First Impressions of Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light
In the world of concealed carry, finding the perfect balance between security, speed, and comfort is a constant quest. The Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light aims to provide just that. Safariland is a well-respected name in law enforcement and tactical gear, so my expectations are high. The promise of ALS (Automatic Locking System) retention coupled with the versatility of both paddle and belt loop carry immediately grabbed my attention.
For years, I’ve relied on a simple friction-fit holster for my Glock 17 with a weapon light. While convenient, it always left me with a nagging feeling about security, especially during more dynamic movements. I needed a holster that offered a positive lock, but without sacrificing draw speed or comfort. The Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light seemed to tick all the right boxes.
Unboxing the holster, I was immediately struck by its robust construction. The Safariseven nylon blend feels incredibly durable, and the fit and finish are impeccable. It’s noticeably lighter than some of my older polymer holsters, which is a welcome change. Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa or a Galco leather holster I’ve used in the past, the Safariland feels more modern and purpose-built for the demands of daily concealed carry.
My initial impression is one of cautious optimism. The Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light appears to be a well-designed and thoughtfully constructed holster, but the real test will be how it performs in real-world scenarios. I’m excited to see if it lives up to the Safariland name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light was at an outdoor shooting range during a slightly overcast day. I wanted to get a feel for the draw stroke and re-holstering process in a controlled environment. The paddle attachment felt secure against my body, and the holster positioned the Glock 17 at a comfortable angle for drawing.
Even with gloves on, the ALS release was easy to manipulate with my thumb. The draw was smooth and consistent, and re-holstering was just as intuitive. After about an hour of drawing and firing drills, I noticed a slight bit of rubbing near the muzzle of the light, but nothing major. The holster performed admirably in these relatively benign conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily carry, I’ve grown quite fond of the Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light. I’ve worn it during everything from running errands to hiking in the woods. The Safariseven material has proven to be remarkably durable. It shows no signs of wear and tear despite constant friction against my clothing and gear.
Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep the holster clean and functioning properly. The ALS mechanism remains smooth and reliable, even after exposure to dust and moisture. Compared to my older friction-fit holster, the Safariland provides a significantly higher level of confidence and security. I don’t have to worry about my firearm accidentally dislodging, even during strenuous activity.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light
Specifications
The Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light is specifically designed for the Glock 17 (and Glock 22) when equipped with a weapon light. It accommodates a wide range of popular lights, including Streamlight TLR-1/TLR-1HL, Surefire X200/X300/X300U, Inforce APL, and Nightstick TWM series. The holster itself is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary Safariseven nylon blend.
The holster features the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon upon holstering. It requires only a thumb swipe to release for a quick and natural draw. It can be configured for either paddle or belt loop carry, offering versatility for different carry styles. The attachment is a Roto-Belt 2.25“.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a Glock 17 with a weapon light. The ALS system provides excellent retention without hindering draw speed. The thumb release is intuitive and easy to use, even under stress.
The holster’s design facilitates a smooth and consistent draw stroke. The firearm clears the holster cleanly, and the grip is readily accessible. The raised interior stand-offs help prevent dirt and moisture from accumulating, ensuring reliable performance in various conditions. One potential weakness is that the ALS mechanism could be more difficult to manipulate with very thick gloves.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The Safariseven material is lightweight yet incredibly durable. The holster conforms comfortably to the body, whether using the paddle or belt loop attachment.
The paddle attachment is contoured to provide a secure and stable fit. The belt loop attachment offers a more traditional carry option and allows for adjustable cant. The holster is designed to be as streamlined as possible, minimizing bulk and printing. Overall, the design is excellent, with only a slight learning curve for mastering the ALS release.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariseven material used in the Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light is known for its exceptional durability. It is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. The holster is built to withstand the rigors of daily use and harsh environments.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. The ALS mechanism may occasionally require lubrication to ensure smooth operation. With proper care, this holster should last for many years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light comes standard with both a paddle and belt loop attachment, providing immediate versatility. Safariland offers a range of other accessories, such as drop leg platforms and MOLLE adapters, that can be used with this holster. However, the core design of the holster itself is not intended for extensive customization.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light
Pros
- Excellent ALS retention: Provides a secure and reliable lock on the firearm.
- Fast and natural draw: Allows for quick and efficient deployment of the weapon.
- Durable Safariseven construction: Withstands harsh conditions and resists wear and tear.
- Versatile carry options: Can be configured for paddle or belt loop carry.
- Accommodates a wide range of weapon lights.
Cons
- ALS mechanism may be difficult to manipulate with very thick gloves.
- The draw stroke can be a little too tight initially.
Who Should Buy Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light?
The Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible citizens who prioritize secure concealed carry of their Glock 17 with a weapon light. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who needs a holster that can withstand demanding use and provide reliable performance.
Those who primarily open carry or prefer minimalist holsters might find this model to be overkill. Similarly, individuals who don’t use a weapon light on their Glock 17 should consider a different holster designed for that configuration. A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper support and concealment.
Conclusion on Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light
The Safariland Model 7378 7ts Als Concealment Paddle And Belt Loop Combo Holster For Glock 17 W/ Light is a top-tier concealed carry holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. The ALS retention system provides excellent peace of mind, while the versatile carry options and comfortable design make it suitable for everyday use.
At $107.25, the price is justified by the quality of materials and the level of engineering involved. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who takes their personal safety seriously. I would definitely recommend this holster to anyone looking for a reliable and high-performing concealed carry solution for their Glock 17 with a weapon light. Upgrade your carry today and experience the Safariland difference!