High Speed Gear HSGI Double Decker Taco LT Rifle/Pistol Pouch Review

The Good, the Bad & the Real of the High Speed Gear HSGI Double Decker Taco LT Rifle/Pistol Pouch

For years, I’ve relied on High Speed Gear products for their robust construction and practical design. My search for a versatile and secure way to carry both rifle and pistol magazines on my belt led me to the High Speed Gear HSGI Double Decker Taco LT Rifle/Pistol Pouch. This particular pouch promised a compact, stacked solution that would streamline my loadout without sacrificing accessibility.

The need for a more consolidated carry system became apparent after a particularly demanding field exercise where managing multiple individual pouches proved cumbersome and inefficient. I needed something that would offer quick access to both my primary rifle magazines and my sidearm’s magazines, all from a single, stable platform on my belt.

Upon initial inspection, the pouch exudes that signature HSGI durability. The combination of laminate, shock cord, and injection-molded polymer brackets feels exceptionally solid, hinting at a product built to endure rigorous use. I had considered a few other modular pouch systems, but none offered the integrated rifle and pistol magazine capacity in such a seemingly compact footprint.

My first impression was one of practical satisfaction; this felt like a well-engineered solution to a common operational challenge. It immediately struck me as a piece of gear that was designed with actual real-world application in mind, not just for show.

Real-World Testing: Putting High Speed Gear HSGI Double Decker Taco LT Rifle/Pistol Pouch to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds were a familiar outdoor range and several extended training days. The pouch was mounted on a sturdy tactical belt, holding an AR-15 magazine on top and a standard 9mm pistol magazine below. Drawing from both the top and bottom compartments proved surprisingly fluid, even under stress.

I deliberately exposed the pouch to light dust and grit common at the range, as well as a brief, unexpected downpour. The laminate material shed water effectively, and once dried, the shock cord retention remained consistent without any noticeable stiffness. The Adaptable Belt Mount (ABM) system, with its hook-and-loop interface, ensured the pouch stayed put even during dynamic movements.

While the retention was firm, adjusting to the perfect tension for both magazine types took a few practice draws. It wasn’t a steep learning curve, but rather a fine-tuning process to ensure optimal security and speed. A minor surprise was how the pistol magazine, when inserted, slightly nudged the rifle magazine’s retention, requiring a fraction more effort to extract the rifle magazine initially.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the High Speed Gear HSGI Double Decker Taco LT Rifle/Pistol Pouch has proven itself a workhorse. It has been a fixture on my duty belt for range days, training courses, and even some light field work. The pouch has been subjected to countless magazine changes, from routine practice to more urgent situations.

Despite the constant insertion and withdrawal of magazines, the interior lining shows minimal wear. The laminate/shock cord/injection molded polymer brackets construction has held up remarkably well; there are no cracks, no significant scuffs, and the shock cord’s elasticity remains strong. This pouch has outperformed cheaper, single-purpose pouches I’ve used in the past, which often developed loose retention or frayed edges far sooner.

Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after dusty excursions is usually sufficient, and the material dries quickly. There’s nothing particularly complex to maintain, which is a significant advantage for busy operators or enthusiasts. One aspect to watch for is ensuring the snap closure of the ABM is securely fastened, as an improperly closed loop could, in theory, lead to detachment under extreme stress.

Breaking Down the Features of High Speed Gear HSGI Double Decker Taco LT Rifle/Pistol Pouch

Specifications

This pouch is a marvel of efficient design, boasting a stacked, double-decker configuration. It holds one rifle magazine and one pistol magazine, designed for universal fit across various calibers. The overall dimensions are approximately 5 inches in height, 1.75 inches in width, and 3 inches in length, making it a relatively compact addition to a belt.

The Adaptable Belt Mount (ABM) attachment system is a key specification, featuring a durable, vinyl-backed nylon laminate with a snap closure. This system is designed to accommodate belt widths from 1.5” to 2.25”, offering considerable versatility. Inside the belt loop, a hook-and-loop patch mates with the loop interior of rigger belts, providing enhanced stability.

The materials are a blend of laminate/shock cord/injection molded polymer brackets/pop lock, chosen for durability and flexibility. The pouch is also ambidextrous, meaning it can be configured for left or right-hand use. This universal caliber fit means it can accommodate magazines for most popular rifle and pistol platforms.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this pouch is secure retention and rapid access to magazines, and it excels at this. The universal caliber design means it can firmly hold a wide range of magazines without issue. The rifle magazine compartment offers excellent retention through its elastic bungee cord and polymer brackets, ensuring it won’t accidentally fall out.

The pistol magazine compartment, while also secure, offers a slightly different retention profile due to the integrated polymer brackets and bungee cord. Both compartments allow for a smooth, one-handed draw once you find the right amount of tension. The stacked design is particularly effective at minimizing the overall belt footprint, a significant advantage for those needing to carry multiple items.

While it performs admirably, the universal fit for the pistol magazine means that exceptionally thin or thick magazines might require a bit more adjustment of the shock cord. This is a minor trade-off for the versatility it offers across different handgun platforms. It consistently meets and often exceeds expectations for a dual-purpose magazine carrier.

Design & Ergonomics

The High Speed Gear HSGI Double Decker Taco LT Rifle/Pistol Pouch showcases a thoughtful and practical design. The laminate construction feels rugged and resistant to abrasion, while the integrated polymer brackets provide a solid framework. The shock cord retention is easily adjustable, allowing users to tailor the level of grip to their specific magazines and preferences.

Ergonomically, the stacked design is brilliant. It places both magazines in an easily accessible position, reducing the need to shift your weight or reach awkwardly. The Adaptable Belt Mount (ABM) is also well-designed, offering a secure attachment that doesn’t feel overly bulky or intrusive on the belt.

The ambidextrous nature of the pouch is a subtle but important ergonomic consideration, allowing for easy reconfiguration if needed. The pop lock mechanism on the shock cord is intuitive and easy to manipulate, even with gloves on. The overall feel is one of robust, no-nonsense utility.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction, the High Speed Gear HSGI Double Decker Taco LT Rifle/Pistol Pouch is built for longevity. I anticipate this pouch will easily last for many years of consistent use. The laminate and polymer components are highly resistant to environmental factors like UV exposure and moisture.

Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving occasional cleaning of dust or debris from the exterior and interior. The shock cord is a replaceable part if it ever degrades, but HSGI’s reputation suggests this is unlikely to be an early failure point. Potential concerns are minimal, but as mentioned, ensuring the ABM snap is fully engaged is crucial for absolute security.

Accessories and Customization Options

This specific pouch design inherently integrates the rifle and pistol magazine carriers, so there aren’t separate “accessories” in the traditional sense that are sold with it. However, the Adaptable Belt Mount (ABM) itself is a key component that can be swapped if you wanted to attach it to a different mounting system, though that is not its primary design.

The High Speed Gear HSGI Double Decker Taco LT Rifle/Pistol Pouch is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing load-bearing equipment setups. Its compatibility with various belts, especially HSGI’s own rigger belts via the hook-and-loop interface, is a significant benefit. While it’s a self-contained unit, its ability to work with diverse platforms is its form of customization.

Pros and Cons of High Speed Gear HSGI Double Decker Taco LT Rifle/Pistol Pouch

Who Should Buy High Speed Gear HSGI Double Decker Taco LT Rifle/Pistol Pouch?

This pouch is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, military personnel, competitive shooters, and dedicated hobbyists who run a pistol and a rifle and want to optimize their belt real estate. Anyone who values efficient gear carriage and quick access to both primary and secondary magazines will find this unit incredibly useful. It’s perfect for those who appreciate high-quality, American-made gear built for demanding environments.

Those who primarily carry only a rifle or only a pistol, or who require specialized magazine pouches for highly specific ammunition types, might not find this dual-purpose pouch as beneficial. Individuals who prefer a much looser magazine retention might also find the firm grip takes some getting used to, though it can be adjusted. I’d highly recommend pairing this with a quality, stiff tactical belt to fully leverage the ABM’s stability features.

Conclusion on High Speed Gear HSGI Double Decker Taco LT Rifle/Pistol Pouch

The High Speed Gear HSGI Double Decker Taco LT Rifle/Pistol Pouch is a prime example of thoughtful, practical gear design that delivers on its promise. It effectively consolidates two essential magazine carriers into one robust, accessible package without adding excessive bulk. The High Speed Gear commitment to quality materials and construction is evident, promising a product that will endure for years of hard use.

For its price point of $57.00, the value is exceptional, offering a blend of versatility, durability, and efficient design that’s hard to match. I absolutely recommend this pouch to anyone looking to streamline their tactical or range loadout, especially if they carry both a rifle and a pistol. It’s a well-executed piece of equipment that genuinely enhances operational efficiency.