Friday, May 25, 2012

Review: 3x30 M16 magazine pouch

Following on from my review of a "vintage" butt-pack I did a little while back, here is another piece of old kit that still serves really well. This is a 3x30 M16 magazine pouch, which I collected from a disposal store a few years ago. These are based on a Vietnam era pattern, and the ones I have are made of a woodland camouflage pattern nylon and it seems these had a NSN of 8465-00-001-6482. It is designed to hold three 30 round M16 magazines, and has two "wings", one on each side which after doing some research I see are for hanging grenades.

So, what can I tell you about them? They are constructed of a light nylon, with tape sewn around the edges to contain any fraying. The front and back panels also feature a stiff plastic plate, sewn onto the nylon, which gives the pouch some rigidity and presumably protected against the material  tearing and the strain put on it by the hard magazines.  Internally the pouches originally had two strips of nylon tape dividing the mouth of the pouch into three, one for each magazine.

The lid has a plastic clip, the teeth of which are pinched to release. As you can see, I stuffed this one open with a ubiquitous Nerf magazine which is a bit too long for the width of the pouch. but you get the idea. This is an ALICE pouch, and has two clips at the back for attachment. The grenade clips are press studs (although one of mine has torn through the nylon). I also cut one of the internal straps, so that I can fill this particular pouch with larger items, such as the electronics pouch for my Stargate laser tag kit.

These are cheap, light and fairly sturdy pouches. They are quite easy to come by and with a few modifications (cutting the internal straps) give quite a large storage capacity, as well as the two wing pouches on the sides, even if they are oddly shaped and open.



2 comments:

  1. I recently acquired the M16 magazine pouch, and I must say it has exceeded my expectations in terms of functionality and reliability. As an avid shooter and someone who values a well-organized load-out, finding the right magazine Pouches is crucial, and the M16 pouch has certainly delivered on multiple fronts.

    First and foremost, the build quality is impressive. The durable construction ensures that the pouch can withstand the rigors of regular use, making it a reliable companion for various shooting scenarios. The choice of materials seems well thought out, striking a balance between toughness and weight, which is essential for those who prioritize mobility without compromising on durability.

    One of the standout features for me is the versatile design. The pouch accommodates M16 magazines snugly, providing a secure fit without sacrificing quick and easy access. The open-top design is particularly practical for swift reloads, and the adjustable retention system adds a layer of customization, allowing users to tailor the fit to their preferences.

    The MOLLE compatibility is a game-changer. It seamlessly integrates with my existing gear, allowing for a modular and customizable load-out. This adaptability is crucial for users who have specific preferences or need to adjust their equipment for different situations.

    I also appreciate the attention to detail in the design. The drainage grommet at the bottom of the pouch is a thoughtful addition, ensuring that water and debris don't accumulate and compromise the integrity of the magazines. It's these small details that demonstrate a commitment to practicality and user experience.

    In terms of value for money, the M16 magazine pouch stands out. It strikes a balance between quality and affordability, making it an attractive option for both seasoned shooters and those new to the world of tactical gear.

    In conclusion, the M16 magazine pouch has proven to be a reliable and efficient addition to my gear collection. Whether you're a professional in the field or an enthusiast hitting the range, this pouch is definitely worth considering for its durability, versatility, and overall performance. Highly recommended

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  2. This blog post regarding magazine Pouches is very informative and interesting. I got a lot of information from this post.

    ReplyDelete

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