First Impressions of Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a
The Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a promises a blend of security and speed, a critical balance for anyone carrying a firearm, especially outside the waistband (OWB). Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster world, and this model aims to bring their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) to a more concealable package. The fact that it’s designed specifically for a Glock 17 with a TLR-7/7A light immediately piqued my interest, as finding a holster that accommodates both the firearm and a weapon light without sacrificing concealment can be a challenge.
For years, I’ve struggled with finding the “perfect” OWB holster that balances retention, accessibility, and comfort. Many OWB holsters are either too bulky for effective concealment or lack sufficient retention for peace of mind. I was searching for a holster that offered a confident draw while maintaining a slim profile for everyday carry.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a felt solid and well-constructed. The Safariseven nylon blend felt durable, and the holster had a reassuring weight without being overly heavy. It was immediately apparent that this wasn’t some cheap, flimsy piece of plastic; it felt like a serious piece of gear.
I’ve used the Blackhawk Serpa and the Galco Concealable OWB holster in the past. The Serpa, while secure, had a draw that I never fully trusted under stress. The Galco was comfortable, but lacked the positive retention I desired for OWB carry. This Safariland holster seemed to bridge the gap, offering both retention and a smooth draw.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to test the ALS system and see if it lived up to the hype, but I also knew that holster comfort is highly subjective and dependent on individual body type and carry style. I was eager to see if the Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a would finally be the OWB holster I had been searching for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a at my local shooting range. The weather was typical for a summer day: humid and sunny, a good test for both comfort and draw speed under less-than-ideal conditions. I put the holster through its paces with a series of drills, focusing on draw speed, re-holstering, and overall comfort during movement.
The ALS system proved intuitive to use. With a little practice, the thumb swipe became second nature, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke. The holster retained the firearm securely, even during rapid movements and simulated scenarios, but it did require a very small amount of getting used to as you need to be very intentional with your draw to disengage the ALS.
The only minor issue I encountered during my first range session was a slight rubbing against my skin from the holster’s edge after several hours of use, but it was minor.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a has proven to be a reliable and comfortable carry option. I’ve worn it during daily activities, including running errands, hiking, and even attending a weekend outdoor training course. The Safariseven material has held up well, showing no signs of wear or scratching.
The holster is easy to maintain. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use to remove any dirt or sweat. The open muzzle design also allows for easy debris removal, a welcome feature for those who train in dusty environments.
Compared to my previous OWB holsters, the Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a offers a superior balance of retention, comfort, and concealment. The ALS system provides a level of security that I didn’t have with my previous open-top holsters, and the overall design is noticeably slimmer and more comfortable than other OWB options I’ve tried. It definitely outperforms any OWB holster that I have tried for my Glock 17 w/ TLR7A.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Safariland.
- Gun Fit: Glock 17 Gen 3-4/Glock 17 Gen 5/Glock 17 MOS Gen 3-4/Glock 17 MOS Gen 5 W/TLR-7/7A.
- Hand: Right.
- Material: Safariseven non-marking nylon blend.
- Retention System: Automatic Locking System (ALS).
- Compatibility: Compact red dot sights and subcompact lights (TLR-7/7A).
These specifications are significant because they dictate the holster’s compatibility, durability, and overall performance. The specific gun fit ensures a secure and proper fit for the designated firearms, while the Safariseven material provides resistance to weather and temperature changes. The ALS is the core of its retention capability and ensures that the weapon is secure until intentionally drawn.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a performs its primary function admirably: securely carrying a Glock 17 with a TLR-7/7A light in a concealable OWB configuration. The ALS system provides excellent retention, ensuring that the firearm remains secure during movement and potential confrontations. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent once the ALS release is mastered.
One minor weakness is the potential for the ALS release to be slightly stiff when new. A little practice, however, quickly resolves this issue. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for retention, accessibility, and concealment.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a is well-designed and ergonomically sound. The Safariseven material is both durable and lightweight, contributing to the holster’s overall comfort. The holster rides close to the body, aiding in concealment.
There is a small learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release, but the system is intuitive and quickly becomes second nature. The holster’s design allows for a full firing grip on the firearm before drawing, a critical factor for safe and effective weapon handling.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a is built to last. The Safariseven material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. The holster shows no signs of wear and tear after several weeks of consistent use.
Maintenance is simple: wipe down with a damp cloth as needed. The open muzzle design prevents debris buildup, further reducing maintenance requirements. This holster is expected to provide years of reliable service with minimal upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a is designed to be used “as-is,” but it is compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms, allowing for adjustments to ride height and cant. The primary customization lies in its compatibility with the TLR-7/7A light and the red dot sight.
The holster does not come with additional accessories beyond what is required for standard use. Its compatibility with Safariland mounting options allows users to adapt the holster to their specific carry preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a
Pros
- Provides excellent retention with the ALS system, offering peace of mind during active movement.
- Offers a smooth and consistent draw stroke once the ALS release is mastered.
- Constructed from durable Safariseven material, ensuring long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Designed for OWB concealment, making it ideal for everyday carry and tactical use.
- Compatible with compact red dot sights and TLR-7/7A lights, catering to modern firearm configurations.
Cons
- The ALS release may be slightly stiff when new, requiring practice to master.
- The holster’s edge may cause minor rubbing against the skin after extended use, but this can be mitigated with proper clothing.
Who Should Buy Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a?
The Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize retention, accessibility, and concealment. It’s also well-suited for those who carry a Glock 17 with a TLR-7/7A light and a red dot sight, as it offers a secure and comfortable carry solution for this specific configuration.
This holster might not be ideal for individuals who prefer a minimalist holster design or those who are completely new to firearms and require a simpler retention system. Those looking for maximum concealment may want to consider an IWB (Inside the Waistband) holster instead.
A quality belt designed for concealed carry is a must-have accessory for this holster. This will ensure proper support and stability, maximizing comfort and concealment.
Conclusion on Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a
The Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a is a well-designed and expertly crafted holster that delivers on its promise of security, speed, and concealment. Safariland continues to produce high-quality holsters at affordable prices. The ALS system provides exceptional retention, while the Safariseven material ensures long-lasting durability.
The price of $95.00 is justified by the holster’s quality, features, and overall performance. It provides a level of security and comfort that is unmatched by many other holsters in its price range.
I would highly recommend the Safariland Solis Als Concealment Owb Holster For Glock 17 W/ Tlr7/7a to anyone looking for a reliable and concealable OWB holster for their Glock 17 with a TLR-7/7A light. If you’re searching for a holster that balances retention, accessibility, and comfort, this is the holster for you. Invest in your security and carry with confidence!