What Makes Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models offers a unique blend of security and accessibility. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster combines their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a design optimized for concealed carry. This holster piqued my interest due to its promise of a fast draw while maintaining a secure hold – a critical balance for anyone carrying a firearm for self-defense.
I’ve always prioritized secure firearm retention, but the trade-off often felt like a slower, more deliberate draw. I needed a holster that could bridge that gap, allowing for a natural and rapid presentation of the weapon without sacrificing peace of mind. The Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models seemed to offer exactly that.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was of a well-made, robust piece of kit. The SafariSeven nylon blend felt significantly more durable than the Kydex holsters I’m accustomed to. Its lightweight nature was also a pleasant surprise.
Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa holster and a Blade-Tech Total Eclipse, the Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models stood out with its lower profile and the ALS system. I chose it over the Blackhawk due to concerns about the Serpa’s release mechanism under stress, and over the Blade-Tech for the added security the ALS provides. I was excited to test its speed and security in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models at an outdoor shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. I also used it during a concealed carry course that involved dynamic movement and simulated scenarios. The weather was warm and dry, offering ideal conditions for an initial assessment.
The ALS system took a few repetitions to master, but once I found the correct thumb placement, the draw became incredibly smooth and fast. Even with sweaty hands from the summer heat, the grip remained secure and the draw consistent. After repeated draws, I became very familiar with its function and confident with its draw speed.
The only initial issue was adjusting the paddle position to find the optimal ride height for concealment and comfort.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models has proven to be remarkably durable. I have used it both for training and daily concealed carry. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even around the ALS release mechanism.
The SafariSeven material has resisted scratches and abrasions effectively. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes any accumulated dirt or grime. It significantly outperforms my previous Kydex holsters in terms of comfort and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models
Specifications
The Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models is constructed from SafariSeven, a proprietary nylon blend, which offers extreme temperature tolerance. It is compatible with a variety of subcompact firearms, depending on the specific model selected from the 23 available options. The holster includes the 571BL Paddle attachment, designed for close-to-the-body carry.
The Automatic Locking System (ALS) engages automatically upon holstering, providing secure retention until manually released. These specifications are crucial because they directly affect the holster’s durability, security, and comfort – all vital for concealed carry. The temperature resistance is particularly important for those in harsh climates.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models excels at blending security with rapid accessibility. The ALS mechanism provides a confident level of retention, preventing unauthorized removal of the firearm. The open-top design, coupled with the smooth ALS release, allows for a surprisingly fast and natural draw.
The primary strength is definitely the balance between retention and speed. The main improvement could be to offer more adjustability in the cant (angle) of the holster. It exceeds expectations in terms of durability and resistance to the elements.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the SafariSeven material providing a sturdy yet lightweight platform. The holster rides close to the body, which aids in concealment and minimizes printing. There is a slight learning curve to mastering the ALS release, but the design is intuitive and quickly becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models is built to last, thanks to the robust SafariSeven construction. The non-abrasive material also protects the firearm’s finish. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster comes standard with the 571BL Paddle attachment. Safariland offers various other mounting options that are compatible, such as belt loops and quick-locking systems (QLS). While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization, the ability to swap mounting platforms provides versatility.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides a secure hold, preventing accidental or unauthorized firearm removal.
- Fast Draw Speed: The open-top design, combined with the ALS release, allows for a rapid and natural draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven material is resistant to weather, temperature extremes, and abrasions.
- Comfortable Concealment: The low-profile design and close-to-the-body carry aid in effective concealment.
- Easy Maintenance: The holster is simple to clean and requires minimal upkeep.
Cons
- Requires practice to master the ALS release.
- Limited cant adjustment.
Who Should Buy Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models?
The Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models is perfect for law enforcement, security personnel, and responsible citizens who prioritize both firearm security and rapid accessibility for concealed carry. It is ideal for individuals who operate in various environments and require a durable and reliable holster. Those who should skip this product are individuals who prefer a holster with adjustable cant or those who are not willing to invest time in mastering the ALS release.
A must-have modification would be experimenting with different mounting options to find the best fit and carry position.
Conclusion on Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models
The Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models delivers on its promise of secure, yet accessible concealed carry. At $73.00, the price is justified given the holster’s robust construction, reliable retention system, and overall performance. I would personally recommend it to anyone seeking a high-quality holster that balances security and speed.
If you’re looking for a holster that provides peace of mind without sacrificing a quick draw, give the Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 23 models a serious look. It might just be the perfect fit for your concealed carry needs.