Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6280-9710-62 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6280-9710-62

The Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6280-9710-62 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security personnel. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster prioritizes weapon security and accessibility. Its Level II retention system and mid-ride position make it a popular choice for those who need a reliable and quick draw.

My need for this holster stemmed from a growing unease with my existing setup. I was searching for a holster that provided both increased weapon security and a more comfortable carry position for extended periods. The Safariland 6280 seemed to promise both, aligning with my requirements for field work.

Upon unboxing, the holster felt solid and well-constructed. The plain black finish had a professional look, and the molded design appeared precise. The Safariland 6280 felt robust, promising the durability I needed for rigorous daily use.

I considered a few other options before settling on the Safariland 6280. A Blackhawk! Serpa holster was in the running, but I preferred the Safariland’s SLS retention system over the Serpa’s trigger finger release. The ALSL Gear Rapid Force Duty Holster was also appealing, but its bulkier design wasn’t ideal for my needs. Ultimately, the Safariland 6280’s balance of security, accessibility, and streamlined design won me over.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The holster felt substantial, and the retention system seemed secure. I was eager to test its real-world performance.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6280-9710-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6280 at my local shooting range. The holster performed well during drills, providing a smooth and reliable draw stroke. The SLS (Self Locking System) disengaged easily with practice, allowing for a quick presentation of the firearm.

I tested the holster in various conditions. A light rain didn’t affect its performance, and the holster retained its grip on the firearm even when wet. Drawing the weapon became second nature after a few practice sessions.

The learning curve for the SLS system was minimal. After a few dry-fire repetitions, I was able to disengage the lock and draw the weapon smoothly. The mid-ride position also felt more natural than my previous high-ride holster.

The only initial issue was the stiffness of the leather lining; it took a few days to break in completely. Other than that, the Safariland 6280 performed as expected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6280 has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear, even after being exposed to harsh weather conditions. The retention system continues to function smoothly, and the holster maintains a secure grip on the firearm.

The holster is made from durable materials, so wear and tear have been minimal. There are some slight scuff marks on the finish, but nothing that affects functionality. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth has kept the holster in good condition.

Cleaning the Safariland 6280 is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. I’ve also used leather conditioner to keep the lining supple and prevent cracking.

The Safariland 6280 outperforms my previous holster in terms of both security and comfort. The Level II retention system provides peace of mind, and the mid-ride position is more comfortable for all-day wear. It is a worthy upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6280-9710-62

Specifications

The Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6280-9710-62 is designed for left-handed users and features Level II retention. The SLS (Self Locking System) allows for a smooth, straight-up draw once disengaged. The mid-ride position provides a comfortable carry and allows for better weapon protection.

The holster is available in a plain black finish, as well as basket weave, hi-gloss, and nylon look finishes. The holster is designed to fit specific firearms, including models with certain light and laser combinations, as noted. The Level II retention is crucial for preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6280 excels in its primary function: securing and providing quick access to a firearm. The SLS system is intuitive and reliable, allowing for a rapid draw while maintaining a high level of security. The holster’s design minimizes accidental discharges and maximizes user safety.

The primary strength is the retention system’s balance of security and accessibility. The holster’s main weakness is that it requires practice to master the draw stroke. Overall, it far exceeds expectations for duty holsters.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6280 is constructed from durable materials, including a SafariSeven™ nylon blend that is resistant to heat, cold, and moisture. The holster is lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods. The mid-ride position distributes weight evenly, reducing strain on the lower back.

The design is user-friendly, although some practice is required to master the SLS retention system. The holster is well-molded, and the firearm fits snugly without being too tight. The holster is designed for ergonomic and functional use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6280 is built to last, with a robust construction that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The SafariSeven™ material is highly resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, the holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap. The holster is designed to be easily repaired, with readily available replacement parts. It is a very durable holster.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6280 is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including Safariland’s range of belt loops, leg shrouds, and tactical mounting systems. The holster can also be customized with different finishes and colors to match individual preferences. Accessories such as the Sentry upgrade can increase the retention level to Level III.

The holster is compatible with many popular firearm accessories, such as weapon lights and lasers, as long as they are compatible with the firearm model. This holster is a good option for a wide range of customization.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6280-9710-62