Grit & Gear: Testing the Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-18-2
The Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-18-2 is a simple yet potentially effective solution for those seeking a low-profile way to carry a spare magazine. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, this holder promises easy on/off convenience and ambidextrous functionality. This review will explore its real-world usability, durability, and overall value for concealed carry.
I’ve always struggled with finding a comfortable and truly concealable magazine carrier. Traditional vertical carriers tend to print easily, especially when seated. The promise of horizontal carry intrigued me, suggesting a flatter profile against the body.
Unboxing the Safariland 123, I was struck by the simplicity of the design. It’s essentially a synthetic leather pouch with a hook-and-loop closure and a wrap-around belt attachment. The material felt thicker than expected, more akin to a belt than a soft glove.
Compared to a traditional nylon magazine pouch with a clip, the Safariland 123 seemed less bulky at first glance, but the stiffness of the material raised concerns about conformability. Against a kydex carrier, the Safariland offered easier on and off, but seemed less secure. I chose to test the Safariland 123 for its potential to minimize printing and maximize comfort.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The ease of attachment was a definite plus, but I wondered if the stiff material would ultimately negate the benefits of the horizontal design.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-18-2 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland 123 at both the shooting range and during everyday concealed carry. I wore it with a variety of clothing, from t-shirts to light jackets, to assess its concealability. The range provided a controlled environment to practice reloads, while daily carry revealed comfort and printing issues.
The Safariland 123 performed adequately in dry conditions, securely holding a spare magazine. However, I didn’t test it in truly adverse weather. The hook-and-loop closure required some practice to open smoothly and re-secure quickly.
While attaching and detaching the holder was simple, achieving a consistent draw took some time. The horizontal orientation required a different grip and motion compared to traditional vertical carriers. I noticed the stiff material didn’t conform to my body, creating noticeable bulges under tighter clothing.
My initial concern about the material’s stiffness proved valid: the printing was more significant than anticipated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland 123 has shown minimal signs of wear and tear. The synthetic leather has held up well, and the stitching remains intact. However, the hook-and-loop closure has begun to show slight fraying.
The synthetic leather material has maintained its shape, which is both a positive and a negative. While it hasn’t deformed, it also hasn’t become more flexible or comfortable. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to my previous experiences with kydex carriers, the Safariland 123 offers greater comfort while seated. But it sacrifices security and concealability. It hasn’t outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-18-2
Specifications
The Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-18-2 is designed to hold a single magazine in a horizontal position. Its dimensions are approximately 6″ (152mm) in length, 1″ (25.5mm) in height, and 1.75″ (45mm) in width. The holder features a hook-and-loop belt attachment and a hook-and-loop flap closure.
The holder is ambidextrous, allowing it to be worn on either side of the body. It’s available in a plain black finish. The product is designed to fit a wide array of magazines, including those for AMT Hardballer, Beretta 8000 series, Colt 1911 variants, Sig Sauer P226, and Smith & Wesson 39 series pistols.
These specifications matter because they dictate the compatibility, concealability, and ease of use of the magazine holder. The horizontal design aims to minimize printing, while the ambidextrous feature caters to both left- and right-handed users. The fit list ensures compatibility with common magazine types.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 123‘s primary function is to securely hold a spare magazine for quick access. It performs this task adequately. However, its stiff construction detracts from overall usability.
Its strength lies in its easy on/off design and broad compatibility. A major weakness is the excessive bulk and printing caused by the rigid material. It doesn’t fully meet expectations for a concealment-focused product.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 123 is made from a textured synthetic leather. The build quality appears solid, but the material’s inflexibility hinders comfort. The hook-and-loop system offers adjustability, but the overall design feels somewhat dated.
There’s a slight learning curve associated with drawing from the horizontal position, requiring practice to master. The closure flap could be redesigned for smoother operation. The textured finish, while aesthetically pleasing, does little to improve grip or comfort.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 123 appears to be reasonably durable. The synthetic leather is resistant to tearing and abrasion. The hook-and-loop closure is likely the weakest point and may require replacement over time.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe with a damp cloth is typically sufficient. Repairing the hook-and-loop closure may be necessary with extended use. Overall, it should provide reasonable longevity with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 123 does not come with any additional accessories. Due to its simple design, there are limited customization options available. The user could potentially modify the hook-and-loop closure or add padding for improved comfort.
It is compatible with a wide range of magazines, but not designed to work with aftermarket attachments. Its inherent design limits customization. There aren’t many meaningful accessories you could add.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-18-2
Pros
- Versatile fit: accommodates many different magazine types.
- Easy on/off: The hook-and-loop attachment is quick and convenient.
- Durable material: Synthetic leather holds up well to daily wear.
- Comfortable when seated: The horizontal position reduces pressure compared to vertical carriers.
- Ambidextrous design: Suitable for both left- and right-handed users.
Cons
- Stiff material: Leads to printing and reduced comfort.
- Hook-and-loop closure: Can be noisy and less secure than other options.
- Limited customization: Offers little room for modification or personalization.
Who Should Buy Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-18-2?
The Safariland 123 is perfect for individuals who prioritize easy on/off convenience and require a carrier that can accommodate a variety of magazine types. It may also appeal to those seeking a more comfortable carry option while seated, such as drivers or office workers. This holder is a decent option for anyone who is looking for a low profile concealed magazine carrier.
Individuals prioritizing maximum concealability should likely skip this product due to the stiffness of the material and resulting printing. Those who prefer a more secure and streamlined carry system may find kydex or nylon carriers more suitable. This might not be the best choice for off-duty LEOs or plainclothes officers looking for a deep concealment option.
A possible must-have modification would be adding padding to the back of the holder for enhanced comfort. Also, experimenting with different belt positions may help to minimize printing.
Conclusion on Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-18-2
The Safariland 123 Concealment Magazine Holder, Horizontal – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 123-18-2 offers a simple and versatile solution for carrying a spare magazine, but its stiff construction ultimately limits its effectiveness for true concealment. While the easy on/off design and broad compatibility are appealing, the resulting printing and reduced comfort are significant drawbacks.
At a price of $29.49, the Safariland 123 is reasonably priced, but the value proposition is questionable given its shortcomings. I would cautiously recommend it to those who prioritize comfort while seated and are willing to experiment with positioning to minimize printing.
Ultimately, the Safariland 123 is a mixed bag. While it offers some advantages, its limitations may make it a less desirable option for serious concealed carriers. Consider your specific needs and priorities before making a purchase. Check it out if you need a low profile concealed mag carrier but be aware of its shortcomings.