Does the Safariland 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch Live Up to Its Name?
As an equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’ve developed a keen eye for gear that performs. The Safariland 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch promises a specific function for a particular user group, aiming to streamline access and retention for competition settings. Its design targets a need for quick, secure, and easy magazine deployment, a critical factor when every second counts on the range.
My journey to this particular piece of gear stemmed from a growing need for more efficient and reliable magazine management during competitive shooting events. I was finding that my existing pouches, while functional for general carrying, lacked the speed and positive retention necessary for the fast-paced demands of competition. The goal was to find something that offered a balance of secure holding and rapid, unhindered access, without the bulk or complexity of more elaborate systems.
My initial impression upon unboxing was one of utilitarian efficiency. The materials felt robust, and the construction hinted at the durability that the Safariland brand is known for. It possessed a no-nonsense aesthetic, clearly designed for function over form, which I appreciated.
While I considered a few other options, including some off-brand alternatives and less specialized designs, none seemed to strike the same balance of intended purpose and perceived quality. The simplicity and focused design of this model stood out.
The first touch of the polymer and the feel of the attachment mechanism brought a sense of practical satisfaction, a quiet confidence that this might indeed be the solution I was looking for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds were primarily at local shooting ranges during practice sessions and actual timed competitions. I specifically focused on scenarios that mimicked the pressure of a timed event, where drawing and reinserting magazines quickly and smoothly is paramount. The pouch was attached to a 2.25″ duty belt, a common configuration for competitive shooters.
Performance in these controlled, yet demanding, environments was a key focus. I assessed how the pouch handled repeated draws under simulated stress and whether the magazine retained its position even during quick movements. The material seemed resilient to the typical dust and minor abrasions encountered on a range.
Ease of use was surprisingly high right out of the box. The open-top design meant no thumb breaks or retention hoods to manipulate, allowing for a very direct and intuitive draw. There was virtually no learning curve; it performed as expected from the first magazine.
The only minor surprise was the slight adjustment needed to find the optimal draw angle for maximum speed, a common fine-tuning process with any new carry gear. However, the fundamental function was spot-on.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use across multiple range days and competition events, the Safariland 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch has proven its worth. It’s become a staple for my Glock 20 magazines.
The durability has been exceptional, with no visible signs of significant wear and tear. The polymer remains stiff and retains its shape, and the attachment mechanism has stayed secure without loosening. There have been no cracks, no stiffness in the magazine well, and absolutely no performance drop in retention or ease of access.
Maintenance has been minimal, essentially requiring a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove any dust. The material is non-porous and easy to clean. The primary advice would be to ensure the belt attachment is correctly secured to prevent accidental detachment, though this is a general principle for any belt-mounted accessory.
Compared to some of the budget magazine pouches I’ve used in the past, which often become loose or difficult to draw from after a few months, this Safariland pouch is in a different league. It genuinely feels built to last and perform consistently.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch
Specifications
The Safariland 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch is designed specifically to hold magazines for Glock models 20, 21, 29, and 30. It features an open-top design, which is crucial for rapid magazine changes in competitive shooting disciplines. The pouch is constructed from durable STX Basketweave polymer, offering both resilience and a professional aesthetic.
Its attachment system is designed for a 2.25″ belt, providing a secure and stable fit for duty or competition belts. This specific model is configured for a left-handed shooter, meaning the magazine is presented for a right-handed draw. The compact profile of this magazine holder minimizes bulk while ensuring positive retention.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the user’s ability to access ammunition quickly and reliably. The choice of polymer and the specific fit for Glock magazines ensure a snug hold without being overly tight, allowing for a smooth draw. The open-top design and left-handed orientation cater directly to the needs of competitive shooters seeking speed and efficiency.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary role, the Safariland 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch performs admirably. The open-top design facilitates an exceptionally fast draw, allowing for immediate access to your spare magazine. Retention is surprisingly positive; the magazine stays firmly in place during vigorous movement without rattling or shifting.
Its main strength lies in this balance between secure retention and rapid deployment. A slight weakness, though minor, is that the open-top design offers less protection against debris ingress compared to fully enclosed pouches, which might be a consideration in very dusty or dirty environments. However, for its intended competitive use, it meets and often exceeds expectations, especially when considering its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this magazine pouch is immediately apparent. The STX Basketweave polymer feels solid and substantial, with a finish that resists scuffs and scratches well. The overall feel is one of rugged reliability, built to withstand the rigors of competitive use.
Ergonomically, the design is straightforward and effective. It sits comfortably on the belt, and the angle of presentation for the magazine is natural, requiring minimal conscious effort to achieve a proper grip and draw. There’s no real learning curve; it’s designed to be used intuitively.
Practical design details include the molded contours that guide the magazine into the pouch during reloads and the secure attachment mechanism that keeps it stable. These elements contribute to a seamless user experience, allowing the shooter to focus on the task at hand rather than fumbling with their gear.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, this Safariland pouch is built for longevity. Under normal competitive use, it’s likely to last for many years without significant degradation. The robust polymer construction resists cracking and wear, and the attachment system is designed for repeated use.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick rinse or wipe-down is usually all that’s needed to keep it clean and functional. There are no complex parts to lubricate or special treatments required.
The potential failure point to watch out for, as with any belt-mounted gear, is ensuring the attachment clip or screw remains tight. However, Safariland’s hardware is generally very reliable, so this is more a general caution than a specific flaw of this model.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch is a specialized item, and as such, it doesn’t typically come with a wide array of accessories. Its primary function is to hold magazines for specific Glock models. However, it’s designed to be mounted on a 2.25″ belt, which is a common standard in the tactical and competitive shooting world.
While there aren’t direct customization options for the pouch itself, its compatibility with standard duty and competition belts is a key aspect. Users can select the belt that best suits their comfort and stability needs. It is a standalone product focused on performing its singular task exceptionally well.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch
Pros
- Rapid magazine access: The open-top design allows for incredibly fast draws, crucial for competition.
- Secure retention: Magazines are held firmly in place, even during dynamic movement, preventing unintended drops.
- Durable construction: Made from robust STX Basketweave polymer, it’s built to withstand heavy use.
- Designed for specific firearms: Perfect fit for Glock 20, 21, 29, and 30 magazines, ensuring reliable compatibility.
- Left-handed shooter configuration: Optimally positioned for a right-handed draw, catering to a specific user need.
Cons
- Limited protection: The open-top design offers less protection against dust and debris compared to fully enclosed pouches.
- Specific firearm fitment: Primarily designed for a select few Glock models; not a universal solution.
- Belt-specific attachment: Requires a 2.25″ belt, which might necessitate a specific belt purchase if you don’t already own one.
Who Should Buy Safariland 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch?
This magazine pouch is an excellent choice for competitive shooters, particularly those participating in disciplines like USPSA, IDPA, or 3-Gun, who utilize Glock models 20, 21, 29, or 30. It’s ideal for individuals who prioritize speed and efficiency in their magazine changes above all else. If you’re a left-handed shooter looking for a reliable and fast way to carry your spare magazines for these specific firearms, this is a top contender.
Conversely, anyone needing a general-purpose magazine carrier for concealed carry, or for firearms not listed in its compatibility range, should look elsewhere. Those who operate in extremely harsh environments with significant dust or water ingress might also prefer a more enclosed design, although for most range use, this is a non-issue. A 2.25″ duty or competition belt is a must-have accessory to properly utilize this pouch.
Conclusion on Safariland 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch
The Safariland 773 Competition Open Top Magazine Pouch is a highly effective piece of gear for its intended purpose. It delivers on its promise of rapid access and secure retention for specific Glock magazines, making it an invaluable tool for competitive shooters. The build quality is typical of Safariland, offering durability and reliability that justifies its price point.
For those who compete with compatible Glock pistols and need fast, dependable magazine changes, I would absolutely recommend this pouch. It offers excellent value by providing performance that rivals much more expensive solutions, all within a simple, effective design. If speed, reliability, and a specific fit for your firearm are your priorities, this Safariland model is a strong consideration.