Let’s Talk About Safariland 7365RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Low-Ride Duty – 1 out of 41 models
For over a decade, I’ve been immersed in the world of tactical and outdoor gear, rigorously testing and evaluating everything from survival knives to advanced optics. Today, I’m excited to share my in-depth review of the Safariland 7365RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Low-Ride Duty – 1 out of 41 models, a duty holster designed for professionals who demand secure weapon retention and rapid access, especially with red dot sights. It’s a serious piece of gear for serious situations.
My need for this particular holster arose from a growing trend within my local law enforcement community: the adoption of red dot sights on duty pistols. I needed a holster solution that provided Level III retention while accommodating the optic and allowing for a smooth, natural draw. The Safariland name carries a certain weight in the industry, and I was eager to see if this holster lived up to its reputation.
Unboxing the holster, my initial impression was one of robust quality. The 7TS material felt exceptionally durable, and the overall construction was clean and purposeful. It felt lighter than I expected given its size and retention features, which was a pleasant surprise.
I considered other popular RDS-compatible duty holsters from Blackhawk and Blade-Tech, but the Safariland’s reputation for retention and the innovative 7TS material ultimately swayed my decision. I hoped it would provide a noticeable advantage in terms of durability and resistance to the elements. Initial excitement was high, tempered by the understanding that real-world use would be the ultimate test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7365RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Low-Ride Duty – 1 out of 41 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at the shooting range, focusing on drawing and reholstering drills. The low-ride design positioned the firearm perfectly for a natural, efficient draw stroke. The combination of the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) provided a reassuring level of security.
I also exposed the holster to varying conditions during simulated field exercises. This included exposure to rain, mud, and extreme temperatures to evaluate its weather resistance. I quickly appreciated the smooth draw even when the holster was wet or dusty. There was a bit of a learning curve involved in mastering the SLS release, but after a few hours of practice, it became second nature.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 7365RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Low-Ride Duty holster continues to perform admirably. The 7TS material has proven remarkably durable, showing no signs of wear or abrasion despite daily use and exposure to harsh conditions. The retention mechanisms remain secure and reliable.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Compared to my previous duty holster (a leather model), the Safariland requires significantly less maintenance and offers superior resistance to the elements. It definitely outperformed my expectations in terms of durability and ease of use.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7365RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Low-Ride Duty – 1 out of 41 models
Specifications
- The Safariland 7365RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Low-Ride Duty holster is specifically designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights. This allows officers and other professionals to utilize the advantages of modern optics without sacrificing holster security or accessibility.
- The holster features ALS (Automatic Locking System), which automatically secures the weapon upon holstering and can only be released with a deliberate thumb action. This offers a high level of security while still allowing for a rapid draw.
- It also incorporates the SLS (Self Locking System), a rotating hood that further secures the firearm and prevents unauthorized removal. The SLS is intuitive to disengage with practice.
- The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary 7TS nylon blend, which is incredibly durable and non-abrasive to the firearm’s finish. This ensures that the holster won’t damage the weapon over time.
- The 7TS material is also highly resistant to heat and cold, maintaining its structural integrity from 300°F to -50°F. This extreme temperature tolerance ensures reliable performance in virtually any environment.
- Another key feature is its water resistance: the holster can be submerged indefinitely without compromising its shape or function. This is critical for professionals working in wet or marine environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 7365RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Low-Ride Duty holster performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The combination of ALS and SLS provides a confident Level III retention, ensuring the firearm remains secure even during strenuous activity. The low-ride design facilitates a smooth, natural draw stroke, allowing for rapid target acquisition.
The strengths of this holster lie in its robust construction, reliable retention, and compatibility with red dot sights. The SLS mechanism, while secure, can require practice to master for quick and efficient draws. Overall, this holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster designed for red dot sight equipped firearms.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 7365RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Low-Ride Duty holster is outstanding. The 7TS nylon blend feels incredibly durable and provides a secure platform for the firearm. The holster’s weight is well-balanced, and the low-ride design positions the firearm comfortably on the hip.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although mastering the SLS requires some practice. Once the user becomes familiar with the release mechanism, the draw stroke is smooth and intuitive. The overall design is well-thought-out, prioritizing security, accessibility, and comfort.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 7365RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Low-Ride Duty holster is built to last. The 7TS nylon blend is incredibly resistant to wear, abrasion, and environmental factors. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is typically all that’s needed to keep the holster clean and functioning properly. The 7TS material is non-porous, making it easy to remove dirt and debris.
Accessories and Customization Options
While the Safariland 7365RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Low-Ride Duty holster doesn’t come with a wide array of accessories, it’s highly compatible with Safariland’s extensive line of holster mounting options. This allows users to customize the ride height, cant, and attachment method to suit their individual preferences. Users can opt for different belt loops, drop legs, or MOLLE attachments, depending on their needs.
The holster is also compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as the optional Sentry, which adds an additional layer of security by preventing the SLS hood from being disengaged. The ability to customize the holster with different mounting options and accessories greatly enhances its versatility and adaptability.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 7365RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Low-Ride Duty – 1 out of 41 models
Pros
- Exceptional Weapon Retention: The ALS/SLS system provides Level III retention, offering superior security in demanding situations.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms with red dot sights, ensuring a proper fit and smooth draw.
- Extreme Durability: The 7TS nylon blend is incredibly resistant to wear, abrasion, and environmental factors.
- Low-Ride Design: Facilitates a natural and efficient draw stroke.
- Customization Options: Compatible with Safariland’s extensive line of holster mounting options and accessories.
Cons
- The SLS mechanism requires practice to master for quick and efficient draws.
- The $176.40 price point may be a barrier to entry for some users.
Who Should Buy Safariland 7365RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Low-Ride Duty – 1 out of 41 models?
The Safariland 7365RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Low-Ride Duty holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and other professionals who require a secure and reliable duty holster for their red dot sight-equipped firearms. It’s also well-suited for individuals involved in tactical training or competitive shooting who prioritize weapon retention and rapid access.
This holster may not be the best choice for individuals seeking a concealed carry option or those who are unfamiliar with Level III retention systems. Users should be committed to practicing with the SLS mechanism to ensure proficiency. A must-have accessory is a good quality duty belt that is rigid enough to support the weight of the firearm and holster without sagging.
Conclusion on Safariland 7365RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Low-Ride Duty – 1 out of 41 models
The Safariland 7365RDS 7TS ALS/SLS Low-Ride Duty holster is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional weapon retention, durability, and compatibility with red dot sights. While the SLS mechanism requires practice, the overall performance and reliability of this holster make it a worthwhile investment for professionals who demand the best.
The price is justified by the quality of materials and the advanced retention system. I would highly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a secure and efficient duty holster for their red dot sight-equipped firearm. Upgrade your carry system today for enhanced security and faster target acquisition.