Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-13PBL Review

The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-13PBL in Action: First Look

The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-13PBL is a seemingly simple piece of duty gear, but its importance to law enforcement and security professionals cannot be overstated. This holder, manufactured by Safariland, is designed to securely carry both a flashlight and an Electronic Discharge Weapon (EDW) cartridge, specifically a TASER® brand cartridge, ensuring quick access in critical situations. The compact design and durable construction caught my eye as a much-needed upgrade from my current, less-organized setup.

For years, I’ve struggled with a belt overloaded with pouches, making it difficult to quickly locate essential equipment. The Safariland 307 promised a streamlined solution, combining two crucial pieces of gear into a single, readily accessible unit. I was particularly drawn to the flap closure, imagining it would offer superior retention compared to open-top designs I’ve used in the past.

Initially, I considered a separate light carrier and cartridge holder, but the combined Safariland 307 seemed more efficient. I also looked at some generic nylon pouches, but the Safariland name and reputation for quality swayed me. The price point of $41.99 felt reasonable for a piece of equipment I rely on daily.

My initial impression was positive; the holder felt sturdy and well-made. The materials seemed durable, and the design appeared practical. I was excited to see how it would perform in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-13PBL to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real-world test involved several shifts on patrol in a mixed urban and suburban environment. I carried a standard-sized tactical flashlight and a TASER® X2 cartridge in the Safariland 307. The holder was mounted on my 2.25″ duty belt, per its specifications.

The first thing I noticed was the improved accessibility. Reaching for my flashlight or TASER® cartridge was significantly easier compared to fumbling with separate pouches. The flap closure provided a secure hold, even during foot pursuits and other strenuous activities. I encountered light rain during one shift, and the holder kept its contents dry.

There was a slight learning curve to drawing the items quickly with one hand. I needed to practice the motion of unsnapping the flap and retrieving either the flashlight or cartridge. However, after a few hours, the process became intuitive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use, the Safariland 307 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being exposed to various weather conditions and the rigors of patrol duty. The Safari-laminate material has proven to be incredibly durable and resistant to abrasion.

Cleaning the holder is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. I’ve occasionally used a mild detergent to remove stubborn dirt and grime. The STX TAC finish also contributes to its ease of maintenance.

Compared to previous nylon holders I’ve used, the Safariland 307 is a clear upgrade. It offers superior durability, retention, and overall functionality. It has met, and frankly exceeded, my initial expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-13PBL

Specifications

• Category: Safari-laminate Accessories. This indicates the holder is constructed using Safariland’s durable laminate material.
• Description: TASER® Brand Cartridge. Available in Nylon-Look Finish sample code 307-8-22PBL. This confirms that the holder is specifically designed for TASER® cartridges and a corresponding flashlight.
• Finish: STX TAC. This refers to the textured finish that provides enhanced grip and a professional appearance.
• Color: Black. The holder comes in a standard black color, suitable for most duty belt setups.

These specifications are crucial because they highlight the product’s intended use, build quality, and compatibility. The Safari-laminate construction ensures longevity, and the STX TAC finish adds to its practicality and visual appeal. The fact that it is designed for TASER® cartridges makes it a specific and purposeful piece of gear.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-13PBL performs its primary function exceptionally well: securely holding and providing quick access to a flashlight and a TASER® cartridge. The flap closure offers a secure hold, preventing accidental loss of equipment during movement. The design allows for relatively easy one-handed access after a bit of practice.

One minor weakness is that the flap closure can be slightly noisy when opening, which might be a concern in stealth situations. However, the added security it provides outweighs this drawback. Overall, the holder meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland 307 is excellent. The materials feel durable, and the stitching is well-done. The holder’s weight is minimal, preventing any significant added bulk to the duty belt.

The design is user-friendly, with an intuitive flap closure and easy access to both the flashlight and cartridge. There is a slight learning curve to drawing the items quickly, but it is easily overcome with practice. The overall ergonomics are well thought out.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 307 is built to last. The Safari-laminate material is highly resistant to wear and tear, ensuring a long service life. The holder is also easy to maintain.

Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The robust construction and quality materials ensure it can withstand the daily rigors of law enforcement or security work.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-13PBL doesn’t come with many accessories, as it’s a fairly self-contained unit. It’s primarily designed to be used with standard 2″-2.25″ duty belts. However, the modularity of duty belts means that it can be positioned alongside other pouches and accessories as needed.

While there aren’t specific customization options for the holder itself, the user can choose different flashlights and TASER® cartridges to fit their needs. The Safariland brand is known for its compatibility with a wide range of duty gear, making it easy to integrate into existing setups.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-13PBL

Who Should Buy Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-13PBL?

Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who needs quick and reliable access to both a flashlight and a TASER® cartridge. It’s particularly beneficial for those who want to streamline their duty belt and reduce clutter.

Who should skip this product? Individuals who do not use a TASER® or require a dedicated flashlight carrier. Those seeking highly customizable or modular pouch systems might also prefer other options.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality tactical flashlight that fits securely in the holder and a compatible TASER® cartridge.

Conclusion on Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-13PBL

The Safariland 307 Light/EDW Cartridge Holders 307-9-13PBL is a well-designed and durable piece of duty gear that effectively combines two essential tools into a single, accessible unit. Its secure retention, robust construction, and streamlined design make it a valuable addition to any law enforcement or security professional’s loadout. The $41.99 price is justified by its quality and functionality.

I would personally recommend the Safariland 307 to anyone seeking a reliable and efficient way to carry a flashlight and TASER® cartridge. Upgrade your gear today and experience the difference!