Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8 Review

My Experience with the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8: Here’s the Truth

The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8 is a seemingly simple piece of kit, but one that’s absolutely essential for anyone serious about concealed carry. This double magazine holder from Safariland promises secure retention, ambidextrous functionality, and a low-profile design suitable for comfortable everyday carry. I’ve spent the last decade working in tactical gear and concealed carry is a topic near and dear to my heart, so my goal is to find the best tools for the job.

I’ve seen magazine carriers that fall apart after a few months, and others that are so bulky they defeat the purpose of concealment. This holder stood out because Safariland has a reputation for quality, and the snap-on design seemed convenient for quickly adding or removing it from my belt depending on the day’s activities. It also had to support a variety of pistol magazine types.

My quest for the perfect magazine holder stemmed from a frustrating experience with a flimsy nylon pouch that kept snagging on my cover garment. It was slow, unreliable, and ultimately, a liability. I needed something robust, dependable, and discreet, so I decided to give the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8 a try.

Upon receiving the holder, my initial impression was positive. The basket-weave finish looked clean and professional, and the material felt sturdy, like it could withstand daily wear and tear. Compared to a generic nylon pouch I was using, the Safariland felt significantly more refined, promising better retention and easier access.

I was particularly drawn to the adjustable tension device, a feature missing from many other low-profile magazine carriers. It suggested a level of customization and control that could be tailored to my specific needs. My initial excitement was tempered by a healthy dose of skepticism; I’ve been burned by promising gear before, but this time, Safariland seemed to have delivered on its promises.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8 at my local shooting range. I wanted to see how it performed under the stress of rapid magazine changes. The range conditions were standard: a controlled environment with moderate temperatures.

I ran drills with both my Glock 19 and my Smith & Wesson M&P 9, loading magazines compatible with the holder. The draw was smooth and consistent, with the adjustable tension allowing me to fine-tune the retention to my preference. I initially set the tension too tight, but after a few adjustments, I found the sweet spot.

The magazines stayed secure during movement, but were easily accessible when needed. I didn’t experience any accidental magazine drops or fumbling during reloads. My initial concern was the snap-on mechanism; I worried it might be flimsy, but it held firmly to my 1.5-inch belt throughout the range session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of daily carry, the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8 has proven its worth. I’ve worn it during everyday activities, from running errands to attending meetings, and even during a weekend hiking trip. The durability has been impressive, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.

The basket-weave finish still looks new, and the snap-on mechanism continues to function flawlessly. I’ve been caught in a light rain shower and exposed to dusty conditions, but the holder remained unaffected, maintaining its retention and ease of use. Cleaning is simple, requiring just a quick wipe down with a damp cloth.

Compared to my previous nylon pouch, the Safariland offers a significant improvement in both comfort and reliability. It stays securely in place, doesn’t snag on my clothing, and provides consistent access to my magazines. It has definitely exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8

Specifications

The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8 features a low-cut design for easy magazine grasp, facilitating quick reloads. It’s designed to fit belts up to 1.75 inches wide, accommodating most standard carry belts. The adjustable tension device allows for customized magazine retention.

The holder features an ambidextrous design, making it suitable for both left- and right-handed users. Its Basket Black finish offers a professional and discreet appearance. It is specifically designed to fit a wide array of magazines, including those for Beretta, Browning, Heckler & Koch, Ruger, Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson, Springfield Armory, and Taurus pistols, as listed in the product description.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the holder’s usability, comfort, and versatility. The low-cut design ensures easy access, while the adjustable tension provides secure retention. The ambidextrous design caters to a broader audience, and the basket-weave finish maintains a professional appearance.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8 performs its job exceptionally well. Its primary function is to securely hold two magazines while allowing for rapid deployment, and it excels in both areas. The adjustable tension is a key feature, allowing users to fine-tune the retention to their personal preference.

The low-cut design facilitates a full grip on the magazine, minimizing the risk of fumbling during reloads. One notable strength is its versatility; it accommodates a wide range of magazine types. A minor weakness is that very slim, single-stack magazines might not have as snug of a fit, though the tension adjustment helps mitigate this.

Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a concealment magazine holder. The magazines stay securely in place during movement, yet are readily accessible when needed.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8 boasts a robust build quality. The materials used feel durable and capable of withstanding daily wear and tear. While not excessively heavy, the holder has a reassuring heft that speaks to its quality construction.

The smooth basket-weave finish adds to its appeal, helping it blend in with standard belts and attire. The design is user-friendly, requiring minimal time to get used to. The snap-on mechanism is intuitive and secure.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8 is built to last. The thick material resists cracking or deforming under pressure, and the stitching appears to be reinforced for long-term use. Minimal maintenance is required; occasional cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient.

The finish is resistant to scratches and fading, ensuring it maintains its appearance over time. Proper care and maintenance will significantly extend its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8 doesn’t come with a host of accessories, as it’s a relatively straightforward piece of gear. However, the adjustable tension is a form of customization that allows users to tailor the retention to their specific magazines and preferences.

While not explicitly designed for aftermarket modifications, its compatibility with standard 1.75-inch belts opens up options for pairing it with various belt systems. The Safariland website and other retailers offer a range of compatible holsters and accessories that can be used in conjunction with this magazine holder.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8

Who Should Buy Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8?

The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsibly armed citizens who prioritize concealed carry. It’s also ideal for competitive shooters who need quick and reliable magazine access. Its ambidextrous design makes it suitable for both left- and right-handed individuals.

Those who should skip this product might include individuals who primarily open carry or those who prefer dedicated, specialized magazine pouches for specific platforms. The only must-have accessory is a quality carry belt that is 1.75 inches or less in width to ensure secure attachment.

Conclusion on Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8

The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-18-8 is a well-designed and highly functional piece of gear that delivers on its promises. Its durable construction, adjustable tension, and ambidextrous design make it a solid choice for anyone serious about concealed carry. The price is justified by its quality and performance.

I would personally recommend this magazine holder to anyone looking for a reliable and discreet way to carry spare magazines. It’s a worthwhile investment that will enhance your readiness and peace of mind. Equip yourself with the Safariland 079 and experience the difference a quality magazine holder can make.