Similar to a lot of tactical gear, dump pouches are a product of necessity. When under fire you just don’t have the seconds to fiddle with your holsters to return an empty mag and you don’t want to throw it away because then the expenses will start piling up.
Because of this fact, most companies, both regular military, and private security providers have introduced dump pouches as a regular part of their gear system. This way soldiers will have a dedicated place to put in their expended mags, faulty or used gear, or any other type of trash that is either expensive or dangerous to throw away.
Dump pouches need to have three things:
- A strong connection to the rest of the gear
- Enough space for everything
- Easy way to put items in
Additionally, you will want to buy a pouch that won’t flap around when you are running or jumping. The items should also be secure and not fall out when you are on the move.
Tactical Benefits of a Dump Pouch
There are two main tactical benefits of a dump pouch, both in the execution and operational sense.
Primarily, your reload time is reduced because you don’t need to try to return the empty magazine to the holster. Even with a larger ammo container like an ammo pouch, this will take about a second if you hit it on the first try, and can take up to five with a tight holster.
Also, on the slightly wider tactical scale, you will have better oversight of your ammo capacity. While some experienced soldiers can know how much ammo they have left by just the weight, usually we need to look. And with a dump pouch, you will only see the holsters that are with full mags.
Types of Tactical Dump Pouches
While there are multiple models of dump pouches, they can all be classified into two categories: vertical and horizontal.
Horizontal dump pouches are primarily focused on dropping in empty mags and look a lot like a general modular utility pouch. With a firm connection and an easy way to open it, it is a good way to hold expended rifle mags.
But, if you need more space you will be better off with a vertical pouch. Models like the MDP™ Magazine Dump Pouch from UARM are virtually unnoticeable while not in use and stays folded weighing about 1/3rd of a pound. But, when it drops, it gives a lot of space to keep not only your mags but all other types of gear as well.
Fields tests show that if you know that you will only be disposing of empty magazines, a horizontal pouch will probably work better.
But, if you have a lot of ammo, and may need to carry back faulty gear, instruments, or any other type of tool, you will be better off with the significantly larger capacity of the vertical pouch.