Getting My Hands on the Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-13-13PBL
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-13-13PBL is a simple yet crucial piece of gear for law enforcement and security personnel who rely on both a tactical flashlight and electronic discharge weapons (EDWs) like Tasers. Designed by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement equipment, this holder aims to provide quick and easy access to these essential tools while maintaining a secure and professional appearance on a duty belt. This holder promises secure retention and rapid deployment, two things that are paramount in high-stress situations.
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless iterations of duty belt accessories, some brilliantly designed and others… not so much. I needed a reliable way to carry a light and potentially an EDW cartridge on my duty belt without adding unnecessary bulk. My current setup was cumbersome and slowed down my access to these life-saving tools, especially during simulated active shooter drills.
The Safariland 307 arrived in a simple, no-frills package, typical of professional-grade equipment. Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the rugged Safari-Laminate construction. It felt sturdy and well-made, ready to withstand the rigors of daily duty. Its low profile design was also a major plus.
I considered similar holders from BlackHawk and Bianchi, but the Safariland‘s reputation for durability and its specific design for both light and EDW cartridges swayed my decision. BlackHawk’s offerings felt bulky, and the Bianchi models lacked the secure retention I was looking for. I was hoping for something robust and streamlined, and the Safariland 307 seemed to fit the bill perfectly.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The holder felt solid and well-constructed, but I was eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios. I hoped it would live up to Safariland‘s reputation for quality and reliability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-13-13PBL to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 307 at a local law enforcement training range during a series of drills simulating nighttime scenarios. The drills involved weapon manipulation, target engagement, and the use of a flashlight for identification. I wanted to see if the holder would allow for quick and efficient access to my flashlight while on the move.
The holder performed admirably in these conditions. The flashlight was securely held in place, even during rapid movements, and the flap closure provided an extra layer of security. Access was intuitive and didn’t require fumbling, even with gloved hands. I was able to quickly deploy my light to identify threats and engage targets with confidence.
There was a minor learning curve in adjusting the tension of the flap closure to get the perfect balance between retention and ease of access. The initial setup took about 15 minutes, but after that, it was smooth sailing. There were no unexpected issues after first use, which was a promising start.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous use, the Safariland 307 continues to impress. The holder shows no signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to daily use and exposure to various weather conditions. The Safari-Laminate material is proving to be incredibly durable.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep the holder clean and looking professional. I’ve had previous experiences with nylon holders that frayed or faded quickly, but the Safariland 307 appears to be much more resistant to these issues. This holder definitely outperforms cheaper nylon alternatives.
Compared to my previous setup, which involved separate pouches for my flashlight and EDW cartridges, the Safariland 307 is a significant improvement in terms of space-saving and accessibility. It streamlines my duty belt and allows me to react more quickly in critical situations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-13-13PBL
Specifications
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-13-13PBL is designed to fit a light carrier with a flap closure. It is compatible with duty belts ranging from 2″ to 2.25″ in width. The holder is constructed from durable Safari-Laminate material and available in black with an STX TAC finish.
The specific model reviewed (307-13-13PBL) is designed to accommodate a SUREFIRE X200 LAS/TAC 2 Light (with adapter). These specifications are important because they dictate the compatibility of the holder with your existing gear and duty belt. This model specifically caters to officers using the Surefire X200 and those who want to carry an EDW cartridge.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 307 excels at its primary function: securely holding and providing quick access to a tactical light and EDW cartridge. The flap closure provides a secure retention system, preventing accidental dislodgement of the light, while still allowing for rapid deployment when needed. The holder is designed to maintain its shape and structure, even under stress, ensuring consistent performance.
The only minor weakness is the limited compatibility with other lights beyond the Surefire X200 without an adapter. It definitively meets expectations and performs its job efficiently.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 307 boasts a streamlined and low-profile design. This minimizes bulk on the duty belt and prevents snagging on equipment or obstacles. The build quality is excellent. The Safari-Laminate material is both durable and lightweight, providing a comfortable and secure fit.
The Safariland 307 is user-friendly. The flap closure is intuitive, and the holder is easy to attach and detach from the duty belt. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safari-Laminate construction of the Safariland 307 ensures exceptional durability. It can withstand the rigors of daily duty, including exposure to moisture, abrasions, and impacts. Minimal maintenance is required. This holder is built to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 307 itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, but its compatibility with standard 2″-2.25″ duty belts allows for seamless integration with other Safariland accessories and pouches. The ability to pair it with other Safariland duty gear is a major advantage.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-13-13PBL
Pros
- Durable Safari-Laminate Construction: Withstands daily wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Secure Retention: Flap closure securely holds the flashlight and EDW cartridge in place, preventing accidental dislodgement.
- Quick Access: Allows for rapid deployment of the flashlight and EDW cartridge in critical situations.
- Low-Profile Design: Minimizes bulk on the duty belt, preventing snagging and increasing comfort.
- Easy to Maintain: Simple wipe-down cleaning keeps the holder looking professional.
Cons
- Limited Compatibility: Primarily designed for Surefire X200 LAS/TAC 2 Light, requiring an adapter for other lights.
- Basic Design: While functional, it lacks advanced features or adjustability.
Who Should Buy Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-13-13PBL?
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-13-13PBL is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a reliable and accessible way to carry a tactical light and EDW cartridge on their duty belt. This is especially beneficial for those who value a streamlined and low-profile setup. Individuals who need to carry other brands of flashlights or prefer a more adjustable system may want to explore alternative options.
A must-have accessory is a compatible tactical flashlight such as the Surefire X200 or an equivalent that fits securely. Consider a high-quality duty belt to ensure the holder is properly supported and remains stable.
Conclusion on Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-13-13PBL
The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-13-13PBL is a well-designed and durable piece of equipment that delivers on its promises. It provides a secure and accessible way to carry a tactical light and EDW cartridge. At $42.99, the price is justified given the quality of materials and construction.
I would personally recommend this holder to anyone seeking a reliable and streamlined solution for carrying essential duty gear. If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, durable, and functional flashlight and EDW cartridge holder, the Safariland 307 is an excellent choice. Streamline your duty belt, enhance your readiness, and invest in the Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-13-13PBL today!