Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster Review

Putting the **Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster** Through Its Paces

For years, I’ve relied on robust gear that can withstand the rigors of demanding environments. My work often takes me from the controlled chaos of a workshop to the unpredictable conditions of fieldwork, where dependable equipment isn’t just a convenience, it’s a necessity. The quest for a holster that could offer secure firearm retention without compromising draw speed, all while shrugging off the elements, led me to the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster. This particular model caught my eye due to its reputation for innovative material and its acclaimed Automatic Locking System (ALS).

The catalyst for this purchase was a particularly frustrating experience with a less secure, more basic holster that failed to provide adequate retention during a period of intense activity. The constant worry about firearm security was a significant distraction, and I knew a more reliable solution was needed. I needed something that would offer peace of mind and allow me to focus on the task at hand, not whether my sidearm was still in place.

My initial impression upon unboxing the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster was one of solid construction. The Safariseven™ material felt substantial yet surprisingly lightweight, hinting at its durability. It didn’t possess the hard, brittle feel of some older polymer holsters; instead, it had a slightly yielding quality that suggested it could absorb impacts without shattering. I considered a few other duty-grade holsters, but their bulkier designs and less integrated retention mechanisms made this Safariland model stand out. The immediate feeling was one of confident expectation – a sense that this holster was built for purpose.

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

First Use Experience

My initial tests of the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster were conducted primarily at a controlled shooting range environment, simulating tactical draw and re-holstering drills. I also wore it during extended periods of routine maintenance tasks in my workshop, which often involves moderate movement and exposure to general workshop dust. The holster performed admirably in these settings, offering a secure fit for my firearm that felt reassuringly solid. The ALS retention system required a specific, deliberate thumb action, which became intuitive after only a few repetitions.

The performance in varying conditions was noteworthy; the Safariseven™ material showed no signs of degradation from typical workshop grime or the light moisture that can accumulate on equipment. Drawing and re-holstering felt consistently smooth, with no noticeable stiffness or obstruction, even after dozens of repetitions. My only minor surprise was the slight learning curve associated with the ALS deactivation, which, while straightforward, demands a practiced muscle memory for the quickest draws.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent daily use, incorporating both range practice and general duties, the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster has proven itself to be exceptionally reliable. It has become an integral part of my gear, and I find myself reaching for it without conscious thought. The Safariseven™ material has held up remarkably well, showing only minor cosmetic scuffs that do nothing to impede its functionality. There are no signs of cracks, stiffness, or any performance drop in the ALS mechanism.

Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and a soft brush usually suffices to keep it clean and free of debris, even after being exposed to more abrasive workshop environments. This ease of care is a significant advantage over holsters that require specialized lubricants or more involved cleaning routines. Compared to some of the older leather or even basic polymer holsters I’ve used, this Safariland model offers a superior blend of durability and low maintenance, consistently performing without fuss.

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

Specifications

The Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster is constructed from innovative Safariseven™ material, a unique nylon blend developed with Dupont™. This material is designed to be highly durable and practically impervious to the elements, a critical feature for gear intended for harsh conditions. It incorporates the Automatic Locking System (ALS®), which securely locks the weapon into place once holstered.

The deactivation of the ALS is achieved via a thumb-activated lever, allowing for a smooth, straight-up draw. This model comes standard with the UBL Mid-Ride platform, ensuring a comfortable and accessible ride height. It is designed to fit belt widths ranging from 2 inches to 2.25 inches, making it compatible with most standard duty belts. The Safariseven™ material contributes to the holster’s resilience against UV exposure and temperature extremes.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster is to securely retain a firearm while allowing for a rapid and unobstructed draw. It excels in this regard, providing a level of security that instills confidence, especially during strenuous activities. The ALS retention system is exceptionally robust, preventing accidental disengagement while remaining easily operable by the user.

Its main strength lies in the combination of secure retention and the swift draw facilitated by the ALS. The Safariseven™ material also contributes to its performance by resisting damage from impacts and environmental factors. A potential minor weakness, though not a true performance flaw, is the slight learning curve for the ALS deactivation for users completely unfamiliar with such systems. However, it easily meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Safariland holster emphasizes practical functionality. The Safariseven™ material provides a matte, non-reflective finish that is both durable and unobtrusive. The build quality feels exceptionally solid, with precise molding that ensures a snug fit for the intended firearm model.

Ergonomically, the Mid Ride UBL positions the holster at a comfortable height on the duty belt, facilitating a natural draw stroke. The interface for disengaging the ALS is well-placed and designed for intuitive thumb activation once muscle memory is established. There are no superfluous controls or sharp edges that could snag on clothing or equipment.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of longevity, the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster is built for the long haul. The Safariseven™ material is inherently resistant to cracking, fading, and degradation from UV light and common chemicals. It is designed to withstand significant wear and tear from daily use in demanding environments.

Maintenance is straightforward; a simple cleaning with soap and water is generally sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. There are no complex parts or mechanisms that require specialized attention. The primary failure points for most holsters are usually related to retention devices or material breakdown, neither of which seems to be a concern with this model.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular model comes standard with the UBL Mid-Ride attachment. While Safariland offers various mounting options for their holsters, this specific package is configured for belt attachment.

The holster is designed to accommodate specific firearm models, meaning customization largely revolves around selecting the correct holster for your weapon. There are no user-replaceable internal components in the ALS system itself, as it’s integrated into the holster’s construction. The Safariseven™ material is also not a material that lends itself to user modification like some softer polymers.

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

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

This holster is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a highly secure and reliable firearm retention solution for duty use. It is particularly well-suited for environments where equipment may be subjected to rough handling, extreme weather, or frequent use. Those who value robust build quality and minimal maintenance will find this model particularly appealing.

Individuals who prioritize ultra-lightweight concealment holsters or those who need extensive modularity might want to explore other options. This holster is designed for serious duty applications where security and durability are paramount. Complementary items that enhance its use would include a high-quality duty belt that fits the 2-inch to 2.25-inch belt width specification to ensure optimal stability.

Conclusion on **Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster**

The Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster is a testament to effective design and robust material science, offering a secure and reliable platform for firearm retention. Its Safariseven™ material and proven ALS system deliver performance that instills confidence in demanding situations. Considering its durability, security, and ease of maintenance, the price of $144.49 represents solid value for a duty-grade holster.

I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to professionals who need dependable gear that can withstand the rigors of daily duty. It strikes an excellent balance between security and accessibility, making it an indispensable tool for those who carry a firearm in high-stress environments. If you’re in the market for a holster that prioritizes function and longevity, the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty Holster should be high on your list.