What Makes Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop Stand Out?
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop holster is Safariland’s answer to the concealed carry and duty needs of law enforcement and civilians alike. It blends the security of their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with the versatility of both paddle and belt loop attachment options. This holster promises a secure, comfortable, and rapidly accessible carry solution, and at a price point that doesn’t break the bank.
I was searching for a holster that could transition seamlessly between concealed carry and open carry on the range. I needed something secure enough for active situations but also comfortable enough for all-day wear. The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop seemed to offer the best of both worlds.
Out of the box, the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop feels solid and well-made. The SafariSeven nylon blend has a slightly textured feel, and the ALS mechanism clicks into place with reassuring authority. It’s surprisingly lightweight considering its robust construction.
I considered the Blackhawk Serpa and the Galco Stow-N-Go before ultimately choosing the Safariland. The Serpa’s release mechanism has been criticized in the past, and the Galco didn’t offer the same level of active retention I was looking for. Safariland’s reputation for quality and the ALS system were the deciding factors.
My first impression was definitely positive. I was impressed by the build quality and the intuitive design of the ALS. I was eager to get it out on the range and see how it performed under pressure.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop at my local shooting range during a practical pistol course. The course involved a lot of movement, drawing from concealment, and rapid firing. The holster was configured with the paddle attachment for easy on/off.
During the range session, it rained unexpectedly. The SafariSeven material proved to be truly impervious to the moisture, maintaining its grip and shape perfectly. The ALS system never faltered despite being wet, ensuring a reliable draw every time.
The draw stroke felt natural after just a few practice runs. The ALS release is intuitive, and the straight-up draw is smooth and efficient. There was virtually no learning curve.
The only initial issue was that the paddle attachment caused the holster to shift slightly during particularly dynamic movements. It wasn’t a major problem, but noticeable. I made sure the paddle was snug against my body and readjusted it as needed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop has held up exceptionally well. I have used it both as a concealed carry holster and in several more shooting competitions. It has become my go-to holster for my M&P.
There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The SafariSeven material remains scratch-free, and the ALS mechanism still operates smoothly and positively. The only maintenance I’ve performed is the occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth.
The Safariland holster has far exceeded my expectations compared to other holsters I’ve used in the past. It provides a level of security and retention that I haven’t found elsewhere, while remaining comfortable and easy to use. It gives me peace of mind knowing that my firearm is secure, but readily available when needed.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop
Specifications
- This model, the Safariland 7378-2192-551, is specifically molded for the S&W M&P 9mm and .40 with a Streamlight X300U weapon light. The precise molding ensures secure retention and a smooth draw.
- The holster is constructed from SafariSeven, a proprietary nylon blend from Safariland. This material is designed to be exceptionally durable, resistant to heat and cold, and completely non-abrasive to the firearm’s finish.
- It features the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System), an internal locking device that secures the weapon in the holster. The ALS is deactivated with a simple thumb release during the draw stroke.
- The 7378 comes with both a paddle and belt loop attachment. This provides versatile carry options for both concealed and open carry.
- This model is right-hand configuration and is finished in Flat Dark Earth (FDE). The color offers a low profile look.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance, durability, and usability. The ALS provides a high level of security, while the SafariSeven material ensures longevity and protects the firearm. The versatile attachment options make it adaptable to various carry styles and scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop excels in its primary function: securely and reliably holding a firearm while providing rapid access when needed. The ALS system offers excellent retention, preventing accidental dislodging of the weapon, even during strenuous activity. The straight-up draw is fast and intuitive, allowing for a quick and efficient response in critical situations.
The holster’s strength lies in its secure retention and quick draw capability. Its only potential weakness is the slight shifting that can occur with the paddle attachment, especially during high-intensity movements. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-style concealment holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop is exceptional. The SafariSeven material is robust and feels comfortable against the body. The holster is surprisingly lightweight despite its rugged construction, and this reduces fatigue during extended carry.
The design is user-friendly with a minimal learning curve. The ALS release is easily accessible and requires minimal practice to master. The open-top design allows for a full firing grip on the weapon before drawing.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven material is exceptionally durable and resistant to the elements. The holster is built to withstand the rigors of daily carry and demanding environments. The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop is designed for longevity.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The SafariSeven material is non-porous and resistant to staining. Disassembly for cleaning and maintenance is not generally necessary.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop comes standard with both a paddle and belt loop attachment. This provides users with the flexibility to choose the carry option that best suits their needs. While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization, its compatibility with the Streamlight X300U weapon light significantly enhances its tactical capabilities.
The holster is also compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms. This expands the carry options to include thigh rigs, chest harnesses, and other specialized configurations. The holster also can be used with different belt attachments and adapters as well.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop
Pros
- Exceptional Security: The ALS (Automatic Locking System) provides unparalleled weapon retention, giving the user peace of mind in demanding situations.
- Rapid Draw: The open-top design and intuitive ALS release allow for a fast and efficient draw stroke, critical for self-defense or duty applications.
- Versatile Carry Options: The included paddle and belt loop attachments offer flexibility in carry style, accommodating both concealed and open carry preferences.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven nylon blend is incredibly tough, resistant to heat, cold, and abrasion, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable Design: Despite its robust construction, the holster is surprisingly lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear.
Cons
- The paddle attachment can shift slightly during vigorous activity.
- The ALS release requires practice to master for optimal speed and efficiency.
Who Should Buy Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop?
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize weapon security and rapid access. It is ideal for those who need a versatile holster that can adapt to different carry situations.
This product might not be the best choice for individuals who prefer minimalist holsters or those who are completely new to firearms and require a simpler retention system. The ALS requires some practice to master and may be intimidating for beginners.
A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster support and stability. Regular practice with the ALS release is also recommended to develop muscle memory and improve draw speed.
Conclusion on Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop
The Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop is an outstanding holster that delivers on its promises of security, versatility, and durability. The ALS system provides unparalleled retention, while the SafariSeven construction ensures long-lasting performance. The ability to switch between paddle and belt loop attachments makes it adaptable to various carry needs.
At around $90.00, the price is justified given the quality of materials, innovative design, and level of security offered. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who takes their personal safety or professional responsibilities seriously.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 7378 7TS ALS Paddle & Belt Loop to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile holster for their S&W M&P with a weapon light. It is a top-tier product that provides exceptional value and performance. Invest in your safety and peace of mind – you won’t be disappointed.