Let’s Dive into Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster
The Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster promises a blend of security and discretion, built with the innovative SafariSeven material and featuring the renowned SLS retention system. As someone who’s spent over a decade handling and evaluating tactical gear, I was eager to see if this holster lived up to the Safariland name and its purported purpose. The Self Locking System (SLS) rotating hood, coupled with its design intended for concealment, intrigued me, especially given the often-conflicting demands of retention and everyday carry.
My primary need was for a secure yet easily accessible holster for my Glock 19 during off-duty hours and training scenarios. Many “concealment” holsters I’ve tried sacrifice retention for comfort, leaving me uneasy about potential disarming situations. I unboxed the Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster with cautious optimism, immediately noticing its lightweight feel thanks to the SafariSeven material. The build quality appeared robust, and the SLS hood rotated smoothly.
Compared to my Galco leather IWB holster and a kydex OWB from Blade-Tech, the Safariland 7287 seemed a bit bulkier, raising immediate concerns about its concealability. I chose it over the others, though, due to its promise of Level II retention in a package supposedly designed for discreet carry, something I hadn’t found in other offerings. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping the retention system wouldn’t make the drawstroke cumbersome during real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster at my local shooting range and during a force-on-force training session. The shooting range was ideal for familiarizing myself with the drawstroke and evaluating the holster’s comfort during extended wear. The force-on-force training provided a high-stress environment to assess the retention system’s effectiveness and the speed of drawing under pressure.
The holster performed admirably in dry conditions at the range, but the real test came during the force-on-force training, which involved simulated rain and close-quarters grappling. Even with wet hands and clothing, the SafariSeven material maintained a secure grip on the firearm, and the SLS hood operated reliably. It took a bit of practice to get used to the SLS release motion, but once mastered, the draw was quick and efficient.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of carrying the Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster daily, I can confidently say it’s a durable piece of kit. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the SafariSeven material, even after rubbing against clothing and gear for extended periods. The Safariland 7287 is incredibly easy to clean.
Maintenance involves simply wiping it down with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or sweat; no special treatments are required. Compared to my previous concealment holsters, the Safariland 7287 offers superior retention and weather resistance, although its bulk is a compromise I have to accept. It definitely outperforms other concealment holsters in retention and durability, but loses points in overall concealability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster
Specifications
- The Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster is constructed from SafariSeven™, a unique nylon blend from DuPont. This material is lightweight, exceptionally durable, and resistant to extreme temperatures and moisture.
- It features the Self Locking System (SLS) rotating hood, providing Level II retention with a smooth, single-motion draw. The SLS significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized firearm removal.
- The 567BL belt loop accommodates belts 1.5 in. (38 mm) or 1.75 in. (45 mm) wide, ensuring compatibility with most standard belts. This allows for easy attachment and detachment.
- A tensioning device is included, allowing the user to adjust the holster’s grip on the firearm for a custom fit. This prevents unwanted movement of the firearm.
- The Safariland 7287 is structurally sound from 300 degrees F to -50 degrees F, making it suitable for use in extreme environments. Its high heat and low cold tolerances make it reliable in most conditions.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s performance, reliability, and suitability for various applications. The SafariSeven material provides durability and weather resistance, while the SLS retention system offers enhanced security.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster performs its primary job – securing and allowing quick access to a firearm – exceptionally well. The SLS retention system provides peace of mind, knowing the firearm is safe from unauthorized removal, while the smooth draw stroke enables rapid deployment. The holster is reliable in various conditions, thanks to the SafariSeven material.
A significant strength is the SLS retention system. A weakness is its concealability.
The Safariland 7287 meets expectations regarding retention and durability, but exceeds them in terms of weather resistance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster is built with high-quality materials, primarily the SafariSeven nylon blend. The weight is surprisingly light, but the size is noticeable. The Safariland 7287 is fairly user-friendly.
There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the SLS release, but it becomes intuitive with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster is built to last. The SafariSeven material is resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and extreme temperatures, suggesting it will withstand years of use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster primarily comes with the 567BL belt loop attachment. There are limited customization options beyond tension adjustment. While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive accessory options, it’s designed to accommodate a wide range of firearms within its specified models.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster
Pros
- Exceptional Level II retention with the SLS system. This gives a high level of security.
- Highly durable SafariSeven construction withstands extreme conditions. This makes it suitable for rough use.
- Smooth, single-motion draw once the SLS is mastered. This helps with fast deployment.
- Minimal maintenance required. This makes it convenient.
- Lightweight design considering its robust construction. This enhances user comfort.
Cons
- Bulkier than many dedicated concealment holsters. This can impact concealability.
- SLS requires practice to master the draw stroke. This can take some time.
Who Should Buy Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster?
The Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, or responsible citizens who prioritize retention and durability over ultimate concealability. It benefits those who work in demanding environments or require a high level of firearm security. Someone seeking a minimalist, low-profile holster for deep concealment should skip this product.
A quality belt designed for holster carry is a must-have accessory to maximize comfort and stability.
Conclusion on Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster
The Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster is a well-built, highly functional holster that excels in retention and durability. While it may not be the most discreet option on the market due to its bulk, the added security and reliability it provides are worth the trade-off for many users. The price is justified given the quality of materials and the effectiveness of the SLS retention system.
I would recommend it to anyone needing a robust, secure holster, especially in environments where firearm retention is a paramount concern. If you value security and durability above all else, the Safariland 7287 7TS SLS Belt Slide Concealment Holster is a worthy investment.