High Speed Gear HSGI Duty Double Decker Taco U-Mount Rifle/Pistol Pouch Review

First Impressions of the High Speed Gear HSGI Duty Double Decker Taco U-Mount Rifle/Pistol Pouch

Having spent over a decade integrating gear into demanding outdoor, workshop, laboratory, and field environments, I’ve developed a keen eye for equipment that truly performs. The High Speed Gear HSGI Duty Double Decker Taco U-Mount Rifle/Pistol Pouch caught my attention for its promise of versatile, secure carriage for critical items. High Speed Gear (HSGI), known for their robust tactical and duty-oriented gear, offers this pouch with a design that aims to consolidate rifle and pistol magazine carrying. My immediate need was for a more streamlined way to manage my personal defense magazines alongside my everyday carry pistol magazines on my duty belt, reducing bulk and improving accessibility. Initial inspection revealed a surprisingly compact yet sturdy construction. The material felt resilient, and the overall form factor suggested a thoughtful design. I briefly considered other dedicated dual-magazine pouches, but the Taco’s renowned adaptability for various items made it the more appealing choice. My first reaction was one of pragmatic optimism; this felt like a piece of equipment designed to solve a common problem effectively.

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

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for this versatile pouch was a standard range day, where quick access and secure retention are paramount. I mounted it on a sturdy 2-inch duty belt, alongside other essential gear. Loading it with a standard AR-pattern rifle magazine in the top slot and a double-stack 9mm pistol magazine in the bottom slot was straightforward. The magazines seated with satisfying tension, neither too loose nor overly difficult to draw. The pouch performed admirably throughout the day, offering consistent retention even during rapid movements and reloads. There were no immediate issues or surprises; it simply worked as intended from the first use, proving its intuitive design.

Extended Use & Reliability

Months later, this HSGI pouch has become a permanent fixture on my duty belt, seeing daily wear and consistent use. It has endured countless reloads, been exposed to dust, light rain, and temperature fluctuations without any degradation in performance. The internal shock cord system, while hidden, maintains its elasticity, ensuring magazines remain snug. Its durability is evident; despite frequent insertion and extraction of magazines, there are no signs of cracking, excessive scuffing, or loosening of the internal structure. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only an occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove accumulated dust. Compared to simpler pouch designs I’ve used in the past, the Double Decker Taco offers superior versatility and retention without the bulk of traditional pouches.

Breaking Down the Features of High Speed Gear HSGI Duty Double Decker Taco U-Mount Rifle/Pistol Pouch

Specifications

The High Speed Gear HSGI Duty Double Decker Taco U-Mount Rifle/Pistol Pouch boasts a few key specifications that contribute to its robust performance. It’s designed to hold two individual magazines, one rifle caliber and one pistol caliber, stacked vertically. The pouch stands at 5 inches tall and has a width of 2.25 inches, with a depth of 3 inches, making it relatively compact for its capacity. It features an open-top design for rapid access, relying on internal tension from the hidden shock cord and the pouch’s flexible material for retention. The U-Mount system allows it to attach securely to belts up to 2 inches wide. Constructed from durable, injection-molded polymer and Cordura, it’s built for resilience. Notably, it is ambidextrous, fitting both left and right-handed users seamlessly.

These specifications translate directly into practical advantages. The 2.25-inch width allows for efficient use of belt real estate, crucial when carrying multiple items. The open-top design significantly speeds up reloads, a critical factor in high-stress situations. Its ambidextrous nature means it can be easily swapped between users or configured for different loadouts without issue. The choice of injection-molded polymer and Cordura ensures it can withstand the rigors of daily use, far surpassing the lifespan of simpler fabric pouches.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role of magazine carriage, the HSGI Duty Double Decker Taco U-Mount Rifle/Pistol Pouch performs exceptionally well. The rifle magazine, whether an AR-15 PMAG or a mil-spec aluminum, is held securely in the top compartment, offering firm but accessible retention. The pistol magazine in the lower compartment also stays put, even when the pouch is inverted. Draw speed from both compartments is quick and consistent, a testament to the well-balanced tension provided by the internal shock cord.

Its biggest strength lies in its versatility, living up to the “Taco” name. Beyond rifle and pistol magazines, I’ve successfully carried a compact flashlight, a multi-tool, and even a spare radio battery pack in the rifle compartment, all with reliable retention. The pistol compartment also easily accommodates spare pistol magazines, spare batteries, or even small survival essentials. This adaptability makes it more than just a magazine pouch; it’s a general-purpose utility carrier.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Duty Double Decker Taco is a masterclass in utilitarian form following function. The sleeker fronts and hidden shock cord of the “Duty” line provide a cleaner aesthetic compared to older Taco models, reducing snag points. The materials used—a combination of stiff polymer and durable Cordura—feel substantial and well-put-together. The U-Mount attachment is robust, utilizing a sturdy clip that securely grips the belt.

Ergonomically, the pouch is designed for accessibility. The open-top design means no fumbling with flaps or covers, allowing for rapid deployment of contents. The slightly angled opening of the rifle compartment naturally guides the magazine into place during reholstering, which is a subtle but appreciated detail. Its height and width are balanced, providing adequate capacity without creating an excessive profile that could interfere with movement.

Durability & Maintenance

The High Speed Gear HSGI Duty Double Decker Taco U-Mount Rifle/Pistol Pouch is built to last. The injection-molded polymer is highly resistant to impacts and abrasion, while the Cordura fabric offers excellent tear and wear resistance. After extended use, the shock cord remains taut, and the polymer hasn’t shown any signs of brittleness or cracking, even after being dropped on a concrete floor once.

Maintenance is straightforward; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and grime. The materials are resistant to common cleaning solvents, though excessive use of harsh chemicals is generally not recommended. The primary point of wear would likely be the attachment clips over many years of heavy use, but HSGI’s reputation for quality suggests this is unlikely to be an early failure point.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Double Decker Taco U-Mount itself is primarily designed to carry items, rather than being an accessory to other gear. It comes as a single unit, ready for attachment to a belt. While there aren’t specific “accessories” that come with it in the traditional sense, its true strength lies in its versatility as a carrier.

Customization for this pouch comes in how you utilize its dual compartments. You can configure it for two rifle magazines, two pistol magazines, or a combination of items like a rifle magazine and a radio, or a pistol magazine and a flashlight. This adaptability allows users to tailor their loadout precisely to their needs, making it a highly configurable piece of equipment without needing additional add-ons. For those seeking to carry a wider array of items, HSGI offers other specialized pouches, but the Double Decker Taco excels at its core function of versatile, stacked carriage.

Pros and Cons of High Speed Gear HSGI Duty Double Decker Taco U-Mount Rifle/Pistol Pouch

Who Should Buy High Speed Gear HSGI Duty Double Decker Taco U-Mount Rifle/Pistol Pouch?

This pouch is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, military personnel, competitive shooters, and responsible armed citizens who require reliable and accessible carriage for essential items. It’s particularly beneficial for those operating in dynamic environments where quick access to multiple magazines or tools is critical. If you are looking to consolidate your loadout and reduce the number of individual pouches on your belt, this HSGI product is a strong contender.

Individuals who prioritize maximum concealability might find this pouch a bit too pronounced for everyday concealed carry, though it’s excellent for overt duty or tactical use. Those who only need to carry a single magazine or prefer fully enclosed pouches might want to look at other HSGI offerings or alternative brands. For maximum utility, pairing it with a solid 2-inch duty belt is recommended, ensuring the U-Mount attachment can be properly secured.

Conclusion on High Speed Gear HSGI Duty Double Decker Taco U-Mount Rifle/Pistol Pouch

The High Speed Gear HSGI Duty Double Decker Taco U-Mount Rifle/Pistol Pouch is a testament to thoughtful design and robust construction in tactical gear. It effectively merges the need for secure storage of critical items with rapid, unimpeded access. Its versatility extends far beyond its intended magazine-carrying purpose, making it a valuable addition to any functional loadout.

Considering its $64.00 price point, the value proposition is strong for those who understand and can leverage its adaptability and durability. For experienced users who value quality and performance in their equipment, this pouch is a highly recommended investment. It simplifies your belt setup while ensuring your most vital tools are always within reach and securely held. I would wholeheartedly recommend this HSGI pouch to anyone seeking an efficient, reliable, and adaptable carrier for their essential gear.