The Most Honest High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount Review Online
For years, I’ve been pushing gear to its limits across various demanding environments, from the dusty workshop to the precise lab bench and out in the rugged field. When it came to finding a reliable way to carry spare rifle magazines on my belt, especially in situations where discretion and protection of the magazine were paramount, I found myself looking for a robust solution. The High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount emerged as a contender, promising a secure and protected way to carry a single rifle magazine. My previous experiences with open-top magazine pouches often left me concerned about debris ingress or accidental magazine dislodges during vigorous movement, a problem I was eager to solve.
My initial impression upon unboxing this magazine mount was one of solid construction. The blend of rigid polymer sides and durable Cordura fabric felt immediately substantial. It wasn’t the lightest option out there, but the weight felt indicative of quality materials and a design built for longevity. I had considered a few other options, including simpler MOLLE pouch systems, but none offered the integrated cover and versatile attachment method that this particular TACO variant boasted. My first reaction was a quiet sense of satisfaction, recognizing the potential for this piece of equipment to effectively address a specific need I’d been grappling with.
Real-World Testing: Putting High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount took place on a familiar range day. I attached it to my duty belt, a standard 1.75-inch heavy-duty model, ensuring the included HSGI clip was securely fastened through the belt loops. The process was straightforward, requiring only a few moments to thread the clip and secure it. Loading a standard AR-15 magazine into the pouch was smooth, and the adjustable shock cord lacing cinched down perfectly to provide a firm grip without requiring excessive force.
The real test came during a series of drills that involved rapid movement, including sprints and low crawls. The covered design proved its worth immediately, preventing dust and debris from accumulating inside the pouch where it could foul the magazine. The buckled flap remained securely fastened, providing peace of mind that the magazine wouldn’t eject unexpectedly. There were no significant surprises, but the quiet deployment of the magazine when needed, with a simple unbuckle and pull, was a pleasant and functional revelation.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several months, this single magazine mount has become a dependable part of my loadout. I’ve used it during extended training sessions, long days on my feet in varied weather conditions, and even during some less formal outdoor excursions where carrying spare ammunition was prudent. The 1000D Cordura fabric has shown minimal signs of wear, resisting abrasion from constant contact with my gear and the environment. The polymer sides remain rigid, and the shock cord still offers excellent tension.
Maintenance has been virtually non-existent; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove any accumulated grime. I haven’t experienced any degradation in its ability to hold a magazine securely, and the buckle closure continues to function flawlessly. Compared to some older, simpler pouch designs I’ve used in the past, this covered TACO pouch demonstrates superior resilience and a more consistent grip, particularly after being exposed to grit or moisture.
Breaking Down the Features of High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount
Specifications
The High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount is designed to carry one rifle magazine. It boasts injection molded polymer sides that provide structure and rigidity, ensuring the pouch maintains its shape even when empty. The front and back panels are constructed from 1000D Cordura, a testament to its durability and resistance to abrasion and tearing. A key component is the shock cord lacing, which allows for adjustable tension to accommodate various magazine types and ensures a secure fit.
This magazine mount features a buckled flap closure, offering a more secure hold than open-top designs and providing excellent protection against environmental contaminants. It attaches to a platform, such as a belt or PALS webbing, using an HSGI clip, which is included and designed for robust attachment. The pouch occupies only 3? horizontal inches on your platform, making it a space-efficient addition to any setup. Inside the pouch, a strip of loop Velcro is sewn, which can be used in conjunction with hook-backed items for additional retention or organization.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function, the High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount excels at holding a rifle magazine securely. The adjustable tension provided by the shock cord allows for a customizable fit, accommodating everything from standard AR-15 magazines to some slightly wider or thinner STANAG variants. The covered top ensures that the magazine’s feed lips and the internal cavity remain free of debris, a critical factor for reliable function in adverse conditions. Deployment of the magazine is surprisingly quick once the buckle is undone, allowing for a smooth and relatively silent draw.
Its greatest strengths lie in its versatility and security. The ability to fit a wide range of rifle magazines and even certain other cylindrical items like radios or flashbangs makes it a valuable piece of kit. The covered design is a significant improvement over open-top pouches for maintaining magazine cleanliness and security. A minor point for improvement could be the slight bulk added by the flap closure when compared to minimalistic designs, but this is a trade-off for the added protection.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this TACO mount is a smart fusion of modern materials and practical functionality. The polymer sides are smooth yet provide enough friction to prevent excessive magazine wiggle, while the Cordura fabric adds a textured grip and a rugged aesthetic. The buckled flap is intuitive to operate with a single hand, and the adjustment of the shock cord lacing is easily managed. Its ambidextrous nature means it can be mounted on either side of your belt or platform without any modification.
Ergonomically, it sits comfortably on the belt without creating significant pressure points, even when fully loaded. The relatively compact profile, despite the added flap, means it doesn’t snag or impede movement unnecessarily. The HSGI clip provides a rock-solid attachment to the belt, ensuring the entire unit stays put even under duress. The overall feel is one of robust utility, built for demanding use rather than casual aesthetics.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my extended testing, the High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount is built for the long haul. The 1000D Cordura is known for its exceptional durability, and the reinforced stitching appears to be very robust. The polymer components are impact-resistant, and the shock cord, while a wear item over extreme time, is easily replaceable should it ever degrade. I’ve not encountered any signs of splitting, fraying, or premature wear, even after substantial use in abrasive environments.
Maintenance is blissfully simple. For routine cleaning, a damp cloth and a soft brush are sufficient to remove dirt and grit. If it gets heavily soiled, it can be washed with mild soap and water and air-dried. There are no complex mechanisms to fail, and the primary wear point, the shock cord, can be readily swapped out if needed. This ease of maintenance adds significantly to its practical value for anyone who relies on their gear functioning consistently.
Accessories and Customization Options
The High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount comes with the essential HSGI clip for attachment, which is a critical component for its secure mounting. While it doesn’t come with a plethora of additional accessories, its design allows for some inherent customization through the adjustable shock cord lacing. This allows users to fine-tune the retention to perfectly suit their specific rifle magazines, ensuring optimal security and ease of access.
Beyond the integrated adjustability, the loop Velcro strip sewn inside offers potential for those who wish to add a hook-backed insert or other small organizational items, though this is a niche application for a magazine pouch. Its true compatibility lies in its ability to accept a wide variety of rifle magazines, effectively serving as a versatile accessory for any rifle platform owner.
Pros and Cons of High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount
Pros
- Secure Retention: The combination of polymer sides, shock cord lacing, and a buckled flap provides exceptionally secure retention for rifle magazines.
- Environmental Protection: The covered design effectively shields magazine feed lips and interiors from dirt, dust, and moisture.
- Versatile Fit: The adjustable shock cord allows it to accommodate a wide range of rifle magazine types and sizes.
- Durable Construction: Made with 1000D Cordura and robust polymer, it’s built to withstand significant wear and tear.
- Efficient Space Usage: Occupies only 3? horizontal inches on a belt or platform, maximizing available real estate.
- Reliable Attachment: The included HSGI clip offers a very secure and stable mounting solution for belts.
Cons
- Slightly Bulkier Profile: The addition of the covered flap makes it marginally bulkier than simple open-top pouches.
- Single Magazine Capacity: This specific model only holds one rifle magazine, requiring multiple units for significant spare capacity.
- Price Point: While justified by its quality, it is a more premium option compared to basic magazine pouches.
Who Should Buy High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount?
This magazine mount is an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize magazine security and protection in challenging environments. It is particularly well-suited for law enforcement officers, military personnel, serious civilian tactical shooters, and anyone who needs reliable access to spare rifle magazines on their belt while safeguarding them from the elements. If you’ve ever had debris interfere with your magazine seating or worried about a magazine falling out during intense activity, this product is worth strong consideration.
Those who require carrying a large number of spare magazines on their person, or who prefer the absolute lightest and most minimalist carry solutions, might want to explore other options. For individuals who primarily operate in extremely clean or static environments, the added protection of the covered flap might be considered overkill, though its security benefits are always valuable. A complementary item that enhances its utility is a quality multi-tool for any field adjustments or minor repairs that might arise with any piece of gear over time.
Conclusion on High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount
The High Speed Gear TACO Covered Belt Magazine Mount is a standout product that delivers on its promises of secure retention and environmental protection for your rifle magazines. Its robust construction, thoughtful design, and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who demands the best from their gear. The blend of 1000D Cordura, rigid polymer, and adjustable shock cord creates a highly functional and durable carrying solution.
Considering its premium build quality, dependable performance, and the peace of mind it offers, the $49.99 price point is entirely justified. I would absolutely recommend this covered TACO pouch to individuals who need a dependable way to carry spare rifle magazines and want to ensure they remain clean and secure, ready for immediate deployment. It’s a testament to High Speed Gear’s commitment to producing high-quality, mission-essential equipment.