Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Left 6280-74421-072OBL Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Left 6280-74421-072OBL

The Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Left 6280-74421-072OBL is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security personnel. It combines secure weapon retention with a relatively quick and easy draw, featuring Safariland’s proven Self Locking System (SLS). The basketweave finish adds a professional aesthetic, while the mid-ride height offers a comfortable and accessible carry position.

After a near incident where a suspect attempted to disarm me during a foot pursuit, I knew I needed a holster with a higher level of retention. I’d been using a simple open-top holster for years, prioritizing speed over security. But the reality of the job changed my perspective, and I began researching Level II options.

My first impression was that it looked and felt robust, far more substantial than my previous holster. The basketweave brown finish was classic and professional, exactly what I expected from Safariland. The build quality felt top-notch, with tight stitching and a solid feel, inspiring confidence in its long-term durability.

I was considering the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite Level 3. I ultimately chose the Safariland due to its reputation for reliability and the SLS system, which seemed intuitive and less prone to accidental release than some other designs. I was initially excited about the increased security but also a little apprehensive about potentially slower draw times.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Left 6280-74421-072OBL to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground was the police academy’s shooting range, a controlled environment to familiarize myself with the new draw stroke. I focused on consistently deactivating the SLS hood during the draw, building muscle memory. The holster performed well, even in the summer heat where sweat was a factor affecting grip.

I also ran drills in simulated scenarios, practicing drawing from various positions, including seated in a vehicle and during movement. The mid-ride height provided a good balance between accessibility and weapon security while seated. Learning the SLS system initially added a small amount of draw time, but after a few hours of practice, the motion became natural and nearly as fast as my previous holster.

There were no significant issues during the first few days, although the SLS hood was initially a bit stiff and required some breaking in. One surprise was the improved weapon protection; the holster fully covered the trigger guard and most of the slide, preventing accidental scratches and offering increased security against debris.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of daily use on patrol, the Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Left 6280-74421-072OBL has proven incredibly durable. There are no signs of wear or tear beyond minor scuff marks on the basketweave finish. The holster has maintained its shape and retention level, even after repeated exposure to rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.

The holster requires minimal maintenance; occasionally wiping it down with a damp cloth to remove dust and grime is generally sufficient. The SLS hood has loosened up over time, making it easier to deactivate, but it still provides a secure hold on the weapon. I have experienced no issues with the retention mechanism failing or accidentally releasing the firearm.

Compared to my previous open-top holster, the Safariland provides a significant improvement in weapon security without sacrificing too much speed. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both durability and reliability, giving me peace of mind on the street. This holster also provides better protection from the elements compared to my previous holster.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Left 6280-74421-072OBL

Specifications

The Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Left 6280-74421-072OBL is designed for a specific firearm model and light combination. In my case, it fits the Sig Sauer P229R DASA (Spurred Hammer) with accessory rails, specifically when equipped with an M3, M6, M3 LED light, Streamlight TLR-1, TLR-2, or Insight XTI Procyon. It’s crucial to note that the holster will not retain the weapon without the light attached.

The holster features Safariland’s SLS (Self Locking System) for Level II retention, providing a secure hold on the weapon. The mid-ride design places the holster at a comfortable height for easy access and weapon protection. It also offers a top draw and straight drop cant for a natural and efficient draw stroke.

The finish is basketweave brown, providing a professional and classic look. It is designed for left-handed users and utilizes an old-style belt loop for attachment. The holster can be upgraded to Level III or Level IV retention with the addition of an optional Sentry device and tension screw adjustment.

These specifications are important because they dictate the compatibility, security, and usability of the holster. The specific firearm and light compatibility are critical to ensure proper fit and retention. The retention level and draw style are crucial for officer safety and efficient weapon deployment.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Left 6280-74421-072OBL performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The SLS system provides a secure hold on the weapon, preventing unauthorized removal while still allowing for a relatively quick and easy draw with practice. The holster is reliable and has consistently functioned without fail during my months of use.

The strengths of this holster lie in its robust construction, secure retention, and comfortable mid-ride height. The only minor weakness is that the holster requires the attached weapon light to retain the firearm, limiting flexibility. This does meet my expectations because I run a weapon light on my duty weapon at all times.

It meets and exceeds expectations because it provides a significant upgrade in weapon security compared to open-top holsters without sacrificing draw speed. It provides exceptional durability and reliability, making it a trusted piece of gear on the job.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is outstanding, with high-quality materials and sturdy construction. The holster is lightweight enough to not add significant bulk to the duty belt, but robust enough to withstand daily wear and tear. The holster sits comfortably on the hip, and the mid-ride height allows for easy access to the firearm while seated or standing.

The learning curve is relatively short. After a few hours of practice, the SLS system becomes intuitive. The basketweave finish adds a professional aesthetic.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Left 6280-74421-072OBL is built to last, with durable materials and robust construction. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple and requires only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.

Repairing the holster would likely require sending it back to Safariland or a qualified holster repair specialist due to the complexity of the retention mechanism. However, given the durability of the holster, repairs are unlikely to be necessary under normal circumstances.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Left 6280-74421-072OBL comes with basic belt loop attachments, but it’s compatible with a variety of Safariland mounting options, including different belt loops and leg shrouds. The level of retention can be increased from level II to level III/IV with the purchase and installation of a sentry.

While the holster is specifically designed for certain firearm and light combinations, some users may choose to customize the internal fit with aftermarket adjustments or modifications. I have seen many officers add a small amount of felt to the inside of the holster to protect the finish on the light. However, it is important to note that any modifications could potentially affect the holster’s retention and reliability, so they should be approached with caution.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Left 6280-74421-072OBL

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Who Should Buy Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Left 6280-74421-072OBL?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention in a duty setting. It is particularly well-suited for those who carry a Sig Sauer P229R with a weapon light.

This product might not be ideal for individuals who prefer a more minimalist holster or those who do not typically carry a weapon light on their firearm. Civilians carrying concealed may also find this holster bulky and unnecessary for their needs.

A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Sentry system to upgrade the retention to level III or IV for extremely dangerous environments. Training to build proper draw stroke memory is also a must.

Conclusion on Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Left 6280-74421-072OBL

The Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Left 6280-74421-072OBL is a top-tier duty holster that provides excellent weapon security, durability, and functionality. While the requirement for a weapon light and the initial learning curve may be drawbacks for some, the overall benefits far outweigh these minor issues.

The price is justified by the quality of construction, the level of retention provided, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your weapon is secure. I would highly recommend this holster to any law enforcement officer or security professional who prioritizes weapon security and reliability.

If you’re looking for a duty holster that can withstand the rigors of daily use and provide a secure hold on your weapon, the Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Left 6280-74421-072OBL is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and get yours today.