Is the Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-850-121-150 All Talk?
The Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-850-121-150 promises lightning-fast reloads and secure magazine retention. Safariland has built a reputation on quality and reliability, especially in the law enforcement and competitive shooting communities. This pouch aims to deliver on that reputation with its adjustable tension and compatibility with various 2011 style magazines.
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’m always on the lookout for equipment that enhances efficiency and provides a tangible advantage. My old magazine pouches were bulky and lacked adjustability, making reloads slower than I’d like during practice sessions. I needed a pouch that could accommodate different magazine types and allow me to fine-tune the retention.
Upon unboxing the Safariland 773, I was immediately impressed by its solid construction and clean design. The tactical black finish gives it a professional look, and the materials felt robust. The pouch felt lightweight yet durable, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of regular use.
I considered other popular competition pouches like the Blade-Tech Revolution and the Ghost 360. However, I chose the Safariland 773 for its renowned adjustability and positive user feedback, particularly regarding magazine security. The ability to dial in the exact retention I needed swayed my decision.
My first impression was positive – the Safariland 773 felt like a serious piece of kit. I was eager to see if it lived up to its promises on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-850-121-150 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 773 at my local outdoor shooting range during a USPSA practice session. The temperature was around 75 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight breeze, and the conditions were generally favorable for shooting. I ran drills involving magazine changes, target transitions, and movement, all while wearing the pouch on my competition belt.
The pouch performed admirably in the dry conditions. The adjustable tension screws allowed me to dial in the perfect retention for my STI 2011 magazines, ensuring they stayed securely in place during rapid movement but were still easy to draw quickly. The built-up channel provided smooth clearance for the bullet during the draw, further enhancing the speed of my reloads.
Initially, mounting the pouch to my competition belt proved a little challenging. The 90-degree adjustable belt loop is very snug, which is great for stability, but required some effort to attach properly. Once secured, however, the pouch remained firmly in place throughout the entire session, without any unwanted shifting or movement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 773 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. I’ve used it in various conditions, including hot, dusty environments and cooler, slightly damp weather, and it has consistently performed well. The pouch has held up without any significant signs of wear and tear.
The Safariland 773 is relatively easy to maintain. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient to keep it clean and prevent any buildup of dirt or debris. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the tension screws to ensure smooth and consistent adjustment.
Compared to my previous magazine pouches, the Safariland 773 offers a significant improvement in terms of speed, adjustability, and security. My reloads are noticeably faster and smoother, and I have greater confidence in the pouch’s ability to retain my magazines under demanding conditions. It definitely outperforms my expectations for a competition-grade magazine pouch.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-850-121-150
Specifications
The Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-850-121-150 is designed for right-handed users and features a tactical black finish. It utilizes a 1.50″ (38mm) belt loop for secure attachment to competition or duty belts.
The pouch is specifically designed to fit McCormick/Tripp (all), Para-Ordnance (P-14, P-16), and Strayer-Voigt (Infinity, STI) magazines. It includes two sets of tension screws threaded through rollers for precise adjustment. A closed low-cut front secures the magazine and prevents it from being knocked out.
The built-up channel ensures bullet clearance during the draw, aiding in fast reloads. It is categorized as a competition accessory.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 773 excels in its primary function: providing rapid and secure access to magazines during shooting competitions or tactical situations. The adjustable tension screws allow users to customize the retention level to their specific preferences and magazine types. This ensures a secure fit without sacrificing speed.
The pouch’s greatest strength lies in its adjustability and retention capabilities. The adjustable tension ensures that magazines are held securely, even during rigorous movement. Some users might find the initial adjustment process a bit time-consuming.
The Safariland 773 exceeds expectations in terms of performance and reliability. The pouch consistently delivers smooth and efficient magazine changes, and its robust construction ensures it can withstand the demands of regular use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 773 features a simple, yet effective design. The tactical black finish gives it a professional appearance, while the lightweight construction ensures it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk. The pouch is designed for right-handed users, with a built-up channel that facilitates a smooth and natural draw stroke.
The pouch is relatively user-friendly, although some users may require a bit of practice to find the optimal tension setting for their magazines. Once adjusted, the pouch is comfortable to wear and doesn’t interfere with movement or other gear. The snug belt loop ensures a secure and stable fit on the belt.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 773 is constructed from durable materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of regular use. The pouch shows no signs of wear and tear, even after several months of use in various conditions. Its longevity is impressive.
Maintaining the Safariland 773 is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient to keep it clean and prevent any buildup of dirt or debris. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the tension screws to ensure smooth and consistent adjustment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 773 doesn’t come with many accessories, as it’s a relatively simple piece of gear. Its primary customization option lies in the adjustable tension screws, which allow users to fine-tune the retention level to their specific preferences.
The pouch is compatible with standard 1.50″ (38mm) competition or duty belts. While it’s primarily designed for use with McCormick/Tripp, Para-Ordnance, and Strayer-Voigt magazines, it may also work with similar magazines from other brands, although compatibility may vary.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-850-121-150
Pros
- Highly Adjustable: The tension screws allow for precise tuning of magazine retention, accommodating different magazine types and user preferences.
- Secure Retention: Magazines are held securely in place, even during rigorous movement, preventing accidental drops.
- Fast Reloads: The built-up channel and smooth draw stroke facilitate rapid and efficient magazine changes.
- Durable Construction: The pouch is built from robust materials that are designed to withstand the demands of regular use.
- Professional Design: The tactical black finish and streamlined design give the pouch a professional appearance.
Cons
- Initial Mounting Can Be Difficult: The snug belt loop can make it challenging to attach the pouch to a competition or duty belt.
- Magazine Specificity: The pouch is primarily designed for McCormick/Tripp, Para-Ordnance, and Strayer-Voigt magazines, and compatibility with other brands may vary.
Who Should Buy Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-850-121-150?
The Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-850-121-150 is perfect for competitive shooters who demand speed and reliability. Law enforcement officers who carry 2011 style pistols will also find this pouch a valuable addition to their gear. Anyone using McCormick/Tripp, Para-Ordnance, and Strayer-Voigt magazines will benefit from its secure fit and adjustable retention.
Those who prefer a more universal pouch that accommodates a wider range of magazine types should skip this product. Users who prioritize ease of mounting over maximum security may also find the snug belt loop frustrating. Those looking for ambidextrous options should explore other pouches as this one is specifically designed for right-handed users.
A quality competition belt is a must-have accessory for using the Safariland 773. Consider investing in additional magazines to take full advantage of the pouch’s rapid reload capabilities.
Conclusion on Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-850-121-150
The Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-850-121-150 is a well-designed and reliable piece of gear that delivers on its promises. Its adjustable tension, secure retention, and durable construction make it an excellent choice for competitive shooters and law enforcement officers. While mounting the pouch can be a bit challenging, the benefits it offers in terms of speed and security far outweigh this minor drawback.
At a price of $41.49, the Safariland 773 represents a solid value proposition. The price is justified given its quality construction and enhanced performance. It’s an investment in your shooting performance and efficiency.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 773 to anyone looking for a high-quality, adjustable magazine pouch for their 2011 style pistols. Upgrade your gear today and experience the difference a quality magazine pouch can make.