First Thoughts on the Safariland 7378 ALS Paddle and Belt Loop Ruger American 9/40 SafariSeven Black
The Safariland 7378 ALS Paddle and Belt Loop Ruger American 9/40 SafariSeven Black is a duty-grade holster designed for the Ruger American pistol in 9mm and .40 caliber. Safariland has built a strong reputation for providing law enforcement and military personnel with reliable and secure holsters, and this model looks to continue that tradition. The inclusion of the Automatic Locking System (ALS) alongside the durable SafariSeven material immediately caught my eye.
As a tactical gear specialist, I often seek holsters that offer a balance of retention, speed, and comfort. I needed a holster system for my Ruger American that would work both for range days and potential open carry scenarios where security is paramount. I was tired of generic holsters that didn’t provide a snug fit or reliable retention.
Upon receiving the Safariland 7378 ALS, the first thing I noticed was its robust construction. The SafariSeven material felt incredibly strong yet surprisingly lightweight. The ALS lever was intuitive and easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa and some Kydex options, but the Safariland‘s ALS system and reputation for quality won me over. I felt the extra investment in a reputable brand known for duty use would be worth it over cheaper, potentially less reliable options. The Safariland 7378 ALS seemed like the right choice for a secure and dependable holster.
My initial excitement was high. The Safariland 7378 ALS appeared to be exactly what I was looking for: a secure, durable, and fast holster for my Ruger American. This holster provided the confidence I needed for various applications.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7378 ALS Paddle and Belt Loop Ruger American 9/40 SafariSeven Black to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 7378 ALS at my local shooting range. I wanted to assess its draw speed and retention under controlled conditions. The weather was dry and sunny, ideal for a day of practice.
The draw was surprisingly fast and natural once I got used to the ALS release. The thumb swipe became second nature after a few repetitions. I experienced no issues with retention, even during rapid movements and simulated scenarios.
The only initial issue was adjusting the paddle and belt loop attachments for optimal comfort and positioning. This was easily resolved with some minor adjustments. After a short break-in period, the Safariland 7378 ALS proved to be a great holster.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple range trips and some open carry practice, the Safariland 7378 ALS has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the SafariSeven material. The ALS mechanism remains smooth and reliable.
The holster has proven easy to clean; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth removes any dirt or debris. I’ve carried in both hot and humid conditions, and the SafariSeven material hasn’t shown any signs of warping or degradation. It continues to retain it’s original shape and finish.
Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 7378 ALS provides a significant upgrade in both security and draw speed. I have complete confidence in its ability to retain my firearm under any circumstances. This level of performance exceeds my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7378 ALS Paddle and Belt Loop Ruger American 9/40 SafariSeven Black
Specifications
The Safariland 7378 ALS Paddle and Belt Loop Ruger American 9/40 SafariSeven Black is specifically designed for the Ruger American pistol in 9mm and .40 caliber. Its construction consists of Safariland‘s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend, known for its extreme durability and resistance to heat, cold, and moisture. The holster is available in black and comes with both a paddle and belt loop attachment.
The ALS (Automatic Locking System) secures the firearm upon holstering, requiring only a thumb swipe to release. This system provides Level I Retention. The holster is designed for right-handed users.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the holster’s overall reliability, security, and user-friendliness. The SafariSeven material ensures long-lasting performance in various environmental conditions. The ALS system provides peace of mind knowing the firearm is securely retained.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 7378 ALS performs its job exceptionally well. The draw is quick and efficient, and the ALS provides a positive and secure lock. The holster offers a balance of speed and security that is ideal for duty use or concealed carry.
The main strength lies in its ALS retention system. This provides a high level of security without sacrificing draw speed. The only minor weakness is the initial learning curve associated with the ALS release, though it becomes intuitive with practice.
The Safariland 7378 ALS meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster. Its performance is consistently reliable and confidence-inspiring. The system provided has proven its value through use.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 7378 ALS is outstanding. The SafariSeven material is robust and well-molded. The holster is lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods.
The design is user-friendly, with an intuitive ALS release and easily adjustable paddle and belt loop attachments. There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS, but it is minimal. The design has clearly been refined over time.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 7378 ALS is built to last. The SafariSeven material is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
The holster is easy to maintain; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. No special cleaning products are required. The durability coupled with ease of maintenance is a winning combination.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 7378 ALS comes standard with both a paddle and belt loop attachment. This provides flexibility in how the holster is worn. Safariland offers a variety of accessories, including different belt loop sizes and drop leg platforms.
While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options like adjustable cant or ride height, it is compatible with Safariland‘s extensive line of mounting hardware. This allows users to adapt the holster to their specific needs. Additional customization options may be available through third-party modifications.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 7378 ALS Paddle and Belt Loop Ruger American 9/40 SafariSeven Black
Pros
- Exceptional retention: The ALS system provides a secure and reliable lock.
- Fast draw: The ALS release allows for a quick and efficient draw.
- Durable construction: The SafariSeven material is incredibly tough and resistant to wear and tear.
- Versatile mounting options: Includes both paddle and belt loop attachments.
- Comfortable to wear: Lightweight and ergonomically designed for extended use.
Cons
- Initial learning curve: The ALS release requires some practice to master.
- Limited customization: Fewer adjustable features compared to some other holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 7378 ALS Paddle and Belt Loop Ruger American 9/40 SafariSeven Black?
The Safariland 7378 ALS Paddle and Belt Loop Ruger American 9/40 SafariSeven Black is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible citizens who prioritize security and reliability in a holster. It’s a great option for range use and open carry, where retention is paramount. This holster is suited for those seeking a duty-grade holster for their Ruger American.
Those who prefer a holster with extensive customization options or who are completely new to firearms might want to consider other options. A simpler, non-retention holster might be a better starting point for beginners. If you require extreme adjustability, consider other options.
A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper support and stability. Additional Safariland mounting hardware can further enhance the holster’s versatility. Don’t forget the importance of a sturdy gun belt!
Conclusion on Safariland 7378 ALS Paddle and Belt Loop Ruger American 9/40 SafariSeven Black
The Safariland 7378 ALS Paddle and Belt Loop Ruger American 9/40 SafariSeven Black is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. The ALS retention system provides peace of mind, while the SafariSeven material ensures long-lasting performance. This holster is a worthwhile investment.
The price of $56.00 is justified given the quality of materials, construction, and the security offered by the ALS system. It represents excellent value for a duty-grade holster. You get what you pay for with this product.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 7378 ALS to anyone looking for a reliable and secure holster for their Ruger American pistol. It’s a well-designed and well-executed product that will provide years of dependable service. Don’t hesitate, get yours today!