Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster Review

Let’s Talk About Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster

The Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a critical component for professionals and responsible armed citizens who demand both security and rapid accessibility. Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical equipment, has built its reputation on producing durable and reliable holsters, and the 7TS ALS is no exception. This holster boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS), renowned for its intuitive operation and robust retention, combined with the rugged Safariseven™ material, promising years of reliable service.

For years, I struggled to find a duty holster that offered both a secure weapon retention system and a comfortable carry position for extended periods. Most holsters either felt bulky and cumbersome, or compromised security for ease of draw. After countless hours researching and testing various options, the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster seemed to tick all the boxes, so I knew that I needed to get my hands on one.

Upon receiving the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster, my initial impression was that of a well-engineered and thoughtfully designed piece of equipment. The Safariseven™ material felt incredibly strong and rigid, yet surprisingly lightweight. The mid-ride design, coupled with the familiar ALS thumb release, felt natural and intuitive from the start.

Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk Serpa and the older Safariland SLS models, the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster stood out due to its combination of advanced materials and improved locking mechanism. The Serpa’s trigger finger release always made me uneasy, while the older SLS models sometimes felt clunky and slow. The ALS system, combined with the streamlined design of the 7TS, offered what seemed like the best of both worlds: secure retention and a fast, smooth draw. I chose this particular holster because I was after a balance between security, speed, and comfort, and it looked like it might just fit the bill.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While I was excited by the potential of the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster, I knew that real-world performance would be the ultimate test. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster at a local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. I was simulating scenarios where a quick and efficient draw was essential. The range provided a controlled environment to familiarize myself with the holster’s operation and assess its comfort.

The holster performed exceptionally well in dry conditions, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke. The ALS release was intuitive and easy to manipulate, even with gloves on. However, I also wanted to see how it performed in less-than-ideal circumstances, so I put it through the wringer.

The draw stroke remained consistent and secure, even when the holster was wet or covered in dirt. The Safariseven™ material proved to be truly impervious to the elements. It needed no special treatment even after prolonged exposure to the elements. This was a massive improvement over leather or nylon holsters I’ve used in the past, which tend to absorb moisture and become difficult to manipulate.

I needed a short period to fully adjust to the ALS release. However, after a couple of hours of practice, it became second nature. The mid-ride height felt natural and comfortable. The grip sat perfectly for a quick draw in my natural position.

The only minor issue I encountered was the initial stiffness of the ALS release lever. However, this quickly resolved itself after a few dozen draws. Overall, I was extremely impressed with the holster’s initial performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. I have worn it daily during training sessions, outdoor activities, and even in a professional security context. The holster is just as reliable now as it was brand new.

Despite regular wear and tear, the holster shows virtually no signs of wear. The Safariseven™ material is incredibly resilient. It resists scratches and abrasions far better than any other holster material I’ve encountered. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing secure retention and a smooth, consistent draw.

Maintaining the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster is incredibly easy. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean. Unlike leather holsters, it requires no special conditioning or treatments. It’s as easy as wipe and done.

Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster is in a completely different league. It outperforms them in every aspect, from security and durability to comfort and ease of use. It’s simply the best duty holster I’ve ever owned.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster

Specifications

The Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster is constructed from Safariseven™, a proprietary nylon blend from DuPont™, known for its exceptional durability and resistance to the elements. The holster features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon upon holstering and releases with a simple thumb activation. It comes standard with the UBL mid-ride attachment, accommodating belts from 2 inches to 2.25 inches in width.

The Safariseven™ material is virtually impervious to moisture, chemicals, and extreme temperatures, ensuring reliable performance in any environment. The ALS system provides Level I Retention, offering a balance between security and speed. The mid-ride height positions the weapon for a comfortable and efficient draw, while the UBL attachment offers stability and compatibility with various belt systems.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster excels in its primary function: securely retaining and providing rapid access to a sidearm. The ALS system is incredibly reliable. It holds the weapon firmly in place until the user deliberately releases it. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, allowing for quick and accurate target acquisition.

The holster’s main strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. The ALS system is intuitive and easy to operate. The mid-ride height provides a comfortable and natural draw angle. However, some users may find the ALS release lever slightly stiff initially, requiring a break-in period.

The holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty-grade holster. It provides a secure and reliable carry platform for my sidearm. The holster is the perfect balance of speed and security.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster boasts a streamlined and functional design. The Safariseven™ material is lightweight and durable. The holster feels comfortable against the body, even during extended periods of wear.

The holster is undeniably user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system. The mid-ride height positions the weapon for a comfortable and natural draw. The grip of your weapon is easily accessible.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster is built to last, thanks to its Safariseven™ construction. It’s designed to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. This holster can stand up to just about anything.

Maintaining the holster is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean and functioning properly. This holster is definitely built to last.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories. These accessories include different belt attachments, such as the QLS (Quick Locking System) and various leg shrouds. While there are limited customization options directly related to the holster itself, its compatibility with Safariland‘s ecosystem of accessories allows users to tailor their carry system to their specific needs.

The QLS system allows for rapid holster detachment and reattachment, providing increased versatility. Leg shrouds offer a lower carry position, which may be preferred by some users. These optional accessories add a layer of flexibility to the overall platform.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster

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Who Should Buy Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster?

The Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize both weapon security and rapid accessibility. Anyone who needs a holster that can stand up to hard use would benefit from having this holster.

This holster might not be the best choice for individuals who are new to firearms or those who prefer a simpler retention system. Also, people on a super tight budget may want to look for something more economical.

A quality duty belt and compatible magazine pouches are must-have accessories to complement the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster. These accessories will allow you to carry everything you need comfortably and securely.

Conclusion on Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster

The Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and performance. Its advanced materials, combined with the proven ALS system and comfortable mid-ride height, make it an excellent choice for professionals and responsible armed citizens alike.

The price may be a bit higher than some competing holsters, but the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster is well worth the investment for those who demand the best. This holster is an investment in your safety and peace of mind.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster to anyone looking for a reliable and high-performing duty holster. If you need a holster, check it out, you will not be disappointed.