What Makes Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle/Belt – 1 out of 124 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle/Belt – 1 out of 124 models offers a compelling combination of security and accessibility for concealed carry. This holster, manufactured by Safariland, utilizes the Automatic Locking System (ALS) while maintaining an open-top design for a fast draw. The SafariSeven nylon blend construction also sets it apart, promising durability and firearm finish protection.
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’m constantly searching for holsters that balance retention and speed. Many holsters lean too heavily in one direction, sacrificing accessibility for security or vice-versa. The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS caught my attention because it claimed to bridge this gap, offering a secure carry without hindering a rapid draw.
The first thing I noticed unboxing the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS was its robust construction. The SafariSeven nylon felt incredibly durable, far from the flimsy plastic I’ve encountered in some concealment holsters. The ALS mechanism felt solid and positive, inspiring confidence in its retention capabilities.
I considered several other holsters before settling on the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS. I debated between a Blackhawk Serpa (which I’ve used before but find the draw stroke less natural) and a Blade-Tech Total Eclipse (known for its minimalist design but lacking active retention). Ultimately, the Safariland’s ALS system and reportedly faster draw were the deciding factors.
I was genuinely excited to try out the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS. It looked and felt like a high-quality piece of gear, and I was eager to see if it lived up to its promise of secure, rapid access. Initial impressions were very positive, suggesting a well-designed and thoughtfully manufactured holster.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle/Belt – 1 out of 124 models to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS at my local shooting range during a concealed carry qualification course. The range offered a mix of static shooting drills and scenarios requiring movement and drawing under pressure. I also tested it during an outdoor training session that involved simulated building clearing exercises.
The weather was typical for late spring: a mix of sunshine and intermittent rain showers. I was concerned about how the holster would perform in wet conditions, given the potential for slippage or interference with the ALS mechanism. Fortunately, the holster performed flawlessly regardless of the conditions.
Getting used to the ALS system took a little practice, but the draw stroke quickly became intuitive. The thumb release is perfectly positioned for a natural grip acquisition, and the weapon cleared the holster smoothly and consistently. After a few dozen draws, it felt like second nature.
The only initial issue I encountered was adjusting the paddle attachment for optimal comfort. The paddle has a slight cant adjustment, and it took a few tries to find the sweet spot for my body type and carry position. Once adjusted, however, the paddle felt secure and comfortable, even during extended periods of wear.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of near-daily use, the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS has held up remarkably well. I’ve worn it during various activities, from running errands to hiking and training exercises. It remains a reliable and comfortable option for concealed carry.
The SafariSeven nylon shows virtually no signs of wear and tear. There are no scratches, cracks, or abrasions, even in high-friction areas. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and positively, providing consistent retention and release.
Cleaning the holster is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt, dust, and sweat. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation, but that’s about it.
I previously used a leather concealment holster, which required frequent cleaning and conditioning to prevent cracking and maintain its shape. The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS far outperforms it in terms of durability and ease of maintenance. The Safariland’s weather resistance also makes it a far better choice for outdoor activities compared to leather.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle/Belt – 1 out of 124 models
Specifications
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): This secures the weapon automatically upon holstering and allows for a simple, straight-up draw once the release is deactivated. This is the core of the holster’s security, offering a positive lock without hindering speed.
- Open-Top Design: Without the Secondary Locking System (SLS), the open-top facilitates a quick retrieval of the weapon. This allows for a fast draw while maintaining secure retention.
- SafariSeven Construction: A proprietary nylon blend is completely non-abrasive to a firearm’s finish. This is a significant advantage over Kydex holsters, which can often cause wear and scratches.
- Raised Stand-Off Surfaces: These create an air space around the weapon inside the holster, allowing dirt and moisture to quickly clear. This reduces the risk of corrosion and malfunctions.
- Paddle & Belt Loop Combo: Provides versatile carry options, allowing the user to switch between paddle and belt loop attachments. This greatly increases usability depending on the attire and mission.
These specifications translate to a holster that is both secure and accessible, while also protecting the firearm and simplifying maintenance. The ALS system provides a reassuring level of retention, while the open-top design ensures a fast and natural draw. The SafariSeven construction adds durability and protects the firearm’s finish.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS excels at its primary job: securely concealing a firearm while allowing for a rapid draw. The ALS system provides excellent retention, preventing the weapon from being dislodged accidentally or by an assailant. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, requiring minimal training to master.
The holster’s main strength lies in its balance of security and accessibility. It provides a level of retention that is comparable to duty holsters, while still allowing for a concealed carry draw. One minor weakness is that the ALS release requires a deliberate thumb movement, which might take some getting used to for users accustomed to passive retention holsters.
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS meets and exceeds my expectations. It delivers on its promises of secure retention, rapid accessibility, and durable construction. It’s a well-designed and thoughtfully engineered holster that is suitable for both professional and civilian use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS features a streamlined and minimalist design that is well-suited for concealed carry. The SafariSeven nylon is lightweight and durable, providing a comfortable carry experience. The holster sits close to the body, minimizing printing and maximizing concealment.
The paddle attachment is comfortable and secure, even during extended periods of wear. The cant adjustment allows for customization to individual preferences. The belt loop attachment provides an even more stable carry platform for those who prefer it. The ALS release is intuitive and easy to operate, even under stress.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS is built to last. The SafariSeven nylon is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. The ALS mechanism is robust and reliable, designed for years of service. The holster requires minimal maintenance, making it a low-effort option for everyday carry.
I expect the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS to last for many years, even with daily use. The materials and construction are top-notch, and the design is simple and functional. Repairing the holster, if necessary, should be relatively straightforward, as replacement parts are readily available from Safariland.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS comes with both a paddle and a belt loop attachment, providing versatile carry options. The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including leg shrouds, quick-release adapters, and MOLLE attachments.
While the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS is primarily designed for use with Safariland accessories, it may also be compatible with some third-party attachments, depending on the specific model and configuration. This allows for further customization to meet individual needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle/Belt – 1 out of 124 models
Pros
- Secure ALS Retention: Provides a high level of security, preventing accidental or unauthorized removal of the firearm.
- Rapid Draw: The open-top design allows for a fast and natural draw stroke.
- Durable SafariSeven Construction: The non-abrasive nylon blend protects the firearm’s finish and resists wear and tear.
- Versatile Carry Options: The paddle and belt loop attachments provide flexibility in carry style.
- Comfortable Design: Sits close to the body for comfortable concealed carry.
Cons
- ALS Release Learning Curve:* Requires a deliberate thumb movement, which may take some getting used to.
- Paddle Adjustment:* Finding the optimal paddle angle may require some experimentation.
Who Should Buy Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle/Belt – 1 out of 124 models?
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible citizens who prioritize both security and accessibility in a concealed carry holster. It’s also a great choice for those who live in areas with strict concealed carry regulations, as the ALS system provides an extra layer of safety and security.
Those who prefer passive retention holsters or who are unwilling to learn a new draw stroke should skip this product. Also, individuals with very small hands may find the ALS release difficult to operate comfortably.
A high-quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for use with the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS. A stiff gun belt will provide a stable and secure platform for the holster, preventing sagging and improving draw consistency.
Conclusion on Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle/Belt – 1 out of 124 models
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle/Belt – 1 out of 124 models is an outstanding holster that delivers on its promises of security, accessibility, and durability. The ALS system provides a reassuring level of retention, while the open-top design ensures a fast and natural draw. The SafariSeven construction adds durability and protects the firearm’s finish.
The price of $92.25 is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and performance. The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS is a worthwhile investment for anyone who takes concealed carry seriously.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS to anyone looking for a secure, accessible, and durable concealment holster. It’s a well-designed and thoughtfully engineered piece of gear that will provide years of reliable service. If you’re in the market for a new concealed carry holster, give the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS a serious look – you won’t be disappointed.