Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models Review

What Makes Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models Stand Out?

The Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models is a purpose-built piece of kit designed for professionals and serious enthusiasts who run red dot sights on their sidearms and require a secure, reliable, and rapidly accessible carry system. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and dependability in the law enforcement and military communities, and this holster lives up to that reputation. Its combination of the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) provides multiple layers of retention while still allowing for a smooth, natural draw.

My search for this holster stemmed from a growing trend towards red dot sights on pistols, which subsequently made many of my existing holsters obsolete. I needed a tactical holster that could accommodate a red dot, offer superior retention for open carry scenarios, and integrate seamlessly with my existing duty belt and tactical gear. I wanted a holster that would stand up to the rigors of training and real-world operational use.

My first impression of the Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models was positive. The holster felt incredibly robust, built from a rigid polymer that inspired confidence. The initial thought that came to mind was that this thing is seriously overbuilt, in a good way.

When comparing it to a Blackhawk Serpa and a generic kydex holster I had previously used, the Safariland stood out for its superior retention mechanism and seemingly indestructible construction. The Serpa, while convenient, always felt a bit insecure, and the kydex holster lacked any active retention. The Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models offered a far more secure and professional solution than the Serpa, and the level of craftsmanship far surpasses the kydex options available.

I was excited to finally have a holster that provided the perfect balance of retention, speed, and durability for my red-dot-equipped pistol. I felt confident that it could withstand the demands of my training and operational needs.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models was a two-day tactical pistol course at a local shooting range. The course involved a lot of dynamic movement, drawing from concealment, and re-holstering under time pressure. These conditions put the holster through its paces.

The holster performed admirably in both dry and slightly damp conditions. The ALS and SLS mechanisms remained easy to operate even with sweaty hands, and the pistol stayed securely in place throughout the course, even during sprints and simulated grappling scenarios. It instilled the confidence I needed to move quickly without worrying about the weapon falling out.

Initially, I needed a bit of practice to master the draw stroke with both the ALS and SLS engaged. However, after a few hours of practice, the motion became second nature, and I was able to draw and engage targets quickly and efficiently. The quick-release double leg strap made donning and removing the holster relatively easy, but did require some adjustment to get a secure and comfortable fit.

One surprise I encountered was the snug fit for pistols with larger red dot sights. I had to slightly adjust the holster’s internal tension screws to accommodate my Holosun 507C. Even with the adjustment, the fit remains snug, which I consider a positive attribute for retention.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models continues to impress. I’ve used it in weekly range sessions, force-on-force training, and even during a week-long wilderness survival course, exposing it to a variety of environmental conditions. The 7TS material has proved its worth.

The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after repeated exposure to dirt, mud, and sweat. The polymer blend is remarkably resistant to scratches and abrasions. The double leg strap continues to provide a stable and comfortable carry, and the mounting holes have proven useful for attaching additional accessories like a tourniquet holder.

Maintaining the holster is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. I’ve also occasionally applied a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS and SLS mechanisms to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to previous holsters I’ve owned, the Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models significantly outperforms them in terms of durability, retention, and overall reliability. It provides a level of security and peace of mind that other holsters simply cannot match.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models

Specifications

• The Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models is designed to accommodate various handgun models with red dot sights. This universal fit is a significant advantage.
• It features the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon upon holstering. The ALS automatically locks the weapon, preventing unauthorized removal.
• It also incorporates the SLS (Self Locking System) Rotating Hood which adds another layer of retention. The SLS requires a deliberate motion to disengage, further enhancing security.
• The holster body is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary 7TS nylon blend. This material is completely non-abrasive, protecting the firearm’s finish.
• The 7TS material boasts extreme temperature tolerances, remaining structurally sound from 300°F to -50°F. These tolerances are essential for operational environments.
• It includes a standard double strap leg shroud with mounting holes. This feature allows for customization with other tactical accessories.

These specifications are vital because they contribute directly to the holster’s security, durability, and adaptability. The ALS and SLS ensure the weapon remains secure, while the 7TS material guarantees long-lasting performance in harsh conditions. The ability to mount additional accessories enhances the holster’s versatility for various mission requirements.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a pistol with a red dot sight. The draw is remarkably smooth once the user becomes accustomed to the ALS and SLS mechanisms. The holster’s design promotes a consistent grip and draw stroke, which is crucial for accuracy under pressure.

The ALS and SLS work flawlessly, providing multiple layers of security without sacrificing speed. The holster’s open-top design accommodates a wide variety of red dot sights, making it compatible with many popular pistol optics.

One minor weakness is the initial learning curve associated with mastering the ALS and SLS. However, this is a small price to pay for the increased security and retention. Once mastered, the system is intuitive and lightning-fast.

The holster meets and exceeds expectations for a tactical holster designed for red-dot-equipped pistols. It delivers on its promise of secure retention, rapid deployment, and exceptional durability.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models is exceptional. The 7TS nylon blend feels incredibly strong and durable, yet surprisingly lightweight. The holster’s ergonomic design conforms comfortably to the leg, even during extended periods of wear.

The holster is remarkably user-friendly, despite the initial learning curve with the ALS and SLS. The intuitive design and smooth draw stroke make it easy to transition from training to real-world applications.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models is built to last, thanks to its robust 7TS nylon blend construction. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the moving parts are all that’s required. The holster is also designed to be field-repairable, with replacement parts readily available from Safariland.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models comes with a standard double strap leg shroud, allowing for comfortable and secure carry. The leg shroud also features mounting holes for attaching additional accessories, such as magazine pouches, tourniquet holders, or knives. This modular design allows the user to tailor the holster to their specific needs.

The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different mounting platforms, belt attachments, and light mounts. This extensive ecosystem of accessories further enhances the holster’s versatility. While not every accessory is universally compatible, Safariland provides compatibility charts to ensure proper fitment.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models

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Who Should Buy Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models?

The Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and serious competitive shooters who demand the highest levels of security, durability, and performance from their gear. It’s also well-suited for individuals who prioritize open carry and require a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use in challenging environments.

Those who should skip this product might include casual shooters or individuals primarily concerned with concealed carry, as the holster’s size and open design are not ideal for concealment. Also, those new to firearms may find the retention system complex.

Must-have accessories or modifications would include additional magazine pouches mounted to the leg shroud and a Safariland QLS (Quick Locking System) fork to allow for rapid transfer of the holster between different mounting platforms.

Conclusion on Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models

In summary, the Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models is a top-tier tactical holster that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and security for users who rely on red-dot-equipped pistols. The price is certainly justified given the level of quality and the features offered.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and secure carry system for their red-dot-equipped pistol. It is an investment in quality and peace of mind.

If you’re serious about your gear and demand the best, invest in the Safariland 7304RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Tactical Holster, – 1 out of 8 models. You won’t be disappointed. Take the plunge and experience the Safariland difference today!