Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 079-89-06
One Week with the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 079-89-06
For years, I’ve relied on dependable gear to keep my essential tools accessible and secure across a variety of demanding environments. My quest for an efficient and unobtrusive way to carry spare magazines led me to the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 079-89-06. This particular model promised a blend of discreet carry and quick access, critical for anyone who needs to maintain readiness without drawing unnecessary attention.
The need for a better spare magazine solution arose from a frustrating range day. Fumbling with a bulky pouch while trying to maintain a stable shooting platform proved less than ideal, prompting the search for something more streamlined. I had previously considered various other brands, but the reputation of Safariland for robust and well-designed tactical accessories always loomed large.
Upon receiving this Safariland magazine holder, my initial impression was one of solid construction. The plain Cordovan finish, a deep, rich brown, felt durable and less conspicuous than some more tactical-looking options. The snap-on attachment mechanism felt secure, and the overall build quality spoke of a product designed for practical, everyday use rather than just show. It offered an immediate sense of relief, a promising sign that a practical solution had finally arrived.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 079-89-06 to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing grounds for this magazine holder were primarily two-fold: the local indoor shooting range and everyday concealed carry scenarios during routine activities. I attached it to my belt for a standard defensive handgun course, where rapid magazine changes were a key component of the drills. The holder performed admirably under the stress of timed exercises, allowing for a smooth draw of both spare magazines.
During extended range sessions, the holder was subjected to repeated draws and re-holstering of magazines. It also endured a light dusting from ejected casings and the general grime inherent in such an environment. The snap-on clips held firm against the constant movement, never once feeling like they would detach or shift position.
Ease of use was a significant factor, and this Safariland model delivered. The magazines seated with a satisfying click and released with a firm, deliberate pull that prevented accidental disengagement. There was no complicated adjustment period; it was intuitive from the moment I attached it to my belt. My only minor surprise was how snug the fit was initially, requiring a bit more effort to seat the magazines fully, a testament to its secure retention.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 079-89-06 has proven its mettle. It has become a staple during my trips to the range and even during some more active days where I might carry concealed. The holder has maintained its integrity, showing no signs of cracking or undue stiffness in the polymer.
Durability has been excellent. Despite being jostled, bumped against car doors, and occasionally exposed to a light mist, the plain Cordovan finish shows only minor scuffs. The retention mechanism for the magazines remains just as firm as it was on day one, a crucial indicator of long-term reliability. There’s been no degradation in performance, meaning the magazines continue to seat and release with the same positive feel.
Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean, even after a dusty range day. I haven’t needed to perform any specific lubrication or special care. Compared to some older, less robust magazine pouches I’ve used in the past, this model feels like a significant upgrade; it’s held up far better than cheaper, generic alternatives.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 079-89-06
Specifications
This double magazine holder boasts several key specifications that contribute to its functionality. It’s designed to hold two spare magazines, offering convenient access to additional ammunition. The Snap-On attachment system is engineered for quick and secure mounting to a belt, fitting belts up to 1.75 inches wide. The Ambidextrous design means it can be configured for use on either the left or right side of the body, catering to a broad range of users.
The material is a durable, injection-molded polymer, finished in a subtle Plain Cordovan. This specific finish is designed for concealment, avoiding shiny surfaces that can reflect light. The model number, 079-89-06, indicates it’s part of Safariland’s 079 series, known for its low-profile concealment approach.
The choice of a Plain Cordovan finish is a practical one for concealment, offering a muted appearance that blends well with various clothing colors and textures. The snap-on clips provide a robust connection, crucial for ensuring the holder stays put during dynamic movement. Its ambidextrous capability is a significant advantage, allowing users to adapt it to their preferred carry side without needing a separate holder.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function—holding spare magazines securely and allowing for quick access—this Safariland holder excels. The retention mechanism is firm enough to prevent the magazines from falling out during vigorous activity, yet allows for a smooth, consistent draw when needed. I found that after a few practice draws, the motion became second nature, enabling me to retrieve a spare magazine almost instinctively.
The major strength of this holder is its balance between secure retention and accessibility. It provides a reliable carry solution that doesn’t feel cumbersome. A minor point for improvement could be the slight stiffness of the retention on initial use, which might require a brief break-in period for some users. Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations for a concealment accessory, particularly given its well-engineered design.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 079-89-06 prioritizes a low profile. The injection-molded polymer feels sturdy and resistant to deformation, even when fully loaded. The Plain Cordovan finish is matte and doesn’t snag on clothing, contributing to its discreet nature.
Ergonomically, it’s designed to be functional without being obtrusive. The profile keeps the magazines close to the body, minimizing printing through clothing. The angle of the magazines is set to facilitate a natural drawing motion. The snap-on clips are well-contoured and don’t cause discomfort when worn for extended periods.
The build quality is evident in the uniform finish and the precise fit of the components. The clips themselves are robust and have a good spring tension. There’s a slight texture on the inside of the clips to provide a better grip on the belt. The overall feel is one of a professionally manufactured item, built to withstand the rigors of practical use.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my extended testing, this magazine holder is built to last. For its intended use as a concealment accessory that isn’t constantly under extreme stress, I anticipate years of reliable service. The polymer is resistant to UV degradation and common solvents, which is a big plus in various environments.
Maintenance is virtually non-existent, which is a major advantage for anyone who prefers gear that just works. A simple cleaning with soap and water, or even just a damp cloth, is all that’s usually required. There are no complex parts or adjustments that can fail.
Potential concerns are minimal for this type of product. While the polymer is tough, extremely sharp impacts or prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals could theoretically cause damage over a very long period. However, in typical use, wear and tear is unlikely to be a significant issue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 079 series, as represented by this model, typically comes as a standalone unit. No specific accessories are included with the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 079-89-06. Its primary customization lies in its ambidextrous nature, allowing users to position it on either side of their belt.
There are no modular attachment points or significant user-modifiable features inherent to this design. The focus is on a fixed, reliable configuration for specific firearm magazine types. This simplicity, however, is also its strength, ensuring fewer potential failure points.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 079-89-06
Pros
- Secure magazine retention: Magazines are held firmly in place, preventing accidental loss during movement.
- Low-profile design: The holder sits close to the body, making it easier to conceal under clothing.
- Ambidextrous usability: Can be worn on either the left or right side of the belt, accommodating different carry preferences.
- Durable polymer construction: Built from robust materials that are resistant to wear and tear.
- Easy to attach and detach: The snap-on clips offer a quick and secure way to mount or remove the holder from a belt.
- Reliable performance: Consistent magazine draw and re-seating without performance degradation.
Cons
- Initial stiffness: May require a brief break-in period for optimal magazine release.
- Limited compatibility: Designed for specific pistol magazine models, requiring careful selection.
- No additional features: Lacks modularity or integrated accessory options found on some other carriers.
Who Should Buy Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 079-89-06?
This magazine holder is an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize discreet and reliable spare magazine carry. It is particularly well-suited for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible citizens who practice concealed carry and need quick access to additional ammunition. Anyone involved in defensive handgun training or competitive shooting that involves timed magazine changes would also benefit from its design.
However, individuals who require extreme modularity or the ability to carry a wider variety of magazine types in a single carrier might want to look elsewhere. Those who prefer overt tactical gear rather than concealed carry solutions may not find this model’s low profile as appealing. For optimal use, ensure this holder is compatible with the specific magazines for your firearm.
I’d also recommend pairing this holder with a quality, sturdy belt that can support the weight of two magazines without sagging. A 1.75-inch tactical belt would be ideal to ensure the snap-on clips function as intended.
Conclusion on Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 079-89-06
The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – Plain Cordovan, Ambidextrous 079-89-06 is a testament to Safariland’s expertise in creating practical, reliable gear. It strikes an impressive balance between secure retention and accessibility, all within a discreet package. The durable polymer construction and the functional ambidextrous snap-on clips make it a dependable choice for anyone needing to carry spare magazines inconspicuously.
At its price point, the value proposition is strong, offering a well-made accessory that performs its core function exceptionally well. While it lacks advanced features, its simplicity and robust design are its greatest assets.
I would confidently recommend this magazine holder to anyone involved in concealed carry or defensive shooting who needs a straightforward, durable, and unobtrusive way to carry an extra magazine or two. It’s a no-nonsense piece of equipment that does exactly what it promises, and does it well.