Decisions, Decison, Belt vs Pocket Carry your spare mag pouch
Just like choosing your holster, picking how and where you carry a spare magazine is a personal decision—one that often evolves over time. Your mag carry method will depend on your wardrobe, daily activity level, comfort tolerance, and most importantly, your willingness to train. Whether you’re a seasoned concealed carrier or just getting started, you’ll probably experiment with several different styles before landing on what works best for you.
One of the biggest decisions you'll face? Pocket mag pouches vs. belt-mounted mag carriers. Let’s break it down.
Pocket Mag Pouches
Carrying a spare mag in your pocket sounds simple—and it can be—with the right gear. That’s where ExtraCarry comes in.
Unlike tossing a mag in your pocket loose (which leads to lint, shifting, and an awkward, slow draw), the ExtraCarry mag pouch clips inside your pocket, offering a secure, upright position. It indexes your magazine the same way every time, making retrieval smooth and consistent. From the outside, it looks like a pocketknife or multi-tool—no one’s the wiser.
For many people, especially those who prioritize discreet EDC (Every Day Carry), this is a game-changer. You can wear jeans, cargo pants, or even slacks without needing a larger belt or outer garment. It’s perfect for non-permissive environments or just casual everyday wear where traditional belt gear would stand out.
But keep in mind: not all pants have equal pocket space. If you’re carrying a full-size spare mag, you’ll want to test your draw and comfort throughout the day to ensure it works with your clothing style.
Belt-Mounted Mag Carriers
There’s no doubt a good belt-mounted carrier gives you solid retention and fast access. Kydex options from brands like Tulster or Comp-Tac are durable and secure, ideal for training, range work, or duty use.
For OWB carriers, concealment often takes a back seat unless you’re layering with a jacket or untucked shirt. IWB mag holders can be a little more discreet, but they introduce the same challenges as IWB holsters—tight waistbands, limited comfort when seated, and potential printing depending on your setup.
Personally, I’ve run belt-mounted carriers in training courses and matches where speed matters more than concealment. But in everyday life—running errands, going to work, traveling—I don’t always want to gear up like I’m heading into a tactical scenario. That’s when the ExtraCarry pouch becomes my go-to.
Comfort and Practicality
Let’s face it—most of us are more likely to carry every day if it’s comfortable and convenient. That’s why the ExtraCarry mag pouch shines. It doesn’t demand a larger belt, special cover garments, or a tactical-looking setup. Just clip it in and go.
It stays put in your pocket, keeps your mag clean and properly oriented, and doesn’t flop around or shift like some minimalist belt carriers do when not supported by a stiff gun belt. Whether you’re hiking, driving, or just out with the family, it’s one less thing to worry about.
No One-Size-Fits-All
There’s no perfect mag carry method for everyone. What works for you might not work for someone else—and that’s okay. Try both. Train with both. Understand the trade-offs.
For me, the ExtraCarry pocket mag pouch checks all the right boxes for discreet daily carry. It’s light, made in the USA, and incredibly low-profile. That’s probably why it’s become part of my default EDC setup over the last few years.
Practice Like You Carry
The most important part of any concealed carry setup? Training. You can have the best gear in the world, but if you don’t practice your draw, your reloads, and your response under stress, you’re just carrying gear—not capability.
Commit to regular dry-fire sessions. Get to the range when you can. Work reloads from your pocket mag pouch just as you would from your belt. Build the muscle memory now, so it’s there when you need it most.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer belt-mounted mag carriers or lean toward the clean, everyday convenience of an ExtraCarry pocket mag pouch, the key is choosing a setup that aligns with your lifestyle, wardrobe, and willingness to train.
Remember: A spare mag does you no good if it’s left at home. The best mag pouch is the one you’ll actually carry.