228), Smith & Wesson (4006, 4013TSW, 4026, 4053TSW, 4056TSW, 459, 469, 59 series, 659, 669, 69 series, 910, 915), Springfield Armory (XD), and Taurus (PT101, PT92, PT92C, PT99, PT99C). These specifications are critical because they dictate the compatibility, functionality, and overall user experience. The adjustability provides the ability to adapt this magazine holder for different magazines within your arsenal.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 079 excels at its primary function: securely holding and providing quick access to spare magazines. Its adjustable tension is a significant advantage, allowing users to customize the retention to their preference and magazine type. The low-cut design ensures a secure grip for easy extraction, even under stress.
The main strength lies in its reliability and versatility. However, the initial stiffness of the snaps is a minor drawback. Overall, the Safariland 079 meets and even exceeds expectations for a concealment magazine holder, providing peace of mind knowing that spare ammunition is readily available.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 079 features a simple yet functional design. The STX TAC Black material is durable and provides a low-profile appearance, ideal for concealed carry. The weight is minimal, adding little bulk to the belt.
The snap-on design is easy to install and remove, though the stiffness of the snaps can be a slight inconvenience initially. There is minimal learning curve, and the design is intuitive for both left- and right-handed users. The magazine holder is comfortable to wear for extended periods, with the low profile minimizing printing and discomfort.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 079 is built to last. The STX TAC Black material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and environmental factors. With proper care, this magazine holder should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only an occasional wipe-down to remove dirt and debris. The simple design makes it easy to clean and inspect. No specialized tools are required for maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 079 does not come with any additional accessories. However, its adjustable tension allows for customization to fit a wide range of magazine types. There are no additional customization options directly available for the magazine holder itself.
The magazine holder is compatible with most standard 1.75″ belts. It is also compatible with a variety of magazine types, as outlined in the specifications. The magazine holder offers a level of flexibility making it a solid choice for multiple platforms.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX TAC Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-13
Pros
- Adjustable tension allows for secure retention of various magazine types.
- Low-cut design facilitates a secure grip and fast draw.
- Ambidextrous design caters to both left- and right-handed users.
- STX TAC Black finish provides a low-profile appearance.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Snaps can be initially stiff and difficult to close.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX TAC Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-13?
The Safariland 079 is perfect for law enforcement officers, concealed carry permit holders, and competitive shooters. Anyone who needs a reliable and low-profile way to carry spare magazines will benefit from this product. It’s also great for range training or personal defense scenarios.
Individuals who prioritize extreme adjustability or require extensive customization options might want to explore other products. Those who are particularly sensitive to stiff snaps might also consider alternatives, although the snaps do loosen with use. Must-have accessories include a high-quality gun belt for stable and secure carry.
Conclusion on Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX TAC Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-13
The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX TAC Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-13 is a well-designed and reliable magazine carrier that offers excellent retention, accessibility, and a low-profile appearance. While the initial stiffness of the snaps can be a minor inconvenience, the overall performance and durability of this product make it a worthwhile investment.
The price of $37.99 is justified, given the quality of materials, construction, and the added benefits of adjustable tension and ambidextrous design. I would personally recommend this magazine holder to anyone seeking a secure and comfortable way to carry spare magazines. If you’re serious about concealed carry or competitive shooting, the Safariland 079 is a must-have addition to your gear. Upgrade your preparedness – get yours today!