Safariland 7385 ALS Tactical Holster, Smith & – 1 out of 8 models Review

What Makes Safariland 7385 ALS Tactical Holster, Smith & – 1 out of 8 models Stand Out?

The Safariland 7385 ALS Tactical Holster, Smith & – 1 out of 8 models, a mouthful to say, but a serious piece of kit designed for professionals needing secure and rapid firearm deployment, immediately sets itself apart with its ALS (Automatic Locking System) and open-top design. Crafted from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, this holster promised both durability and protection for my Smith & Wesson M&P 9L. Having spent years fumbling with retention straps and struggling with awkward draws in high-pressure situations, I was eager to see if the 7385 ALS could truly offer the speed and security it advertised.

For years, I relied on a thumb-break holster, a classic design, but slow. I needed a holster that prioritized both retention and speed. The Safariland 7385 ALS promised exactly that.

Unboxing the holster, I was immediately struck by its robust construction and surprisingly lightweight feel. The SafariSeven material felt incredibly tough and non-abrasive. The flat dark earth color provided a professional, low-profile look.

Compared to my old kydex holster from a lesser-known brand and a leather thumb-break holster, the Safariland felt like a leap forward in both technology and ergonomics. The kydex was stiff and unforgiving, while the leather required constant maintenance and offered questionable retention. This holster promised a better balance of all.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The design seemed well-thought-out, but the true test would come on the range, under pressure. The ALS system looked very secure, but also looked very complicated.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7385 ALS Tactical Holster, Smith & – 1 out of 8 models to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 7385 ALS at an outdoor shooting range, simulating tactical scenarios with movement and rapid target acquisition. The weather was typical for the Pacific Northwest – damp and overcast. The range offered a mix of static targets and dynamic courses, perfect for stress-testing the holster.

The ALS system proved intuitive and lightning-fast. Once I got the hang of the release, drawing my M&P 9L became second nature. The open-top design allowed for an incredibly smooth and unobstructed draw stroke. The holster retained the weapon securely during rigorous movement, even when running and transitioning between shooting positions.

Initially, I fumbled with the ALS release a few times. It required a very deliberate straight-up draw. But after about an hour of practice, the motion became fluid and natural.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including weekly range sessions and participation in a tactical training course, the Safariland 7385 ALS has proven remarkably durable. There are no signs of wear and tear on the SafariSeven material. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly.

Cleaning the holster is a breeze. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dirt and grime. The internal stand-off surfaces, as advertised, prevent moisture and debris from accumulating around the firearm.

Compared to my older holsters, the Safariland is a clear winner in terms of both performance and durability. The kydex holster cracked after a few months of heavy use, while the leather one required constant oiling and still failed to provide adequate retention. The Safariland 7385 ALS has exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7385 ALS Tactical Holster, Smith & – 1 out of 8 models

Specifications

• This model, the Safariland 7385-819-552, is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P 9L 5-inch barrel variant without a thumb safety. This fit is crucial for optimal retention and draw speed.
• The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, known for its extreme durability and non-abrasive properties. This protects the firearm’s finish from scratches and wear.
• The ALS (Automatic Locking System) secures the weapon immediately upon holstering, preventing accidental dislodgement. This provides a high level of security without sacrificing draw speed.
• The open-top design eliminates the need for a secondary retention device like a thumb break or hood. This allows for a faster, more natural draw stroke.
• It features a standard double strap leg shroud with mounting holes for optional accessories. Allowing for customization and integration with other tactical gear.
• The adjustable vertical leg strap with quick release adds to the holster’s versatility and comfort. Allowing for a tailored fit and easy removal.

These specifications translate directly into a holster that is secure, durable, and comfortable to wear for extended periods. The ALS system provides peace of mind knowing the firearm is safely retained. The open top and smooth interior lining ensure a fast, snag-free draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 7385 ALS excels in its primary function: securely retaining and rapidly deploying a firearm. The ALS system provides a positive and audible click upon holstering, confirming that the weapon is locked in place. The draw stroke is smooth and natural, requiring only a thumb release to deactivate the locking mechanism.

The holster’s strengths lie in its simplicity and reliability. The ALS system is easy to learn and use, even under stress. The SafariSeven material is incredibly durable and resistant to abrasion, ensuring long-lasting performance. The only weakness is the specific firearm fit; it’s not a universal holster.

The Safariland 7385 ALS meets and even exceeds my expectations for a tactical holster. It offers a superior combination of security, speed, and durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional. The SafariSeven material feels incredibly robust, yet surprisingly lightweight. The holster is molded to perfectly fit the Smith & Wesson M&P 9L, providing a secure and comfortable fit.

The holster is generally user-friendly, but there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS release. The positioning of the release lever is intuitive, but it requires practice to master the proper thumb movement.

Durability & Maintenance

The SafariSeven material is designed to withstand years of use and abuse. The holster shows no signs of wear and tear after several months of hard use. The ALS mechanism is robust and reliable, showing no signs of degradation.

Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep the holster clean.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 7385 ALS is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various leg straps, drop-down platforms, and tactical mounting systems. The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching magazine pouches, knives, or other essential gear.

The holster is designed to work seamlessly with other Safariland products, allowing for a fully customized and integrated tactical setup.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 7385 ALS Tactical Holster, Smith & – 1 out of 8 models

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Who Should Buy Safariland 7385 ALS Tactical Holster, Smith & – 1 out of 8 models?

Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a secure and rapid-deployment holster for their Smith & Wesson M&P 9L.

Who should skip this product? Individuals who own a different firearm model or those who prefer a more traditional retention system.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A Safariland drop-down platform or leg strap for enhanced comfort and adjustability, and possibly a compatible magazine pouch attached to the leg shroud.

Conclusion on Safariland 7385 ALS Tactical Holster, Smith & – 1 out of 8 models

The Safariland 7385 ALS Tactical Holster, Smith & – 1 out of 8 models is an exceptional piece of gear that delivers on its promise of security, speed, and durability. Its ALS system provides unparalleled weapon retention. The SafariSeven construction ensures long-lasting performance.

At $188.80, the price is justified considering the quality of materials, innovative design, and overall performance. This holster is an investment in your safety and efficiency.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 7385 ALS to anyone who needs a top-tier tactical holster for their Smith & Wesson M&P 9L. It’s time to ditch those slow, unreliable holsters and upgrade to the Safariland 7385 ALS. You won’t regret it.