Let’s Dive into Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 87-XX-05
The Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 87-XX-05 is a duty belt designed for law enforcement, security personnel, and anyone who needs a reliable and comfortable platform for carrying essential gear. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in the industry, this belt features a durable construction, a suede lining for enhanced comfort, and a sturdy buckle for secure fastening. It aims to provide all-day support and stability, critical for those who depend on their equipment in demanding situations.
For years, I struggled with duty belts that either dug into my hips or failed to adequately support the weight of my gear. I was searching for a belt that combined comfort, durability, and a professional appearance. After researching various options, the Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt seemed to tick all the boxes, promising both comfort and the necessary support for a full loadout.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the quality of the materials. The leather felt substantial, and the suede lining gave it a premium touch, a welcome change from the stiff, unyielding nylon belts I had used previously. The buckle appeared robust and well-made, inspiring confidence in its ability to withstand daily wear and tear.
Compared to a generic nylon duty belt and a leather belt from another manufacturer, the Safariland 87 stood out due to its comfortable suede lining and the perceived quality of its construction. I was excited to finally have a duty belt that could provide the support I needed without sacrificing comfort. My first impression was positive, a feeling of anticipation that this belt would solve my long-standing issues with duty gear.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 87-XX-05 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt took place during a full day of firearms training at an outdoor shooting range. The weather was warm and sunny, providing an ideal environment to evaluate the belt’s comfort and stability under typical duty conditions. I loaded it up with my standard gear, including a holster, magazine pouches, and a radio carrier.
The belt performed admirably, distributing the weight evenly and preventing the dreaded sagging that I had experienced with previous belts. The suede lining proved to be a significant advantage, minimizing chafing and providing a comfortable fit even after hours of continuous wear. I experienced no issues or surprises after the first use, only a sense of satisfaction that I had finally found a duty belt that lived up to its promises.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt has held up remarkably well. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, with only slight creasing in the leather and no visible damage to the suede lining. The belt has required very little maintenance, primarily occasional cleaning with a leather conditioner to keep it supple and prevent cracking.
Compared to my previous experiences with other duty belts, the Safariland 87 has far exceeded my expectations in terms of both comfort and durability. It has proven to be a reliable and essential piece of gear that I can depend on day in and day out. It significantly outperforms the nylon belts I’ve used, providing superior support and a more professional appearance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 87-XX-05
Specifications
The Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 87-XX-05 boasts several key specifications. It features a 2.25-inch width, providing ample support for a variety of duty gear and accessories. The belt is constructed from durable leather, offering both longevity and a professional appearance.
A significant feature is the suede lining, designed to enhance comfort and prevent chafing during extended wear. The Safariland 87 utilizes a double-tongued buckle made of chrome, ensuring a secure and reliable fastening mechanism. The “Plain” finish offers a clean, classic look appropriate for uniformed personnel. The available color is Cordovan, a rich, dark brown leather shade.
These specifications contribute significantly to the belt’s overall performance and user experience. The 2.25-inch width provides adequate support, preventing sagging and distributing weight evenly. The suede lining is crucial for comfort, especially during long shifts or demanding activities. The chrome buckle ensures a secure and reliable closure, essential for maintaining equipment security.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt performs its job exceptionally well. Its primary function is to provide a stable and comfortable platform for carrying duty gear, which it accomplishes with ease. The belt’s design effectively distributes weight, minimizing strain on the wearer’s back and hips.
The strengths of this belt lie in its comfort, durability, and secure fit. The suede lining makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods, while the sturdy leather construction ensures long-lasting performance. A potential weakness could be the lack of adjustability beyond the buckle holes, requiring precise sizing for optimal fit. Overall, the belt meets and exceeds expectations, providing a reliable and comfortable solution for carrying essential gear.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 87 features a classic and functional design. The materials used, including the leather and suede, are of high quality, contributing to both the belt’s durability and comfort. Its weight is moderate, providing a substantial feel without being excessively heavy.
The belt is generally user-friendly, requiring no significant learning curve. Proper sizing is important to maximize comfort and effectiveness.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt is built to last. Its durable leather construction and quality components suggest a long lifespan with proper care.
Maintaining the belt is relatively simple. Regular cleaning with a leather conditioner is recommended to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. The suede lining can be gently brushed to remove any dirt or debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt is primarily designed as a foundational piece for carrying other accessories. It does not include any additional accessories.
It is fully compatible with a wide range of duty gear, including holsters, magazine pouches, radio carriers, and other essential equipment. The 2.25-inch width ensures compatibility with most standard duty gear attachments.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 87-XX-05
Pros
- Exceptional Comfort: The suede lining provides all-day comfort, minimizing chafing and irritation.
- Durable Construction: High-quality leather ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
- Secure Fit: The double-tongued chrome buckle provides a secure and dependable closure.
- Professional Appearance: The plain finish and Cordovan color offer a classic and professional look.
- Wide Compatibility: The 2.25-inch width is compatible with most standard duty gear attachments.
Cons
- Limited Adjustability: Adjustment is limited to the buckle holes, requiring accurate sizing.
- Leather Requires Maintenance: Leather requires regular conditioning to prevent drying and cracking.
Who Should Buy Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 87-XX-05?
The Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a durable and comfortable duty belt for carrying essential gear. It is ideally suited for those who spend long hours on their feet and need a reliable platform to support their equipment. Those who value comfort and a professional appearance will also appreciate this belt.
This product may not be the best choice for individuals who prefer nylon or synthetic materials, or those who require a high degree of adjustability in their belt size. It’s also not ideal for those on a very tight budget, as there are cheaper, though less comfortable and durable, alternatives.
A must-have accessory for this belt is a quality set of keepers to ensure your pouches and holster remain securely in place. Leather conditioner is also essential to maintain the belt’s suppleness and longevity.
Conclusion on Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 87-XX-05
In summary, the Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt w/ Buckle, 2.25″ 87-XX-05 is a top-quality duty belt that offers exceptional comfort, durability, and a professional appearance. Its suede lining sets it apart from other duty belts, providing all-day comfort even under demanding conditions. The sturdy leather construction and secure buckle ensure reliable performance and longevity.
The price is justified given the quality of materials and construction, as well as the enhanced comfort it provides compared to cheaper alternatives. I would personally highly recommend this belt to anyone who needs a reliable and comfortable duty belt for carrying essential gear.
If you are looking for a duty belt that will provide all-day support, comfort, and a professional appearance, the Safariland 87 Suede Lined Belt is an excellent choice. Invest in your comfort and performance – you won’t be disappointed.