Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle For Glock 20/21 Thermoplastic Black Review

First Thoughts on the Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle For Glock 20/21 Thermoplastic Black

The Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle For Glock 20/21 Thermoplastic Black is a name synonymous with duty-grade holsters, and I was eager to see how this particular model held up to the rigorous demands I place on my gear. Safariland is a leader in law enforcement and tactical equipment. This holster boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS), a feature I’ve come to appreciate for its balance of retention and quick draw capability.

As a firearms instructor and a frequent participant in practical shooting competitions, I needed a holster that could provide secure retention during dynamic movement while allowing for a fast, efficient draw stroke. I was seeking a holster that could handle the hefty Glock 20 and 21, accommodating the larger frame without sacrificing concealability. I had heard good things about the 6378’s close-to-body design.

Upon unboxing, the holster felt solid and well-constructed. The thermoplastic material felt durable without being overly bulky. The paddle attachment felt secure and the STX Plain finish provided a professional, low-profile look.

I considered other paddle holsters from brands like Blackhawk and Blade-Tech. However, I opted for the Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle For Glock 20/21 Thermoplastic Black because of Safariland’s reputation for reliability, the proven ALS retention system, and the IDPA approval, making it suitable for competition use.

My initial reaction was positive. The holster seemed purpose-built for my specific needs. I was excited to get it out on the range and see how it performed under pressure.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle For Glock 20/21 Thermoplastic Black to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle For Glock 20/21 Thermoplastic Black at my local outdoor shooting range. I was running drills that involved drawing from concealment, engaging targets at varying distances, and moving between shooting positions. The weather was typical for a summer day, hot and humid.

The holster performed admirably. The ALS system provided excellent retention during rapid movements, preventing the firearm from accidentally dislodging. Deactivating the ALS with my thumb became intuitive after a few repetitions, allowing for a smooth, consistent draw.

The only initial issue I encountered was the paddle’s tendency to shift slightly during aggressive movements. Adjusting my belt tension and positioning the paddle higher on my waist helped to mitigate this issue.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including multiple range sessions and a weekend-long tactical training course, the Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle For Glock 20/21 Thermoplastic Black has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the holster itself. The STX Plain finish has held up well despite repeated draws and re-holstering.

Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is typically all that’s needed to remove dust and debris. The suede lining inside the holster has helped protect the Glock 20’s finish from scratches.

In comparison to previous paddle holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle For Glock 20/21 Thermoplastic Black outperforms them in terms of retention, draw speed, and overall durability. The ALS system provides a level of security that other friction-based holsters simply cannot match.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle For Glock 20/21 Thermoplastic Black

Specifications

The Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle For Glock 20/21 Thermoplastic Black is designed specifically for the Glock 20 and 21 pistols. It’s crafted from durable SafariLaminate thermoplastic material with an STX Plain finish.

The holster features Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure retention. The paddle attachment is injection-molded and designed for close-to-body carry. It includes the 567BL belt loop, accommodating belt widths from 1.5 to 1.75 inches. The holster is right-hand specific. It also features a suede lining to protect the firearm’s finish.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s functionality, comfort, and durability. The ALS system ensures the firearm stays secure until intentionally drawn. The close-to-body design enhances concealability.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle For Glock 20/21 Thermoplastic Black excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a Glock 20 or 21. The ALS system provides confidence that the firearm will remain in place during strenuous activity. The straight-up draw is fast and efficient once the ALS is disengaged.

One strength is the secure retention offered by the ALS. A minor weakness is the potential for the paddle to shift slightly during rapid movements, which can be addressed with proper belt adjustment. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The holster’s design prioritizes functionality and concealability. The thermoplastic construction is lightweight yet durable. The paddle attachment is contoured to fit comfortably against the body.

The ALS lever is strategically positioned for easy thumb access during the draw stroke. There is a slight learning curve to mastering the ALS release, but it quickly becomes second nature with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle For Glock 20/21 Thermoplastic Black is built to last. The SafariLaminate thermoplastic is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impacts. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The suede lining can be cleaned with a soft brush to remove any accumulated debris.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle For Glock 20/21 Thermoplastic Black comes standard with the 567BL belt loop. This allows for attachment to belts of varying widths. While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, it’s compatible with various Safariland accessories.

These include different belt attachments, such as drop-leg platforms and MOLLE adapters. The ALS system also allows for the addition of optional SLS (Self Locking System) hoods for increased security. Compatibility with other brands is limited to attachment platforms that use the Safariland three-hole mounting pattern.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle For Glock 20/21 Thermoplastic Black