The Safariland 79 1911 Slim Open Top Double Mag Pouch: A Review After Real Use
For years, I’ve relied on gear that performs without fuss, especially when it’s meant to keep essential tools readily accessible. My search for an improved way to carry spare magazines for my 1911 platform led me to the Safariland 79 1911 Slim Open Top Double Mag Pouch. This wasn’t a purchase born out of a sudden need, but rather a gradual realization that my existing solutions were either bulky, unreliable, or just plain awkward. I needed something that offered quick access, secure retention, and a low profile.
The initial impression upon handling this double mag pouch was one of robust construction. Safariland has a reputation, and this item certainly felt like it was built to uphold it. It’s crafted from what feels like a durable, rigid polymer, designed to hold its shape even when empty. I considered a simple kydex solution, but the integrated design and the allure of Safariland’s known quality tipped the scales. My first thought was, “This looks like it’s built to last and perform.”
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 79 1911 Slim Open Top Double Mag Pouch to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing occurred at the range during a typical practice session. The pouch was mounted to my duty belt, positioned for easy access during reload drills. Conditions were dry and warm, standard for a day at the outdoor range.
The immediate feedback was overwhelmingly positive. The magazines slid in with a satisfying, secure click, and drawing them was smooth and unhindered, even under timed pressure. There was no snagging or fumbling; the open-top design proved incredibly efficient.
One minor surprise was the slight learning curve in optimally positioning the pouch on the belt for my specific draw stroke. It wasn’t a significant issue, but finding that perfect cant took a few repetitions. However, once set, it felt like a natural extension of my gear.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, this Safariland pouch has become a staple. It’s been through dozens of range days, some training courses, and even a few extended periods where it remained mounted on my belt, exposed to varying weather and the general dust and grit of daily life.
The durability is impressive. Despite being carried and drawn from repeatedly, there are no signs of cracking, loosening, or significant wear on the polymer. The retention mechanism, which relies on the pouch’s molded shape, has remained consistently effective. The magazines don’t rattle around loosely, nor are they so tight that they impede a swift draw.
Compared to my previous fabric pouches, which tended to lose their shape and retention over time, this model offers a tangible upgrade in reliability. Cleaning is as simple as a wipe-down with a damp cloth, and it maintains its structural integrity without any special care.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 79 1911 Slim Open Top Double Mag Pouch
Specifications
The Safariland 79 1911 Slim Open Top Double Mag Pouch is specifically designed for 1911 Government 5in style magazines, meaning it accommodates the longer, wider magazines common to this platform. It’s constructed from STX Tactical Foliage Green material, a proprietary blend known for its resilience and non-reflective finish. The pouch features an Ambi Shroud Mount, which is a key element for versatility, allowing it to be configured for either handedness.
This design ensures a secure fit for your spare magazines, preventing them from accidentally falling out, a critical factor in high-stress situations. The slimline profile is a significant advantage, minimizing bulk on your belt compared to other double-stack magazine carriers. The choice of STX Tactical material offers excellent resistance to abrasion and environmental factors, crucial for gear that sees frequent use.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function, this magazine pouch excels. It provides fast and simple admission to your spare ammunition, which is exactly what’s needed when performing a tactical or competitive reload. The open-top design means no flaps to contend with, allowing for an immediate grip on the magazine.
The retention is a standout feature. It’s firm enough to prevent accidental dislodging, even during dynamic movement, yet allows for a swift and confident draw. This balance is often difficult to achieve, but Safariland has hit it spot-on here. It consistently performs as expected, shot after shot, reload after reload.
Design & Ergonomics
The design philosophy behind this pouch is clearly focused on efficiency and durability. The use of STX Tactical Foliage Green polymer results in a sturdy, almost rigid structure that holds its form even when the magazines are removed. This makes re-inserting magazines less of a blind fumble and more of a deliberate, positive action.
The slimline nature is highly ergonomic, reducing the overall footprint on your belt. This is particularly beneficial for those who carry multiple items on their belt, preventing the dreaded “gear pile-up.” The ambidextrous shroud mount is an intelligent design choice, offering flexibility for shooters regardless of their dominant hand or preferred carry method.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 79 1911 Slim Open Top Double Mag Pouch is built for longevity. The STX Tactical material is renowned for its toughness, resisting scuffs, impacts, and the everyday stresses of use. I’ve had it scrape against doorways and brush against rough surfaces without any significant damage.
Maintenance is exceptionally straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth or a mild soap solution is usually all that’s needed to keep it clean and functional. There are no complex mechanisms or parts to lubricate, making it a low-maintenance piece of kit. Its robust construction suggests it will last for many years of active duty or recreational use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary “accessory” or functional component of this pouch is its integration with various Safariland mounting systems, particularly the Ambi Shroud Mount. This allows for attachment to different platforms, such as belt loops (various widths are common), tactical vests, or drop-leg platforms, depending on the specific mount chosen. While this particular model is the pouch itself, the Ambi Shroud Mount itself offers a degree of customization for how you attach it.
This pouch is designed to accept standard 1911 Government 5in magazines. While there aren’t electronic accessories or complex add-ons for the pouch itself, its compatibility with a wide range of belt loops and mounting systems from Safariland makes it quite adaptable.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 79 1911 Slim Open Top Double Mag Pouch
Pros
- Rapid Access: The open-top design allows for incredibly fast magazine retrieval, crucial for timed drills or defensive scenarios.
- Secure Retention: Magazines are held firmly, preventing accidental loss even during strenuous activity.
- Slim Profile: The slimline construction minimizes bulk on the belt, improving comfort and reducing snag points.
- Durable Construction: Made from STX Tactical material, this pouch is built to withstand rigorous use and harsh environments.
- Ambidextrous Mounting: The Ambi Shroud Mount offers flexibility for left- or right-handed shooters and various mounting preferences.
Cons
- Specific Fit: Primarily designed for 1911 Government 5in magazines, it may not accommodate all 1911 variants or other pistol magazine types without modification or a different model.
- No Full Concealment: Being an open-top design, it’s not ideal for deep concealment compared to flap or enclosed magazine pouches.
- Price Point: While offering excellent value, Safariland products can sometimes be priced higher than generic alternatives.
Who Should Buy Safariland 79 1911 Slim Open Top Double Mag Pouch?
This double magazine pouch is an excellent choice for competitive shooters, law enforcement officers, military personnel, and serious civilian firearms enthusiasts who carry a 1911 pistol. If you frequently engage in dynamic shooting drills or prioritize quick, reliable access to spare magazines, this pouch is a significant upgrade. It’s particularly well-suited for those who run their magazines on a duty belt or a tactical vest.
However, individuals seeking deep concealed carry for their spare magazines might find the open-top design less suitable. Those who use 1911 variants that do not fit the 1911 Government 5in specification should verify compatibility or look for a different model. For those who prioritize durability and rapid access above all else, this pouch is a fantastic investment.
Conclusion on Safariland 79 1911 Slim Open Top Double Mag Pouch
The Safariland 79 1911 Slim Open Top Double Mag Pouch is a prime example of how thoughtful design and quality materials translate into excellent performance. It consistently delivers on its promise of fast access, secure retention, and robust durability, all within a commendably slim profile. Its build quality is evident, and after extended use, it shows no signs of faltering.
For its intended purpose – carrying spare magazines for a 1911 Government model – it is an outstanding piece of gear. The value proposition is strong, especially when considering the longevity and reliability it offers. I wholeheartedly recommend this double magazine pouch to anyone who needs dependable, quick access to their 1911 spare magazines and values gear that is built to last.