Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-53-121-2 Review

Is the Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-53-121-2 Worth It? Let’s Find Out

The Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-53-121-2 is a piece of gear designed for competition shooters and tactical operators alike, offering adjustable tension and a secure magazine carry. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality in law enforcement and military circles, this pouch aims to provide lightning-fast reloads and reliable retention. Its low-cut front and built-up channel are specifically designed to enhance drawing speed and prevent accidental magazine ejection.

My need for this pouch stemmed from a growing frustration with inconsistent magazine retention during 3-gun competitions. Existing pouches either held magazines too tightly, slowing down reloads, or too loosely, resulting in dropped mags during movement. I was searching for a pouch that offered a perfect balance of security and speed, something that the Safariland 773 promised with its adjustable tension screws.

Unboxing the Safariland 773, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and the quality of the materials. The tactical black finish looked professional and durable, and the pouch felt solid in my hand without being overly bulky. The adjustable belt loop appeared sturdy and well-designed.

Compared to similar pouches from Blade-Tech and Blackhawk, the Safariland 773 stood out for its adjustability. While the Blade-Tech offered good retention, it lacked the fine-tuning options of the Safariland. The Blackhawk, on the other hand, was easier to adjust but didn’t offer the same level of secure retention.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The adjustability and quality seemed promising, but I reserved judgment until I could put the pouch through its paces on the range. I was hopeful that it would live up to Safariland’s reputation for excellence.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-53-121-2 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 773 at a local shooting range during a practice session for an upcoming 3-gun competition. The range provided a controlled environment to dial in the tension and get comfortable with the draw. I tested it with both a Colt Government 1911 and a Springfield Armory 1911-A1 magazine, to verify the fit with different magazines.

The weather was mildly humid, which can sometimes affect the grip on magazines. However, the textured surface of the Safariland 773 provided a secure hold even with slightly sweaty hands. The 90-degree adjustable belt loop allowed me to position the pouch exactly where I needed it for a smooth and consistent draw.

The initial learning curve was minimal. Adjusting the tension screws took a few minutes, but once I found the sweet spot, the magazine release became incredibly fast and consistent. After using it for approximately 100 draws, I only dropped the magazine twice, a significant improvement over my previous setup.

There was one minor issue after the first use: the tension screws loosened slightly after several draws. This required a quick adjustment, but it was easily remedied with a dab of thread locker. I realized that this would be a vital maintenance item to keep in mind.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of regular use, including several 3-gun competitions and weekly range sessions, the Safariland 773 has proven to be remarkably durable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after being subjected to rough handling and exposure to the elements. The pouch still looks and functions as new.

The tactical black finish has held up well, showing no signs of fading or scratching. The body of the magazine pouch has retained its shape and firmness. The magazine retention is as good as when it was new.

Maintaining the Safariland 773 is relatively easy. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. Periodically tightening the tension screws, and applying a dab of thread locker, will keep the pouch functioning smoothly.

Compared to my previous magazine pouches, the Safariland 773 significantly outperforms them in terms of adjustability, retention, and durability. It provides a level of confidence and speed that I didn’t realize I was missing. I can say with confidence that it meets my requirements.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-53-121-2

Specifications

The Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-53-121-2 boasts several key specifications:

• It is a competition accessory designed for right-handed users.
• It comes in a tactical black finish, offering a low-profile appearance.
• It fits 2.25″ (60mm) belts, common in law enforcement and competition settings.
• It is specifically designed to fit magazines for several 1911 variants. These variants include AMT Hardballer, Colt Combat Elite, Commander, Delta Elite, Delta Gold Cup, Gold Cup Natl Match, Government 1911, Officers .45 ACP, Kimber KIP45CUS, Sig Sauer P220, and Springfield Armory 1911-A1.
• It features adjustable tension screws for fine-tuning magazine retention.
• It also has a 90-degree adjustable belt loop for customizable carry angle.
• The pouch has a closed low-cut front design for secure magazine retention and fast draws.
• The built-up channel provides clearance for the bullet during the draw.

These specifications directly impact the pouch’s performance. The adjustability allows users to customize the draw tension to their preference, ensuring both secure retention and fast reloads. The specific fit for 1911 magazines guarantees compatibility and optimal performance for a wide range of popular pistols. The belt loop, low-cut design, and built-up channel contribute to a smooth and efficient drawing motion.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch excels in its primary function: securely holding and rapidly deploying magazines. The adjustable tension screws allow for precise control over magazine retention, preventing accidental drops while still allowing for quick reloads. The low-cut front facilitates a full grip on the magazine for a smooth and efficient draw.

The pouch’s strengths lie in its adjustability, secure retention, and durable construction. The tension screws offer a wide range of adjustment, accommodating different magazine types and user preferences. The closed front prevents magazines from being knocked out during movement.

One area for potential improvement is the initial setup. The tension screws can be a bit fiddly to adjust, requiring some trial and error to find the optimal setting. While this is a one-time process, clearer instructions or a visual guide would be helpful.

Overall, the Safariland 773 meets and exceeds expectations. It provides a level of performance and reliability that is essential for competitive shooters and tactical operators.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 773 features a simple yet effective design. The materials used are durable and lightweight, providing a comfortable carry without adding unnecessary bulk. The tactical black finish is discreet and professional-looking, making it suitable for a variety of environments.

The pouch is designed with ergonomics in mind. The 90-degree adjustable belt loop allows for customizable carry angle, optimizing the draw stroke for each individual user. The low-cut front facilitates a full and secure grip on the magazine.

There is a slight learning curve in adjusting the tension screws. It takes some time to dial it in. However, the overall design is user-friendly and intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 773 is built to last. The materials used are resistant to wear and tear, ensuring a long service life even under demanding conditions. The pouch has proven its durability after months of testing.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Occasionally tightening the tension screws and thread locker is needed to keep the pouch functioning smoothly.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 773 itself doesn’t come with many accessories, its main customization feature being the adjustable tension. The 90-degree adjustable belt loop is the main customization element.

The pouch is compatible with most standard 2.25″ belts. It can be easily integrated into existing gear setups. The adjustability of the tension makes it adaptable to a wide range of magazine types.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-53-121-2

Who Should Buy Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-53-121-2?

Perfect for: competitive shooters seeking a fast and reliable magazine pouch, law enforcement and military personnel who need secure and accessible magazine carry, and 1911 enthusiasts who want a pouch specifically designed for their pistol platform.

Who should skip this product? Those who prefer simpler, non-adjustable magazine pouches or those who use magazines it is not designed for.

Must-have accessories or modifications? Thread locker for the tension screws to prevent loosening, a high-quality 2.25″ belt for secure and stable carry.

Conclusion on Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-53-121-2

The Safariland 773 Adjustable Magazine Pouch – Tactical Black, Right Hand 773-53-121-2 is a top-tier magazine pouch that offers exceptional performance, durability, and adjustability. The adjustable tension, secure retention, and customizable carry angle make it a valuable addition to any competitive shooter’s or tactical operator’s gear.

The price of $35.99 is justified by the pouch’s quality and performance. It is an investment that will pay off in faster reloads, greater confidence, and increased reliability.

I would personally recommend the Safariland 773 to anyone looking for a high-quality, adjustable magazine pouch. If you value performance, durability, and customization, this pouch is definitely worth considering. Upgrade your gear and experience the Safariland difference.