What Makes Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 8 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 8 models isn’t just another holster; it’s a meticulously engineered piece of equipment designed for serious professionals. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster prioritizes both security and rapid access, catering to law enforcement, military personnel, and security professionals who demand unwavering performance in high-stakes situations. Its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and low-ride design make it a standout choice.
My journey to the Safariland 6395 ALS started with a growing unease about my existing holster setup. I needed a holster that offered more than just retention; I needed confidence that my Sig Sauer P229R would stay put during dynamic movements, while still allowing for a swift, intuitive draw. The allure of Level-I retention coupled with the renowned Safariland reputation was too strong to ignore.
Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of robust quality. The SafariLaminate construction felt incredibly solid, a stark contrast to some of the flimsy polymer holsters I’ve encountered. The STX Black Hi-Gloss finish lent a professional, almost intimidating look, and the overall weight felt reassuringly substantial without being cumbersome.
Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa and a Galco leather holster I’ve used previously, the Safariland 6395 ALS offered a notably superior balance of retention and speed. The Serpa’s trigger finger release felt less secure, while the Galco’s passive retention lacked the positive “click” of the ALS. This Safariland model seemed to bridge the gap perfectly.
My initial excitement was tempered with a slight apprehension about the ALS system; would it be truly intuitive under pressure? However, the overall quality and design instilled a sense of confidence that quickly overshadowed any doubts. This was a holster designed for serious work.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 8 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range, simulating various scenarios I might encounter in a tactical environment. I focused on drawing and re-holstering drills, practicing both strong-side and support-side draws, and incorporating movement into the exercises. The weather was typical for a summer day: hot and humid.
The Safariland 6395 ALS performed admirably, even under less-than-ideal conditions. The ALS system proved remarkably intuitive; with minimal practice, the thumb release became second nature. The low-ride design facilitated a natural draw stroke, and the holster’s stability prevented any unwanted shifting during movement.
There was a slight learning curve involved in mastering the ALS release. Initially, I occasionally fumbled the release, but after a few hours of dedicated practice, it became almost instinctive. No other issues or surprises occurred.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and participation in a tactical training course, the Safariland 6395 ALS has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The SafariLaminate construction has shown no signs of wear and tear, resisting scratches and abrasions remarkably well. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and secure retention.
Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. I’ve occasionally used a silicone-based lubricant on the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation, but this is more preventative maintenance than a necessity. It significantly outperforms my previous holsters in terms of durability and consistent performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 8 models
Specifications
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 8 models is specifically designed for the Sig Sauer P229R DASA with rails. It features Safariland’s renowned ALS (Automatic Locking System) for Level-I Retention. The holster boasts a durable SafariLaminate thermal-molded construction.
This particular model is right-handed, features a STX Black Hi-Gloss finish, and includes a hood guard as standard. The low-ride design offers a 1.5-inch drop, positioning the handgun for a faster, more natural draw. Its open-top design allows for rapid weapon retrieval.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s functionality and performance. The ALS provides a secure hold while the low-ride design enhances draw speed. The SafariLaminate ensures long-term durability, even under demanding conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 8 models excels at its primary function: securely retaining the Sig Sauer P229R while providing rapid access when needed. The ALS mechanism is exceptionally reliable, providing a positive lock that prevents accidental dislodgement. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, thanks to the low-ride design.
The holster’s main strength lies in its balance of retention and speed. The ALS provides a high level of security, while the intuitive thumb release allows for a lightning-fast draw. A potential weakness is the Level-I retention, which might not be sufficient for all users or environments.
Overall, it meets and even exceeds my expectations. It provides the security and speed I need without sacrificing comfort or usability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6395 ALS features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The SafariLaminate construction feels robust and durable, while the low-ride design positions the handgun in an optimal location for drawing. The holster’s weight is substantial enough to feel secure without being overly cumbersome.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although mastering the ALS release requires some initial practice. The thumb release is well-positioned and easy to access, even under stress. The overall design promotes a natural and efficient draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 8 models is built to last. The SafariLaminate is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and other forms of wear and tear. The ALS mechanism is also designed for long-term reliability.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that’s typically required. The holster’s durable construction ensures that it will withstand years of heavy use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6395 ALS comes standard with a hood guard, which provides an additional layer of security. An optional ALS Guard is available for an extra level of security, effectively upgrading the holster to Level II retention. The holster is also compatible with a variety of Safariland mounting platforms, allowing for customization of ride height and carry angle.
While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its compatibility with Safariland’s mounting platforms allows users to tailor the setup to their specific needs. The availability of an optional ALS Guard provides a simple and effective way to increase the level of retention.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 8 models
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS (Automatic Locking System) provides a secure hold on the weapon, preventing accidental dislodgement.
- Rapid Draw: The intuitive thumb release and low-ride design facilitate a fast and efficient draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: The SafariLaminate thermal-molded construction ensures long-term reliability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Comfortable Carry: The low-ride design distributes weight evenly, minimizing discomfort during extended periods of carry.
- Professional Appearance: The STX Black Hi-Gloss finish lends a professional and discreet appearance.
Cons
- Level-I Retention: The Level-I retention might not be sufficient for all users or environments, especially those requiring a higher level of security.
- ALS Learning Curve: Mastering the ALS release requires some initial practice and familiarization.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 8 models?
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 8 models is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and anyone who prioritizes both security and rapid access to their handgun. It’s an excellent choice for those who carry a Sig Sauer P229R DASA with rails and demand a reliable and durable holster.
Those who require a higher level of retention (Level II or III) might want to consider a different holster. Individuals who are uncomfortable with a learning curve or prefer a simpler retention system may also want to explore other options. A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure stability and proper weight distribution.
Conclusion on Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 8 models
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 8 models is a top-tier holster that delivers exceptional performance in demanding situations. Its combination of secure retention, rapid draw, and durable construction makes it a valuable asset for any serious professional. At $139.99, the price is justified by the quality and reliability of the product.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6395 ALS to anyone seeking a high-quality holster for their Sig Sauer P229R. It’s an investment in your safety and effectiveness. Don’t settle for anything less than the best; equip yourself with the Safariland 6395 ALS and experience the difference.