What Makes Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models Stand Out?
In the world of concealed carry, finding the right holster is paramount. You need something comfortable, secure, and reliable, and that disappears under clothing. The Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models aims to deliver on all fronts, offering a blend of Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a minimalist, concealment-focused design.
My concealed carry journey started over a decade ago, and I’ve cycled through countless holsters in search of that perfect balance of speed, security, and comfort. The constant tweaking and experimentation are exhausting. I was particularly looking for a paddle holster that offered more retention than friction alone, as many traditional paddle holsters can feel insecure during dynamic movements.
Upon unboxing the Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models, the first thing I noticed was the robust construction of the Safariland 7TS material. It feels significantly more durable than kydex and gives me a sense of confidence in its longevity. The paddle itself is streamlined, designed to hug the body closely, and the ALS lever is intuitively placed for quick and decisive drawing.
I considered several other holsters, including the Blackhawk! Serpa CQC and the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse. I opted for the Safariland model primarily due to Safariland’s reputation for reliable retention systems and the 7TS material’s superior resistance to extreme temperatures and abrasion. I felt the ALS provided a greater level of security than the Serpa’s retention, and the Safariland model seemed better suited for all-day wear compared to the bulkier Blade-Tech.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for enhanced security and concealment, but also slightly concerned about whether the ALS system would add unnecessary bulk or slow down my draw stroke. Time would tell if the Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models could live up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models was the local shooting range. I spent an afternoon running drills, focusing on drawing from concealment and re-holstering under pressure. The weather was typical for a Texas summer – hot and humid.
The ALS system took a few draws to become completely comfortable with, but once I got the hang of it, the draw stroke was surprisingly fast and smooth. The sweat and humidity didn’t seem to affect the holster’s grip on the firearm, and the 7TS material remained comfortable against my skin. The security of the ALS was immediately apparent, even when moving and contorting my body.
I experienced no significant issues during my first range session. However, I did notice that the paddle exerted a bit more pressure against my hip than I was used to with other paddle holsters. This prompted me to adjust my belt position slightly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of incorporating the Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models into my daily carry routine, I can confidently say it has held up remarkably well. I’ve worn it during everything from grocery runs to hikes in the woods, and it has consistently performed flawlessly.
The 7TS material shows no signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to daily friction and occasional bumps. Maintenance is a breeze: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep it clean. The ALS mechanism still operates smoothly, and the paddle remains securely attached to my belt.
Compared to my previous concealed carry holsters, the Safariland model offers a superior level of both security and durability. I no longer worry about the firearm accidentally dislodging during strenuous activity, and the holster itself seems built to last for years. It certainly outperforms the cheaper, less robust kydex holsters I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models
Specifications
The Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models is specifically designed for single-stack sub-compact Glocks. It employs Safariland’s proprietary 7TS injection-molded nylon blend. This offers extreme durability and temperature resistance, as well as the ALS (Automatic Locking System) for secure weapon retention.
The holster features Safariland’s 571BL injection-molded micro paddle. This is designed for a high degree of concealment and close-to-the-body carry. The ALS is internal, locking onto the ejection port once the weapon is holstered. The release is via a thumb lever, allowing for a natural and efficient draw.
These specifications are important because they dictate the holster’s suitability for concealed carry. The single-stack compatibility caters to specific Glock models known for their slim profile. The 7TS material ensures the holster can withstand daily wear and tear, even in harsh environments. The ALS provides an active level of retention, preventing unauthorized removal of the firearm, while the 571BL paddle prioritizes a comfortable and concealable fit.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models performs its primary function – concealed carry – exceptionally well. The ALS provides a secure and reliable method of weapon retention. It gives peace of mind knowing the firearm will remain in place, even during strenuous activity.
One of its strengths is the intuitive ALS release lever. It’s naturally positioned for the thumb during the draw stroke. It requires minimal training to master. A minor weakness is that the ALS mechanism can become slightly gritty after prolonged use in dusty environments. Regular cleaning is necessary to maintain optimal performance. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a concealment holster in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models is excellent. The 7TS material feels robust and durable, while remaining surprisingly lightweight. The holster’s design promotes a high ride, which enhances concealment under clothing.
The Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models has a slight learning curve due to the ALS mechanism. It requires practice to develop a smooth and consistent draw stroke. However, once mastered, it becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models is built to last. The 7TS material is incredibly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required. The holster is easy to disassemble for thorough cleaning, if necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models is relatively limited in terms of customization options. It is primarily designed as a standalone concealment holster.
While it doesn’t feature mounting points for accessories like lights or lasers, it is compatible with Safariland’s range of belt loops and adapters. This allows you to convert it into an OWB (Outside Waistband) or IWB (Inside Waistband) holster if desired. The ALS retention system is not adjustable, but the draw stroke can be fine-tuned by adjusting the tension screws on the holster body.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models
Pros
- Excellent Weapon Retention: The ALS system provides a secure, active retention that inspires confidence in any situation.
- High Concealment: The slim profile and close-to-the-body design make it easy to conceal under various clothing types.
- Durable Construction: The 7TS material is exceptionally resistant to wear, tear, and extreme temperatures, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Intuitive Draw Stroke: Once mastered, the ALS release allows for a fast and natural draw.
- Lightweight Design: The holster is comfortable for all-day carry without feeling bulky or cumbersome.
Cons
- ALS System Requires Practice: There is a small learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release.
- Limited Customization Options: The holster doesn’t offer much in the way of accessory attachments or adjustable retention settings.
Who Should Buy Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models?
The Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models is perfect for individuals who prioritize secure weapon retention and comfortable concealed carry. It’s well-suited for law enforcement personnel, security professionals, and responsible citizens who carry a single-stack sub-compact Glock for self-defense.
Individuals who prefer a holster with extensive customization options or who are unwilling to invest time in mastering the ALS system may want to consider alternative options. Those accustomed to simpler friction-fit holsters may find the ALS initially cumbersome.
A sturdy belt is a must-have accessory for optimal performance. A quality gun belt will provide the necessary support and stability for comfortable all-day carry.
Conclusion on Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models
The Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models is a well-designed and highly functional concealment holster that delivers on its promises. The ALS system provides a superior level of weapon retention. The 7TS material ensures exceptional durability.
At around $87.00, the price is justified given the quality of materials and the enhanced security features. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about concealed carry.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 7371 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle Glock – 1 out of 13 models to anyone seeking a reliable, comfortable, and secure concealment holster for their single-stack Glock. Take the plunge and experience the peace of mind that comes with carrying your firearm in a holster you can truly trust!