Safariland 7371184411 7371 ALS Paddle Fits Ruger LC9 SafariSeven Black Review

First Thoughts on the Safariland 7371184411 7371 ALS Paddle Fits Ruger LC9 SafariSeven Black

The Safariland 7371184411 7371 ALS Paddle Fits Ruger LC9 SafariSeven Black holster promises a blend of security and accessibility, something many concealed carriers prioritize. As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each vying for a spot on the belts of law enforcement, military personnel, and everyday citizens. This model, with its ALS (Automatic Locking System) and paddle design, immediately piqued my interest, especially given my familiarity with the Ruger LC9 platform.

I was looking for a holster that would allow me to comfortably and securely carry my Ruger LC9 during hikes and range days. I needed something with reliable retention, but still allowed a fast draw when needed.

Unboxing the Safariland 7371, the first thing I noticed was the SafariSeven material. It feels incredibly durable, and the finish is smooth and professional. The paddle attachment seemed robust, promising a secure fit against the body.

Compared to similar paddle holsters I’ve used from Blackhawk and Galco, the Safariland’s ALS system sets it apart. While the others rely primarily on friction for retention, the ALS provides a more positive lock. My initial reaction was a mixture of excitement and cautious optimism; excited by the potential for a secure and quick draw, but cautious about whether the ALS would truly be as intuitive in practice as it appeared.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7371184411 7371 ALS Paddle Fits Ruger LC9 SafariSeven Black to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Safariland 7371 was at my local shooting range. I ran several drills focusing on drawing and re-holstering, timing each repetition to gauge the ALS’s impact on my speed. The holster performed admirably, even when subjected to rapid movements and simulated stress. The release became second nature after just a few draws.

The holster also saw action during a particularly wet and muddy training exercise. The SafariSeven material proved its worth; the holster shed water effectively, and the raised stand-offs inside prevented moisture from accumulating against the firearm. There were no functional issues after this exposure to adverse conditions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 7371 has proven to be a reliable piece of kit. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on the SafariSeven material, and the ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly and consistently. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep the holster clean and functioning optimally.

Compared to other holsters I’ve owned, the Safariland 7371 has surpassed my expectations in terms of both security and durability. It is far more robust than any standard leather holster, and the ALS system provides a level of retention that friction-based holsters simply cannot match.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7371184411 7371 ALS Paddle Fits Ruger LC9 SafariSeven Black

Specifications

The Safariland 7371184411 7371 ALS Paddle Fits Ruger LC9 SafariSeven Black is a paddle holster designed for concealed carry of subcompact firearms. It’s specifically molded to fit the Ruger LC9, LC9s, and LC380, as well as the Glock 42 and 43, and the S&W M&P Shield 9/40. The holster is constructed from SafariSeven, a proprietary nylon blend known for its extreme durability and resistance to heat, cold, and chemicals.

The SafariSeven material’s non-abrasive properties mean that your firearm’s finish is protected from scratches and wear during repeated draws and re-holstering. The holster also features the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon upon holstering and releases with a thumb swipe.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 7371 excels at its primary function: securely carrying and providing quick access to your firearm. The ALS mechanism is intuitive and reliable, providing a tactile and audible confirmation that the weapon is locked in place. Drawing the weapon is a smooth and natural motion, facilitated by the ergonomic design of the holster.

The only minor weakness is that the paddle attachment can sometimes shift slightly during rigorous activity. However, this can be mitigated by ensuring the paddle is properly seated against the body and by using a sturdy belt. Overall, the holster exceeds expectations in terms of both security and accessibility.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 7371 is thoughtfully designed with concealed carry in mind. The small footprint of the paddle minimizes bulk, while the SafariSeven material is lightweight and comfortable against the skin. The holster’s molded design ensures a snug and secure fit for the compatible firearms.

There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release, but after a few practice sessions, the motion becomes second nature. The holster is remarkably user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The SafariSeven material is incredibly durable, resisting scratches, abrasions, and temperature extremes. This ensures that the holster will withstand years of use in demanding conditions. Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove dirt and debris.

With proper care, the Safariland 7371 should provide reliable service for many years. The robust construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily carry.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 7371 comes standard with the 571BL paddle attachment. There are limited customization options for this particular model, as it is specifically molded for the listed firearms. However, Safariland offers a wide range of accessories and mounting options for their holsters, including belt loops and drop-leg platforms.

While direct customization is limited, the holster is compatible with a variety of belts and carry positions. This allows users to tailor their carry setup to their specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 7371184411 7371 ALS Paddle Fits Ruger LC9 SafariSeven Black

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Who Should Buy Safariland 7371184411 7371 ALS Paddle Fits Ruger LC9 SafariSeven Black?

This holster is perfect for individuals who prioritize secure concealed carry with quick access to their firearm. It is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsibly armed citizens who carry a Ruger LC9/LC9s/LC380, Glock 42/43, or S&W M&P Shield 9/40. The holster’s durability and weather resistance also make it suitable for outdoor enthusiasts.

Individuals who prefer highly customizable holsters or those who require a very low-profile, minimalist design may want to explore other options. However, for those seeking a balance of security, accessibility, and durability, the Safariland 7371 is an outstanding choice.

A sturdy belt is a must-have accessory to ensure the paddle sits firmly against the body. Some users may also benefit from aftermarket retention screws to fine-tune the ALS release tension.

Conclusion on Safariland 7371184411 7371 ALS Paddle Fits Ruger LC9 SafariSeven Black

The Safariland 7371184411 7371 ALS Paddle Fits Ruger LC9 SafariSeven Black delivers on its promise of secure and accessible concealed carry. The ALS retention system provides peace of mind, while the SafariSeven construction ensures long-lasting durability. At a price of $42.49, the value proposition is excellent.

I would personally recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable and comfortable carry solution for their Ruger LC9/LC9s/LC380, Glock 42/43, or S&W M&P Shield 9/40. If you value security, durability, and ease of use, the Safariland 7371 is a solid investment that will serve you well for years to come. Get yours today and experience the Safariland difference!

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