Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL

For those of us who take our gear seriously, finding the right magazine pouch is crucial. The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL promises to be a durable and versatile option for carrying spare magazines. With its ambidextrous design and Safariland’s reputation for quality, it’s a product that immediately piqued my interest.

My need arose from consistent range trips and participating in practical shooting competitions. I needed a reliable way to carry extra magazines without compromising accessibility or comfort. I’ve grown weary of pouches that shift, loosen, or simply fail to provide quick access when fractions of a second matter.

Upon unboxing the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL, I was immediately impressed by the rigid construction. The FDE brown color is a welcome change from the usual black, and the overall feel exudes quality. The pouch felt substantial without being overly heavy.

Compared to cheaper nylon pouches I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL felt markedly superior. It also felt more robust than some kydex-only pouches I’ve encountered, which can sometimes lack sufficient retention adjustment. I chose this pouch for its promise of a balance between secure retention and rapid access, along with Safariland’s established reputation.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality was evident, but the “tightness” issue some users have reported lingered in my mind. I was excited to put it to the test and see if it lived up to the Safariland name, or if I’d be wrestling with my magazines during crucial moments.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL at my local outdoor shooting range. I focused on drawing and reloading drills with both my 1911 and my Beretta 92FS. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing the pouch’s performance.

Initially, the draw with the Beretta 92FS magazines was indeed quite tight, as others have mentioned. However, after adjusting the tension screw and working the magazines in and out a few times, the draw became noticeably smoother. My 1911 magazines fit snugly from the start, providing a more consistent draw.

Using the pouch was straightforward, and the platform mount kept it firmly in place on my belt. There were no unexpected issues or surprises, besides the initial tightness with the Beretta magazines. The ambidextrous design proved useful, as I could easily switch the pouch to either side of my belt depending on the drill I was running.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL has held up admirably. The initial tightness of the Beretta magazines has subsided further, providing a smoother and more consistent draw. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the pouch.

The leather button straps still feel secure, and the FDE brown finish shows no signs of fading or scratching. Cleaning the pouch is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. The pouch has exceeded my expectations, providing a secure and reliable way to carry spare magazines.

Compared to cheaper pouches I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL is a clear winner. Its durability, secure retention, and ambidextrous design make it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about their gear. It provides both the adjustability I need, as well as the security needed to ensure the magazines stay in place during rigorous movement.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL

Specifications

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL is designed to fit belts up to 2.25″ wide. It is available in various finishes, including Plain Black, Basket Weave, Hi-Gloss, or STX TACTICAL, but this particular model comes in FDE Brown. The pouch is ambidextrous, making it suitable for both left- and right-handed shooters.

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL is part of the Safariland 6004/6005 Tactical System. The FDE Brown color offers a less conspicuous profile in certain environments. The 2.25″ belt loop compatibility ensures it fits standard law enforcement and military belts.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL excels at securely holding two handgun magazines while providing relatively easy access. The adjustable tension screw allows users to fine-tune the retention to their preference. The platform mount keeps the pouch stable on the belt, preventing unwanted shifting during movement.

The main strength of the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL lies in its secure retention and stable platform. The weakness is the initial tightness that some users experience with certain magazine types, such as the Beretta 92FS. Despite this, the pouch generally meets expectations, offering a reliable way to carry spare magazines.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL features a rigid design that maintains its shape even when empty. The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and sturdy construction. The weight is reasonable, providing a balance between durability and comfort.

The pouch is user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment to get used to. The platform mount is simple to attach and detach from the belt. The ambidextrous design is a plus, allowing the user to configure the pouch to their preferred side.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL is built to last, with durable materials that can withstand regular use in demanding environments. With proper care, this pouch should provide years of reliable service. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is typically sufficient.

Repairing the pouch is generally straightforward, with replacement parts readily available from Safariland or other retailers. The pouch has high-quality materials, ensuring long-term durability. The ease of maintenance makes it a practical choice for everyday use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL does not come with many accessories, focusing instead on its core functionality. However, it is compatible with the Safariland ELS (Equipment Locking System), allowing it to be easily attached to other ELS-compatible platforms. Customization options are limited, but the user can adjust the tension screw to fine-tune the magazine retention.

The compatibility with the Safariland ELS system provides a degree of modularity for those already invested in that ecosystem. There are no further customization options outside of the tension screw. The straightforward design prioritizes functionality over extensive customization.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL

Who Should Buy Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL?

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, competitive shooters, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable way to carry spare handgun magazines. Its durability and ambidextrous design make it a versatile choice for a wide range of users.

Those who should skip this product are individuals who prefer minimalist or ultra-lightweight gear. Also, those who require extensive customization options may find the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL limiting. A good quality belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper stability and weight distribution.

Conclusion on Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL

The Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL is a solid and reliable magazine pouch that offers excellent value for its price. While it may require some initial adjustment for certain magazine types, its secure retention, durable construction, and ambidextrous design make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who needs to carry spare handgun magazines. The Safariland name stands for quality, and this pouch lives up to that reputation.

The price is justified by the pouch’s durability and performance, making it a sound investment for serious users. I would personally recommend the Safariland 77 Double Handgun Magazine Pouch – FDE Brown, Ambidextrous 77-53-553PBL to anyone in need of a reliable magazine carrying solution. Upgrade your kit today and experience the difference a quality pouch can make!