Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2 Review

First Impressions of the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2

My search for a reliable and unobtrusive way to carry spare handgun magazines led me to the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2. For years, I’d relied on various methods, from pockets that snagged to bulkier pouches that felt more like an advertisement than functional gear. A recent training session highlighted the importance of quick, secure access to backup ammunition, prompting a more focused investigation. Upon receiving the Safariland pouch, my initial impression was one of robust simplicity. The plain black finish felt professional and understated, fitting seamlessly with various gear setups without drawing unnecessary attention. It’s a far cry from some of the overly stylized options I’d seen. The overall construction felt solid, promising durability without excessive bulk. I had briefly considered some nylon hook-and-loop options, but their potential for wear and noise quickly steered me back towards more traditional, secure designs. This pouch offered a tangible sense of relief, a practical solution to a nagging gear issue.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2 to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing primarily took place during extensive range days and various tactical training exercises. This involved drawing and re-holstering magazines repeatedly under timed conditions, simulating the stress of a real-world scenario. The pouch was worn on a standard duty belt, which is rated for belts up to 2.25″ wide, a common size in many professional and civilian applications. I also subjected it to minor environmental stresses, including exposure to dust and varying temperatures, to gauge its resilience. From the outset, the ease of use was apparent; the magazines slid in and out with a satisfying, controlled resistance, providing both security and swift accessibility. There were no immediate surprises or quirks, just a straightforward performance that instilled confidence.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland pouch continues to perform admirably. It has become a regular part of my every-day carry setup for range sessions and training courses. Despite frequent handling and the occasional bump against doors or equipment, there are no significant signs of wear and tear. The plain black finish has held up remarkably well, showing only minor scuffs that are barely noticeable. The retention mechanism, which relies on the pouch’s form and friction, remains as effective as day one, ensuring magazines stay put even during vigorous movement. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean. Compared to some softer nylon pouches I’ve used in the past, which tended to sag or lose their shape, this rigid design offers superior longevity and consistent performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2

Specifications

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2 is engineered for straightforward functionality and durability. Its primary specification is its capacity to hold two handgun magazines, side-by-side. The pouch is designed to fit belts up to 2.25″ wide, ensuring broad compatibility with most standard duty or tactical belts. It is available in several finishes, including Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, or STX TACTICAL, with the model I tested featuring the Plain Black finish. A key design aspect is its Ambidextrous nature, meaning it can be worn equally effectively on the left or right side of the body, catering to a wide range of user preferences and operational needs. This double magazine pouch is also noted as part of the 6004/6005 Tactical System, suggesting integration potential with other Safariland offerings.

The plain black finish is not just aesthetic; it offers a subdued appearance that avoids drawing unnecessary attention. The 2.25″ belt loop ensures a secure attachment to robust belts, preventing the pouch from shifting or sagging under the weight of two loaded magazines. Its ambidextrous design is a significant practical advantage, offering flexibility without requiring specialized left or right-handed models. The fact that it’s part of a larger tactical system hints at its intended use in more demanding environments where gear reliability is paramount.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2 is to securely hold spare magazines and allow for rapid deployment. In this regard, it excels. The retention is firm enough that I never experienced a magazine accidentally falling out, even during dynamic movements like running or quickly changing directions. Yet, the draw is smooth and consistent, allowing for a quick acquisition of the spare magazine when needed. This balance of secure retention and ease of access is precisely what one expects from high-quality gear.

The major strength of this double magazine pouch lies in its dependable retention and fast access. Magazines seat firmly with a positive click and remain secure. The ambidextrous design is also a huge plus, offering true versatility. A slight weakness, though minor, could be the specific fit for certain magazine profiles. While it accommodates the magazines listed in the product description (like those for the Sig Sauer P239/P225 or various S&W models), exceptionally thick or unusually shaped magazines might not fit as snugly. Overall, it meets and often exceeds expectations for its intended purpose, especially considering its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Safariland pouch is a testament to functional form. Constructed from a durable, molded polymer, it feels substantial and robust. The plain black finish is smooth but offers just enough texture to prevent fingerprints from dominating its appearance. Its rigidity is a key ergonomic advantage, as it holds its shape even when empty, making re-inserting a magazine a much simpler task.

The pouch’s profile is relatively slim for a double magazine carrier, minimizing its impact on overall gear bulk. The ambidextrous nature means there are no specific handed features to contend with, simplifying its use. Its integration with belts up to 2.25″ wide means it sits firmly and doesn’t cant or twist unnecessarily.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2 is built for longevity. The molded polymer construction is resistant to impact, abrasion, and the elements. After months of use in varied conditions, there are no signs of cracking, warping, or material degradation.

Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. For deeper cleaning, mild soap and water can be used, followed by air drying. There are no complex parts or mechanisms that require specialized care. Potential failure points are minimal due to the simple, robust design, making it a reliable piece of equipment for the long haul.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch is designed as a standalone accessory for carrying spare magazines. It does not come with additional accessories. However, its compatibility with the 6004/6005 Tactical System implies it can be integrated into a larger Safariland gear setup, such as alongside their holsters, though this is more about system synergy than direct customization of the pouch itself. There are no specific customization options for the pouch itself, such as adjustable tension screws or interchangeable panels. Its strength lies in its fixed, reliable design.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2

Who Should Buy Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2?

This Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2 is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, competitive shooters, and responsible firearm owners who require a dependable and accessible way to carry spare handgun magazines. It is particularly well-suited for those who value durability, security, and a low-profile design. Anyone who frequently trains at the range or operates in environments where quick access to a backup magazine is critical will find this pouch highly beneficial.

Individuals who might consider alternatives are those who carry firearms with unusually shaped magazines that are not listed as compatible, or those who prefer magazine pouches with adjustable tension settings for fine-tuning retention. For those seeking to enhance the usability of this pouch, ensuring you have a sturdy 2.25″ belt is paramount, as a flimsy belt will compromise the pouch’s stability.

Conclusion on Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – Plain Black, Ambidextrous 77-118-2 stands out as a highly effective and durable piece of gear. Its construction is robust, its performance in secure retention and rapid access is consistently reliable, and its ambidextrous design adds significant practical value. For its price point of around $45.99, the value proposition is strong, offering professional-grade functionality without an exorbitant cost. I would readily recommend this magazine pouch to anyone in the market for a dependable solution for carrying spare handgun magazines. It’s a practical, no-nonsense accessory that does exactly what it’s designed to do, making it a worthy addition to any tactical or range kit.