Let’s Dive into Safariland 7377 7TS ALS Concealment Belt Slide Holster for Smith and Wesson
The Safariland 7377 7TS ALS Concealment Belt Slide Holster for Smith and Wesson is a meticulously designed holster from Safariland, renowned for its durable construction and innovative Automatic Locking System (ALS). This holster is tailored specifically for Smith & Wesson M&P 9 4in and M&P 40 4in models, offering a secure and rapid draw in a concealment-friendly package. The SafariSeven nylon blend makes it resistant to the elements and gentle on your firearm’s finish.
My need for a reliable and low-profile holster for my Smith & Wesson M&P led me to the Safariland 7377. I wanted something that offered both secure retention and a quick, natural draw for everyday carry. I also preferred a belt slide design for its simplicity and ease of attachment.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the holster’s robust construction and the smooth, matte finish of the SafariSeven material. The holster felt solid in hand, yet surprisingly lightweight. The ALS lever felt intuitive and easily accessible.
I had considered the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse and the Blackhawk Serpa CQC, but the Safariland’s reputation for durability and its ALS retention system ultimately won me over. I felt it offered a superior balance of security and speed compared to the others. My first impression was one of confident expectation. This felt like a holster I could truly rely on, though I reserved full judgement until I could put it through its paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7377 7TS ALS Concealment Belt Slide Holster for Smith and Wesson to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 7377 7TS ALS Concealment Belt Slide Holster at my local shooting range during a practical pistol course. The Texas heat was brutal that day, and I needed to run drills in varying weather conditions. The holster immediately proved its worth with its secure retention and fast draw.
The ALS system was easy to manipulate even under stress. The draw stroke felt smooth and natural, while re-holstering was positive and secure. There were no hiccups or malfunctions during the entire session.
The learning curve was minimal; after a few practice draws, the motion became second nature. The holster’s open-top design allowed for a full firing grip before the draw, resulting in faster and more accurate target acquisition. I noticed that it printed slightly more than some other holsters I’ve used.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including daily carry and multiple range sessions, the Safariland 7377 has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the SafariSeven material, despite frequent exposure to sweat and abrasion from clothing. The holster has also maintained its shape and retention strength.
Cleaning the holster is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes. This holster is far more reliable than previous holsters I’ve used, particularly those made of leather or cheaper synthetics. It has surpassed all my expectations for durability and performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7377 7TS ALS Concealment Belt Slide Holster for Smith and Wesson
Specifications
- The Safariland 7377 7TS ALS Concealment Belt Slide Holster is designed specifically for Smith & Wesson M&P 9 4in and M&P 40 4in models. This ensures a snug, secure fit and optimal retention.
- Constructed from SafariSeven, a proprietary nylon blend, the holster offers extreme durability and resistance to heat, cold, and abrasion. This material is also non-abrasive to the firearm’s finish.
- The holster features ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon upon holstering and allows for a simple straight-up draw once the release is deactivated. This provides an added layer of security without sacrificing speed.
- It has an open-top design without SLS (Self Locking System), which facilitates quick retrieval of the weapon. This is ideal for concealed carry where speed is crucial.
- The holster’s injection-molded belt loop is user adjustable for cant. It can also be worn crossdraw, enhancing versatility and user comfort.
These specifications are critical for a concealment holster because they directly impact its comfort, security, and draw speed. The SafariSeven material ensures longevity and protects the firearm, while the ALS system provides peace of mind without hindering a fast draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 7377 7TS ALS Concealment Belt Slide Holster excels at its primary function: securely holding and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, providing a positive lock that requires minimal effort to disengage. The open-top design allows for a full firing grip before the draw, significantly enhancing accuracy and speed.
The holster’s main strength lies in its balance of security and speed. The ALS system prevents unauthorized access to the firearm, while the open-top design ensures a rapid draw when needed. One area for potential improvement would be a slightly lower profile for enhanced concealment, although the current design is adequate. Overall, it exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster is built with high-quality materials and attention to detail. The SafariSeven nylon blend feels durable and comfortable against the body, and the injection-molded belt loop is sturdy and well-designed. At just a few ounces, it doesn’t add noticeable weight.
The Safariland 7377 is exceptionally user-friendly. The ALS lever is easily accessible and requires minimal training to master. The holster’s adjustable cant allows for personalized comfort and draw angle.
Durability & Maintenance
Given Safariland’s reputation and the construction of the 7377 using SafariSeven, this holster is built to last for years with proper use. The SafariSeven material is resistant to heat, cold, moisture, and chemicals. Maintenance is incredibly simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep the holster clean and functioning optimally.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 7377 comes with the adjustable belt loop attachment. While there aren’t many “accessories” per se, the ability to adjust the cant angle is a valuable customization feature. Furthermore, due to Safariland’s widespread compatibility, the belt loop can be swapped for other Safariland mounting options, such as a paddle attachment or a drop leg platform. This flexibility allows the user to adapt the holster to various carry styles and needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 7377 7TS ALS Concealment Belt Slide Holster for Smith and Wesson
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides secure weapon retention, giving peace of mind in active situations.
- Durable Construction: Built with SafariSeven nylon blend, the holster withstands extreme temperatures and resists wear and tear.
- Fast and Natural Draw: The open-top design allows for a full firing grip and a quick, efficient draw.
- Adjustable Cant: The injection-molded belt loop is user adjustable for cant, offering personalized comfort and carry options.
- Minimal Maintenance: The SafariSeven material is easy to clean and requires little upkeep.
Cons
- Slightly Higher Profile: The holster may print more than some other concealment options, particularly with thinner clothing.
- Limited Customization: Beyond cant adjustment, there are few other customization options available directly from Safariland.
Who Should Buy Safariland 7377 7TS ALS Concealment Belt Slide Holster for Smith and Wesson?
The Safariland 7377 7TS ALS Concealment Belt Slide Holster for Smith and Wesson is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible citizens who prioritize secure weapon retention and rapid deployment. It’s also well-suited for those who train frequently and need a durable and reliable holster that can withstand rigorous use. This holster will work great for those who want a holster that has high retention, can be quickly deployed, and will work in a variety of temperatures.
Those seeking the absolute smallest possible footprint for maximum concealment might explore other options with a lower profile. If you are looking for a holster that has multiple levels of retention, this might not be for you either.
A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure comfortable and secure carry. A weapon-mounted light will not work with this holster.
Conclusion on Safariland 7377 7TS ALS Concealment Belt Slide Holster for Smith and Wesson
The Safariland 7377 7TS ALS Concealment Belt Slide Holster for Smith and Wesson is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a secure, durable, and reliable concealment holster for their Smith & Wesson M&P. Its innovative ALS system, robust construction, and user-friendly design make it a top contender in its class. The holster’s price is definitely justified by its quality and performance.
I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone looking for a dependable and effective concealed carry solution. Invest in the Safariland 7377 today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is secure and readily accessible.