First Impressions of Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light
The Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light promises a new level of durability and performance for duty-grade holsters. This offering from Safariland aims to provide enhanced security and faster draw speeds for law enforcement and tactical professionals. Its compatibility with Glock 17s equipped with compact lights like the Streamlight TLR-7 is a crucial selling point.
I’ve spent over a decade working with various holsters, and finding the right balance between retention, speed, and durability is a constant pursuit. My current duty holster, while reliable, feels a bit bulky and slow on the draw, especially under pressure. I needed a holster that could handle the rigors of daily use while providing a smooth and secure draw, especially when paired with a weapon-mounted light.
Upon unboxing, the Safarivault immediately impressed me with its solid construction and clean lines. The SafariSeven material feels incredibly robust, and the overall design screams durability. It’s noticeably lighter than my current Kydex holster, which is a welcome change.
Compared to the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 2 and the Galco Fletch, the Safariland Safarivault appears to offer a more refined balance of retention and accessibility. The Serpa, while popular, always felt a bit clunky, and the Fletch wasn’t designed for weapon lights. The Safarivault’s design seemed purpose-built to address these issues.
My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. The Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light certainly looks the part, but the real test will be how it performs under real-world conditions. If it lives up to its promises, it could become my go-to duty holster.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test of the Safariland Safarivault took place at the local shooting range, followed by integration into my daily patrol routine. I ran drills focusing on drawing, reholstering, and movement while maintaining weapon security. The holster was mounted on my duty belt using the standard Safariland belt loop attachment.
The Safarivault performed admirably in dry conditions, offering a smooth and consistent draw. Reholstering was surprisingly easy, thanks to the magnetic holstering guidance system. However, I did notice a slight learning curve with the ALS (Automatic Locking System) release.
Initially, I experienced some fumbling with the ALS under stress. It required a slightly different thumb placement than my previous holster. A few hours of dedicated practice remedied this issue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light has proven its mettle. It has endured daily wear and tear, including exposure to rain, dust, and the occasional bump against hard surfaces. The SafariSeven material shows no signs of scratching or deformation.
Cleaning the holster is a breeze, requiring only a damp cloth and mild soap. The open muzzle design effectively prevents debris buildup, which is a significant improvement over some of my previous holsters. The retention system remains secure and reliable, even after repeated use.
Compared to my old Kydex holster, the Safarivault is significantly more comfortable and durable. The Kydex would often develop cracks or stress fractures over time, but the SafariSeven material appears to be much more resilient. The Safariland Safarivault has undoubtedly exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light
Specifications
The Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light is specifically designed for the Glock 17 pistol equipped with a Streamlight TLR-7 or similar compact weapon light. It is also compatible with the Glock 19 with the same light. The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend.
- Gun Fit: Glock 17 w/ Streamlight TLR-7; Glock 19 w/ Streamlight TLR-7.
- Holster Type: Outside the Waistband (OWB).
- Holster Material: SafariSeven.
- Retention Level: Level I.
- Color: Black.
- Fastener/Closure Type: Hood (ALS – Automatic Locking System).
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The precise gun fit ensures proper retention and prevents accidental dislodging of the weapon. The SafariSeven material offers exceptional durability and resistance to the elements. Level I retention provides a good balance between security and speed of draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light excels in both performance and functionality. The ALS system provides secure retention while allowing for a quick and intuitive draw once mastered. The holster body’s increased structural integrity provides confidence that your weapon is safe from dislodgement.
The self-clearing optic cover accommodates a wide range of red dot sights, which is essential for modern duty pistols. The open muzzle design prevents debris from interfering with the firearm and allows for the use of threaded barrels or compensators. Overall, the Safarivault meets and often exceeds expectations for a Level 1 duty holster.
The magnetic holstering guidance system works as advertised, effectively stabilizing the slide during reholstering. This is a welcome feature that speeds up the reholstering process, especially under stress.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland Safarivault features a streamlined design that minimizes bulk while maximizing functionality. The SafariSeven material provides a comfortable feel against the body, reducing irritation during extended wear. The holster’s design promotes a natural grip during the draw stroke, minimizing wasted movement.
The ALS release is well-positioned and easy to access with the thumb, although, as mentioned, it requires some practice to master. The holster is lightweight and doesn’t add unnecessary weight to the duty belt. The Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light is a user-friendly design with a minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven material is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. This ensures that the holster will withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The simple design makes maintenance a breeze.
Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is typically all that’s required to keep the holster in good working order. The Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light is built to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Safarivault is compatible with a wide range of Safariland mounting options, including belt loops, drop legs, and MOLLE attachments. This allows for a high degree of customization to suit individual preferences and mission requirements. The optic cover accommodates a variety of red dot sights.
The open muzzle design allows for the use of threaded barrels and compensators, providing further customization options. While the holster itself doesn’t offer direct grip modifications, the compatibility with different mounting platforms provides ample opportunity for customization.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The SafariSeven material withstands extreme conditions and resists wear and tear.
- Secure Retention: The ALS system provides Level 1 retention with a fast and intuitive draw.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Accommodates a wide range of pistol optics.
- Compact Light Compatibility: Designed specifically for Glock 17/19 with Streamlight TLR-7.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple design and durable materials make cleaning and maintenance a breeze.
Cons
- The ALS requires practice to master under stress.
- Level 1 retention may not be sufficient for all duty applications.
Who Should Buy Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light?
The Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and tactical professionals who require a durable, reliable, and fast duty holster. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who use red dot sights and weapon-mounted lights.
Individuals who require a higher level of retention (Level II or III) may want to consider other options. Those who do not use a weapon-mounted light or red dot sight may find the specific design features of this holster unnecessary.
A must-have accessory is a Safariland mounting platform that best suits the user’s needs (e.g., belt loop, drop leg, MOLLE). Regular practice with the ALS system is essential to ensure proficiency and confidence in real-world scenarios.
Conclusion on Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light
The Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light is a well-designed and highly durable duty holster that offers a great balance of retention, speed, and comfort. The SafariSeven material and robust construction ensure that this holster will withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.
The price is justified given the quality of materials and the level of performance that the Safarivault provides. The magnetic holstering guidance system makes reholstering easier.
I would highly recommend the Safariland Safarivault Level 1 Rds Duty Holster For Glock 17 W/ Compact Light to anyone looking for a reliable and fast duty holster that is compatible with red dot sights and weapon-mounted lights. Upgrade your duty rig today and experience the Safariland difference!