Safariland 7378RDS – 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models Review

What Makes Safariland 7378RDS – 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models Stand Out?

In a market saturated with concealed carry options, the Safariland 7378RDS – 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models aims to deliver a secure, rapid-access holster solution for handguns equipped with red dot sights. Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military gear, has built this holster around its proven ALS (Automatic Locking System) and the durable SafariSeven material. It promises a blend of retention, speed, and ruggedness, making it a compelling choice for both professionals and prepared citizens.

I needed a holster that could confidently secure my Glock 19 MOS with a Holosun 507C. It needed to be comfortable enough for all-day concealed carry and offer a smooth, reliable draw. I had been using a generic kydex holster, but the retention was inadequate, and the draw wasn’t as fluid as I wanted.

The Safariland 7378RDS arrived in typical Safariland packaging, a no-nonsense cardboard box. My initial impression was positive; the holster felt solid and well-constructed, noticeably lighter than anticipated. The SafariSeven material had a slightly textured feel, different from traditional Kydex, suggesting a more resilient composition.

I considered the Blackhawk! SERPA and the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse. However, the SERPA’s finger-actuated release has always made me nervous, and the Blade-Tech, while versatile, didn’t offer the same level of active retention as the Safariland ALS. The ALS was the deciding factor for me, providing a level of security that inspired confidence.

I was excited to try it out. Finally, a holster that looked like it could handle both the rigors of daily carry and the demands of a potential high-stress situation.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7378RDS – 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Safariland 7378RDS was at my local outdoor shooting range. I spent the day running drills, practicing drawing and reholstering under time pressure. The weather was typical for late spring – sunny, but with a slight breeze and the occasional light shower.

The Safariland performed admirably in all conditions. Even with slightly damp hands from the rain, I was able to maintain a secure grip and a consistent draw. It took a few draws to become fully comfortable with the ALS release, but once I had the thumb placement dialed in, the draw stroke became incredibly smooth and fast.

Initially, the paddle felt a little stiff, but after a few hours of wear, it conformed nicely to my body. One minor annoyance was the audible “click” of the ALS engaging upon reholstering. While reassuring, it might be a concern in certain stealth-sensitive scenarios.

Extended Use & Reliability

After three months of almost daily use, the Safariland 7378RDS has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. The SafariSeven material shows no signs of wear or scratches, despite being subjected to the usual bumps and scrapes of everyday life. The retention system remains secure and consistent.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep the holster clean. I did apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism after a particularly dusty range session. The Safariland 7378RDS outperforms my previous holsters in both retention and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7378RDS – 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models

Specifications

• The Safariland 7378RDS is specifically designed to accommodate handguns equipped with red dot sights. This is crucial for those who rely on optics for faster target acquisition.
• The holster utilizes Safariland’s patented ALS (Automatic Locking System) for active retention. This locks the firearm in place until the release is deliberately engaged with the thumb.
• Construction is of SafariSeven, a proprietary nylon blend from DuPont. This material is designed for extreme durability and resistance to heat, cold, and chemicals.
• The holster features an open-top design without SLS (Self Locking System) for quick retrieval. This prioritizes speed over maximum retention.
• It includes a concealment paddle attachment. This allows for comfortable and discreet carry close to the body.

These specifications are paramount. The ALS provides an excellent balance between retention and speed, and the SafariSeven material ensures the holster can withstand the rigors of daily carry in various environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 7378RDS performs its primary function – securely retaining and quickly deploying a handgun with a red dot sight – exceptionally well. The ALS is intuitive and easy to master with practice, leading to a fast and consistent draw stroke. The open-top design further enhances speed, making it suitable for both concealed carry and competition.

The holster’s strengths lie in its retention, speed, and durability. One minor weakness is that the paddle attachment can feel a little bulky under certain clothing. It absolutely meets my expectations as a secure and reliable concealed carry holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is top-notch. The SafariSeven material is rigid and provides excellent protection for the firearm. The holster’s weight is surprisingly light, making it comfortable for all-day carry.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, although mastering the ALS release requires some practice. The paddle attachment is comfortable against the body and distributes weight evenly.

Durability & Maintenance

The SafariSeven material is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this holster should last for many years. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 7378RDS doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, as its design is relatively streamlined. However, it is compatible with various Safariland mounting options, allowing users to switch between paddle, belt loop, and other carry methods. The holster is specifically designed to accommodate a wide range of red dot sights, making it compatible with popular brands like Trijicon, Holosun, and Aimpoint.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 7378RDS – 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland 7378RDS – 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible citizens who prioritize both security and speed in a concealed carry holster. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who use red dot sights on their handguns.

Individuals who require maximum concealment and are willing to sacrifice some draw speed may want to consider a different holster. This might include inside-the-waistband (IWB) options.

A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for optimal comfort and stability. Also consider a holster wedge to further enhance concealment.

Conclusion on Safariland 7378RDS – 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models

The Safariland 7378RDS – 7TS ALS Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models is an excellent holster that delivers on its promises of retention, speed, and durability. At $150.75, the price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and the peace of mind that comes with the ALS retention system. I would absolutely recommend the Safariland 7378RDS to anyone looking for a reliable and high-performance concealed carry holster for their red dot-equipped handgun. If you’re serious about your personal defense, invest in a Safariland. You won’t regret it.