Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster Review

Let’s Talk About Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster

The Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster is more than just a piece of gear; it’s a critical component for anyone who takes their firearm seriously. Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the law enforcement and tactical communities, has built a reputation on producing holsters that deliver both security and rapid accessibility. I was looking for a holster that offered both security and ease of access, something crucial for both range days and potential self-defense situations.

I’ve been working with outdoor and tactical gear for over a decade, and I’ve seen countless holsters come and go. I needed a holster that wouldn’t just hold my firearm but would also allow for a smooth, confident draw under pressure. The Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster’s promise of a positive-locking paddle, combined with the smooth draw of the Automatic Locking System (ALS), immediately caught my attention.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the solid construction. The SafariLaminate material felt rugged and durable, promising resistance to the wear and tear of daily use. The holster felt surprisingly lightweight, a huge plus considering the added weight of a firearm.

Compared to other paddle holsters I’ve used, like the Blackhawk Serpa or some molded Kydex options, the Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster felt a significant step up in terms of retention and build quality. While Kydex can be lightweight, it often lacks adjustability, and the Serpa’s button release always felt a bit too risky under duress. The ALS system seemed far more intuitive and secure.

My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to put it through its paces, confident that it would meet my stringent requirements for reliability and performance.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster was at an outdoor shooting range, under relatively mild conditions – sunny with a slight breeze. I practiced drawing and re-holstering drills repeatedly, focusing on maintaining a consistent grip and a smooth, controlled draw. The ALS system proved intuitive; after a few repetitions, deactivating the release with my thumb became second nature.

The holster performed flawlessly even with a slightly sweaty grip after intense drills. The draw was consistently smooth and the re-holstering process was positive and secure. There were no malfunctions or unexpected snags.

There were no major issues during this initial test, but I did notice that the paddle took some getting used to. Adjusting the cant was simple enough, but finding the perfect position on my belt required some trial and error.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, including both range sessions and some simulated tactical scenarios, the Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to repeated draws, re-holstering, and general handling. The SafariLaminate material seems highly resistant to scratches and abrasions.

Maintenance has been incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each range session is all it takes to keep the holster clean and functioning smoothly. The ALS mechanism has remained consistently reliable, without any signs of binding or sticking.

Compared to other holsters I’ve owned, the Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster significantly outperforms them in terms of both retention and draw speed. Cheaper holsters often sacrifice one for the other, but the ALS system strikes an ideal balance. It inspires confidence and is now my preferred holster for everyday carry and range work.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster

Specifications

• The Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster features ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon once holstered and allows for a simple, straight-up draw once released. This is a crucial safety feature.
• Its open-top design, lacking SLS (Self Locking System), promotes quick weapon retrieval. This facilitates faster target acquisition.
• Constructed of SafariSeven™, a proprietary nylon blend, the holster is entirely non-abrasive to a firearm’s finish. This preserves the integrity of the weapon.
• Raised stand-off surfaces in the holster’s interior create airflow around the weapon. This helps clear dirt and moisture, preventing corrosion.
• The holster boasts very high heat and low cold tolerances, remaining structurally sound from 300°F to -50°F. This ensures reliable performance in extreme environments.
• The holster includes an injection-molded belt loop adjustable for cant, allowing crossdraw wear. This adds versatility in carry options.
• The paddle fits belt widths up to 1.75″ (45mm), while the belt loop fits belt widths from 1.5″ (38mm) to 1.75″ (45mm). This provides broad compatibility with common belt sizes.
• The holster is constructed with SafariLaminate material, ensuring durability. This provides a rugged construction.
• It is designed for a right-hand draw, and compatible with Glock firearms. This offers a specialized fit.
• It is proudly made in the USA, signifying quality manufacturing. This also supports American jobs.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s performance, durability, and user experience. The ALS system guarantees retention, while the SafariSeven material protects the firearm’s finish. The extreme temperature tolerances and rugged construction ensure reliable performance in harsh conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster excels in its primary function: securely holding and allowing for rapid deployment of a firearm. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a tactile and audible confirmation that the weapon is locked in place. The draw is smooth and natural, with the release easily deactivated during the draw stroke.

The holster’s strengths lie in its superior retention, draw speed, and durability. However, the paddle design might not be ideal for concealed carry, as it can be somewhat bulky under clothing. The cant adjustment is useful, but dialing in the perfect angle can take some experimentation.

The holster easily meets expectations. Its quality and design justify its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster is exceptional. The SafariLaminate material feels incredibly strong and durable, while remaining surprisingly lightweight. The holster’s design is well-thought-out, with smooth edges and a comfortable fit against the body.

The holster is generally user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system. The paddle design is comfortable for extended wear.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster is built to last. Its rugged construction and high-quality materials suggest that it will withstand years of use and abuse.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The ALS mechanism is robust and requires no special lubrication or maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster comes with the injection-molded belt loop. There are several customization options available.

The Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster is compatible with various belt attachment systems, allowing users to switch between paddle, belt loop, and MOLLE configurations. The holster is also compatible with Safariland’s line of tactical accessories, such as weapon lights and magazine carriers.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster

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Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster?

The Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster is perfect for: law enforcement officers, security personnel, competitive shooters, and anyone who prioritizes firearm retention and rapid deployment. It’s also suitable for range use and open carry.

This holster may not be the best choice for individuals seeking deep concealment due to its paddle design’s bulk. Those who prefer simpler, passive retention systems may also find the ALS system unnecessary.

A quality gun belt is a must-have to provide a stable and secure platform for the holster.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster

The Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster is an exceptional piece of gear that delivers on its promises of security, reliability, and performance. The ALS system provides confidence in firearm retention. The smooth draw and durable construction make it a valuable asset for anyone who carries a firearm regularly.

The price of $75.00 is justified by the holster’s quality, durability, and innovative features. Cheaper holsters simply cannot match the Safariland’s level of performance and reliability.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster to anyone seeking a high-quality, dependable holster for duty, competition, or range use. Invest in your safety and performance. Get the Safariland ALS Paddle Belt Holster today.