What Makes Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models is a duty holster designed for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike. This holster, manufactured by Safariland, combines Level I retention with compatibility for red dot sights (RDS), a mid-ride height for comfortable carry, and the durable 7TS construction. It is a serious piece of kit designed to stand up to serious abuse.
As a seasoned gear specialist, I’ve spent countless hours searching for the perfect balance of speed, security, and comfort in a duty holster. My primary need was a holster that would accommodate my Glock 17 with a mounted red dot sight without sacrificing retention or hindering my draw speed. I needed something I could trust my life to.
My initial impression of the Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models was positive. The holster felt incredibly robust, yet surprisingly lightweight. The 7TS nylon blend felt almost indestructible.
I considered other holsters like the Blackhawk! Serpa and the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse. However, the Safariland‘s ALS (Automatic Locking System) and RDS compatibility made it the clear winner for my specific needs. The mid-ride height was also a significant factor, offering a better balance of accessibility and concealment than lower-riding or higher-riding options.
From the moment I unboxed the Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models, I knew this wasn’t just another holster. I was genuinely excited to field test it and see if it lived up to the hype. The build quality screamed “professional,” and the design looked incredibly well-thought-out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models was at my local shooting range. I ran several drills focusing on drawing and re-holstering under simulated stress conditions. I practiced in both dry and humid conditions to test the grip and draw reliability.
The holster performed admirably in both scenarios. The ALS system engaged positively every time, and the draw was surprisingly smooth and quick once I mastered the release. I was impressed by how securely the weapon was held, even during rapid movements.
There was a slight learning curve with the ALS release, but after about an hour of practice, it became second nature. The only initial issue was a minor adjustment needed on the tension screw to achieve the perfect balance of retention and draw speed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models has proven to be exceptionally durable. It has been through multiple range sessions, tactical training courses, and even a few rainy hiking trips. The 7TS material shows virtually no signs of wear and tear.
Cleaning and maintenance are a breeze. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep the holster in top condition. I did apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism after a particularly dusty range day, but that was purely preventative.
Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland stands out for its combination of retention, speed, and durability. It has outperformed several leather and Kydex holsters in terms of longevity and resistance to the elements. Its RDS compatibility is a significant upgrade over older models that required modification or completely separate holsters.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models
Specifications
Level I Retention Holster: This means the holster utilizes one active retention device (the ALS) to secure the firearm. Level I offers a good balance between security and speed of draw.
ALS (Automatic Locking System): The ALS automatically locks the weapon into the holster upon re-holstering. The thumb-activated release is intuitive and allows for a smooth, straight draw.
For Use with Red Dot Optic-Equipped Weapons: The holster is specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights. This eliminates the need for modifications or specialized holsters.
Proprietary Nylon Blend (7TS): Safariland‘s 7TS nylon blend is completely non-abrasive to a firearm’s finish. It is also highly resistant to impacts, abrasions, and extreme temperatures.
High Heat and Low Cold Tolerances: The 7TS material remains structurally sound from 300°F to -50°F. This is crucial for use in diverse environments.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s performance and reliability in real-world situations. The Level I retention offers sufficient security for most duty applications while allowing for a relatively fast draw. The RDS compatibility future-proofs the holster for shooters who are adopting red dot sights on their duty weapons. The 7TS material ensures the holster can withstand harsh conditions without damaging the firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models excels in its primary function: securely holding a firearm while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The ALS system is reliable and easy to operate with practice.
One of the holster’s strengths is its simplicity. Once you understand the ALS release, drawing and re-holstering become almost automatic. One weakness is that it might require some initial adjustment of the tension screw to find the sweet spot between retention and draw speed.
The holster definitely meets my expectations for a duty-grade holster. The only minor improvement I would suggest is a slightly more pronounced thumb ramp for the ALS release, which could improve tactile feedback.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models is exceptional. The 7TS nylon blend feels incredibly strong and durable. The mid-ride height offers a comfortable balance of accessibility and concealment.
The holster is generally user-friendly, although the ALS release does require some practice to master. Once you’re familiar with it, the draw is smooth and intuitive. The mid-ride height also contributes to a more natural and comfortable draw stroke compared to higher-riding holsters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models is built to last. The 7TS nylon blend is incredibly resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, this holster should provide many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the holster clean. Occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism with silicone lubricant is recommended, especially after exposure to dust or moisture.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models doesn’t come with a lot of accessories. The main customization option is the ability to adjust the tension screw to fine-tune the draw speed. The holster is designed to mount on Safariland‘s standard three-hole pattern, making it compatible with a wide range of belt loops, drop legs, and other mounting platforms.
The holster’s RDS compatibility is a significant advantage for users who run red dot sights on their handguns. The open-top design accommodates most popular red dot models without modification. The ability to easily adapt to different mounting platforms makes it a highly versatile option.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The 7TS nylon blend is incredibly resistant to wear, tear, and extreme temperatures.
- Reliable Retention: The ALS (Automatic Locking System) provides secure Level I retention.
- RDS Compatibility: Designed specifically for firearms equipped with red dot sights.
- Smooth and Fast Draw: With practice, the ALS release allows for a quick and efficient draw stroke.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: Offers a good balance of accessibility and concealment.
Cons
- ALS Release Learning Curve: Requires some practice to master the thumb-activated release.
- Initial Tension Adjustment: May require some fine-tuning to achieve the perfect balance of retention and draw speed.
Who Should Buy Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models?
The Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, competitive shooters, and anyone who needs a durable, reliable, and RDS-compatible duty holster. It is also an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize security and speed of draw.
This product may not be the best choice for individuals who are completely new to firearms or who prefer simpler, non-retention holsters. The ALS system requires some practice to master. It is also not ideal for concealed carry due to its size and open-top design.
A must-have accessory for this holster is a high-quality duty belt that is stiff enough to support the weight of the firearm and the holster. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism are also recommended to ensure optimal performance.
Conclusion on Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models
The Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models is an exceptional duty holster that offers a winning combination of durability, retention, RDS compatibility, and ease of use. While the ALS release requires some practice, the benefits it provides in terms of security and speed of draw are well worth the effort. At $151.99, the price is justified given the holster’s build quality, features, and reliability.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 7390RDS 7TS ALS Mid-Ride Level I – 1 out of 50 models to anyone who needs a top-tier duty holster for their RDS-equipped handgun. It is a solid investment that will provide years of reliable service. If you are looking for a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use and provide a secure and efficient draw, look no further. Get yours today and experience the Safariland difference.