What You Should Know About the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 079-83-55
As someone who relies on dependable gear across varied environments, finding the right tools for carrying essential equipment is paramount. This led me to the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 079-83-55. Safariland, a name synonymous with quality in law enforcement and tactical accessories, offers this double magazine pouch designed for discrete carry. My search was prompted by a need for a more organized and accessible way to carry spare magazines for my compact sidearm, something more streamlined than bulky belt pouches or internal pockets.
Upon first inspection, the STX FDE Brown finish immediately struck me as practical, blending well with common tactical attire and gear. The material felt robust, and the snap-on mechanism, while simple, appeared well-engineered for secure attachment. I briefly considered simpler, single-magazine holders or even elasticated pockets in some softer holsters, but the desire for quick, consistent access to two spare rounds for a defensive scenario made a dedicated double holder the logical choice. My initial impression was one of quiet confidence – this felt like a piece of gear built to perform without drawing unnecessary attention.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 079-83-55 to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing primarily involved discreet carry scenarios, simulating situations where maintaining a low profile while ensuring immediate access to extra ammunition was crucial. This meant wearing it clipped to my belt, both during mundane daily activities and while practicing at the range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering magazines. The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 079-83-55 performed admirably in various light conditions, its FDE brown color proving surprisingly versatile. The snap-on attachment proved to be secure, holding firm even during moderate physical exertion and quick movements, without any noticeable shifting or loosening.
Ease of use was a significant positive; the design allows for intuitive access to both magazines, and the retention mechanism keeps them firmly in place until intentionally drawn. I experienced no issues or surprises during the initial phase of testing. The magazines snapped in and out of the holder with a satisfying, positive click, indicating a secure fit without being excessively difficult to operate.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent daily wear and multiple range sessions, this double magazine holder from Safariland has held up exceptionally well. It has become a go-to accessory for carrying spare magazines for my concealed carry firearm, proving its worth in real-world application. The STX material shows no significant signs of wear or tear, such as cracks, stiffness, or degradation of its protective finish, despite occasional brushes against surfaces.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s usually needed to keep it clean and functional. Compared to older, softer nylon pouches I’ve used in the past, this holder offers superior retention and a more consistent draw. Those budget options often stretched out over time or offered less reliable magazine retention, whereas this unit maintains its integrity.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 079-83-55
Specifications
The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 079-83-55 boasts a double magazine capacity, designed to securely hold two spare magazines side-by-side. It is constructed from STX TACTICAL material, known for its durability and resistance to various environmental factors. The FDE Brown finish offers a discreet appearance, blending well with common tactical gear and civilian clothing.
A key specification is its ambidextrous design, meaning it can be worn on either the left or right side of the belt, accommodating a wide range of users and carry preferences. The snap-on belt loop is designed to fit belts up to 2 inches wide, providing a secure attachment point without the need for complex adjustments or removal of the belt itself. The specific model listed supports a variety of popular handgun models, indicating thoughtful engineering for common firearm platforms.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary role of securely holding and allowing for quick access to spare magazines, the Safariland 079 excels. The retention is firm enough to prevent accidental dislodging during movement, yet allows for a smooth, consistent draw when needed. This reliability is crucial in any defensive scenario where second-chance ammunition needs to be deployed without hesitation.
Its main strength lies in the balance of secure retention and accessible deployment. The magazines are held snugly, preventing rattle, and the profile remains relatively slim for concealed carry, considering it holds two magazines. A potential area for minor improvement, depending on the specific magazine baseplate, could be slightly more aggressive texturing on the magazine release points, though this is a subtle point and not a significant detriment to its performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this Safariland product is immediately apparent. The STX TACTICAL material feels substantial, offering a robust and resilient construction. The FDE Brown finish is applied evenly and has held up well to abrasion, suggesting good colorfastness.
Ergonomically, the holder is well-designed for its purpose. The angled opening of the magazine slots facilitates a natural grip during a draw, and the overall profile is kept as low as possible given the double magazine capacity. The snap-on belt loop is straightforward to operate, allowing for quick attachment and removal without compromising security once engaged. The only minor ergonomic consideration is ensuring proper belt alignment for the most comfortable carry and optimal draw angle.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience and the material used, the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 079-83-55 is built for longevity. The STX TACTICAL material is designed to withstand significant abuse, resisting impacts, abrasions, and exposure to the elements. I anticipate this holder will last for many years of regular use without developing critical failure points.
Maintenance is commendably simple. A quick rinse under water or a wipe-down with a mild soap and cloth is sufficient to keep it clean. There are no complex mechanisms to maintain or parts that require regular lubrication. The lack of fabric, which can trap dirt and moisture, further contributes to its ease of care and durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular model of the Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder comes as a standalone unit, designed to securely hold magazines for specific firearms. It does not typically come with additional accessories. However, its primary customization option lies in its ambidextrous design, allowing users to choose its placement on their belt.
Safariland offers this model in various finishes and also in single magazine configurations or different attachment methods, such as belt loops or paddle attachments, allowing users to tailor their carry solution. Compatibility with other Safariland products is generally excellent, meaning it integrates well with their holsters and duty belts if you opt for a complete system.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 079-83-55
Pros
- Secure Magazine Retention: Holds magazines firmly in place, preventing accidental loss during activity.
- Ambidextrous Design: Easily adaptable for wear on either side of the belt, catering to all users.
- Durable STX Material: Constructed from robust, weather-resistant material built for long-term use.
- Concealable Profile: Maintains a relatively low profile for discreet carrying of two magazines.
- Easy Snap-On Attachment: Quick and secure belt attachment and removal without needing to unthread the belt.
- Authentic FDE Brown Finish: Practical color that blends well with tactical and civilian attire.
Cons
- Specific Firearm Fit: The holder is designed for specific firearm models; compatibility must be verified.
- Limited to Two Magazines: While efficient for its capacity, it doesn’t offer more than double magazine carry.
Who Should Buy Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 079-83-55?
This magazine holder is an excellent choice for individuals prioritizing discreet and reliable spare ammunition carry. It’s ideal for licensed concealed carry permit holders who need quick access to a second magazine during defensive situations, as well as for range enthusiasts who want an organized way to carry extra rounds without cluttering their gear. The ambidextrous nature makes it suitable for anyone, regardless of their dominant hand or preferred carry side.
Those who might consider skipping this product are individuals who require a much higher magazine capacity in a single carrier or those who need a holder designed for extremely specialized or non-standard magazine types. If you are looking for a minimalist solution for a single magazine, this double holder might be overkill. For optimal use, ensuring your specific magazines are compatible with the listed firearm models is essential.
Conclusion on Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 079-83-55
The Safariland 079 Concealment Magazine Holder, Snap-On, Double – STX FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 079-83-55 is a well-engineered piece of gear that delivers on its promise of secure, accessible, and discreet magazine carriage. Its robust construction, smart ambidextrous design, and reliable retention make it a standout option in its category. For its price point of $41.99, the value is undeniable, offering professional-grade durability and functionality.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this magazine holder to anyone seeking a dependable way to carry spare magazines for their compatible firearm. It strikes an excellent balance between tactical utility and everyday practicality, making it a worthy addition to any loadout. If you’re looking for a no-nonsense, durable solution for carrying two spare magazines, this Safariland holder should be high on your list.