Going All In on the Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-83-22
The Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-83-22 is designed for law enforcement and concealed carry users seeking a practical, all-in-one solution for their essential gear. This combination rig from Safariland offers a single magazine pouch alongside a handcuff carrier, all on a convenient paddle platform. The Safariland 573 aims to minimize bulk and maximize accessibility for left-handed users.
As a law enforcement officer for over a decade, I’ve always searched for the optimal balance between comfort, concealment, and rapid access to essential tools. My current setup involved separate magazine and handcuff pouches, which often felt bulky and cumbersome, especially during foot pursuits or when navigating tight spaces. I needed a streamlined solution that wouldn’t compromise on security or accessibility.
Upon unboxing the Safariland 573, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and the professional, no-nonsense design. The plain black finish is exactly what I expected. The materials felt durable and the paddle design looked promising for comfortable all-day wear.
Compared to my previous individual pouches from various manufacturers, the Safariland 573 appeared much more streamlined. Other options, such as those from Bianchi and Uncle Mike’s, lacked the integrated handcuff pouch or felt less secure in their retention. The Safariland 573 appeared to offer a more complete and secure package.
My initial impression was excitement, mixed with a bit of skepticism about how well the paddle would actually hold up during rigorous activity. The promise of consolidating my gear into a single, easily accessible platform was definitely appealing. I couldn’t wait to put it to the test in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-83-22 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 573 during a routine patrol shift, which involved a mix of vehicle patrols, foot patrols in urban areas, and responding to various calls. The diverse environments gave me a good initial feel for the rig’s performance. The weather was dry and mild, typical for a late spring evening.
The paddle design proved surprisingly comfortable, even during extended periods of sitting in the patrol car. I experienced no noticeable discomfort or shifting, unlike some other paddle holsters I’ve used in the past. Access to both the magazine and handcuffs was quick and intuitive, requiring minimal adjustment to my existing muscle memory. I was able to re-index my pistol and transition to cuffing a suspect without fumbling or hesitation.
I did discover that drawing the magazine required a slightly firmer grip than with my previous standalone pouch, due to the tension adjustment. After a few practice draws, however, this became second nature. Overall, the first use was remarkably smooth and problem-free.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, the Safariland 573 has held up admirably. There are no signs of wear and tear, even on the paddle and retention mechanisms. The finish remains intact, despite rubbing against clothing and equipment.
Maintenance has been minimal, consisting of occasional wiping down with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. The tension adjustment screw has remained secure and hasn’t required any re-tightening. Compared to some leather pouches I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 573 requires significantly less upkeep.
This setup outperforms my previous individual pouches in terms of comfort, accessibility, and streamlined design. The integrated handcuff pouch is a game-changer, eliminating the need for a separate carrier and reducing bulk on my duty belt. The paddle remains securely in place, even during foot pursuits and strenuous activity. It is a significant improvement over my earlier experiences.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-83-22
Specifications
-
Category: Concealment Accessories: It is intended for low profile applications. This makes it ideal for plain clothes officers or situations where minimizing visibility is crucial.
-
Finish/Color: Plain Black: The non-reflective surface reduces visibility. This is critical for covert operations.
-
Fits: Beretta – 8045F, Glock – 17, 19, 22, 23, 26, 27, 34, 35, Heckler & Koch – 40, 40C, 9C, P2000 12 Round, USP 9, Sig Sauer – P229, SP2340, Smith & Wesson – Sigma 40C, Sigma 40F, Sigma 9C, Sigma 9mm, SW40V, SW9V: This compatibility list represents a wide range of common service pistols. This ensures that many officers or concealed carriers can utilize the Safariland 573 with their duty weapon.
-
Type: Left Hand: The Safariland 573 is specifically designed for left-handed users. This optimizes draw and access.
The compatibility with common service pistols means less time spent searching for a compatible rig. The left-hand configuration ensures a smooth and efficient draw for left-handed shooters.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 573 performs its job exceptionally well, providing secure retention and rapid access to both a magazine and handcuffs. The adjustable tension device allows for fine-tuning the magazine retention to personal preference. The paddle design keeps the rig securely in place, even during dynamic movements.
The main strength is the streamlined design and all-in-one functionality. A potential weakness is the magazine capacity of a single magazine, but this is the trade-off for increased concealability.
The Safariland 573 definitely meets my expectations for a concealment magazine and handcuff holder. The design is compact and functional. The performance is reliable.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and solid construction. The weight is surprisingly light, considering the integrated handcuff pouch. The paddle design is comfortable against the body.
The design is user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment or training to master. The paddle is easy to attach and remove from the belt, and the tension adjustment is simple and effective. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 573 is built to last, with rugged materials and a robust design. I expect it to withstand years of daily use without significant wear and tear.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The materials are resistant to scratches and abrasions, and the finish is durable. It’s a very low-maintenance piece of gear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 573 itself doesn’t come with a wide range of accessories. The tension adjustment screw offers a degree of customization.
Aftermarket accessories are limited, as the design is fairly self-contained. You could potentially modify the handcuff pouch to accommodate different handcuff models, but this might require specialized tools and expertise. The Safariland 573 is largely a complete package as is.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-83-22
Pros
- Streamlined Design: The integrated magazine and handcuff pouch minimizes bulk and simplifies your gear setup.
- Secure Paddle Retention: The paddle design keeps the rig firmly in place, even during strenuous activity.
- Adjustable Tension: Fine-tune the magazine retention to your personal preference.
- Durable Construction: The rugged materials and solid build quality ensure long-lasting performance.
- Left-Handed Specific: Optimized for left-handed users, providing a natural and efficient draw.
Cons
- Single Magazine Capacity: Some users may prefer carrying two magazines, requiring a separate pouch.
- Limited Customization: The design is fairly self-contained, with few options for aftermarket accessories.
Who Should Buy Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-83-22?
The Safariland 573 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and concealed carry users who prioritize a streamlined, all-in-one gear setup. This rig is especially well-suited for plainclothes officers or those working in environments where minimizing visibility is essential. It is also ideal for left-handed individuals who want a magazine and handcuff holder specifically designed for their dominant hand.
This product may not be ideal for users who require carrying multiple magazines or who prefer a wider range of customization options. Those who already have a preferred handcuff pouch or magazine carrier may also find the integrated design less appealing.
A high-quality duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure optimal comfort and stability. Practicing your draw with dummy rounds is also highly recommended to develop muscle memory and ensure a smooth and efficient reload.
Conclusion on Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-83-22
Overall, the Safariland 573 Concealment Magazine Holder, Paddle, Single w/Cuff Pouch – Plain Black, Left Hand 573-83-22 is an excellent piece of gear that delivers on its promise of streamlining your loadout. The integrated design, secure retention, and durable construction make it a valuable addition to any law enforcement officer’s or concealed carrier’s arsenal.
At $49.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials, the functionality of the design, and the convenience of having both a magazine and handcuff pouch in one compact package. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to improve their efficiency and comfort.
I would definitely recommend the Safariland 573 to any left-handed law enforcement officer or concealed carry user seeking a reliable and streamlined gear solution. It is a well-designed, durable, and functional product that offers excellent value for the money. Upgrade your loadout today and experience the difference!