First Impressions of Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV
The Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV holster, a name that rolls off the tongue about as easily as a loaded pistol in a tumble dryer, promises a secure and accessible carry solution for the Ruger American pistol. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and duty-grade gear, so my expectations were naturally high when I got my hands on this outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster. This holster piqued my interest specifically because of its SafariSeven nylon blend construction and the promise of minimal wear on my firearm.
I’ve been carrying a Ruger American 9mm for several years now, and finding the right holster has been an ongoing quest. I’ve tried several leather options that were comfortable initially but quickly lost their shape. I also had a Kydex holster that was secure but chewed up the finish on my slide. The Safariland seemed to offer the best of both worlds: durability and firearm protection.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was positive. The holster felt lightweight yet sturdy, and the SafariSeven nylon blend had a smooth, almost silky texture. The build quality appeared excellent, with tight seams and no visible flaws. I immediately compared it to a Blackhawk Serpa and a Galco leather holster that I own, noting the Safariland’s superior fit and finish and the innovative material compared to the others’ traditional construction. I was definitely intrigued and eager to put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV was at an outdoor shooting range during a training session. The weather was typical for early fall in my area: cool, with intermittent showers. I focused on drawing and reholstering drills, as well as movement exercises while keeping the firearm secured. The holster performed exceptionally well.
The draw stroke was smooth and consistent, with the firearm releasing cleanly with a deliberate tug. I experienced no fumbling or sticking, even with wet hands. Reholstering was equally easy, with a positive click confirming that the firearm was securely locked in place. It required very little getting used to, and the natural feel of the draw was apparent immediately.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple trips to the range and some light hiking, the Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on either the holster or my firearm’s finish. I’ve also paid close attention to its performance in different conditions.
I’ve carried it during light rain, dusty range days, and even in near-freezing temperatures, and it has performed flawlessly in each scenario. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes. Compared to my experiences with leather holsters, the Safariland requires significantly less maintenance and is far more resistant to the elements. I can confidently say that it outperforms any other OWB holster I’ve used for my Ruger American.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV
Specifications
The Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV is specifically designed for the Ruger American pistol in 9mm and .40 caliber. It is constructed from SafariSeven, a proprietary nylon blend developed by Safariland for exceptional durability and low maintenance. The holster features an open-top design for a quick draw and utilizes Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure retention.
This ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release to draw. The holster’s dimensions are approximately 8 x 4 x 3 inches, and it weighs around 6 ounces. The SafariSeven material is non-abrasive to protect the firearm’s finish and is impervious to moisture and extreme temperatures. These specs translate to a lightweight, durable, and secure holster that is comfortable to wear and easy to use.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV excels in its primary function: securely carrying and rapidly deploying a firearm. The ALS system provides excellent retention, preventing accidental dislodgement while allowing for a smooth and efficient draw stroke. The open-top design facilitates quick target acquisition.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and reliability, while a potential weakness could be the lack of adjustable retention. The holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-style OWB holster. It offers a perfect balance of security, accessibility, and durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV is designed with both functionality and comfort in mind. The SafariSeven material is lightweight and non-abrasive, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The holster rides close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing concealability under a jacket or vest.
The ALS thumb release is intuitively placed and easy to operate, even under stress. The holster has a slight learning curve due to the ALS system, but it quickly becomes second nature with practice. The build quality is exceptional, showcasing Safariland’s commitment to producing durable and reliable gear.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven construction of the Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV ensures its longevity. The material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures, making it suitable for a wide range of environments. With minimal care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a damp cloth and mild soap if necessary. The simple design minimizes potential failure points. The material’s resistance to moisture prevents rust and corrosion, further extending the holster’s lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV comes standard with a belt loop attachment that accommodates belts up to 1.75 inches wide. Safariland offers a wide range of compatible accessories, including different belt mounts, leg shrouds, and quick-release systems. It is also compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms like the QLS (Quick Locking System).
This allows for easy transfer of the holster between different carry configurations. While the holster itself doesn’t offer much in the way of direct customization, the variety of Safariland accessories provides ample opportunity to tailor the setup to individual needs. The QLS system is particularly valuable if you use multiple firearms and holsters, providing quick interchangeability.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV
Pros
- Secure retention with the ALS (Automatic Locking System).
- Durable SafariSeven construction for long-lasting performance.
- Smooth and fast draw stroke, enhancing efficiency in critical situations.
- Comfortable to wear for extended periods.
- Minimal maintenance required.
Cons
- Non-adjustable retention, which may be a concern for some users.
- Slight learning curve with the ALS release mechanism.
Who Should Buy Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV?
The Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize security, durability, and rapid access to their firearm. It is particularly well-suited for those who carry their Ruger American pistol in an OWB configuration. This holster is ideal for range training and competitive shooting.
Those who prefer a completely passive retention system or require adjustable retention should skip this product. A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure stability and comfort when carrying with this holster. Consider a Safariland QLS system for easy holster interchangeability.
Conclusion on Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV
The Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV is a top-tier OWB holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and accessibility. Its SafariSeven construction and ALS retention system provide a winning combination for those who demand the best from their gear. The price is justified considering the quality of materials and construction.
I would personally recommend this holster to anyone looking for a reliable and high-performing OWB carry solution for their Ruger American pistol. If you are serious about your self-defense and want a holster you can depend on, the Safariland 7377 RUGER AMERICAN 9/40 SAFSEV is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and peace of mind; you won’t regret it.