Let’s Dive into Safariland 7378938411 7TS Black SafariSeven Nylon Blend Belt S&W M&P 9,40 Right
The Safariland 7378938411 7TS Black SafariSeven Nylon Blend Belt S&W M&P 9,40 Right is a concealment holster designed for Smith & Wesson M&P 9 and 40 pistols. Crafted by Safariland from their proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, it promises a blend of durability, weapon protection, and rapid access. This holster boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS), ensuring secure retention with a straightforward draw.
I was in the market for a new OWB (Outside the Waistband) holster for my M&P 9. My primary requirements were secure retention, comfortable concealed carry, and resistance to the harsh conditions I often encounter during training exercises. Several holsters were in contention, but the Safariland name and the promise of the SafariSeven material’s resilience ultimately swayed my decision.
Upon unboxing, the holster felt surprisingly lightweight yet robust. The SafariSeven nylon blend has a unique texture, feeling both smooth and incredibly strong. The build quality is immediately apparent, with clean lines and a secure, positive click when the firearm is holstered.
I considered other OWB options, including some Kydex models and another Safariland holster with a different retention system. I chose the 7378 7TS primarily for its ALS system, which I find more intuitive than thumb-break systems for rapid deployment, and the promise of SafariSeven’s non-abrasive qualities protecting my M&P’s finish. My first impression was one of cautious optimism.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7378938411 7TS Black SafariSeven Nylon Blend Belt S&W M&P 9,40 Right to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range during a practical pistol course. I spent the day running drills involving drawing, shooting on the move, and re-holstering under pressure. The holster performed admirably in the dusty conditions of the range; the raised stand-off surfaces inside prevented excessive dirt accumulation on the firearm.
The ALS system required a bit of practice to master, but quickly became second nature. I experienced no issues with the draw stroke, even with sweaty hands. After a full day of use, there was no noticeable wear on my M&P’s finish, confirming the non-abrasive nature of the Safariland SafariSeven material.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of weekly range trips and some light hiking while carrying concealed, the Safariland 7378 7TS has proven to be incredibly reliable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear beyond some minor cosmetic scuff marks on the holster’s exterior. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove any accumulated dirt or grime.
Compared to my previous experiences with Kydex holsters, the SafariSeven material seems to be far more forgiving on the firearm’s finish. This holster outperforms my expectations in terms of both retention and protection, solidifying its place as my go-to OWB option for my M&P 9.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7378938411 7TS Black SafariSeven Nylon Blend Belt S&W M&P 9,40 Right
Specifications
- The Safariland 7378938411 7TS Black SafariSeven Nylon Blend Belt S&W M&P 9,40 Right is designed specifically for Smith & Wesson M&P 9 and .40 caliber pistols. This ensures a snug, secure fit and optimal retention.
- The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend. This material is non-abrasive to the firearm’s finish, offering excellent protection against scratches and wear.
- It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon upon holstering and allows for a simple, straight-up draw once the release is deactivated. The ALS provides Level I Retention, balancing speed and security.
- The holster boasts extreme temperature tolerance, remaining structurally sound from 300 degrees Fahrenheit to -50 degrees Fahrenheit. This resilience is crucial in diverse environmental conditions.
- The injection-molded belt loop is user adjustable for cant and can be worn crossdraw. This versatility caters to individual preferences and carry styles.
- It’s a right-hand draw holster, designed to be worn on the right side of the body. Right-handed users will find the draw stroke intuitive and efficient.
- The open-top design facilitates quick weapon retrieval, crucial in dynamic situations. Speed is prioritized without sacrificing security.
- Raised stand-off surfaces inside the holster create airspace around the weapon. This allows dirt and moisture to quickly clear, preventing corrosion and malfunctions.
- The holster’s black finish provides a low-profile appearance, ideal for concealed carry. Discreetness is a key consideration for many users.
- The belt loop attachment system fits belts up to 1.5 inches wide. Most standard carry belts are compatible with this holster.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 7378938411 7TS Black SafariSeven Nylon Blend Belt S&W M&P 9,40 Right excels in its primary role: securely retaining and rapidly deploying a firearm. The ALS system is intuitive to operate with practice, providing a confident level of retention without impeding a smooth draw. The holster is comfortable to wear for extended periods, and the adjustable cant allows for personalized positioning for optimal access.
The primary strength of this holster lies in its balance of speed, security, and protection. However, the ALS system requires dedicated practice to master; users unfamiliar with this type of retention may initially find it slower than a simple friction fit. Overall, the holster exceeds expectations and proves to be a reliable and versatile option for concealed carry.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 7378 7TS is exceptional. The SafariSeven material feels robust and durable, and the injection-molded belt loop is equally well-made. The holster is surprisingly lightweight, minimizing added bulk and enhancing comfort.
There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system. However, once mastered, it becomes second nature and provides a secure, reliable draw. The adjustable cant is a welcome feature, allowing users to fine-tune the holster’s position for maximum comfort and accessibility.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the construction from SafariSeven nylon blend and the heavy-duty belt loop, this holster is built to last. The material’s resistance to extreme temperatures and abrasions suggests a long service life, even under demanding conditions. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 7378938411 7TS Black SafariSeven Nylon Blend Belt S&W M&P 9,40 Right comes standard with an injection-molded belt loop. This provides a secure and adjustable mounting platform.
Safariland offers a variety of accessories that are compatible with this holster. Users can swap out the belt loop for a paddle attachment, a drop leg platform, or other mounting options. This compatibility allows users to adapt the holster to different carry styles and operational requirements.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 7378938411 7TS Black SafariSeven Nylon Blend Belt S&W M&P 9,40 Right
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: SafariSeven nylon blend is incredibly tough and resistant to wear and tear.
- Secure Retention: The ALS system provides a high level of weapon security.
- Non-Abrasive Interior: Protects the firearm’s finish from scratches and wear.
- Adjustable Cant: Allows for personalized positioning for optimal comfort and access.
- Versatile Mounting Options: Compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms.
Cons
- ALS System Requires Practice: Mastering the ALS system takes time and dedicated training.
- Belt Loop Limited to 1.5″ Belts: May not be compatible with thicker tactical belts.
Who Should Buy Safariland 7378938411 7TS Black SafariSeven Nylon Blend Belt S&W M&P 9,40 Right?
The Safariland 7378938411 7TS Black SafariSeven Nylon Blend Belt S&W M&P 9,40 Right is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize secure retention and rapid deployment. It’s also an excellent choice for individuals who are concerned about protecting their firearm’s finish.
This holster may not be the best option for users who prefer simpler, friction-fit retention systems or those who are unwilling to invest time in mastering the ALS system.
A high-quality gun belt specifically designed for concealed carry is a must-have accessory. This will provide a stable and comfortable platform for the holster.
Conclusion on Safariland 7378938411 7TS Black SafariSeven Nylon Blend Belt S&W M&P 9,40 Right
The Safariland 7378938411 7TS Black SafariSeven Nylon Blend Belt S&W M&P 9,40 Right is a well-designed and highly functional holster that offers an excellent balance of security, durability, and comfort. The SafariSeven material provides superior protection for the firearm’s finish, and the ALS system provides a secure and reliable retention mechanism.
The price of $75.00 is justified given the holster’s quality and features. I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a dependable and versatile OWB option for their Smith & Wesson M&P 9 or .40 pistol. Invest in your peace of mind – you won’t regret it.
