What Makes Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 3 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I is a duty holster designed for quick weapon access and reliable retention, a balance often sought but rarely perfectly achieved. Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military gear, delivers this balance through its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and durable SafariLaminate construction. This holster aims to provide a secure carry with a rapid, intuitive draw, making it a compelling option for professionals and responsible armed citizens alike.
After a particularly grueling training exercise where my previous holster failed to retain my sidearm during a simulated scuffle, I knew I needed a serious upgrade. I was looking for a holster that offered both Level I retention for speed and security, and a low-ride design for comfortable carry with tactical gear. The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I seemed to tick all the boxes, so I decided to give it a shot.
My first impression upon unboxing was that this holster felt incredibly solid. The SafariLaminate material has a reassuring heft and the OD Green finish looked professional. It’s clear this isn’t some flimsy, cheaply-made piece of kit; it’s a serious tool designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty.
I was considering a Blackhawk Serpa and a Galco Concealable Belt Holster before ultimately settling on the Safariland. While the Serpa offered a similar level of retention, its release mechanism felt less intuitive and potentially prone to accidental activation under stress. The Galco, while comfortable for concealed carry, simply didn’t offer the Level I retention I required for duty use. The Safariland 6395 felt like the perfect compromise between speed, security, and durability.
Honestly, I was excited. I’ve used Safariland products in the past and have always been impressed with their quality and performance. The initial feel of the holster gave me confidence that it would live up to my expectations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 3 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. I specifically wanted to evaluate the holster’s draw speed and retention capabilities in a dynamic environment. I put it through its paces with multiple draws, re-holstering drills, and simulated grappling scenarios.
The weather was typical for a Pacific Northwest autumn: damp and cool. Even with slightly wet hands, the ALS system worked flawlessly. The straight-up draw was smooth and consistent, requiring minimal effort once the release was deactivated.
The draw felt incredibly natural. The 1.5-inch drop positioned the firearm perfectly for my hand, allowing for a quick and efficient grip. There was a slight learning curve to mastering the ALS release, but after a few dozen draws, it became second nature.
The only initial issue I encountered was a slight tightness in the holster when re-holstering with gloves on. This was easily remedied by loosening the tension adjustment screw slightly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve used it during training exercises, outdoor events, and even while hiking. It has consistently performed without fail.
The SafariLaminate construction has held up remarkably well. Despite being subjected to scrapes, bumps, and exposure to the elements, there are no signs of significant wear or tear. The OD Green finish remains intact, and the ALS system continues to function smoothly.
Maintenance is a breeze. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s required to keep the holster clean and functioning optimally. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.
Compared to my previous duty holsters, the Safariland 6395 is a clear winner. It offers superior retention, a faster draw, and greater durability. It has significantly improved my confidence in my ability to safely and effectively carry my firearm in any situation.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 3 models
Specifications
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I is specifically designed for the Sig Sauer 220/226 without rails, in this particular model configuration (6395-77-562). It is a left-handed holster, finished in OD Green.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System): This is the heart of the holster’s retention system. It automatically secures the weapon upon holstering, preventing unauthorized removal.
- Level I Retention: Provides a balance of security and speed. The ALS system requires a deliberate action to release the firearm, but the draw remains quick and intuitive.
- SafariLaminate Construction: This thermoformed material offers exceptional durability and protects both the handgun and its sights. SafariLaminate is known for its resistance to scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures.
- Low-Ride Design with 1.5in. Drop: This positions the handgun slightly lower than a standard belt holster, improving accessibility, especially when wearing body armor or other tactical gear.
- Open-Top Design: Allows for a rapid draw without the need to disengage a secondary retention device like the SLS (Self Locking System) found on some other Safariland models.
- No Rails Configuration: This specific model is designed to fit Sig Sauer 220/226 pistols that do not have accessory rails.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance and suitability for specific applications. The ALS system provides peace of mind knowing your firearm is secure. The low-ride design enhances comfort and accessibility. The durable construction ensures it can withstand the demands of duty use.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I excels at its primary job: securely retaining and rapidly deploying a handgun. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a tactile and audible confirmation that the weapon is locked in place. The draw is smooth and consistent, allowing for quick target acquisition.
Strengths: The ALS retention is incredibly secure yet easy to disengage with practice. The low-ride design improves draw speed and comfort. The SafariLaminate construction is exceptionally durable.
Weaknesses: The initial tightness with gloved hands was a minor inconvenience. The OD Green color might not appeal to everyone (though I personally like it).
The holster absolutely meets and exceeds my expectations. It provides the perfect balance of security, speed, and durability that I was looking for.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional. The SafariLaminate feels robust and the stitching is clean and precise. The holster is lightweight despite its durable construction.
The holster is generally user-friendly, though mastering the ALS release requires some initial practice. The low-ride design contributes to a more comfortable carry, especially during extended periods.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6395 is built to last. The SafariLaminate material is incredibly resistant to wear and tear. I expect this holster to provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Periodic lubrication of the ALS mechanism is recommended.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including the ALS Guard, which increases the level of retention to Level II. This can be a valuable addition for those seeking even greater security.
The holster also works well with various belt attachment systems, allowing for customization of ride height and cant. I’ve found that it integrates seamlessly with my existing duty belt and tactical gear.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 3 models
Pros
- Exceptional ALS Retention: Provides a secure carry with a fast, intuitive draw.
- Durable SafariLaminate Construction: Withstands the rigors of duty use and protects the handgun.
- Comfortable Low-Ride Design: Improves accessibility and reduces strain, especially with gear.
- Open-Top for Rapid Draw: Enables quick target acquisition without secondary retention devices.
- Compatibility with Safariland Accessories: Offers customization options for enhanced security.
Cons
- Initial tightness with gloves might require adjustment.
- Specific model for Sig Sauer 220/226 without rails limits versatility.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 3 models?
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize a secure, reliable, and fast-drawing holster. It’s particularly well-suited for those who carry a Sig Sauer 220/226 (without rails) as their duty weapon.
Those who prefer concealed carry or require a holster that fits multiple firearm models should skip this product. Additionally, those who need a Level II or Level III retention holster right out of the box might want to consider other options (though the ALS Guard can upgrade it to Level II).
A must-have accessory is a high-quality duty belt that is stiff and sturdy enough to support the weight of the firearm and holster. The ALS Guard is also a worthwhile addition for those seeking enhanced security.
Conclusion on Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 3 models
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I is an outstanding duty holster that delivers on its promise of security, speed, and durability. The ALS system is incredibly effective, providing peace of mind knowing your firearm is securely retained while still allowing for a rapid draw. The SafariLaminate construction is built to last, and the low-ride design enhances comfort and accessibility.
At $123.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials, the reliability of the ALS system, and the overall performance of the holster. It’s an investment in your safety and effectiveness.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I to anyone who needs a high-quality duty holster for their Sig Sauer 220/226 (without rails). It’s a top-tier product from a trusted brand that will provide years of reliable service. Don’t settle for anything less than the best when it comes to your safety and security.