What Makes Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models Stand Out?
In the realm of concealed carry, finding the right holster is paramount. The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models, crafted by Safariland, aims to provide a secure, rapid-access, and comfortable carry solution. Its ALS (Automatic Locking System), combined with the durable SafariSeven nylon blend construction, promises a blend of retention and reliability often sought after.
My journey to this particular holster began with a growing frustration. I needed a reliable, low-profile holster for my Glock 19 that could withstand harsh conditions and allow for a quick, confident draw. Several holsters had failed me in the past, either proving uncomfortable for all-day wear, or lacking the necessary retention for dynamic situations, hence my search.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of ruggedness. The SafariSeven material felt incredibly robust, and the ALS system clicked into place with a satisfying assurance. The holster felt lightweight, yet incredibly strong, a key factor for comfortable all-day carry.
Compared to my previous Kydex holster and a leather IWB option, the Safariland stood out immediately. The Kydex offered similar retention, but was abrasive on my firearm’s finish. The leather holster was comfortable, but lacked the positive retention and durability I needed.
I was cautiously optimistic upon receiving the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models. The reputation of Safariland preceded it, and the features promised seemed ideal for my needs; I hoped it would live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test came during a three-day defensive pistol course in the high desert of Nevada. The dry, dusty environment would push the holster’s resistance to the elements. We drilled draw strokes and re-holstering in various positions.
The holster performed admirably, even when coated in fine dust. The ALS system provided positive retention during movement, and the straight-up draw was surprisingly intuitive after a few practice runs. There was no need to consciously think to disengage the ALS during a stressful draw.
The initial break-in period was minimal; the ALS system functioned smoothly from the start. I did notice a slight pressure point on my hip after extended wear, but this was easily remedied with a slight adjustment to the paddle position.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models continues to impress. It has become my go-to holster for everyday carry, range days, and even some light hiking.
The holster has shown no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being subjected to daily use and exposure to varying weather conditions. The SafariSeven material has proven to be scratch-resistant, and the ALS system remains smooth and reliable. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland offers a superior blend of security, comfort, and durability. It has exceeded my expectations, providing a reliable and confidence-inspiring carry solution.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models
Specifications
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models boasts several key specifications. The holster features the ALS (Automatic Locking System) for secure weapon retention. It’s constructed from SafariSeven, a proprietary nylon blend.
The holster is designed for open-top carry without SLS (Self Locking System) for rapid weapon retrieval. It is built with raised stand-off surfaces inside to allow air circulation and moisture drainage. It offers high heat and low cold tolerances, ranging from 300 degrees F to -50 degrees F. The holster is fully submersible in water without losing shape or function, with a matte finish to reduce reflection.
These specifications translate directly to enhanced performance. The ALS system guarantees firearm retention. The SafariSeven material ensures durability and minimal wear on the firearm’s finish.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models performs its job exceptionally well. The ALS system provides a secure lock, and the straight-up draw is fast and efficient. The holster retains the weapon securely during dynamic movement, yet allows for rapid access when needed.
The ALS is the highlight; it provides peace of mind knowing the firearm is secure. A slight improvement could be made in the paddle’s curvature for more comfortable all-day wear. The holster meets and generally exceeds expectations for concealed carry.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models features a well-thought-out design, built for both durability and comfort. The SafariSeven material is lightweight yet robust, and the paddle is designed to ride close to the body for enhanced concealment. The injection-molded paddle and belt loop are designed for comfort and adjustability.
The holster is surprisingly user-friendly. The ALS system is easy to learn and intuitive to operate. It doesn’t take long to master the draw stroke and re-holstering process.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models is built to last. The SafariSeven material is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches, abrasions, and the elements. This holster is meant for professional use and is built accordingly.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is typically all that’s needed to keep the holster clean and functioning properly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models comes with an injection-molded belt loop. The belt loop is user-adjustable for cant and can be worn cross draw. There aren’t extensive customization options beyond the included belt loop.
It is compatible with other Safariland mounting options, such as the QLS (Quick Locking System). This adds modularity and allows the holster to be easily transferred between different platforms.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models
Pros
- Secure ALS (Automatic Locking System) provides excellent weapon retention.
- Durable SafariSeven material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and the elements.
- Open-top design allows for a fast and efficient draw.
- The holster can be submerged in water indefinitely and still maintain shape and function
- Injection-molded paddle is highly concealable and rides close to the body
Cons
- The initial price point is comparatively high.
- The paddle design may not be ideal for all body types, potentially causing pressure points with extended wear.
Who Should Buy Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models?
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible concealed carriers who prioritize security, reliability, and durability. It’s also a solid choice for those operating in harsh environments where exposure to the elements is a concern.
Those seeking an extremely low-profile IWB (Inside the Waistband) holster or those on a very tight budget might want to explore other options. People who prefer more conventional retention methods (e.g., friction-based holsters) might find the ALS system unnecessary.
A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster stability and weight distribution. Consider a Safariland QLS system for added modularity and the ability to quickly transfer the holster between different platforms.
Conclusion on Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models is a top-tier concealed carry solution that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and reliability. While the initial investment may be higher than some alternatives, the peace of mind and performance it provides are well worth the cost.
The price is certainly justified given the materials, features and performance. Safariland holsters are known to last, and are in professional use by law enforcement and military members around the world.
I would absolutely recommend the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster – 1 out of 2 models to anyone seeking a dependable and confidence-inspiring concealed carry holster. If you value security, durability, and a smooth, reliable draw, then this holster is definitely worth considering.