Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holsters Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holsters

The Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holster is Safariland’s attempt to blend the classic shoulder holster concept with modern materials and their proven Automatic Locking System (ALS). This holster aims to provide a secure, comfortable, and readily accessible carry option, particularly for those who prefer to carry a Glock pistol. It promises quick draws and reliable retention in a lightweight, low-profile package.

For years, I’ve been searching for a shoulder holster system that truly balances comfort and security. Many I’ve tried are either too bulky for effective concealment, or lacking in reliable retention. I wanted something that could handle the rigors of daily wear while providing instant access to my firearm in a potential high-stress scenario.

My initial impression upon unboxing the Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holster was that it looked modern and streamlined. The SafariSeven material felt rugged, yet surprisingly light. The build quality appeared solid, as one would expect from Safariland, but the elastic harness seemed a bit…minimalist.

Compared to other shoulder holsters I’ve used, like the Galco Miami Classic or the Bianchi X15, the Safariland 7053 stood out with its use of the ALS system. The others relied more on friction and snap closures. I chose to test this one because I was intrigued by the potential for rapid, secure draws offered by the ALS, combined with the promise of lightweight comfort.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The materials seemed promising, and the ALS system had a satisfying “click” when the Glock was holstered. However, the thinness of the elastic harness raised concerns about long-term comfort, which echoed the user feedback I had scanned.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holsters to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holster at my local shooting range. I wore it under a light jacket while practicing various draw and firing drills. The temperature was moderate, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with low humidity.

The draw was surprisingly quick and intuitive. Deactivating the ALS with my thumb felt natural, and the Glock came out smoothly and cleanly. However, after about an hour of wearing the holster, the elastic harness started to dig into my underarm. This became increasingly uncomfortable, especially during movements that involved raising my arms.

I did not experience any malfunctions with the ALS system. The holster retained the weapon securely during various movements, including running and bending. Still, the discomfort of the harness quickly became the dominant factor.

Extended Use & Reliability

After a few weeks of occasional use, the elastic harness of the Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holster showed no signs of tearing or fraying, indicating reasonable durability. However, the comfort issue persisted and did not improve with break-in. The discomfort increased with hotter temperatures and moisture buildup under the elastic.

Cleaning the SafariSeven holster body was simple – a quick wipe with a damp cloth was sufficient. The elastic harness, however, would likely require more thorough cleaning if exposed to sweat or dirt, but I didn’t test this extensively due to the comfort issues.

Compared to my experience with leather shoulder holsters, which tend to mold to the body over time, the Safariland 7053 was a disappointment in terms of long-term comfort. While the ALS system was a clear upgrade in security, the harness design severely detracted from the overall experience. This, unfortunately, makes it underperform compared to other options I’ve used, despite its advantages in retention.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holsters

Specifications

• The Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holster is designed specifically for Glock pistols. This ensures a snug and secure fit.
• The holster body is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven material. This material is known for its extreme durability and resistance to heat, cold, and water.
• It features the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS). The ALS is a Level I retention system that secures the weapon until intentionally released with the thumb.
• The holster uses a lightweight, adjustable elastic single side harness. The harness provides stability and is compatible with other 7TS holsters.
• It is designed for concealment with a low-profile design. Belt tie-downs are not needed due to the lightweight design.
• The finish is plain black. This offers a tactical appearance with minimal reflectivity.

These specifications are important because they define the holster’s primary strengths: secure weapon retention and environmental resistance. The SafariSeven material ensures durability in demanding conditions. The ALS system provides a confident level of security, and the lightweight design enhances concealability, but the harness becomes a notable issue.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holster excels in weapon retention and draw speed. The ALS system provides a secure hold, and the thumb-activated release is quick and intuitive.

However, the comfort of the harness significantly impacts its overall functionality. The elastic cord cuts into the underarm, particularly during extended wear or strenuous activity. It does not fully meet my expectations for comfort, despite the advantages in security and draw speed.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holster is excellent. The SafariSeven material is rugged and well-molded.

However, the elastic harness is a significant ergonomic weakness. It lacks padding and adjustability, leading to discomfort. The overall design is user-friendly in terms of draw and reholstering but fails in providing all-day wearing comfort.

Durability & Maintenance

The SafariSeven holster body is highly durable and should last for years with minimal maintenance. The elastic harness, while seemingly durable, is the weakest link and may require replacement sooner than the holster body.

Cleaning is simple. Wipe the holster body with a damp cloth, and the harness can be hand-washed if necessary.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holster is primarily designed as a standalone unit, with limited customization options. The harness is advertised as compatible with other Safariland 7TS holsters, but there are few other options for modification.

Due to the proprietary design and reliance on the ALS system, compatibility with aftermarket accessories is limited. It’s not really designed to accept modifications like optics or weapon lights, which are becoming increasingly common.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holsters

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Who Should Buy Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holsters?

The Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holster is perfect for individuals who prioritize weapon security and quick access over all-day comfort. It would suit law enforcement officers or security personnel who require a reliable retention system.

This product is not ideal for individuals who require maximum comfort during extended periods of wear, such as hikers or those who carry concealed for personal defense in warmer climates. Anyone with sensitivity to elastic or who anticipates needing extensive adjustability should also avoid this holster.

A must-have modification would be a heavily padded harness system, or a complete replacement with a more comfortable material and design. This is essential to address the primary drawback of the Safariland 7053.

Conclusion on Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holsters

The Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holster presents a mixed bag. While it excels in weapon retention and draw speed thanks to the ALS system and durable SafariSeven material, the uncomfortable elastic harness significantly detracts from the overall experience.

The price of $75.44 might seem justified for the security features and Safariland‘s reputation for quality, but the comfort issue makes it a questionable value. You might find yourself needing to invest in a replacement harness, increasing the overall cost.

Personally, I cannot wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 7053 7TS ALS Shoulder Holster in its current configuration. The discomfort outweighs the benefits. While the ALS system is impressive, the harness needs a serious redesign to make this a viable option for extended wear. Consider other options until Safariland addresses the comfort issue.