Fear & Loading: AR-15 Magazine Pouches

by
posted on September 6, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
magpouch_1_img_7687-small.jpg

Not all AR-15 magazine pouches are created equal, and construction makes a huge difference in ease of use and longevity. Unfortunately, it’s common to overlook small details when you’re shopping for one of the least-expensive, non-recurring investments in your shooting gear.

Despite the fact the main function remains to keep a fresh load at hand, magazine pouch design has evolved significantly during the global war on terrorism. Flaps get in the way during a firefight, so those loose-fitting, multi-purpose Word War II-style designs evolved into snug and topless versions that often employ a pull tab on a bungee-style strap to secure the reload. 

When our troops anticipate trouble, they simply slide the tab/cord over to speed access. If the unexpected happens, the pull tab is quick in hand without looking.

It’s a great system for competitive shooters, but the need for reload speed isn’t quite as critical for the average shooter. Construction, however—if you prefer to avoid buying new pouches every few years—is.

The grit, grime and helicopter dust so common in the Sand Box take a toll on gear, and nylon/webbing is no exception. If it thrives there, it’ll survive years here. Tac Shield’s products are used by members of our military, and a look at the company’s Speed Load Rifle Molle Pouch provides a few of the things to consider in your next purchase. 

 

Yes, it comes with the bungee securing system, but unlike some I’ve seen the pull tab is large enough to find under stress—with gloves. The Dernier nylon there is doubled, and where it’s stitched, three layers thick.

The pouch is constructed of 1,000 Dernier, not 400 or 600. Ruggedness doesn’t count as much in civilian life as it does in a war zone, but after you’ve drug it across benches for a few years, slammed it in a few doors, tossed it into the mud, and used it to toboggan your rifle bag to the firing line, flimsier nylon dies a painful death.

There’s no seam or stitches at the bottom to fail—what a concept. There is, however, a drain hole to siphon off unexpected rain. It secures to molle systems quickly and efficiently, and offers more attachment webbing on the exterior. The pouch comes with a lifetime warrantee, is made in the United States and the company offers a program in which a portion of the profits from your purchase goes to benefit wounded warriors. The last three features may be the best.

I’ll be the first to admit, magazine pouches are a boring blog subject. After last weekend, however—where my fishing rod and camera tripod broke in concert, leaving me with nothing better to do than critique cricket chirping at a remote and scenic trout stream—I’m taking a serious look at all my gear, even the stuff I thought would last forever with careful use. 

Latest

Gotw Rra Lar 22 Tactical Carbine Web
Gotw Rra Lar 22 Tactical Carbine Web

Gun Of The Week: Rock River Arms LAR-22 Tactical Carbine

This week, we're on the range with the Rock River Arms LAR-22 Tactical Carbine, a rimfire variant of the AR-15 that's designed for reliability and gives enthusiasts a way to shoot affordably.

The Armed Citizen® July 11, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Japanese Last-Ditch Small Arms Of World War II

The crude assortment of fighting tools used by the Japanese during World War II give clues of an unprepared and unmatched last-ditch fight that ultimately lead to Allied victory.

Federal Ammunition Awards 2025 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships

Federal Ammunition recently awarded the 2025 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships to two 4-H shooting sports teen ambassadors.

2025 Optic Of The Year: Burris Eliminator 6

Even as new generation after new generation of Burris Eliminator continued to add more advanced technology and functionality, it remained odd-looking—until the launch of this year’s sixth-generation product, which is the first in the line that can mount atop a rifle using standard 34 mm scope rings.

I Have This Old Gun: Star Model B

Of the many Spanish-made firearms to emerge throughout the 19th and 20th century, one of the most recognizable is the Star Model B, largely due to its similarity to the Colt Model 1911.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.