Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Double Magazine P Review

The Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Double Magazine Pouch and What It Taught Me

The Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Double Magazine Pouch is a piece of gear that, at first glance, seems straightforward. Yet, in the often-unpredictable environments I frequent, the reliability and accessibility of ammunition can be the thin line between success and a frustrating setback. After years of relying on various ways to carry spare magazines, from bulky pouches to jury-rigged solutions, I found myself in need of something that offered a balance of speed, security, and a compact footprint on my belt. This particular model from Safariland emerged as a contender, promising to keep essential magazines readily available without adding excessive bulk. My initial impression upon unboxing was of a no-nonsense, robust construction, a characteristic I’ve come to expect from Safariland’s reputation. I had considered a single pouch or a pouch with a flap, but the need for rapid access and carrying two magazines in a streamlined fashion pointed me toward this double open-top design. The immediate feeling was one of practicality; it was exactly what it claimed to be.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Double Magazine Pouch to the Test

My testing of this magazine pouch primarily occurred across a spectrum of demanding scenarios, focusing on its intended purpose within professional and tactical contexts. I utilized it on my duty belt during extended patrols, in various workshop environments where quick access to a backup firearm might be crucial, and during extensive range training sessions where rapid reloads are paramount. The pouch was subjected to the rigors of constant movement, including running, kneeling, and bending, to assess how well it retained the magazines. I also exposed it to light rain and dust in outdoor settings to gauge its resilience.

The ease of use was remarkably high from the outset. The open-top design meant that accessing the magazines was as intuitive as reaching for them; there was no need to fumble with closures or flaps. Any surprises were pleasant, primarily related to how securely it held the magazines without making them difficult to draw.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent, rigorous use, the Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Double Magazine Pouch has proven its mettle. It has endured countless magazine changes, accidental bumps, and periods of being stored in a gear bag alongside other equipment. The Safarilaminate construction has shown virtually no signs of wear or tear; there are no cracks, the stitching remains intact, and the material has maintained its rigidity and shape.

Maintenance has been minimal, essentially requiring a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove any accumulated dust or debris. The vertical belt slot design ensures it stays firmly attached to my 2.25-inch duty belt, and it hasn’t loosened or shifted even under significant strain. Compared to some fabric pouches I’ve used in the past, which could fray or lose their shape, this pouch feels like it will last for many years. Its performance consistently matches or exceeds that of other premium magazine carriers I’ve incorporated into my gear over the years.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Double Magazine Pouch

Specifications

This double magazine pouch is constructed from rugged Safarilaminate, a material known for its durability and resistance to various environmental conditions. It is designed specifically to fit 2.25-inch (58mm) duty belts, ensuring a secure and stable attachment. The pouch is engineered to hold two standard pistol magazines firmly in place, providing immediate access to a backup ammunition supply.

The Slimline Open Top design is a critical specification, allowing for rapid magazine retrieval without the need for additional retention devices like flaps or thumb breaks. This feature is crucial for scenarios where speed is a priority. The vertical belt slot on the rear of the pouch ensures it remains snug and stable on the belt, preventing unwanted movement. The ability to carry magazines “face out” is another key design consideration, allowing for a more compact profile on the duty belt.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Double Magazine Pouch is to securely hold and allow for the rapid deployment of spare magazines. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The magazines are held with a firm grip, preventing them from rattling or accidentally falling out during dynamic movement.

When drawing a magazine, the process is smooth and quick, thanks to the open-top design and the well-contoured interior. The Safarilaminate construction provides a rigid structure that aids in guiding the magazine back into the pouch during reloads, a benefit that becomes more apparent with repeated use. The only minor potential drawback is that the retention is primarily friction-based, so extremely heavy or unbalanced magazines might eventually loosen the fit with prolonged, vigorous activity, though this has not been an issue with standard-issue pistol magazines.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this magazine pouch is focused on functionality and durability. The Safarilaminate construction gives it a substantial feel, indicative of its robust nature without being overly heavy. The finish is typically a matte black, which is non-reflective and blends well with other tactical gear.

Ergonomically, the pouch is well-designed for its purpose. It sits comfortably on the duty belt and, when loaded with magazines, it doesn’t create excessive pressure points or feel cumbersome. The ability to orient the magazines “face out” is a clever design choice that genuinely reduces the overall width on the belt, which can be important when carrying multiple accessories. The smooth interior surfaces of the pouch contribute to effortless magazine insertion and extraction.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience with Safariland products and the visible quality of this pouch, I anticipate it will offer excellent long-term durability. The Safarilaminate material is inherently resistant to abrasion, water, and temperature fluctuations, all common challenges in field environments. Under normal to heavy use, it’s unlikely to experience structural failure for many years.

Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a mild soap and water solution, followed by air drying, is sufficient to keep it clean. For more stubborn dirt, a stiff brush can be used on the material. There are no complex parts or mechanisms that require special care, making it a low-maintenance piece of gear.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Double Magazine Pouch typically comes as a standalone item, meaning it doesn’t include any additional accessories. Its design is focused on its core function of carrying magazines. However, the real “customization” comes from its compatibility and integration with other gear.

Its primary compatibility is with 2.25-inch duty belts, which are standard for many law enforcement and security professionals. While not a customizable product in itself, its ability to securely carry different types of pistol magazines is its main advantage. It fits a variety of single-stack and double-stack magazines well, depending on their specific dimensions.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Double Magazine Pouch

Who Should Buy Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Double Magazine Pouch?

This Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Double Magazine Pouch is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, competitive shooters, and any individual who requires rapid access to spare pistol magazines on a 2.25-inch duty belt. It is ideal for those who prioritize speed during reloads and value a compact, durable piece of equipment.

Individuals who require highly specialized retention systems, such as those mandated for specific training courses or extreme tactical operations where a magazine absolutely cannot be dislodged, might want to consider options with additional retention mechanisms. Anyone not using a 2.25-inch duty belt would also need to look elsewhere or consider belt adapters. A helpful complementary item would be a sturdy, high-quality 2.25-inch duty belt to ensure the pouch performs at its best.

Conclusion on Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Double Magazine Pouch

The Safariland 79 Slimline Open Top Double Magazine Pouch stands as a testament to efficient design and reliable construction. Its combination of Safarilaminate durability, a slimline profile, and the critical feature of rapid, open-top magazine access makes it a standout piece of gear for those who rely on their equipment in demanding situations. While its price point of $35.99 is competitive for Safariland quality, the value derived from its performance and longevity is undeniable.

I would absolutely recommend this magazine pouch to any professional or enthusiast operating with a 2.25-inch duty belt who needs to carry spare pistol magazines securely and access them with speed. It’s a straightforward, effective solution that performs its intended function exceptionally well, offering a significant upgrade over less robust or slower-to-access alternatives. If rapid reloads and a streamlined belt setup are priorities for you, this Safariland model is a smart investment.