What Makes Safariland 7360 7TS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III – 1 out of 151 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 7360 7TS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III – 1 out of 151 models is not just another holster; it’s a statement of intent, a commitment to security and readiness that sets it apart from the crowded duty holster market. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military-grade gear, this holster boasts a unique combination of Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) for Level III retention, ensuring your firearm stays put until you decide otherwise. Its robust construction, designed to withstand extreme conditions, coupled with a comfortable mid-ride position, immediately signals that this holster is built for serious professionals.
I was searching for a duty holster that offered both exceptional retention and ease of draw, something that wouldn’t compromise speed for security. The market is flooded with Level II holsters, but finding a Level III that didn’t feel like wrestling an alligator was a challenge, so I turned to Safariland.
Unboxing the Safariland 7360 7TS, I was immediately struck by the solidity of the construction and the quality of the basketweave finish. The holster felt substantial without being overly heavy, and the smooth interior promised a snag-free draw. It’s clear that this isn’t some cheap injection-molded piece; it’s a carefully crafted tool.
Compared to my older Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and a less expensive Galco holster, the Safariland 7360 immediately felt superior in both build quality and retention mechanism design. The Blackhawk, while functional, always felt a bit flimsy, and the Galco lacked the secure retention I needed. The Safariland offered a blend of security and speed that neither could match.
My first impression was a distinct sense of relief. I was excited to have found a holster that seemingly solved the retention-draw speed paradox, delivering both with confidence.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7360 7TS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III – 1 out of 151 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was the local shooting range, where I ran various drills focusing on speed draws and re-holstering under pressure. I specifically wanted to assess how well the ALS and SLS systems worked in a dynamic environment. I used my Smith & Wesson M&P 9L, the specific firearm this Safariland 7360 model is designed for.
The Safariland 7360 performed admirably even in the sweltering Texas heat and humidity. Despite sweaty hands, the grip remained secure, and the draw stroke was consistently smooth, with both the ALS and SLS disengaging without a hitch. After a few practice runs, I found the draw to be almost as fast as my Level II setup.
There was a slight learning curve in mastering the simultaneous disengagement of the ALS and SLS, but after about an hour of practice, it became second nature. The only minor issue was a slight tendency for the SLS hood to stick initially, but a little silicone lubricant quickly resolved that.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in both range sessions and outdoor training scenarios, the Safariland 7360 7TS has proven its mettle. The holster has held up incredibly well, showing no signs of wear and tear beyond some minor scuff marks on the basketweave finish. The internal surfaces remain smooth, and the retention mechanisms continue to function flawlessly.
The 7TS nylon blend has proven remarkably durable, resisting scratches and abrasions that would have quickly marred a traditional leather or Kydex holster. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 7360 stands head and shoulders above the competition in terms of both retention and durability. It’s simply a more refined and reliable piece of gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7360 7TS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III – 1 out of 151 models
Specifications
Level III Retention: The holster utilizes both the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) to provide a Level III retention rating. This provides a high level of security against unauthorized removal of the firearm.
ALS (Automatic Locking System): This internal locking device secures the weapon automatically upon holstering and is released with a simple thumb swipe. It offers intuitive operation, crucial in high-stress situations.
SLS (Self Locking System) Rotating Hood: The SLS rotating hood further secures the firearm and requires a deliberate motion to disengage, preventing accidental or unauthorized removal. This adds an extra layer of security without significantly hindering draw speed.
Level IV Retention with Optional Sentry Installed: This optional sentry attachment can be installed to provide level IV retention for maximum security. It is useful in high-risk situations where extra security is warranted.
7TS™ Construction: Constructed from Safariland’s proprietary 7TS™ nylon blend. This material is extremely durable, non-abrasive, and resistant to temperature extremes.
Mid-Ride Belt Loop: Positions the holster at a mid-ride height, offering a balance between accessibility and concealment. This allows for a comfortable carry position that doesn’t interfere with movement.
Non-Abrasive Interior: The internal surfaces are designed to be completely non-abrasive, protecting the firearm’s finish. This preserves the appearance and value of the firearm over time.
High Heat and Low Cold Tolerances: The 7TS™ material is structurally sound from 300°F to -50°F. This is important in extreme weather conditions.
Waterproof: Can be submerged in water indefinitely and still maintain shape and function. This makes the holster reliable in wet environments.
Matte Finish: Designed to decrease reflection and can be maintained with a simple scouring pad. This reduces visibility and maintains a professional appearance.
Injection-Molded Design: Works with all Safariland holster mounting options. This offers a wide range of customization options.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 7360 7TS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III excels at its primary job: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a relatively quick and efficient draw. The ALS and SLS mechanisms work in tandem to provide a robust level of security without feeling overly cumbersome.
The holster’s strengths lie in its simplicity and reliability. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent once the user becomes accustomed to the retention systems. The main weakness is the slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS and SLS simultaneously, but this is easily overcome with practice.
The Safariland 7360 7TS meets and arguably exceeds expectations for a Level III retention duty holster. It offers a balance of security, speed, and durability that is hard to find in competing products.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional. The 7TS™ nylon blend feels incredibly robust, and the overall construction is solid and well-executed. The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster comfortably on the hip, allowing for a natural draw stroke.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although, as mentioned earlier, there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS and SLS. The thumb release for the ALS is intuitively positioned, and the SLS hood is easy to disengage with a bit of practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 7360 7TS is built to last. The 7TS™ material is incredibly resistant to wear and tear, and the holster shows no signs of degradation even after months of heavy use.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The internal surfaces are smooth and easy to clean, and the retention mechanisms require only occasional lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 7360 7TS is compatible with a wide range of Safariland mounting options, including belt loops, drop-leg platforms, and MOLLE attachments. This allows for a high degree of customization to suit individual preferences and operational requirements.
While the holster itself doesn’t come with many accessories, the ability to swap out mounting platforms makes it highly adaptable. It is also compatible with various firearm-mounted lights, as indicated in the product description (X300U).
Pros and Cons of Safariland 7360 7TS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III – 1 out of 151 models
Pros
- Superior Level III Retention: The combination of ALS and SLS provides excellent security against unauthorized firearm removal.
- Durable 7TS Construction: The Safariland proprietary nylon blend is incredibly tough and resistant to temperature extremes and water.
- Smooth and Fast Draw: With practice, the draw stroke is surprisingly fast and efficient for a Level III holster.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Position: The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster comfortably on the hip.
- Wide Range of Mounting Options: Compatible with all Safariland holster mounting options.
Cons
- Learning Curve: The ALS and SLS mechanisms require practice to master.
- Initial SLS Stiffness: The SLS hood can be a bit stiff initially, requiring lubrication.
Who Should Buy Safariland 7360 7TS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III – 1 out of 151 models?
The Safariland 7360 7TS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a high level of firearm retention without sacrificing speed of draw. It’s also well-suited for those who operate in harsh environments, where durability and resistance to the elements are critical.
This product might not be ideal for casual shooters or those who prioritize concealment over retention. The Level III retention system adds bulk and complexity, which may not be necessary for these users.
A must-have accessory would be a Safariland drop-leg platform for tactical operations. Silicone lubricant is also helpful for maintaining smooth operation of the SLS hood.
Conclusion on Safariland 7360 7TS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III – 1 out of 151 models
The Safariland 7360 7TS ALS/SLS Mid-Ride Level III – 1 out of 151 models is an exceptional duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and performance. The combination of ALS and SLS provides a robust level of retention, while the 7TS™ construction ensures that the holster can withstand even the most demanding conditions.
The price of $159.20 is justified by the quality of materials, the level of engineering, and the overall reliability of the product. This is an investment in your personal safety and professional readiness.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 7360 7TS to anyone who needs a Level III retention duty holster. It’s a top-tier product that offers unparalleled security and peace of mind. If you value your firearm and your safety, then don’t hesitate; buy this holster.