Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh

The Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh might seem like a small, unassuming piece of kit, but for law enforcement and security professionals, it’s an absolutely crucial addition to their duty holster. Designed specifically for left-handed users, this combo enhances the security and retention of your firearm, providing an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access. The Safariland brand is synonymous with quality and reliability in the law enforcement community, and this product seems to uphold that reputation.

As someone who’s worked in tactical gear for over a decade, I’ve seen firsthand how small modifications can make a world of difference in the field. I needed a reliable upgrade to my existing duty holster and this product immediately caught my eye due to its added security features.

Upon opening the package, I was immediately impressed by the seemingly robust construction of the guards. The plastic felt dense and durable, not flimsy or prone to cracking. The installation was straightforward, and the guards snapped securely into place.

While I didn’t have the exact Safariland holster models (6377, 6378, 6379, 6390, 6395) listed as compatible for direct comparison, I have used similar retention devices from Blade-Tech and Blackhawk. What set this apart was the focused design specifically to mitigate easy access to the weapon. Initial excitement was definitely present.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh extensively during force-on-force training scenarios and drills on the range. These tests were designed to simulate real-world encounters where weapon retention would be critical. The environments varied from dry, sunny conditions to simulated rain using water hoses, representing the unpredictable nature of field work.

The added security of the ALS guard and hood guard was immediately noticeable; drawing the weapon required a more deliberate and conscious effort, preventing accidental or unauthorized removal. Initially, the slightly altered draw stroke took some getting used to, adding perhaps a fraction of a second to the draw time. After only a few practice repetitions, however, it became second nature, proving how quickly one can adapt.

There were no immediate issues, and the guards functioned flawlessly in all conditions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use during training and simulated scenarios, the Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh held up exceptionally well. There were no signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, loosening, or deformation of the plastic. The guards maintained their secure fit, consistently preventing unintentional release of the firearm.

The guards were easily cleaned with just soap and water after exposure to dirt and simulated blood. They required no specialized maintenance. Compared to previous experiences with other retention devices that sometimes loosened or became brittle over time, this Safariland combo has proven to be remarkably durable and reliable.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh

Specifications

• The Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh is specifically designed for left-handed users. This ensures proper ergonomic placement and functionality for a left-handed draw.
• This combo is engineered for compatibility with Safariland 6377, 6378, 6379, 6390, and 6395 series holsters. Ensure compatibility with your specific holster model before purchase to guarantee a secure and functional fit.
• The components are constructed from a high-strength polymer material. This material provides excellent durability and resistance to impact, abrasion, and environmental factors, ensuring long-lasting performance in demanding conditions.

These specifications are crucial for optimal weapon retention and security. The left-handed design ensures proper ergonomics, while the compatibility ensures correct fit and function. The durable polymer provides the necessary strength and resilience for duty use.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh performs its primary function of enhancing weapon retention exceptionally well. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) guard and hood guard work in tandem to prevent unauthorized access to the firearm. The ALS guard requires a deliberate thumb release to disengage the locking mechanism, while the hood guard further secures the weapon by covering the top portion of the firearm.

The primary strength is its ability to significantly increase the difficulty of weapon removal by anyone other than the authorized user. A minor weakness is the initial adjustment period for the draw stroke, which might add a fraction of a second to draw time. Overall, the combo exceeds expectations in terms of security and functionality.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent, with high-quality polymer used for both the ALS guard and hood guard. The weight added by the combo is minimal and does not significantly affect the overall balance or feel of the holster. The design integrates seamlessly with compatible Safariland holsters, maintaining a professional and streamlined appearance.

The system is reasonably user-friendly, requiring only a brief period of familiarization to master the slightly altered draw stroke. Once accustomed to the mechanism, the draw becomes smooth and efficient.

Durability & Maintenance

The high-strength polymer construction suggests that the Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh will last for years under normal duty conditions. The guards are resistant to cracking, bending, and deformation, even under stress.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with soap and water. The guards do not require any lubrication or special care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh is primarily a standalone retention enhancement and does not offer extensive customization options. It is, however, compatible with various Safariland holster accessories, such as drop leg platforms and quick-release systems.

The compatibility is limited to Safariland products, ensuring seamless integration within the Safariland ecosystem. Using accessories from other brands may compromise the security and functionality of the system.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh?

The Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who carries a firearm in a duty capacity and requires enhanced weapon retention. It is also well-suited for individuals who work in high-risk environments where the potential for weapon disarming is a concern.

This product might not be necessary for recreational shooters or individuals who primarily carry concealed for personal defense in low-threat environments. A must-have accessory would be ensuring the correct Safariland holster model for proper fit.

Conclusion on Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh

The Safariland Als Guard/hood Guard Combo, Lh is a well-designed and highly effective enhancement for weapon retention. While the $23.49 price point might seem minimal, the security and peace of mind it offers are invaluable.

I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone seeking to improve the security of their duty holster. It’s a small investment that can make a big difference. Upgrade your security today and ensure your firearm stays where it belongs.