Safariland Model 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III Review

Let’s Talk About Safariland Model 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III

The Safariland Model 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III is more than just a holster; it’s a piece of essential duty gear designed for professionals who demand the utmost in weapon security and accessibility. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster combines the rugged durability of their 7TS construction with the proven reliability of the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) retention systems. This Level-III holster is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty while providing a secure and rapid draw when needed most.

I’ve spent countless hours on the range and in the field, always searching for the perfect balance between security, comfort, and speed. My quest led me to the Safariland 7362 after a particularly harrowing incident where a suspect attempted to disarm me during a foot pursuit. I needed a holster that would provide maximum retention without sacrificing my ability to quickly deploy my firearm.

The Safariland Model 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III arrives in standard Safariland packaging, nothing fancy but functional. My initial impression was that it’s a serious piece of equipment. The SafariSeven nylon blend feels incredibly robust, and the overall construction exudes quality.

Compared to my previous Safariland 6360RDS and a Blackhawk Serpa Level 3, the 7362 offers a unique combination of advanced materials and retention. The 6360RDS felt bulky, especially with a red dot sight, and the Serpa, while fast, always made me a little nervous in terms of accidental discharges during the draw. The Safariland Model 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III seemed to offer the best of both worlds: slim profile, rock-solid retention, and a smoother, more intuitive draw stroke.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for increased security and a faster draw, but also a little apprehensive about the learning curve associated with a Level-III holster. Would it be too complicated to use under stress? Only time and testing would tell.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Safariland Model 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III was at my local shooting range, simulating various scenarios. This included rapid draws from concealment, shooting on the move, and weapon retention drills. The weather was typical for early spring: damp and a bit chilly.

The holster performed exceptionally well even under less-than-ideal conditions. The ALS and SLS systems are intuitive to operate with a little practice. The Hi-Ride position kept the weapon close to my body without hindering my movement.

It took me about an hour to fully internalize the draw stroke, primarily mastering the simultaneous release of the SLS hood and the ALS lever. There were no significant issues, although I did experience some initial fumbling with the SLS hood while wearing thick gloves.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of continuous use, including weekly range sessions and participation in a three-day tactical training course, the Safariland Model 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III has proven to be incredibly reliable. The SafariSeven material shows virtually no signs of wear. Even after repeated exposure to sweat, mud, and abrasive surfaces, the holster maintains its structural integrity and finish.

Maintenance is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to keep it clean. Occasionally, I’ll apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to my previous leather holster, which required regular cleaning and conditioning, the Safariland Model 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III is significantly less demanding.

It outperforms my previous holsters in terms of both retention and durability. While the draw may not be quite as lightning-fast as with a Level II holster, the added security and peace of mind are well worth the slight trade-off.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Safariland.
• Model: 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III Duty Holster.
• Retention Level: Level III (ALS/SLS).
• Material: SafariSeven nylon blend. This material is known for its extreme durability and resistance to heat, cold, and chemicals.
• Hand: Right-Handed.
• Color: STX Plain Black.
• Compatibility: Glock 17/22/31. It’s designed specifically for these Glock models, ensuring a snug and secure fit.
• Mount: Hi-Ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop). The Hi-Ride UBL positions the holster higher on the belt for improved comfort and concealment.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance, durability, and suitability for duty use. The SafariSeven material ensures longevity even in harsh environments, while the ALS/SLS retention system provides peace of mind knowing the weapon is secure. The Hi-Ride UBL makes it more comfortable to wear for extended periods, especially when seated in a vehicle.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Model 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III excels in its primary function: securing a firearm while allowing for a rapid and controlled draw. The ALS automatically engages when the weapon is holstered, and the SLS hood further enhances retention. The draw stroke requires a deliberate and coordinated motion, which minimizes the risk of accidental discharge.

The ALS release is smooth and intuitive once you get the hang of it, and the SLS hood rotates forward easily with your thumb. The Hi-Ride position allows for a natural grip on the firearm during the draw. The primary weakness lies in the initial learning curve; mastering the draw stroke requires dedicated practice.

It exceeds my expectations in terms of security and durability. While I initially anticipated a steeper learning curve, the intuitive design of the ALS and SLS systems made it relatively easy to master.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland Model 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III boasts a streamlined and functional design. The SafariSeven material is lightweight yet incredibly strong, and the holster’s contours conform comfortably to the body. The weight is well-distributed, minimizing discomfort during extended wear.

The learning curve is moderate; it takes practice to master the draw stroke, but the controls are logically placed and easy to operate once you become familiar with them. The Hi-Ride position improves concealment and allows for a more natural draw angle.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland Model 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III is built to last. The SafariSeven material is virtually impervious to the elements, and the holster’s robust construction can withstand years of heavy use. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

It is extremely easy to maintain and repair. The ALS mechanism can be disassembled for cleaning and lubrication if necessary, and replacement parts are readily available from Safariland.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland Model 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories. These include different belt loops, leg shrouds, and weapon lights. You can easily swap out the Hi-Ride UBL for a different mounting option to suit your specific needs.

While the holster is primarily designed for Glock 17/22/31, it can be modified to accommodate other similar-sized firearms with minor adjustments. The ALS mechanism can be adjusted to fine-tune the retention force, and the SLS hood can be replaced with a different style if desired.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 7362 7TS ALS Hi-Ride Level-III