Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride Review

What Makes Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride Stand Out?

The Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride holster isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a statement of readiness and security. From Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical excellence, this holster promises rapid deployment with uncompromising retention for the SIG Sauer P320 9/40 with a weapon light attached. As someone who’s spent over a decade advising professionals and enthusiasts on tactical equipment, I was intrigued by the blend of speed and security offered by this particular model.

For years, I struggled to find a Level III retention holster that didn’t feel like I was wrestling an alligator every time I needed to draw. I needed a holster that would allow me to carry with confidence, knowing my weapon was secure, but without sacrificing the ability to draw quickly and efficiently in a high-stress situation. The promise of the Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride, with its ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System), seemed like it might finally deliver.

The initial impression was solid, a feeling of quality that Safariland is known for. The holster felt robust without being overly bulky, and the plain black finish gave it a professional, no-nonsense appearance. Compared to other Level III holsters I’ve used from Blackhawk and even some older Safariland models, the 7TS felt significantly lighter and more streamlined.

I was immediately impressed, but also a little skeptical; I’ve been burned before by holsters that looked great but failed in practical application. I was eager to put the Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride through its paces.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride was at my local outdoor shooting range. I spent a few hours practicing draws and re-holstering drills, focusing on getting comfortable with the ALS and SLS mechanisms. The weather was relatively mild, but the ground was a bit dusty.

The ALS (Automatic Locking System) immediately felt intuitive; the thumb release was perfectly positioned for a natural draw stroke. The SLS (Self Locking System) hood took a little getting used to, but after a few repetitions, it became second nature. I experienced no issues with the holster retaining the weapon, even during more aggressive movements.

After about an hour, the draw stroke became smooth and efficient, much faster than I anticipated for a Level III holster. The mid-ride position was also comfortable, allowing for a natural grip and a clean draw. There were no immediate issues to report; the Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride performed as advertised.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including training scenarios and range time, the Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even on the high-friction areas. The 7TS nylon blend seems genuinely resistant to abrasion.

Cleaning the holster is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dust and grime. I’ve also submerged it in water a couple of times during simulated water crossing drills, and it maintained its shape and function perfectly, just as Safariland claims.

Compared to my previous duty holster, which required constant tightening of screws and adjustments, the Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride has been virtually maintenance-free. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride

Specifications

The Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride, model 7360-7502-412, is specifically designed for the SIG Sauer P320 9/40 with a weapon light (X300U/TLR-1HL/IT M3) attached. It’s a Level III Retention OWB (Outside the Waistband) duty holster intended for left-handed users.

The key features that make this holster stand out include the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon automatically upon holstering, and the SLS (Self Locking System), a rotating hood that provides an additional layer of security. The 7TS nylon blend construction ensures durability and resistance to extreme temperatures (300°F to -50°F) and water submersion. The mid-ride position offers a comfortable and efficient draw stroke.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance in real-world scenarios. The retention systems ensure the weapon remains secure, while the durable construction ensures the holster can withstand harsh conditions. The mid-ride position optimizes draw speed and comfort.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride excels at its primary job: securing and deploying a firearm quickly and efficiently. The ALS and SLS systems work in tandem to provide a high level of retention without hindering the draw stroke. The mid-ride position further enhances draw speed and allows for a more natural grip.

The main strength of this holster lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The retention systems are robust enough to prevent unauthorized removal of the weapon, yet the draw stroke is smooth and intuitive. The only potential weakness is the SLS hood, which may require some practice to master.

The Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride meets and even exceeds expectations for a Level III retention holster. It’s secure, comfortable, and surprisingly fast to draw from.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride is exceptional. The materials used are durable and lightweight, and the construction is solid. The holster feels comfortable against the body, and the mid-ride position distributes the weight of the firearm evenly.

The design is user-friendly, but there is a slight learning curve associated with the SLS hood. After a few practice sessions, however, the draw stroke becomes second nature. The holster is designed to work seamlessly with Safariland’s other mounting options, providing flexibility in how it’s carried.

Durability & Maintenance

The 7TS nylon blend used in the construction of the Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride is incredibly durable. It’s resistant to abrasion, extreme temperatures, and water submersion. With proper care, this holster should last for many years.

Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep the holster clean. The moving parts (ALS and SLS) may require occasional lubrication to ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride is compatible with various Safariland accessories, including different mounting options and the optional Sentry device for enhanced retention.

The holster is specifically designed to accommodate the SIG Sauer P320 9/40 with a weapon light (X300U/TLR-1HL/IT M3). Compatibility with other weapon lights may vary. It can also be upgraded to Level IV Retention with the optional Sentry installed.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 7ts Als Level Iii Retention Mid-ride