Let Me Tell You About the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-383-8
The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-383-8 is a seemingly simple piece of kit, but one that’s absolutely crucial for concealed carry and tactical applications. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and reliability in law enforcement and military circles, this magazine holder promises secure carry and rapid access to spare ammunition. It’s designed for those who prioritize preparedness and efficient gear management.
After years of relying on various magazine pouches, from nylon tactical rigs to flimsy leather carriers, I found myself searching for something more streamlined and reliable for concealed carry. I needed a low-profile solution that wouldn’t print through clothing, yet still allowed for quick reloads in a high-stress situation. The Safariland 079 seemed to strike that perfect balance.
My first impression upon unboxing was positive. The basket-weave finish gives it a professional, understated look, and the material feels robust. It’s lightweight, which is crucial for comfortable all-day carry, but also feels durable enough to withstand the rigors of daily use.
I considered a few other options before settling on the Safariland 079. Some nylon pouches were bulky and lacked the necessary retention, while cheaper leather options felt flimsy and unreliable. The Safariland 079 won out because of its reputation for quality, its low-profile design, and the promise of adjustable tension.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. Magazine holders often promise more than they deliver, but I was hopeful that the Safariland name would live up to its reputation. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it could truly offer a secure and comfortable concealed carry solution.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-383-8 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland 079 was the shooting range, during a day focused on concealed carry drills. I wore it under a light jacket to simulate a real-world concealment scenario. The goal was to assess its comfort, accessibility, and magazine retention during dynamic movement.
The Safariland 079 performed admirably, even in the slightly humid conditions of the indoor range. The magazines stayed securely in place during various drills, including drawing from concealment and rapid reloads. Drawing a magazine was smooth and consistent, thanks to the low-cut design, which allowed for a solid grip.
It took only a few minutes to adjust the tension screws to my preference. The adjustment allowed for a “sweet spot” between secure retention and ease of draw. There were no immediate issues or surprises, and it felt like a natural extension of my everyday carry setup.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of near-daily use, the Safariland 079 has held up remarkably well. I’ve worn it during extended periods of sitting, standing, and walking, and it has remained comfortable and secure throughout. The snap-on design makes it easy to attach and detach from my belt, which is convenient for adjusting my carry setup.
There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The basket-weave finish still looks pristine, and the tension screws remain securely in place. The stitching is robust, and the magazine retention hasn’t diminished over time.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove any dust or debris. Compared to some other magazine pouches I’ve used, the Safariland 079 requires minimal maintenance to keep it in top condition. In comparison, the Safariland 079 is far superior to the flimsy, elastic nylon pouches that lose retention after only a few months of wear.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-383-8
Specifications
- Double Magazine Holder: Allows for carrying two magazines, providing a substantial increase in ammunition capacity for concealed carry or tactical situations. This feature is essential for anyone prioritizing readiness.
- Low-Cut Design: Facilitates a full and secure grip on the magazine for faster and more reliable reloads. This is especially important during high-stress situations where every fraction of a second counts.
- Belt Width Compatibility (Up to 1.75″): Accommodates a wide range of belt sizes commonly used for concealed carry and duty applications. This makes it versatile and adaptable to different carry styles and preferences.
- Adjustable Tension Device: Provides the ability to fine-tune the magazine retention to the user’s desired level of security and ease of draw. This customization is a key factor in achieving optimal performance.
- Basket Black Finish: Offers a professional and understated appearance suitable for concealed carry. This finish is also relatively resistant to scratches and wear, helping to maintain a presentable appearance.
- Ambidextrous Design: Allows for comfortable and efficient use by both right-handed and left-handed shooters. This adaptability makes it a versatile choice for any user.
- Fits Specific Handguns: Compatible with magazines for Glock 20/21, Heckler & Koch USP 40/USP 45/USP 45C, Para-Ordnance P-14, and Strayer-Voigt Infinity. Ensure your magazines are compatible before purchasing.
These specifications collectively contribute to the Safariland 079’s effectiveness as a reliable and versatile concealment magazine holder. The adjustable tension, low-cut design, and ambidextrous capability contribute to its usability, while the durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of everyday carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 079 excels in its primary function: securely holding and providing rapid access to spare magazines. Its performance is consistent and reliable, inspiring confidence in its ability to perform when needed most. The magazine retention is excellent, preventing accidental drops or movement.
The main strength lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The adjustable tension allows users to customize the draw to their specific needs and preferences. One area that could be improved is a slightly wider range of compatibility; however, for those carrying compatible firearms, this is not an issue.
The Safariland 079 meets and even exceeds my expectations. Its low profile, secure retention, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for concealed carry.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 079 boasts a simple yet effective design. The materials are high-quality, and the overall construction feels solid and durable. It’s lightweight and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods.
The magazine holder is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The tension adjustment is straightforward, and the snap-on design makes it easy to attach and detach from the belt.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 079 is built to last. The durable materials and robust construction suggest it will withstand years of use. It is also easy to maintain with just a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 079 is a standalone product and does not come with any additional accessories. However, its compatibility with standard 1.75″ belts allows for integration with various carry systems. There are no further “customization” options beyond the tension screw.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-383-8
Pros
- Secure Magazine Retention: Adjustable tension ensures magazines stay in place during movement.
- Low-Profile Design: Minimizes printing through clothing for effective concealed carry.
- Rapid Access: Low-cut design allows for a secure grip and fast reloads.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials and robust stitching for long-lasting use.
- Ambidextrous: Suitable for both right-handed and left-handed shooters.
Cons
- Limited Firearm Compatibility: Only compatible with specific firearm magazines.
- Minimal Customization: Limited customization options beyond tension adjustment.
Who Should Buy Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-383-8?
The Safariland 079 is perfect for: concealed carry permit holders, law enforcement personnel (for off-duty carry), and responsible citizens who prioritize preparedness. It is especially beneficial for individuals carrying Glock, Heckler & Koch, Para-Ordnance, or Strayer-Voigt pistols.
This product may not be ideal for those who: prefer minimalist carry solutions (single magazine pouch), carry firearms not compatible with the Safariland 079, or require extensive customization options.
A sturdy belt designed for concealed carry is a must-have accessory. This will ensure that the magazine holder remains securely in place and minimizes printing.
Conclusion on Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-383-8
The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Basket Black, Ambidextrous 079-383-8 is a reliable and effective tool for concealed carry. It offers a winning combination of secure retention, rapid access, and durable construction. At a price of $41.99, the value proposition is very strong.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 079 to anyone seeking a low-profile, high-performance magazine holder for concealed carry. If you value preparedness and demand reliable gear, invest in the Safariland 079 and carry with confidence.