Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty OWB Holster Review

The Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty OWB Holster in Action: First Look

After years of relying on various holsters, the search for a truly dependable option for my duty sidearm became paramount. The need for a robust, element-resistant, and secure holster led me to the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty OWB Holster. This model boasts the innovative SafariSeven material, a blend that promises exceptional durability and resistance to environmental factors, paired with the lauded Automatic Locking System (ALS). My previous experience with less accommodating holsters, particularly in harsh outdoor conditions where stiffness and susceptibility to moisture were constant issues, made a reliable alternative a pressing concern. My first impression upon unboxing this Safariland holster was one of solid, no-nonsense construction. It felt substantial yet surprisingly lightweight. I had briefly considered some polymer competitors and even custom Kydex options, but the reputation of Safariland for duty-grade equipment, coupled with the unique material claim, tipped the scales. This initial contact brought a quiet sense of confidence that a more dependable solution had finally arrived.

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

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this duty holster involved a full day at a private range, simulating various tactical scenarios. I focused on draw speed, retention security, and re-holstering ease under stress. The holster was paired with a Glock 19, a common duty sidearm. I subjected it to simulated rain, dust from the firing line, and temperature fluctuations throughout the day.

The ease of use was immediately apparent; the ALS mechanism is remarkably intuitive. A simple thumb press disengages the lock, allowing for a smooth, straight-up draw. Re-holstering felt equally effortless, with a distinct click confirming the weapon was secured. My only initial quirk was adjusting to the precise thumb placement needed for the ALS activation under duress, a minor learning curve that quickly became second nature.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the past three months, this OWB holster has become a staple on my duty belt, seeing daily use in a variety of environments from indoor ranges to extended outdoor patrols in varying weather. It has endured significant exposure to dust, sweat, and even an accidental splash from a muddy puddle. Despite this, there are no visible cracks, stiffness, or performance degradation. The SafariSeven material has proven its mettle, showing remarkable resilience.

Maintenance has been minimal, consisting of a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional light lubrication of the ALS mechanism with a silicone-based product. Compared to my previous Kydex holsters, which showed scuffs and a tendency to retain moisture, this Safariland model is proving to be far more durable and forgiving. Budget polymer holsters I’ve used in the past typically started showing signs of stress after a few weeks; this one remains as solid as the day I got it.

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

Specifications

The Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty OWB Holster is constructed from SafariSeven™️, a DuPont nylon blend specifically engineered for extreme durability and resistance to a wide array of environmental conditions. This material is practically impervious to high and low temperatures, UV exposure, and water, meaning it won’t fade, crack, or degrade under harsh sunlight or extreme cold. The holster features the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which positively retains the firearm once holstered and releases via a thumb-activated mechanism for a straight-up draw. This mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop) attachment is designed to fit belt widths of 2 to 2.25 inches, ensuring a secure and stable fit on most duty belts.

These specifications translate directly into tangible benefits for the user. The SafariSeven material means I don’t worry about leaving my firearm exposed to the elements, whether on a humid stakeout or a cold-weather detail. The ALS provides a level of passive and active retention that instills confidence, far exceeding basic friction-fit holsters. The adjustable belt loop ensures that the holster remains firmly planted on my belt, preventing any unwanted shifting during movement. This combination is crucial for professionals who need their gear to perform reliably under pressure.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role as a retention holster, the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty OWB Holster excels. The ALS system offers a secure hold that is resistant to opportunistic threats, yet it allows for a surprisingly rapid draw once the user’s thumb is properly trained. The straight-up draw stroke is efficient and requires minimal practice to master, which is critical in high-stress situations. The pistol seats with a satisfying audible and tactile click, confirming it’s locked in.

The main strength of this duty holster is its unparalleled retention coupled with its robust construction. The weakness, if one could call it that, is the slight learning curve associated with the ALS thumb release under extreme duress. However, this is common to most retention systems and is easily overcome with consistent practice. It meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster, especially considering its build quality and security features.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Safariland holster is overtly functional, prioritizing security and accessibility. The SafariSeven material has a matte finish that doesn’t create unwanted glare and feels surprisingly comfortable against the body, even when wearing a uniform shirt over it. The build quality is evident; there are no rough edges or poorly finished areas.

Ergonomically, the mid-ride height positions the firearm at a comfortable level for drawing, accessible without being overly high or low. The thumb break of the ALS is well-placed and naturally falls under the thumb during the draw stroke. The UBL allows for some cant adjustment, which can be fine-tuned to individual preference, further enhancing comfort and draw efficiency.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty OWB Holster is built for the long haul. The SafariSeven material is designed to withstand significant abuse without showing wear. I anticipate this holster lasting for many years of demanding use, far outstripping the lifespan of many lower-cost alternatives.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick rinse with water and a wipe-down are usually sufficient to keep it clean. For the ALS mechanism, a tiny dab of silicone lubricant every few months ensures smooth operation, but it functions reliably even when dry. The most critical aspect to watch out for is ensuring debris does not obstruct the ALS mechanism, which could hinder its operation, though the open-top design minimizes this risk.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular model comes standard with the UBL Mid-Ride belt loop, which is a robust and well-designed attachment system. Safariland offers a wide range of other attachment options that can be swapped onto the holster body, including various belt loops, drop-leg platforms, and QLS (Quick Locking System) receivers, allowing for extensive customization. While no additional accessories were included with this holster itself, the interchangeability of its mounting systems means it can adapt to numerous duty configurations. The compatibility with Safariland’s extensive accessory ecosystem is a major plus for users who want to tailor their gear precisely.

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

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

The Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty OWB Holster is an ideal choice for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a highly secure, durable, and reliable duty-grade holster. Its resilience makes it perfect for individuals operating in environments with significant exposure to extreme weather, dust, or moisture. Those prioritizing weapon retention and ease of access under pressure will find this holster exceptionally well-suited for their needs.

Individuals looking for a budget-friendly, basic concealment holster might find this model to be overkill and potentially too rigid for everyday concealed carry. For those who can justify the investment, I highly recommend pairing it with a quality duty belt that can properly support the holster and firearm, ensuring maximum stability and comfort. Additionally, dedicating time to practice the ALS draw stroke is crucial for maximizing its effectiveness.

Conclusion on Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty OWB Holster

The Safariland 7TS ALS Mid Ride Duty OWB Holster is a testament to Safariland’s commitment to producing top-tier protective gear. Its combination of the highly durable SafariSeven material and the secure ALS retention system delivers a performance that is both reliable and confidence-inspiring for professionals who depend on their equipment. While its price point reflects its premium quality and advanced features, the long-term durability and unparalleled security it offers make it an excellent investment for those who cannot afford compromise. I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone seeking a robust, secure, and weather-resistant solution for their duty sidearm.