Safariland 7ts 7354 – Open Top Tactical Holster With The Als Lock, Injection Molded Review

Testing the Safariland 7ts 7354 – Open Top Tactical Holster With The Als Lock, Injection Molded: What You Need to Know

As someone who has spent over a decade wrestling with gear across every imaginable environment—from the dust of the workshop to the sterile hum of the lab, and the unforgiving expanse of the field—I’ve developed a keen eye for equipment that not only performs but endures. My search for a reliable holster for my Glock 22 Gen 5, specifically one that balances rapid access with secure retention, led me to the Safariland 7ts 7354 – Open Top Tactical Holster With The Als Lock, Injection Molded. This particular model caught my attention with its promise of an open-top design and the integrated ALS system, features that are crucial for demanding scenarios. I was looking for a holster that wouldn’t compromise my ability to draw quickly when needed, yet would keep my firearm absolutely secure during vigorous movement. Considering alternatives like leather holsters that can degrade in harsh conditions, or generic polymer options that lack advanced locking mechanisms, this Safariland offering presented a compelling proposition. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of robust construction and thoughtful design, a promising start to putting it through its paces.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 7ts 7354 – Open Top Tactical Holster With The Als Lock, Injection Molded to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing began on a familiar shooting range, a place where I’ve spent countless hours ensuring my equipment performs under pressure. I specifically chose this environment to replicate scenarios where rapid deployment is as critical as maintaining control. The Safariland 7ts 7354 – Open Top Tactical Holster With The Als Lock, Injection Molded was mounted on a sturdy tactical belt, allowing me to simulate various tactical movements including quick draws, kneeling, and even a simulated low-crawl. The holster’s injection molded construction offered a snug fit from the get-go, cradling my Glock 22 Gen 5 securely.

In terms of ease of use, the ALS (Automatic Locking System) took a moment to get accustomed to, requiring a deliberate thumb-over-talons motion to disengage. However, after a dozen draws, this action became second nature, enabling a surprisingly quick and smooth straight-up draw. No major surprises or quirks emerged during this initial phase; the holster performed exactly as advertised, holding the firearm with confidence.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months, this Safariland holster has become a regular fixture during my range sessions and other demanding activities. It has endured countless draws and re-holstering cycles, surviving exposure to varying dust levels at outdoor ranges and even a light drizzle during a field exercise. Its SafariSeven construction has proven its worth, resisting any abrasions or damage to my firearm’s finish.

Durability has been exceptional; there are no signs of cracks, stiffness, or any performance degradation. The raised stand-off surfaces inside the holster consistently do their job, preventing dirt and moisture from accumulating against the firearm. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient, and its non-abrasive material means I don’t have to worry about damaging the holster itself. Compared to some older nylon or leather holsters I’ve used, this injection-molded model offers a significant leap in both consistent retention and rapid access.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 7ts 7354 – Open Top Tactical Holster With The Als Lock, Injection Molded

Specifications

The Safariland 7ts 7354 – Open Top Tactical Holster With The Als Lock, Injection Molded is engineered for reliability and quick access, specifically designed for the Glock 22 Gen 5 in .40 S&W with a 4.5-inch barrel. Its core material is SafariSeven, a proprietary nylon blend that is both durable and remarkably gentle on a firearm’s finish. This material choice ensures that the holster won’t scratch or mar the weapon’s surfaces, even with constant contact.

A key specification is the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which provides a secure lock on the firearm once holstered. This system allows for a simple, straight-up draw once the release mechanism is deactivated with a proper grip. The holster features an open-top design without SLS (Self Locking System), which streamlines the draw stroke, eliminating any hood or flap that might impede rapid retrieval.

The holster also incorporates internal raised stand-off surfaces. These create vital air space between the firearm and the holster interior, allowing dirt and moisture to clear away more easily. This design element is crucial for maintaining firearm function in less-than-ideal conditions. Furthermore, the injection molded construction ensures a precise fit for the designated firearm model, contributing to a secure carry. The holster has a specified STX Plain finish, offering a clean, professional look suitable for tactical applications.

It’s important to note that this model is designed without provisions for a light or laser attachment, meaning it’s intended for firearms in their standard configuration. The Safariland 7ts 7354 – Open Top Tactical Holster With The Als Lock, Injection Molded is built to withstand extreme temperatures, maintaining structural integrity from 300°F down to -50°F, a testament to the robustness of its SafariSeven material. This broad temperature tolerance makes it suitable for a wide range of operational environments.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Safariland 7ts 7354 – Open Top Tactical Holster With The Als Lock, Injection Molded is to securely retain a firearm while allowing for a fast and efficient draw. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The ALS lock is the standout feature, providing a level of security that inspires confidence. Once engaged, the firearm remains absolutely stationary, even during rigorous physical activity.

The open-top design truly excels when it comes to draw speed. There’s no flap or retention strap to manipulate, allowing the user to get their hand on the grip and pull straight up. This streamlined process is invaluable in high-stress situations where milliseconds count. The fit is precise; the Glock 22 Gen 5 slides in with a satisfying click and stays put.

However, the lack of provision for a weapon-mounted light or laser is a significant limitation for users who prefer or require these accessories. This means users who equip their firearms with lights will need to seek out a different holster model, potentially sacrificing the specific benefits of this open-top, ALS-only design. Despite this, for a standard Glock 22 Gen 5, the performance is top-tier.

Design & Ergonomics

The injection molded construction of the Safariland 7ts 7354 – Open Top Tactical Holster With The Als Lock, Injection Molded results in a rigid and precisely shaped holster. The SafariSeven material, while feeling substantial, is not overly heavy, contributing to a comfortable carry experience over extended periods. The finish is typically smooth, with no sharp edges or rough spots that could snag or cause discomfort.

The ergonomics of the ALS release are well-thought-out for tactical use. Once you understand the motion, it becomes intuitive, requiring a firm grip that naturally disengages the lock as you draw. This design discourages accidental disengagement while still allowing for rapid access when intended. The stand-off surfaces are a subtle yet critical design element, ensuring that debris has less opportunity to compromise the firearm’s fit and function.

While the holster itself is designed for a specific firearm, its mounting options (often sold separately) can greatly influence overall ergonomics. When properly attached to a belt, it rides comfortably and doesn’t create excessive bulk, allowing for unimpeded movement.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience with SafariSeven products from Safariland, durability is a major strong point. This holster is built to last through years of demanding use. The injection molded polymer is resistant to impacts, abrasions, and the elements. I’ve seen similar holsters withstand drops onto concrete and exposure to harsh chemicals without showing significant signs of wear.

Maintenance is straightforward and minimal. Occasional cleaning with mild soap and water, followed by air drying, is all that’s typically needed to keep it in optimal condition. The non-abrasive nature of the SafariSeven material means you don’t have to worry about damaging the holster during cleaning. There are no complex mechanisms or parts that are prone to failure under normal use; the ALS system is robust and designed for longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 7ts 7354 – Open Top Tactical Holster With The Als Lock, Injection Molded primarily focuses on its core function rather than extensive accessory integration. As mentioned, this specific model does not accommodate weapon-mounted lights or lasers. This is a deliberate design choice for streamlined simplicity and maximum draw speed with compatible firearms.

However, the holster is designed to be compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms, such as belt loops, paddle attachments, and tactical leg shrouds (often sold separately). This allows users to customize how and where the holster is worn. While the holster itself isn’t customizable in terms of its firearm retention mechanism (beyond the standard ALS), the ability to choose different mounting systems provides a significant degree of personalization for carry style and preference. The quality of these optional mounting systems is generally on par with the holster, ensuring a secure and stable platform.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 7ts 7354 – Open Top Tactical Holster With The Als Lock, Injection Molded

Who Should Buy Safariland 7ts 7354 – Open Top Tactical Holster With The Als Lock, Injection Molded?

This holster is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security professionals, competitive shooters, and responsible civilian firearm owners who carry a Glock 22 Gen 5 (or a similarly sized pistol for which a compatible version exists) and prioritize speed of access coupled with secure retention. If your firearm does not have a weapon-mounted light or laser, this model offers a superb blend of security and rapid deployment. It is particularly well-suited for those who operate in environments where their gear might be subjected to dust, moisture, or significant temperature fluctuations.

Those who should consider alternatives are individuals who rely on a weapon-mounted light or laser, as this holster does not accommodate them. Additionally, if you prefer a holster with a more traditional thumb-break retention system or require a more universally fitting holster, this specific Safariland model might not be the best fit. For users who opt for this holster, a high-quality tactical belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper cant and stability.

Conclusion on Safariland 7ts 7354 – Open Top Tactical Holster With The Als Lock, Injection Molded

The Safariland 7ts 7354 – Open Top Tactical Holster With The Als Lock, Injection Molded stands out as a superior piece of equipment for its intended purpose. It successfully merges the critical needs for rapid firearm access with robust, reliable retention, all within a package that is remarkably durable and resistant to environmental factors. The ALS system is a testament to Safariland’s innovation, providing a secure lock that is quickly disengaged with a proper grip, enabling a fluid draw.

While the $180.80 price point positions it as a premium option, the value delivered through its SafariSeven material, precise injection molded fit, and dependable security mechanisms justifies the investment for serious users. Its primary limitation is the absence of support for weapon-mounted lights, which directs users needing such an accessory to look at other Safariland offerings. However, for those carrying a standard Glock 22 Gen 5 in a tactical context, I would readily recommend this holster. It’s a piece of gear that you can trust to perform when it matters most, offering peace of mind and efficiency in equal measure.