First Impressions of Safariland Model 7354rds 7ts Als Tactical Holster For Glock 19 Gen 1-5 W/ Light
For over a decade, I’ve trusted my life to my gear, and a holster is as crucial as the firearm it carries. The Safariland Model 7354rds 7ts Als Tactical Holster For Glock 19 Gen 1-5 W/ Light promises a secure carry with rapid deployment for Glock 19s equipped with weapon lights and red dot sights – a combination that’s increasingly common in both tactical and personal defense roles. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Safariseven material immediately caught my attention, suggesting a blend of security, durability, and weather resistance.
My search for the ideal holster is never-ending. I needed a holster that could reliably retain my Glock 19 with a Streamlight TLR-7 attached, even during rigorous movement and potential grappling scenarios. I’ve used Level II retention holsters before that were bulky and slow.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland holster felt solid and well-constructed. The Safariseven material has a unique feel; almost like a hard, yet slightly flexible polymer. Compared to my older Kydex holsters, this felt more substantial and less prone to cracking under stress. I initially considered a similar holster from Blackhawk, but the Safariland’s ALS system seemed more intuitive and less prone to accidental disengagement than Blackhawk’s SERPA system.
My initial impression was positive, but cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see how the ALS performed under pressure and how the Safariseven material held up against the elements during extended use. The price point of $210.00 is considerable, but if it delivers on its promises of security, durability, and rapid deployment, it would be a worthwhile investment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 7354rds 7ts Als Tactical Holster For Glock 19 Gen 1-5 W/ Light to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the Safariland Model 7354rds 7ts Als Tactical Holster For Glock 19 Gen 1-5 W/ Light took place at a dynamic shooting range, simulating close-quarters combat scenarios. I ran drills involving movement, shooting from cover, and transitioning between targets, all while drawing and reholstering my Glock 19 with the TLR-7 attached. The holster performed flawlessly.
The ALS system proved intuitive and fast. Deactivating the lock with my thumb during the draw stroke became second nature after only a few repetitions. I also tested the holster in a controlled wet environment to simulate rain and moisture. The Safariseven material remained grippy, and the firearm drew smoothly even when the holster was soaked.
Initially, I had to adjust the tension screw slightly to achieve the perfect balance between retention and draw speed. However, once dialed in, the draw stroke was smooth and consistent. I was pleasantly surprised by how well the holster concealed the weapon, despite accommodating both a weapon light and a red dot sight.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of consistent use, including weekly range sessions and several days of outdoor training, the Safariland holster has held up remarkably well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear on the Safariseven material, even in areas that experience the most friction. The holster continues to provide a secure fit and smooth draw, even after repeated use.
Maintaining the holster is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The ALS system remains reliable and requires no special lubrication or maintenance. Compared to my previous Kydex holsters, the Safariland is significantly more durable and resistant to cracking.
The Safariland holster has exceeded my expectations in terms of both durability and performance. Its secure retention system and weather-resistant construction make it a reliable choice for tactical and personal defense applications. I am also pleasantly surprised at how little it is wearing the finish of my Glock 19.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 7354rds 7ts Als Tactical Holster For Glock 19 Gen 1-5 W/ Light
Specifications
The Safariland Model 7354rds 7ts Als Tactical Holster For Glock 19 Gen 1-5 W/ Light is specifically designed to accommodate Glock 19 (Gen 1-5), 19X, 23, and 45 pistols equipped with a weapon light and a red dot optic. The holster utilizes the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention. It is constructed from Safariseven, a proprietary nylon blend known for its exceptional durability and resistance to the elements.
This model is available in black with a plain finish. It is compatible with several popular weapon lights, including the Streamlight TLR-7, Surefire XC-1 and XC-2, and Inforce APLC. The specifications are important because they ensure a secure and reliable fit for specific weapon configurations, providing peace of mind in demanding situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Model 7354rds 7ts Als Tactical Holster For Glock 19 Gen 1-5 W/ Light excels in its primary function: securely retaining a weapon while allowing for rapid deployment. The ALS system provides a high level of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. The draw stroke is smooth and intuitive, requiring only a thumb release to deactivate the locking mechanism.
One of the holster’s strengths is its compatibility with red dot sights. The open-top design allows for an unobstructed view of the optic, facilitating faster target acquisition. The holster also provides adequate clearance for most suppressor-height sights. A minor weakness might be that the ALS release could require practice for those new to the system.
Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for retention, draw speed, and compatibility with common weapon accessories.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland holster boasts a robust and ergonomic design. The Safariseven material provides a comfortable, yet secure fit against the body. At a weight of approximately 8 ounces (without a firearm), it does not add significant bulk to the user’s loadout.
The holster is designed for intuitive operation. The ALS release is easily accessible with the thumb, allowing for a natural draw stroke. While there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system, it quickly becomes second nature with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland Model 7354rds 7ts Als Tactical Holster For Glock 19 Gen 1-5 W/ Light is built to withstand the rigors of demanding environments. The Safariseven material is highly resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintaining the holster is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. No special lubricants or treatments are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Model 7354rds 7ts Als Tactical Holster For Glock 19 Gen 1-5 W/ Light is designed to work with standard Safariland mounting platforms. This includes belt loops, paddle attachments, and drop-leg platforms. Users can customize the holster’s ride height and cant angle to suit their individual preferences.
The holster is specifically molded to accommodate a Glock 19 (Gen 1-5), 19X, 23, or 45 equipped with a weapon light and a red dot sight. No further modifications are typically required.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 7354rds 7ts Als Tactical Holster For Glock 19 Gen 1-5 W/ Light
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides a secure Level I retention, ensuring the firearm remains holstered during rigorous activity.
- Durable Construction: The Safariseven material is highly resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and extreme temperatures, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: The open-top design allows for an unobstructed view of red dot sights, facilitating faster target acquisition.
- Weapon Light Compatibility: The holster is specifically molded to accommodate Glock 19s equipped with a variety of popular weapon lights.
- Smooth Draw Stroke: The ALS system allows for a rapid and intuitive draw stroke, improving response time in critical situations.
Cons
- Price: At $210.00, the Safariland holster is more expensive than some competing models.
- Learning Curve: The ALS system may require some practice to master, particularly for users unfamiliar with Level I retention holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland Model 7354rds 7ts Als Tactical Holster For Glock 19 Gen 1-5 W/ Light?
The Safariland Model 7354rds 7ts Als Tactical Holster For Glock 19 Gen 1-5 W/ Light is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a secure and reliable holster for their Glock 19 equipped with a weapon light and red dot sight. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters who demand a fast and consistent draw stroke.
Individuals who prioritize affordability over advanced features or those who do not carry a weapon light or red dot sight may want to consider alternative holster options. A must-have accessory is a Safariland compatible belt or mounting platform to fully utilize the holster’s customization options.
Conclusion on Safariland Model 7354rds 7ts Als Tactical Holster For Glock 19 Gen 1-5 W/ Light
The Safariland Model 7354rds 7ts Als Tactical Holster For Glock 19 Gen 1-5 W/ Light is a well-designed and highly functional holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and rapid deployment. While the price point may be a barrier for some, the holster’s exceptional retention system, rugged construction, and compatibility with popular weapon accessories make it a worthwhile investment for serious users.
The $210.00 price tag is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and functionality. I would personally recommend this holster to anyone who relies on their firearm for personal defense or professional duty. If you need a reliable and secure holster for your Glock 19 with a weapon light and red dot sight, the Safariland Model 7354rds 7ts Als Tactical Holster For Glock 19 Gen 1-5 W/ Light is an excellent choice. Don’t settle for anything less than the best when it comes to your safety and preparedness.