Maxpedition Side Opening Pouch

There is an old saying “Good things come in small packages” and the Maxpedition Side Opening Pouch (SOP) is a fine example of just how true that is. At just 5” x 3” x 6”, the pouch is nicely compact but surprisingly roomy. The main compartment is accessed through a dual parallel zip to open both the top and one side, to give unhindered access to the contents. The zip flap has a magnet in the end which will hold the flap closed, even when the zip is open, which is handy for faster access.

What’s in the pouch?

Inside the main compartment, there are mesh sleeve pockets on the sides, with elasticated rims, but the rest of the space is completely open.

A small compartment on the side of the pouch has an adjustable top flap and elasticated compression, making it ideal for holding a large folding knife securely and covered. On the front of the pouch, there is a small compartment with a zip that opens the top and both sides, with an internal mesh sleeve that is ideal for holding smaller items like keys. It also contains an elasticated strap ideal for securing a phone.

The pouch is attached to your belt, or any MOLLE-compatible system, with two substantial joining flaps that are closed with clever double-clip plastic fasteners that engage very securely. Fastening and unfastening the clips is a two-handed job but once closed, they cannot then be accidentally opened. The flaps are very deep, to accommodate the widest of belts, and wide enough to hold the pouch level and stop it tilting.

The pouch is made of a very durable nylon fabric with a ripstop weave and a Teflon fabric protector. Water and abrasion-resistant, it is double stitched at stress points and all seams are taped. At critical points the pouch is padded, to protect the contents, and weighing just 180-grams, it is extremely light.

Easy to carry

If you’re out shooting and want to take the bare minimum of gear, then this is a great carry option. A phone, keys, rangefinder, ammunition, and a knife all fit easily and securely and, if worn on your belt, the pouch keeps it all close to hand. The double zip opening gives quick and easy access to the contents and the magnet in the tongue of the flap allows you to speed up access while keeping the contents safe and secure.

It is surprising just how much work, effort, and detail has gone into this small pouch. Maxpedition has put the same quality and workmanship into this product as it does for its full-sized backpacks, and everything down to the YKK zips is top-notch. The result is a very practical and compact carry for the essential kit you might need. It might seem a little expensive for its size, but when you take a close look at all the features, it is still actually pretty good value for money.