The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2 Review You’ve Been Looking For
Finding the right balance between accessibility and concealment is a constant challenge for anyone carrying a firearm. I’ve spent over a decade navigating this terrain, from my early days in law enforcement to my current role as a tactical gear consultant, and I’ve seen countless magazine carriers come and go. The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2 promises a solution, offering ambidextrous use, a low-profile design, and adjustable tension.
My need for this particular magazine holder stemmed from a personal project: refining my everyday carry (EDC) setup for off-duty use. I was looking for a carrier that could comfortably hold two magazines, remain discreet under clothing, and allow for a rapid reload if needed. After years of bulky, belt-mounted options, I was eager to try something with a paddle attachment, hoping it would offer a more streamlined profile.
The moment I unboxed the Safariland 572, I immediately noticed its simple, functional design. The plain black finish contributes to its low-visibility nature, and the polymer construction feels sturdy without being overly heavy. The paddle attachment appeared well-designed, promising a secure fit inside the waistband.
I considered several similar double magazine carriers from Blackhawk and Alien Gear, but ultimately chose the Safariland 572 for a few reasons. I favored Safariland’s reputation for quality and durability within the law enforcement community, plus I wanted the paddle design, and the adjustable tension feature seemed like a smart addition. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see if it lived up to Safariland’s reputation and addressed the shortcomings of my previous carriers.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test run with the Safariland 572 was at my local shooting range. I wanted to assess its comfort and functionality under pressure, so I ran several drills that involved rapid magazine changes. The paddle design initially felt a bit awkward, but I quickly found the sweet spot for placement inside my waistband.
The low-cut design of the magazine holder definitely aided in quick access. Even with sweaty hands, I was able to draw magazines smoothly and efficiently. However, I did notice that the tension adjustment needed tweaking to prevent the magazines from shifting around during movement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, the Safariland 572 has proven to be a reliable and comfortable addition to my EDC. The polymer construction has held up well to daily wear and tear, showing no signs of cracking or deformation. Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes.
Compared to my previous kydex carriers, the Safariland 572 offers a more comfortable and forgiving fit, especially when sitting for extended periods. It doesn’t outperform in every category; kydex carriers often offer a more precise and secure magazine retention, but the Safariland’s combination of comfort and accessibility has made it my go-to choice.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2
Specifications
The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2 is a double magazine carrier designed for concealed carry. It features a low-cut design for rapid access and a unique paddle with a self-locking belt hook for secure attachment. The tension is adjustable to customize magazine retention, and the design is ambidextrous for right- or left-hand use.
The ambidextrous design is crucial for versatility, while the adjustable tension allows you to fine-tune the draw resistance to your preference. The self-locking belt hook on the paddle ensures the carrier stays in place during movement, even during strenuous activity.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 572 performs its primary function – holding and dispensing magazines – exceptionally well. The low-cut design facilitates rapid reloads, and the adjustable tension allows for a customized draw. The ambidextrous design is a significant advantage for left-handed shooters or for tactical flexibility.
One minor weakness is that magazines can sometimes shift slightly within the carrier if the tension is not perfectly adjusted. However, this is easily remedied with a quick adjustment screw. Overall, the Safariland 572 meets and exceeds expectations for a concealment magazine carrier.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 572 features a simple, functional design with a focus on concealment and comfort. The polymer construction is lightweight and durable, and the paddle attachment is contoured for a comfortable fit against the body. The ambidextrous design further enhances its user-friendliness.
There is a slight learning curve involved in finding the optimal placement inside the waistband for maximum comfort and concealment. However, once dialed in, the Safariland 572 offers a comfortable and unobtrusive carrying experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 572 is constructed from durable polymer, designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. After weeks of testing, I’ve observed no significant wear or tear. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove dirt and grime.
I anticipate the Safariland 572 will provide years of reliable service with proper care. The simple design and durable materials contribute to its long-term viability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 572 doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as it is a self-contained unit. Customization options are limited, but the adjustable tension screw allows you to fine-tune magazine retention. While not explicitly advertised, some users have reported success modifying the paddle slightly for a deeper concealment angle, but this requires caution and may void any warranty.
The Safariland 572 is compatible with a variety of common magazine types, as indicated in the product description. This compatibility adds to its overall versatility and value.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2
Pros
- Low-cut design allows for rapid magazine access.
- Adjustable tension for customized magazine retention.
- Ambidextrous design caters to both right- and left-handed users.
- Paddle attachment offers comfortable and secure concealment.
- Durable polymer construction ensures long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Magazines can shift slightly if tension is not perfectly adjusted.
- Paddle design may require experimentation to find the optimal carry position.
Who Should Buy Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2?
The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible citizens who prioritize concealed carry and rapid access to spare magazines. Its ambidextrous design makes it a suitable choice for both right- and left-handed individuals.
Those seeking a highly rigid and precisely molded kydex carrier with zero magazine movement should perhaps skip this product. A belt-mounted system might be better suited to duty-carry, rather than concealed-carry. A quality belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper paddle retention and a comfortable carry experience.
Conclusion on Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2
The Safariland 572 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Double – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 572-83-2 offers a compelling combination of comfort, concealment, and functionality at a reasonable price. While it may not be the most technically advanced magazine carrier on the market, its simple design, durable construction, and ambidextrous capability make it a solid choice for everyday carry.
At $50.99, the price is justified for the quality and functionality it provides. I would personally recommend the Safariland 572 to anyone seeking a reliable and comfortable concealed carry magazine holder. Upgrade your EDC today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re prepared.