The Road Test: Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch is a staple piece of gear for law enforcement, security personnel, and shooting enthusiasts alike. Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and durability in the tactical gear world, designed this pouch to provide a secure and accessible way to carry spare magazines on the duty belt. Its simple design and robust construction promise reliability when you need it most.
As a tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless magazine pouches come and go. My need for a reliable, low-profile magazine carrier that wouldn’t snag or interfere with my movement on duty led me to seriously consider the Safariland 77. I was tired of pouches that either fell apart quickly or made reloads awkward and slow.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 77 immediately impressed me with its solid feel. The materials felt robust, and the stitching was clean and precise. The molded shape gave me confidence that my magazines would be held securely without being too difficult to draw quickly.
Compared to other double magazine pouches I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk! Double Stack Magazine Pouch and the Uncle Mike’s Sidekick Double Magazine Case, the Safariland 77 seemed to strike a better balance between retention, accessibility, and overall build quality. While the Blackhawk! pouch offers adjustable tension, it can be bulky. The Uncle Mike’s pouch is affordable, but lacks the refined feel and durability of the Safariland.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland reputation for quality and reliability. I hoped that this pouch would be the solution to my ongoing search for the perfect magazine carrier.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch came at the shooting range. I was running drills with my Glock 17, focusing on speed reloads and target acquisition. I used the pouch during various drills, including drawing from concealment, shooting from different positions, and moving while shooting.
The pouch performed admirably in dry conditions. The magazines were secure, yet easily accessible. I experienced no issues with snagging or accidental magazine releases.
The true test came when I intentionally introduced moisture. I simulated a rainy environment by spraying the pouch with water. Even when wet, the Safariland 77 retained its grip on the magazines, preventing them from slipping out during movement.
I immediately appreciated the simplicity of the design. No complicated adjustments were needed. The pouch just worked, providing a secure and reliable platform for my spare magazines. I did not experience any issues or surprises after the first time using it.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use at the range and during training exercises, the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear, and the pouch retains its shape and firmness. The stitching remains intact.
The pouch has proven to be surprisingly easy to maintain. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. It has also been exposed to mud, sand, and extreme temperatures, but it has continued to perform without issue.
Compared to previous magazine pouches I’ve used, the Safariland 77 has significantly outperformed them in terms of durability and reliability. Cheaper pouches tended to loosen their grip on the magazines over time, or the stitching would come undone. The Safariland 77 has proven to be a worthwhile investment due to its long-lasting nature.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch
Specifications
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch is designed to hold two handgun magazines securely on a duty belt. It fits belts up to 2.25″ wide, making it compatible with most standard law enforcement and military belts. The pouch is available in several finishes, including Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, and STX Tactical.
- Material: High-strength synthetic material
- Belt Fit: Up to 2.25″ wide duty belts
- Available Finishes: Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, STX Tactical
- Orientation: Ambidextrous
- Compatibility: Fits various handgun magazine models, including Beretta 92/96, Glock 17/22, SIG Sauer P226, and many others.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The durable material ensures that the pouch can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The secure belt fit prevents the pouch from shifting or coming loose during movement. The ambidextrous design accommodates both left- and right-handed shooters. The wide compatibility ensures that the pouch can be used with a variety of different handgun models.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch excels at its primary function: securely holding and providing quick access to spare magazines. The magazines are held firmly in place, even during strenuous activity, yet they can be easily drawn with one hand when needed.
The pouch’s simple design contributes to its overall reliability. There are no moving parts or complicated mechanisms to fail. The molded shape provides a consistent and predictable draw, regardless of the weather conditions.
While the pouch is not adjustable, its inherent retention is generally sufficient for most users. Some may prefer a pouch with adjustable tension. However, the Safariland 77 strikes a good balance between retention and accessibility.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch features a low-profile design that minimizes bulk on the duty belt. The pouch is lightweight and comfortable to wear, even for extended periods. The contoured shape conforms to the body, preventing snagging or chafing.
The pouch’s minimalist design also makes it very user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve. Simply attach the pouch to the belt and insert the magazines.
However, some might find the lack of adjustability a drawback. Shooters with very specific retention preferences may prefer a more customizable option.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch is built to last. The high-strength synthetic material is resistant to abrasion, tearing, and weathering. The reinforced stitching ensures that the pouch can withstand years of heavy use.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the pouch clean and functional. The simple design makes it easy to inspect for damage and perform basic repairs if needed.
Given its robust construction and ease of maintenance, the Safariland 77 is a durable and reliable piece of gear that will likely outlast many other magazine pouches on the market.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch does not come with any accessories. It is a standalone pouch designed to be attached to a duty belt.
Customization options are limited. The pouch is not designed to be modified or altered. However, it is compatible with a wide range of handgun magazine models, allowing users to select the appropriate size for their specific needs.
While the Safariland 77 doesn’t offer a lot of customization, its focus on simplicity and durability makes it a reliable and dependable choice for those who need a no-nonsense magazine carrier.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch
Pros
- Durable Construction: Made from high-strength synthetic material, built to withstand daily wear and tear.
- Secure Magazine Retention: Holds magazines firmly in place, even during strenuous activity.
- Easy Accessibility: Allows for quick and efficient magazine draws.
- Low-Profile Design: Minimizes bulk on the duty belt.
- Wide Compatibility: Fits a variety of handgun magazine models.
Cons
- Non-Adjustable Retention: Tension is fixed and cannot be adjusted to personal preference.
- Limited Customization: Few options for personalization or modification.
Who Should Buy Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch?
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and competitive shooters who require a reliable and durable magazine carrier. It is also well-suited for anyone who values simplicity and ease of use. This is a great option for range day.
This product may not be the best choice for individuals who prefer highly customizable gear or those who require adjustable magazine retention. Someone looking for a concealed carry option might find this pouch too bulky.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality duty belt to provide a stable and secure platform for the pouch.
Conclusion on Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch
The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch is a simple, durable, and reliable piece of gear that delivers on its promise of providing secure and accessible magazine storage. Its robust construction and no-nonsense design make it a valuable addition to any duty belt or range bag.
At a price of $43.99, the Safariland 77 offers excellent value for money. The price is justified by its long-lasting construction and reliable performance.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch to anyone who needs a dependable magazine carrier. It’s a no-frills option that gets the job done right, time after time.
If you’re looking for a magazine pouch that will stand up to the rigors of daily use and provide quick access to your spare magazines, the Safariland 77 is an excellent choice. Invest in your gear and invest in your safety.