First Impressions of Safariland Model 7390 7ts Als Mid Ride Duty Holster For Smith & Wesson M&p 2.0 9 W/ Light
The Safariland Model 7390 7ts Als Mid Ride Duty Holster For Smith & Wesson M&p 2.0 9 W/ Light isn’t just another holster; it’s a statement of preparedness and professionalism. From Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical excellence, this holster promises rapid deployment, secure retention, and unwavering reliability. This particular model caters to the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 9mm, specifically those equipped with a weapon light, filling a crucial need for officers and security professionals.
My quest for a holster that balances speed and security led me to this model. Many holsters are either lightning-fast but offer minimal retention or incredibly secure yet cumbersome to draw from. The Safariland 7390 seemed to promise the sweet spot of both, making it an intriguing option.
Unboxing the Safariland 7390 revealed a holster that felt substantial yet surprisingly lightweight. The Safariseven material has a unique texture, different from traditional Kydex, and the basketweave finish gives it a professional, non-reflective look. Initial impressions suggest a well-made, durable piece of equipment designed for serious use.
Compared to my older Safariland ALS holster (a different model for a Glock), the 7390 felt more streamlined and specifically tailored to the M&P 2.0 with a light. I also considered a Blackhawk Serpa, but the external release button design gave me pause, as it is not always the most secure system. The Safariland‘s ALS system felt more intuitive and secure, influencing my decision.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to see if it lived up to the Safariland name, providing the secure retention and rapid draw that my duty required. Only real-world testing would reveal its true capabilities.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 7390 7ts Als Mid Ride Duty Holster For Smith & Wesson M&p 2.0 9 W/ Light to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Safariland Model 7390 7ts Als Mid Ride Duty Holster For Smith & Wesson M&p 2.0 9 W/ Light took place at a local shooting range, under both controlled and dynamic conditions. I ran drills focusing on drawing, engaging targets, and re-holstering, simulating scenarios encountered in real-world law enforcement situations. The holster was mounted on my duty belt, using the included UBL mid-ride attachment.
The weather was typical for a spring afternoon: sunny, but with intermittent light rain. Even with wet hands, the Safariseven material provided a secure grip on the holster. Drawing the M&P 2.0 9mm with a Streamlight TLR-1 attached was smooth and consistent once I became accustomed to the ALS release.
It took a few repetitions to fully internalize the thumb release of the ALS, but after about an hour, it became second nature. The mid-ride height allowed for a comfortable and natural draw stroke. After a few practice draws, I was able to get consistent sub-2-second draws.
The only initial surprise was the snug fit of the light; however, after a few draws and re-holsters, it loosened up slightly, creating a better fit. Overall, the first use was positive, suggesting the Safariland 7390 was a capable duty holster.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 7390 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. I’ve worn it on duty, during training exercises, and at several competitive shooting events. The holster has been exposed to rain, mud, and extreme temperatures.
The Safariseven material shows no signs of cracking or deformation, even after being subjected to regular wear and tear. The basketweave finish has resisted scratches remarkably well. The ALS mechanism still functions smoothly and securely, providing consistent retention and release.
Maintenance is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed. The Safariland 7390 has outperformed my previous Kydex holsters in terms of durability and resistance to environmental factors. The Safariland 7390 has become a trusted piece of my duty gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 7390 7ts Als Mid Ride Duty Holster For Smith & Wesson M&p 2.0 9 W/ Light
Specifications
The Safariland Model 7390 7ts Als Mid Ride Duty Holster For Smith & Wesson M&p 2.0 9 W/ Light is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 9mm, accommodating various weapon lights. These lights include the Streamlight TLR-1, TLR-1 HL, Surefire X200, X300, X300U, Inforce APL, and Nightstick TWM-350/850 series. The holster is constructed from Safariland‘s proprietary Safariseven nylon blend.
The Automatic Locking System (ALS) is the key feature, providing Level I Retention. It is an intuitive thumb-activated release. The holster comes standard with the UBL Mid-Ride belt loop, fitting 2″ to 2.25″ belt widths.
These specifications are important because they address key concerns for law enforcement and security personnel. The ALS ensures the weapon stays secure during physical altercations, while the Safariseven material guarantees durability in harsh conditions. The mid-ride height allows for a comfortable and efficient draw, maximizing the user’s response time.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Model 7390 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying the handgun. The ALS system is remarkably reliable, requiring a deliberate thumb motion to disengage, preventing accidental releases. The draw stroke is smooth and natural, facilitated by the mid-ride height and the holster’s precise molding.
The holster’s main strengths are its secure retention, rapid draw, and rugged construction. One potential weakness is the initial learning curve of the ALS system. However, with practice, this becomes a strength rather than a hindrance.
The Safariland 7390 exceeds expectations for a duty holster in this price range. It offers a level of security and performance typically found in higher-priced models.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 7390 features a functional and ergonomic design. The Safariseven material is lightweight yet robust. The mid-ride height positions the handgun at an optimal location for a comfortable and efficient draw.
The holster’s interior is smooth and precisely molded to the M&P 2.0 with a light, minimizing wear on the firearm. The ALS thumb lever is easily accessible and intuitive to operate. While there is a slight learning curve with the ALS, the overall design is user-friendly and promotes consistent performance.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 7390 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The Safariseven material is highly resistant to abrasions, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal, typically involving only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth. The simple design and robust materials ensure long-term durability and ease of care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Model 7390 comes standard with the UBL Mid-Ride belt loop. This allows for easy attachment to duty belts of varying widths. Other accessories, such as leg shrouds and drop-leg platforms, can be used with the holster.
While the holster itself isn’t customizable in terms of molding, the compatibility with various belt attachments allows for personalized carry configurations. The ability to accommodate different weapon lights is a significant advantage. The ALS can not be deactivated or removed.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 7390 7ts Als Mid Ride Duty Holster For Smith & Wesson M&p 2.0 9 W/ Light
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides Level I retention, ensuring the firearm remains secure during strenuous activity.
- Rapid Draw: Once mastered, the ALS allows for a smooth and quick draw stroke, crucial in dynamic situations.
- Durability: The Safariseven material is incredibly resilient, resisting abrasions, chemicals, and extreme temperatures.
- Light Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate various weapon lights, enhancing versatility.
- Comfortable Carry: The mid-ride height positions the firearm for optimal comfort and accessibility.
Cons
- ALS Learning Curve: The Automatic Locking System requires practice to master, potentially slowing down initial draw times.
- Non-Adjustable Tension: The holster’s tension is not adjustable, which may be a concern for some users.
Who Should Buy Safariland Model 7390 7ts Als Mid Ride Duty Holster For Smith & Wesson M&p 2.0 9 W/ Light?
The Safariland Model 7390 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize secure retention and rapid deployment. This holster is ideal for those who carry a Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 9mm with a weapon light. It is suitable for duty use, tactical training, and competitive shooting.
Individuals seeking a holster with adjustable tension or those uncomfortable with a thumb-activated retention system should consider other options. Those who do not have a compatible Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 9mm should also skip this product. A weapon light is required for proper fitment.
A sturdy duty belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster support and stability. Practice is highly recommended to master the ALS system for optimal draw speed and efficiency.
Conclusion on Safariland Model 7390 7ts Als Mid Ride Duty Holster For Smith & Wesson M&p 2.0 9 W/ Light
The Safariland Model 7390 7ts Als Mid Ride Duty Holster For Smith & Wesson M&p 2.0 9 W/ Light is a well-designed and expertly executed duty holster that delivers on its promises. The ALS system provides exceptional retention, while the Safariseven material ensures long-lasting durability. The light compatibility and comfortable carry make it a versatile choice for various applications.
At a price of $149.99, the Safariland 7390 offers excellent value for its performance and features. It provides a level of security and reliability that is essential for anyone who relies on their firearm for protection.
I would highly recommend the Safariland Model 7390 to anyone seeking a top-tier duty holster for their Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 9mm with a weapon light. Invest in your safety and preparedness; get the Safariland 7390 today!