We, as shooters, are always looking for the next leg up in holsters: we want more secure retention, faster draws and lower profiles. Â We want better mounting platforms and a softer finish that won’t scratch the finish right off our guns. Â We want and we want but few manufacturers come close to meeting all those demands and desires. Â After getting a chance to run Safariland’s 7377-7 TS holster for the Glock 17, I’d say we have a clear front-runner.
![Safariland QLS Holster System | Review](https://i0.wp.com/loadoutroom.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/P1120111.jpg?resize=640%2C480&ssl=1)
While Safariland’s use of numerical product listings and similar acronyms might make searching their products a little confusing, actually using their products is amazingly straightforward.  Let me break it down:  the vast majority of Safariland’s synthetic holsters revolve around the 3-screw mounting method.  Forming a “T”, the screw pattern is the same on a number of base plates as well as a variety of holsters.  There are base plates for belts, paddles, molle webbing, drop-legs or static mounts such as in a vehicle then you get to partner it up with the holster of your choice.  You can get one with the Grip-lock system (GLS), Auto-lock system (ALS), or the Self-locking system (SLS).  Some of these holsters also have additional locking options you can add-on, giving higher levels of retention.  The holster and base plate are connected using a small adapter that has three prongs.  It is a quick release adapter so if you would like to swap holsters, guns or mounting platforms you simply pinch the tips of the outside prongs together and slide the holster out.
![Safariland QLS Holster System | Review](https://i0.wp.com/loadoutroom.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/P1120182-1024x768.jpg?resize=1024%2C768&ssl=1)
This is a truly modular system that allows switching between mounting systems and holsters in seconds.  If I’m out hunting I’ll have my sidearm on my riggers belt I can pop off the holster and snap it into the base plate in my vehicle for the drive home, then snap it onto a paddle for concealed carry once I’m back in the city.  Furthermore, it allows for custom Kydex holster manufacturers to produce a holster that is immediately able to tap into the available mounting solutions.  I have a Gladius holster for my Glock 17 that allows me to carry the pistol with a suppressor mounted and attached to any of the available Safariland QLS mounting options.
![Safariland QLS Holster System | Review](https://i0.wp.com/loadoutroom.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/P1120099.jpg?resize=480%2C640&ssl=1)
Now that I’m done geeking out over the QLS mounting platform, it’s time we took a look at the specific holster I was able to get for hands-on testing. Â I received the 7377 7TS ALS belt slide holster with an additional paddle base for use without a belt. Â The 7TS is in reference to the proprietary Dupont (TM) nylon blend named SafariSeven (TM). Â This is a very durable material that isn’t abrasive to a firearm’s finish at all. Â I’ve worn the tennifer off of a couple of Glocks doing dry-fire practice with various holsters. Â This material does feel structurally strong and yet somewhat slick. Â The ALS is a fantastic lock. Â I’ve always been a fan of the Serpa holster which allows you to use your trigger finger to unlock the handgun prior to drawing. Â The ALS feels a bit more intuitive to me, as well as feeling more secure; I mean secure in two ways: 1. The lock is near where your thumb would lay at the start of your draw so it’s out of sight for would-be gun grabbers. 2. The lock isn’t on the outside of the holster where it could be inadvertently disengaged during a fall.
This holster unlocks and draws like a dream. Â The handgun is snug and secure when holstered without feeling pinched. Â My Glock pops out of the 7377 in a hurry, feeling like the holster is handing it to me rather than me dragging it out kicking and screaming. Â The ALS is a very secure system. Â If however, you desire further security, (or a department mandates it) I count two more modular locks on the Safariland website that can be added on with ease. Â The belt loop and paddle are both very comfortable options and hold tight when you need them to. Â They are more comfortable and reliable than other companies offerings I’ve owned in the past.
The 7377 7TS ALS by Safariland is a straight-up winner in my book.  the modularity, comfort, wealth of options and perfect execution of a holster done right have shown me the path in sidearm homes.  I’m going to be picking up additional holsters for other handguns in my collection.