Let’s Dive into Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6280-14921-071
The Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6280-14921-071 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and reliability in the holster world, and this model is no exception, featuring their proven SLS (Self Locking System) for secure weapon retention. The mid-ride height and straight drop cant offer a balance of accessibility and comfort, making it a popular choice for those who spend long hours on duty.
My need for this holster stemmed from a growing concern about weapon security and accessibility in my role as a security consultant. Existing holsters felt inadequate; either the retention was insufficient, leading to potential disarming, or the draw was too slow for practical application. I wanted a holster that could provide both a secure hold and a rapid, natural draw stroke.
Upon unboxing the Safariland 6280, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and the attractive cordovan basketweave finish. The leather felt stiff and durable, indicative of the high-quality materials used in its construction. The SLS hood operated smoothly, inspiring confidence in the holster’s retention capabilities.
I considered the Blackhawk Serpa Level 2 Tactical Holster and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 holster, but ultimately chose the Safariland due to its proven track record and superior retention system. The Blackhawk’s retention mechanism felt less intuitive and the Bianchi, while comfortable, lacked the active security features I desired. The Safariland’s balance of security, accessibility, and professional appearance made it the clear winner.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The holster felt solid and well-made, but I knew that the true test would come in real-world use. I was eager to see if the Safariland 6280 could live up to its reputation and provide the security and accessibility I needed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6280-14921-071 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at a local shooting range, focusing on draw speed and retention drills. I spent several hours practicing drawing and re-holstering my Springfield XD with a weapon light attached. The SLS system initially required some familiarization, but I quickly adapted to the motion required to disengage the hood and draw smoothly.
The holster performed admirably in a variety of conditions. Even with sweaty hands after intense drills, the grip remained secure, and the draw stroke remained consistent. I even subjected the holster to a simulated struggle, attempting to forcibly remove the weapon from various angles – the SLS held firm every time.
The draw was initially a little stiff, as the leather needed to break in. After a few hours of practice, the draw became smoother and more natural. The mid-ride height allowed for a comfortable draw without excessively exposing the weapon.
One minor issue I encountered was the initial stiffness of the SLS hood. This required a deliberate motion to disengage, but with practice, it became second nature. No other issues arose during this initial range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6280 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. The cordovan basketweave finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. The SLS system continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent retention and a smooth draw.
Despite being subjected to daily wear and tear, including exposure to rain and dust, the holster shows no signs of degradation. The leather remains supple, and the stitching is intact. Regular cleaning with a leather cleaner and conditioner keeps the holster in top condition.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6280 is in a different league. It outperforms them in terms of both security and accessibility. The active retention system provides a level of security that passive retention holsters simply cannot match.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6280-14921-071
Specifications
The Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6280-14921-071 is designed specifically for right-handed users and offers Level II retention via the SLS (Self Locking System). It’s finished in an attractive and professional cordovan basketweave. The holster is a mid-ride design, positioning the firearm at a comfortable height on the hip.
This particular model is designed to fit Springfield Armory XD 9mm, .40, and .45 pistols with an ITI M3, M6, TLR-1, TLR-2, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC 2, or Insight XTI Procyon weapon light attached. It also fits Springfield Armory XDM 9mm and .40 models equipped with the same lights. It’s important to note that the holster will NOT retain the weapon without a light attached.
The SLS is a crucial feature, requiring the user to depress the hood and rotate it forward to release the firearm. This adds an extra layer of security against unauthorized removal. The mid-ride height offers a good balance between concealment and accessibility, making it suitable for both uniformed and plainclothes duty.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6280 excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid draw when needed. The SLS system provides excellent retention, preventing the weapon from being easily snatched or dislodged. The mid-ride height and straight drop cant allow for a natural and efficient draw stroke.
The holster’s main strength lies in its Level II retention, providing a significant deterrent to unauthorized weapon removal. The smooth draw stroke, once mastered, allows for quick deployment in critical situations. A potential weakness is the need to have a weapon light attached for retention, limiting versatility for those who prefer not to use a light.
The Safariland 6280 meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty holster. It provides a level of security and accessibility that inspires confidence, making it an indispensable part of my daily carry.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6280 features a durable construction using high-quality leather and robust hardware. The cordovan basketweave finish provides a professional and aesthetically pleasing appearance. The holster feels substantial without being overly bulky or heavy.
The SLS hood is well-positioned and easy to access, even with gloved hands. The mid-ride height places the weapon at a comfortable and natural position on the hip. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the SLS system, but the motion quickly becomes intuitive with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6280 is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The high-quality leather and robust stitching are designed for long-lasting durability. The SLS system is constructed from durable materials that can withstand repeated use.
Maintaining the Safariland 6280 is relatively simple. Regular cleaning with a leather cleaner and conditioner will keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. The SLS system should be lubricated periodically to ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6280 is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including belt loops and drop-leg platforms. It also works with various weapon lights from ITI, Surefire, and Insight, as listed in the product specifications. Due to its design, it’s not easily customizable beyond accessories directly designed for it.
Safariland offers an optional Sentry device that can be installed to increase the retention level to Level III or IV. This adds an additional layer of security for those who require it. Keep in mind, tension screw adjustments also effect this.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6280-14921-071
Pros
- Excellent Level II Retention: The SLS (Self Locking System) provides a high level of security, preventing unauthorized weapon removal.
- Professional Appearance: The cordovan basketweave finish offers a clean and professional look.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials, the holster is built to withstand daily wear and tear.
- Smooth Draw Stroke: Once mastered, the SLS allows for a rapid and efficient draw stroke.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Height: The mid-ride position places the weapon at a comfortable and accessible height on the hip.
Cons
- Requires Weapon Light: The holster will not retain the weapon without a compatible weapon light attached.
- SLS Learning Curve: The SLS system requires practice to master the draw stroke.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6280-14921-071?
The Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6280-14921-071 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable duty holster. It’s a great option for those who prioritize weapon retention and a professional appearance. Individuals working in environments where weapon security is a paramount concern will find this holster particularly valuable.
This product should be skipped by individuals who prefer to carry without a weapon light or require a highly concealable holster. Those who prefer simpler, passive retention systems may also find the SLS system unnecessary.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality duty belt that can properly support the weight of the holster and firearm. Regular cleaning supplies like leather cleaner and conditioner are also essential for maintaining the holster’s condition.
Conclusion on Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6280-14921-071
The Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster – Cordovan Basketweave, Right Hand 6280-14921-071 is a well-designed and reliable duty holster that delivers on its promises. The SLS system provides excellent retention, while the mid-ride height offers a comfortable and accessible carry position. While the requirement for a weapon light may limit its versatility for some, the added security is well worth the trade-off for those who prioritize weapon retention.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and proven reliability of the Safariland brand. Considering the safety and security it provides, the Safariland 6280 represents a solid investment for anyone who carries a firearm as part of their profession.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6280 to anyone looking for a secure, reliable, and professional-looking duty holster. If you need a holster that can keep your firearm secure and accessible, the Safariland 6280 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and security; get your Safariland 6280 Level II Retention, Mid-Ride Holster today.