The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-383-2: A Review After Real Use
The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-383-2 is a no-nonsense piece of kit designed for those who need to carry spare magazines discreetly. Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical gear, brings its reputation for durability and functionality to the concealed carry world with this magazine holder. This ambidextrous, double magazine carrier, with its low-cut design and adjustable tension, promises quick access and a secure hold.
I needed a reliable and comfortable way to carry spare magazines for my Glock 21 during my concealed carry training and subsequent daily carry. My primary concern was accessibility and retention without compromising comfort or printing through clothing. I was tired of bulky, poorly designed magazine carriers that shifted around on my belt or were difficult to draw from under pressure.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 572 felt solid and well-constructed. The plain black finish is understated and professional, ideal for blending in. The paddle felt secure and the molded plastic seemed durable enough to withstand daily use.
I considered several other options, including the Blade-Tech Revolution and the Galco Double Magazine Carrier. I chose the Safariland 572 primarily for its reputation for secure retention and the paddle design, which I found more comfortable for all-day wear compared to belt loops. Safariland’s adjustable tension feature also appealed to me, allowing for a customized draw.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. It looked and felt like a quality product, but the true test would be how it performed during live-fire drills and daily concealed carry. I was eager to see if it lived up to the Safariland name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-383-2 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 572 at my local shooting range during a concealed carry qualification course. I used it extensively for rapid reloading drills and practicing tactical magazine changes. The weather was moderately warm, and the range was relatively clean.
The Safariland 572 performed admirably under pressure. Drawing magazines was smooth and consistent, and the adjustable tension allowed me to fine-tune the draw resistance to my preference. I experienced no issues with magazines falling out during movement, and the paddle stayed securely in place.
The Safariland 572 required virtually no break-in period. The magazine draw was smooth and consistent from the start. The low-cut design facilitated a full grip on the magazine, making reloads fast and efficient.
The only initial surprise was the size of the paddle. It’s substantial, which contributes to its stability, but it did take a little experimenting to find the optimal placement on my waistline for maximum comfort and concealment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 572 has held up remarkably well. It has become a staple in my daily concealed carry setup. The magazine holder has been exposed to various conditions, including hot summer days, light rain, and dusty environments.
Despite frequent use, there are minimal signs of wear and tear. The plastic has not cracked or shown any signs of degradation. The tension adjustment screw remains secure and the paddle continues to provide a stable platform.
Maintenance is simple. I occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. No special cleaning solutions or lubricants are required.
I previously used a leather double magazine carrier with belt loops, and the Safariland 572 is a significant upgrade. The Safariland offers far superior retention, faster access, and greater comfort, especially during extended periods of wear.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-383-2
Specifications
- Double Magazine Capacity: The Safariland 572 securely holds two magazines, providing ample spare ammunition for various scenarios. This is critical for situations where quick reloads are essential.
- Low-Cut Design: This feature allows for a full and unobstructed grip on the magazine during draws. The low-cut design enhances speed and efficiency during reloads.
- Unique Paddle Design: The paddle features a self-locking belt hook, ensuring the holder remains firmly in place during movement. The paddle’s large surface area distributes weight evenly, improving comfort.
- Adjustable Tension Device: This allows users to customize the draw resistance to their individual preferences. This ensures both secure retention and ease of access.
- Plain Black Finish: The understated black finish provides a professional and discreet appearance. The black finish minimizes visibility and blends seamlessly with clothing.
- Ambidextrous Design: Suitable for both right- and left-handed users. This increases versatility.
- Fits Glock 20, 21; Heckler & Koch 40, 40C, 9C, USP 45, USP 9; Para-Ordnance P-14: Accommodates magazines for a variety of popular handgun models. This is helpful if you have multiple firearms.
These specifications combine to provide a magazine holder that is both practical and reliable. The design considerations emphasize quick access, secure retention, and user comfort, critical elements in any concealed carry setup.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 572 excels in its primary function: securely holding and providing quick access to spare magazines. The adjustable tension and low-cut design work in harmony to facilitate smooth and efficient reloads. The secure paddle prevents unwanted shifting during movement.
The greatest strength of the Safariland 572 is its reliable retention and accessibility. The adjustable tension ensures magazines stay in place until needed, and the low-cut design enables a full grip for quick draws. One area for potential improvement is the overall size of the paddle, which can feel bulky for some users.
The Safariland 572 meets my expectations and, in some ways, exceeds them. Its performance is consistently reliable. The magazine holder provides peace of mind knowing that spare ammunition is readily available.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 572 is constructed from durable molded plastic. The design is simple and functional. The weight is reasonable, and the paddle’s ergonomic shape contributes to comfortable all-day wear.
The Safariland 572 is intuitive to use. The tension adjustment is straightforward. It offers a near-instantaneous adjustment and requires no specialized tools.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 572 appears to be built to last. The durable plastic construction can withstand the rigors of daily concealed carry. Minimal maintenance is required, further enhancing its practicality.
Cleaning the Safariland 572 is simple. A damp cloth and mild soap are sufficient to remove dirt and debris. No specialized tools or cleaning agents are necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 572 comes as a complete unit and does not require any additional accessories for basic functionality. The tension adjustment is the primary customization option, allowing users to fine-tune the draw resistance.
While the Safariland 572 is not designed for extensive customization, its compatibility with standard magazines for the listed firearm models ensures it can be used with various ammunition types and magazine capacities. Safariland offers other paddle attachments that may be compatible, but these are not specifically marketed for the 572.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-383-2
Pros
- Reliable Retention: Magazines stay securely in place until needed.
- Quick Access: Low-cut design enables fast and efficient reloads.
- Adjustable Tension: Allows for customized draw resistance.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand daily wear and tear.
- Ambidextrous Design: Suitable for both right- and left-handed users.
Cons
- Size of Paddle: Can feel bulky for some users, impacting concealment.
- Limited Customization: Few options beyond tension adjustment.
Who Should Buy Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-383-2?
The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-383-2 is perfect for: law enforcement officers, security personnel, concealed carry permit holders, and shooting enthusiasts who prioritize reliability, quick access, and secure retention of spare magazines. It’s ideal for those who carry a Glock 20, 21; Heckler & Koch 40, 40C, 9C, USP 45, USP 9; or Para-Ordnance P-14 and want a simple, effective, and comfortable way to carry spare magazines.
Those who should skip this product: Individuals who require a highly customizable magazine carrier or prefer a minimalist design with a smaller footprint may find the Safariland 572 too bulky. Those who carry firearms not listed as compatible should seek magazine carriers specifically designed for their firearm model.
Must-have accessories or modifications: While the Safariland 572 is functional out of the box, a high-quality belt designed for concealed carry will enhance comfort and stability. Experimenting with different placement options on the waistline is recommended to optimize concealment and accessibility.
Conclusion on Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-383-2
The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-383-2 is a reliable and practical magazine carrier that delivers on its promise of secure retention and quick access. Its durable construction and adjustable tension make it a valuable addition to any concealed carry setup. While the size of the paddle may be a concern for some, the overall performance and functionality of the Safariland 572 make it a worthwhile investment.
The price of $55.99 is justified considering the quality, durability, and performance of the Safariland 572. It offers a superior alternative to cheaper, less reliable magazine carriers.
I personally recommend the Safariland 572 to anyone seeking a simple, effective, and comfortable way to carry spare magazines for their compatible firearm. If you value reliability and quick access above all else, the Safariland 572 is an excellent choice. Invest in your peace of mind. Get the Safariland 572 and carry with confidence.