Safariland 7ts Als/sls Belt Slide Holster Review

First Impressions of Safariland 7ts Als/sls Belt Slide Holster

The Safariland 7ts Als/sls Belt Slide Holster promises a blend of security and accessibility, a crucial balance for anyone carrying a firearm, whether for duty or personal defense. Safariland is a trusted name in the law enforcement and military communities, known for durable and reliable holsters, and this model aims to continue that tradition with its innovative 7ts material and proven ALS/SLS locking mechanisms. This combination suggests a holster built to withstand harsh conditions while providing a secure and intuitive draw.

I needed a holster that could stand up to the rigors of daily carry in demanding environments, offering both retention and rapid access. I’ve always prioritized security, but quick deployment is equally critical in a high-pressure situation.

Unboxing the Safariland 7ts Als/sls Belt Slide Holster, I immediately noticed the distinct texture of the 7ts material; it felt robust and looked resistant to scratches and abrasions. The holster was surprisingly lightweight, which is a welcome change from some of the bulkier polymer models I’ve used in the past. The build quality appeared solid, with clean lines and no obvious defects.

Compared to a Blade-Tech Total Eclipse or a Blackhawk Serpa, the Safariland seemed to prioritize a more streamlined profile and enhanced retention. I chose the Safariland because of its reputation for superior security features without sacrificing speed – a crucial aspect that the others seemed to compromise.

My first impression was definitely positive; the Safariland 7ts Als/sls Belt Slide Holster felt like a serious piece of gear, built for serious use. I was excited to see how it would perform in real-world conditions and if it could live up to the Safariland name.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7ts Als/sls Belt Slide Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 7ts Als/sls Belt Slide Holster at an outdoor shooting range during a tactical training course. The day involved dynamic movements, simulated scenarios, and rapid-fire drills.

The holster performed admirably in the dusty environment, with the 7ts material showing no signs of scuffing or degradation. The draw stroke was smooth and consistent, even with gloved hands, after a brief period of familiarization with the ALS/SLS release mechanisms. There were no unexpected snags or malfunctions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily carry and repeated training sessions, the Safariland 7ts Als/sls Belt Slide Holster has proven to be remarkably durable. The 7ts material continues to resist wear and tear, and the locking mechanisms function just as smoothly as they did on day one.

I’ve noticed minimal signs of wear, even with regular exposure to sweat, dirt, and impacts. Cleaning is simple, usually just requiring a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth. Compared to some of my previous kydex holsters, the Safariland shows significantly less abrasion from the gun itself.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7ts Als/sls Belt Slide Holster

Specifications

The Safariland 7ts Als/sls Belt Slide Holster utilizes the Safariland 7ts construction, a proprietary nylon blend that is highly resistant to heat, cold, and abrasion. It features both the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Self Locking System (SLS) for dual-level retention.

The holster is designed to accommodate specific firearms, with models available for a wide range of handguns, including Glocks, Sigs, and 1911s; weights will vary slightly, but are generally around 8-10 ounces. The belt slide attachment is designed for belts up to 2.25 inches wide; this ensures compatibility with most duty belts.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 7ts Als/sls Belt Slide Holster excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The ALS and SLS systems work in tandem to provide a high level of security, preventing unauthorized removal of the weapon.

The draw stroke is intuitive once you become familiar with the release mechanisms, requiring only a thumb release for the SLS and a finger release for the ALS. One potential area for improvement would be to offer more adjustability in the tension of the ALS mechanism. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 7ts Als/sls Belt Slide Holster is designed with a focus on functionality and durability. The 7ts material is lightweight and strong, providing a comfortable carry experience without sacrificing structural integrity.

The holster’s profile is relatively slim, minimizing printing and allowing for comfortable concealed carry under a jacket or outer garment. The learning curve is minimal, as the ALS/SLS system is fairly intuitive with a bit of practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 7ts Als/sls Belt Slide Holster is built to last. The 7ts material is incredibly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal, typically requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap; the simple design minimizes the risk of dust or debris accumulation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 7ts Als/sls Belt Slide Holster is primarily designed as a standalone holster, and doesn’t come with extensive accessories. However, it’s compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms, allowing users to adapt it to different carry positions and setups.

While there aren’t extensive customization options for the holster itself, the ability to integrate it with Safariland‘s broader ecosystem of accessories adds significant versatility; this makes it easy to switch between belt carry, MOLLE attachment, or other mounting solutions.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 7ts Als/sls Belt Slide Holster