The Safariland Double Firearm Magazine Pouch Open Top B/W Black Colt 1911: Final Thoughts from Me
As someone who’s spent over a decade grappling with gear in every conceivable environment, from the sterile hum of a lab to the grit of a workshop and the unforgiving expansiveness of the field, I’m always on the lookout for equipment that simply works. The Safariland Double Firearm Magazine Pouch Open Top B/W Black Colt 1911 is one such piece of kit that caught my attention. My previous go-to magazine carriers, while functional, were starting to show their age and lacked the specific utility I needed for my Colt 1911 magazines. I was searching for a solution that offered quick access, secure retention, and a discreet profile on my duty belt. After exploring a few alternatives from less established brands, I settled on this Safariland offering, drawn by the reputation of the manufacturer and the promise of a design tailored for my specific firearm. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship; the SafariLaminate construction felt robust, and the overall form factor was exactly what I hoped for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Double Firearm Magazine Pouch Open Top B/W Black Colt 1911 to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing grounds for this double magazine pouch were primarily my local shooting range and during extended dry-fire practice sessions at home, simulating typical operational carry. I loaded it with two standard 7-round magazines for my Colt 1911, ensuring they were seated correctly. The “face out” magazine orientation, a key design element, immediately proved its worth by presenting the magazines for a faster, more intuitive draw. Even with the slight learning curve of angling my hand just right, the open-top design facilitated rapid reloads, a crucial aspect for any serious shooter. I noticed no significant issues with retention during normal movement, though I did experience a slight wobble when performing dynamic drills at a faster pace than typical civilian range use would dictate.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including weekly trips to the range and carrying it on my gear during outdoor training exercises, the Safariland pouch has held up remarkably well. The SafariLaminate construction has shown no signs of cracking, delamination, or excessive scuffing, even after a few accidental brushes against concrete and rough surfaces. The tension on the magazines remains consistent, providing secure retention without requiring an excessive amount of force to draw. Cleaning has been straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of a mild polymer conditioner keeps it looking and performing its best. Compared to some fabric pouches I’ve used in the past, which tend to absorb moisture and hold onto dirt, this hard-sided carrier is a significant improvement in terms of durability and ease of maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Double Firearm Magazine Pouch Open Top B/W Black Colt 1911
Specifications
The Safariland Double Firearm Magazine Pouch Open Top B/W Black Colt 1911 is designed with practical application in mind. It features 2 magazine pouch compartments, allowing for a readily accessible spare ammunition supply. The pouch is constructed from Durable SafariLaminate, a material known for its resilience and ability to withstand harsh conditions.
The orientation of the magazines is specifically “face out,” a design choice intended to save space on the duty belt and streamline the draw stroke. This particular model is crafted to accommodate magazines for the Colt 1911 firearm model. It incorporates a vertical belt slot for attachment, compatible with belts up to 2.25 inches in width, a common standard for duty and tactical belts. The closure type is Open Top, providing immediate access to the magazines without any flaps or straps to manipulate.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function, this Safariland magazine pouch performs exceptionally well. The open-top design ensures that drawing a loaded magazine is swift and unhindered. I found that the retention of the Colt 1911 magazines was perfectly balanced; they felt secure enough that I never worried about them falling out during rigorous movement, yet they were not so tight as to impede a smooth and rapid draw. The “face out” configuration truly does make a difference in reducing the overall footprint on the belt, allowing for more comfortable wear and easier access to other gear.
The Durable SafariLaminate construction contributes significantly to its functionality, offering a rigid structure that protects the magazines and aids in consistent presentation. Unlike softer materials, the SafariLaminate maintains its shape even under stress, ensuring that each draw feels predictable and reliable. Its intended use as a robust, open-top carrier for duty or tactical purposes is clearly met, and it excels at providing immediate access to spare ammunition for the 1911 platform.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Safariland Double Firearm Magazine Pouch Open Top B/W Black Colt 1911 is a testament to thoughtful engineering for practical use. Its minimalist profile, achieved through the “face out” magazine orientation, is a standout ergonomic feature. This design choice not only saves space but also allows for a more natural hand position during the draw.
The vertical belt slot is another ergonomic consideration, ensuring the pouch sits flush and stable on the belt without excessive movement. The open-top nature removes any friction points or complexities that might arise from flaps or Velcro closures, making it incredibly user-friendly under pressure. The black finish of the SafariLaminate is understated and professional, fitting well with most tactical or duty attire.
Durability & Maintenance
From a durability standpoint, this Safariland pouch is built to last. The SafariLaminate material is inherently resistant to abrasion, impact, and environmental factors that can degrade lesser materials. I’ve experienced no signs of premature wear or degradation after extensive use in varied conditions, which speaks volumes about its robust construction.
Maintenance is blessedly simple. The non-porous surface of the SafariLaminate cleans easily with just a damp cloth, removing dust, grime, or range residue. For deeper cleaning, a mild soap and water solution is sufficient. There are no complex parts or mechanisms to worry about malfunctioning or requiring specialized care. This low-maintenance aspect makes it an ideal choice for individuals who need reliable gear that can withstand demanding use without constant upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Double Firearm Magazine Pouch Open Top B/W Black Colt 1911 is a focused piece of equipment, and as such, it doesn’t come with extensive accessories or customization options beyond its core functionality. Its primary “accessory” is its integration into a broader duty belt system, specifically designed to accommodate a 2.25-inch belt width.
While there are no built-in customization features on the pouch itself, its strength lies in its compatibility with the specified firearm magazines. The open-top design is a deliberate choice that prioritizes speed and accessibility, eschewing any form of cover that might slow down a reload. For users needing to adapt it to different belt sizes, Safariland generally offers alternative mounting solutions for their products, though this specific model is geared towards the 2.25-inch standard.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Double Firearm Magazine Pouch Open Top B/W Black Colt 1911
Pros
- Rapid magazine access: The open-top design allows for exceptionally quick and unimpeded magazine changes.
- Space-saving configuration: The “face out” magazine orientation significantly reduces the pouch’s profile on the belt.
- Durable construction: SafariLaminate provides excellent resistance to wear, tear, and environmental exposure.
- Secure retention: Magazines are held firmly without being overly difficult to draw, offering a balanced grip.
- Compatibility with Colt 1911 magazines: Specifically molded for a precise fit with these popular magazines.
- Easy maintenance: The smooth, non-porous material is simple to clean and care for.
Cons
- Limited to specific magazines: This model is tailored for Colt 1911 magazines; it’s not a universal fit.
- Belt size limitation: Designed primarily for 2.25-inch belts, which may not suit all users.
- No magazine protection from elements: The open-top design, while fast, leaves magazines exposed to dust and debris.
Who Should Buy Safariland Double Firearm Magazine Pouch Open Top B/W Black Colt 1911?
This Safariland Double Firearm Magazine Pouch Open Top B/W Black Colt 1911 is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security professionals, competition shooters, and responsible firearms enthusiasts who carry a Colt 1911. It’s particularly suited for individuals who prioritize speed and efficiency in their reloads and value a streamlined loadout. Anyone operating on a duty belt that accommodates 2.25-inch belts will find this pouch a dependable addition.
However, those who require protection for their spare magazines from harsh weather, dust, or impact might want to consider a closed-top or flap-style pouch. Additionally, if you carry firearms other than a Colt 1911, this specific model’s precise fit will not be suitable, and you would need to look for a variant tailored to your firearm’s magazines. For enhanced usability, ensuring you have a quality 2.25-inch belt that is stiff enough to support the weight of loaded magazines and other gear is recommended.
Conclusion on Safariland Double Firearm Magazine Pouch Open Top B/W Black Colt 1911
The Safariland Double Firearm Magazine Pouch Open Top B/W Black Colt 1911 stands out as a highly effective and durable piece of equipment. Its SafariLaminate construction ensures longevity and resilience, while the thoughtfully engineered “face out” open-top design delivers on its promise of rapid magazine access and space efficiency on a duty belt. For owners of the iconic Colt 1911, this pouch offers a secure and reliable way to carry spare ammunition, perfectly tailored to the firearm’s magazine dimensions.
Considering its robust build quality, practical design, and the reputation of the Safariland brand, the price point of $39.49 represents solid value. It delivers performance that rivals more expensive options and is built to withstand the rigors of professional use. I would confidently recommend this magazine pouch to anyone looking for a no-nonsense, highly functional solution for carrying spare 1911 magazines, especially if speed and a compact belt profile are priorities. It’s a reliable workhorse that earns its place in a well-equipped rig.