Safariland 7390 7TS ALS Mid Ride Glock Duty Holster Review

A Close Look at the Safariland 7390 7TS ALS Mid Ride Glock Duty Holster

For over a decade, my professional life has been intertwined with gear that performs under pressure, whether it’s in the controlled chaos of a workshop, the rigorous demands of a laboratory, or the unforgiving conditions of a field assignment. It’s this extensive experience that drew me to the Safariland 7390 7TS ALS Mid Ride Glock Duty Holster. This holster promises a specific level of security and accessibility, crucial for anyone entrusting their sidearm to a duty-grade piece of equipment. My previous experiences with less secure retention systems and the constant need for swift, reliable firearm access during critical moments made exploring a robust solution like this a necessity.

The initial impression upon unboxing this Safariland holster is one of purposeful design and serious intent. The SafariSeven construction feels substantial, yet surprisingly lightweight, hinting at resilience without adding unnecessary bulk. It’s a stark contrast to the often flimsy polymer holsters that can feel disposable. I had considered some more generic, strap-based alternatives, but the allure of a streamlined, automatic locking system was a significant differentiator. My immediate reaction was a sense of quiet confidence, a feeling that this holster was built to do its job and do it well.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7390 7TS ALS Mid Ride Glock Duty Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing regimen for the Safariland 7390 7TS ALS Mid Ride Glock Duty Holster primarily took place during routine training exercises and extended periods on the range. I also wore it during various workshop tasks that required a firearm to be immediately accessible, simulating real-world duty scenarios without compromising safety. The holster integrated seamlessly with my standard 2.25-inch duty belt, offering a stable and comfortable carry position. There was a slight learning curve to master the precise thumb sweep needed to disengage the ALS (Automatic Locking System), but it became intuitive within the first hour of consistent practice.

During an unexpected downpour while at an outdoor range, the holster performed admirably, shedding water effectively. The SafariSeven material showed no signs of degradation or increased stiffness from the moisture. Similarly, dust and debris encountered during workshop use did not seem to impede the locking mechanism or the smooth draw. The open-top design proved its worth during rapid fire drills, allowing for an unhindered draw without any snagging, even under stress.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 7390 7TS ALS Mid Ride Glock Duty Holster has proven itself to be a workhorse. It has endured countless holstering and drawing cycles, frequent exposure to different workshop environments, and the rigors of regular transport without any noticeable signs of wear and tear. There are no cracks, no signs of the material becoming brittle, and the retention remains as firm as the day I first put it on.

Maintaining this duty holster is blessedly simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of a dry lubricant on the locking mechanism is all that’s required. This is a significant advantage over some leather holsters I’ve used in the past, which demand more involved conditioning. Compared to budget-friendly alternatives that often loosen or break within a year, this Safariland model feels built for the long haul, justifying its price point through sheer longevity and unwavering performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7390 7TS ALS Mid Ride Glock Duty Holster

Specifications

The Safariland 7390 7TS ALS Mid Ride Glock Duty Holster is engineered with specific operational needs in mind. Constructed from SafariSeven, a proprietary nylon blend, it promises to be non-abrasive to firearm finishes, a critical consideration for maintaining the integrity of a duty weapon. This material is also known for its ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures and UV exposure. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides Level I retention, meaning the weapon is secured solely by the internal locking mechanism, eliminating the need for a thumb break or strap. This design facilitates an incredibly rapid, straight-up draw once the release is activated. The holster is designed for a 2.25-inch duty belt, ensuring a secure and stable fit on most standard law enforcement or tactical belts. It’s engineered specifically for Glock firearms, ensuring a precise fit.

The SafariSeven material isn’t just about durability; its slightly textured surface also aids in grip and prevents the firearm from shifting unnecessarily within the holster. The ALS mechanism, while providing robust retention, is cleverly designed to be operated with a natural thumb movement during the draw stroke. This integration of ALS and the open-top design creates a synergy that prioritizes both security and speed, a difficult balance to achieve. For those carrying a compatible Glock model, this specific fit ensures optimal retention and ease of access.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Safariland 7390 7TS ALS Mid Ride Glock Duty Holster is to securely hold a firearm while allowing for swift, reliable access. In this regard, it excels. The ALS system engages automatically and positively upon holstering, providing an audible click that confirms the weapon is locked. The draw is exceptionally smooth and direct; a simple press of the release button with the thumb allows the firearm to be drawn straight up without any extraneous motion.

Its strength lies in this uncompromised balance between security and speed. The Level I retention is more than adequate for many duty applications, and the lack of a strap significantly streamlines the draw. A potential weakness, if one can call it that, is that the ALS mechanism requires deliberate thumb action. For someone completely new to this system, there might be a brief period of familiarization. However, for experienced users or those willing to practice, it quickly becomes second nature, arguably more efficient than fumbling with straps.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Safariland holster is a testament to functional form following function. The mid-ride height offers a comfortable balance, positioning the firearm neither too high on the hip nor too low, allowing for a natural draw stroke. The SafariSeven construction provides a robust yet non-abrasive surface that feels substantial in hand. The interior of the holster features raised stand-off surfaces, creating air space around the firearm. This design detail is crucial for allowing dirt and moisture to clear away from the weapon, preventing potential malfunctions.

Ergonomically, the holster is designed for efficiency. The contours guide the firearm into place smoothly during re-holstering, and the placement of the ALS release is intuitive for a right-handed shooter’s thumb. There’s a subtle but important ergonomic consideration in the way the holster tucks the grip closer to the body, aiding in concealment compared to some bulkier duty holsters. The overall feel is one of rugged reliability, with no sharp edges or unnecessary protrusions.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a hallmark of Safariland products, and the 7390 7TS ALS Mid Ride Glock Duty Holster is no exception. The SafariSeven material is renowned for its resilience and resistance to damage. I’ve accidentally knocked it against hard surfaces numerous times during my testing period without any impact damage, such as cracks or chips. This material is also resistant to chemicals and solvents that might be encountered in a workshop or lab setting, further enhancing its longevity.

Maintenance is remarkably straightforward. The non-absorbent nature of SafariSeven means it doesn’t retain moisture or odors. A simple wipe-down keeps it clean. For the ALS mechanism, a light application of a silicone-based lubricant on the internal contact points can ensure continued smooth operation, though it has performed flawlessly even without frequent lubrication. Potential failure points are minimal; the ALS mechanism is robust, and the SafariSeven material is inherently strong.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 7390 7TS ALS Mid Ride Glock Duty Holster comes as a standalone unit, focusing on its core function. However, its primary accessory is its integration with the duty belt system. It is designed to fit a standard 2.25-inch duty belt, providing a stable platform. While this particular model doesn’t offer extensive internal customization for different firearms (as it’s a model-specific fit for Glocks), Safariland offers various mounting options and belt attachments that can adapt its position or compatibility with different gear setups, though these are typically sold separately.

The strength here is its focused design. It’s not trying to be a universal holster; it’s built to excel at its intended purpose. For users who might need different ride heights or cant angles, Safariland offers alternative models within their extensive catalog, often utilizing the same core ALS technology. The provided belt loop is fixed, which contributes to its inherent stability but means it’s not easily swapped between different belt widths or types without additional hardware.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 7390 7TS ALS Mid Ride Glock Duty Holster

Who Should Buy Safariland 7390 7TS ALS Mid Ride Glock Duty Holster?

This holster is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and firearms enthusiasts who carry a compatible Glock firearm as their duty or primary sidearm. Anyone who prioritizes rapid, reliable access to their weapon in potentially high-stress situations will find the ALS system and open-top design invaluable. It is also suitable for individuals who work in environments where their firearm may be exposed to the elements or require a durable, non-abrasive holster.

Those who need a holster that fits a variety of firearms or prefer adjustable cant and ride height might need to look at other Safariland models or brands. Furthermore, individuals who are uncomfortable with automatic retention systems or prefer the tactile feedback of a strap-based system might not find this ideal. For optimal use, a quality 2.25-inch duty belt is highly recommended to ensure the holster remains stable and secure during dynamic movements.

Conclusion on Safariland 7390 7TS ALS Mid Ride Glock Duty Holster

The Safariland 7390 7TS ALS Mid Ride Glock Duty Holster stands as a testament to effective design and robust construction. Its ALS system offers a superior combination of security and speed, while the SafariSeven material ensures exceptional durability and firearm protection. The comfortable mid-ride height and straightforward maintenance make it a practical choice for daily use. While it is model-specific and features a fixed belt loop, its core performance is undeniable.

Considering its price of $97.49, the value proposition is strong for those who require a professional-grade duty holster. It delivers reliability and performance that justifies the investment. I would personally recommend this holster to any Glock owner who needs a dependable, readily accessible carry solution for duty or professional applications. It’s a solid piece of gear that instills confidence in its ability to perform when it matters most.