Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster

The Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster is a versatile and reliable piece of gear from Safariland, designed for both concealment and open carry. Its Assisted Locking System (ALS) offers excellent weapon retention without sacrificing a smooth, fast draw, making it a popular choice for law enforcement, military personnel, and civilian shooters alike. The paddle design allows for easy on and off without needing to remove your belt, a major plus for anyone who values convenience.

Years of teaching firearm safety and concealed carry courses brought me face-to-face with a variety of holsters, many of which failed to strike the right balance between security and accessibility. I was looking for a holster that provided positive retention without hindering my ability to quickly draw my firearm in a defensive situation. Many competing holsters were either too bulky for comfortable concealed carry, or lacked the active retention needed for peace of mind during dynamic activities.

Upon unboxing the Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster, I immediately noticed the robust construction and high-quality materials. The STX finish feels durable and provides a good grip, while the paddle itself is rigid and well-contoured for comfortable wear. It felt lighter than I expected, which is a definite advantage for all-day carry.

Compared to similar paddle holsters from Blackhawk and Uncle Mike’s, the Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster stood out due to its superior retention system and overall build quality. While the other options offered passive retention, the ALS system provides an active locking mechanism that gives me confidence knowing my firearm is secure. The Safariland also seemed more durable than the Uncle Mike’s offering, which felt flimsy by comparison.

My initial impression was one of excitement. The Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster seemed to be exactly what I was looking for: a secure, comfortable, and versatile holster that could meet the demands of both everyday carry and more demanding tactical scenarios. It instilled confidence from the very beginning.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster at my local shooting range, focusing on draw speed and retention under simulated stress. I ran several drills involving drawing from concealment, engaging targets, and re-holstering, paying close attention to the holster’s performance.

The holster performed exceptionally well in a variety of simulated conditions. I practiced draws while wearing light rain gear to simulate wet conditions. The ALS system still functioned perfectly. I also tested it after intentionally getting it dusty, the draw remained smooth and reliable.

The draw felt very natural, and the ALS system released smoothly with a simple thumb movement. There was a slight learning curve associated with deactivating the ALS during the draw, but after a few repetitions, it became second nature. Re-holstering was equally smooth and positive, with a distinct click indicating that the firearm was securely locked in place.

The only minor issue I experienced was a slight rubbing on my skin from the paddle during extended periods of movement. I quickly resolved this issue by wearing an undershirt to provide a barrier between the paddle and my skin.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster has proven to be incredibly reliable and durable. I’ve used it during firearms courses, tactical training exercises, and as part of my everyday concealed carry setup.

The holster shows no significant signs of wear and tear despite heavy use. The STX finish has held up well against scratches and abrasions, and the ALS system continues to function flawlessly. I’ve been impressed with the holster’s overall robustness.

Maintenance is very simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and grime. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

In comparison to other holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster far exceeds my expectations in terms of retention, draw speed, and overall durability. It has become my go-to holster for both training and everyday carry.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster

Specifications

• The Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster is specifically designed for concealment and duty use. It’s constructed from durable Safariland STX material for a rugged finish.
• The holster utilizes the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System) for secure weapon retention. This system engages automatically when the firearm is holstered and is released with a simple thumb swipe.
• It’s a paddle holster, designed for easy on-and-off without removing the belt. This makes it convenient for everyday use and quick changes.
• It’s available in right-hand configurations as indicated. It also features an STX Foliage Green finish for a tactical look.
• The holster is designed to accommodate various firearms (ensure compatibility with your specific model). Tension adjustments allow for a customized fit.

These specifications are vital because they directly influence the holster’s performance and usability. The ALS system ensures a secure hold on the firearm, while the paddle design allows for comfortable and convenient carry. The STX material provides durability and resistance to the elements, ensuring the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster excels at its primary function: securely and comfortably carrying a firearm while providing a quick and reliable draw. The ALS system offers exceptional retention, preventing the firearm from being dislodged unintentionally.

The holster’s strengths lie in its simplicity and effectiveness. The ALS system is intuitive to use, and the paddle design allows for easy on and off. One area for potential improvement is the paddle’s contact surface. A wider surface could provide more stability.

The Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster meets and exceeds expectations. It provides a secure, comfortable, and reliable carry platform.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional. The Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster utilizes high-quality materials and robust construction. It is lightweight despite its ruggedness and provides a comfortable carry experience.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, though there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system. After a few practice draws, deactivating the ALS becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster is built to last. The durable STX material and robust construction ensure that it can withstand the rigors of daily use.

Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism will help maintain smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster typically does not come with a wide array of accessories, focusing instead on its core function of secure and accessible firearm carry. However, users can purchase optional Safariland accessories such as leg shrouds and other mounting options to adapt the holster to different carry styles.

While the holster itself is not extensively customizable, it is compatible with a variety of firearms within specific size and frame parameters. It is also worth checking compatibility with aftermarket weapon lights or lasers that may affect the fit within the holster. Be sure to verify the Safariland fit chart for your specific firearm.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster

Who Should Buy Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster?

The Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and responsible civilians who prioritize security, accessibility, and comfort. It is an excellent choice for those who require a reliable holster for both everyday carry and more demanding tactical scenarios.

Individuals who prefer minimalist holsters with no active retention systems should skip this product. Also, those who are particularly sensitive to paddle designs may find the holster uncomfortable for extended periods of wear without an undershirt.

A must-have accessory is a quality gun belt to provide a stable and secure platform for the holster. Users may also consider purchasing a Safariland leg shroud or other mounting options to adapt the holster to different carry styles.

Conclusion on Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster

The Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster is an outstanding product that delivers on its promises of security, accessibility, and comfort. Its ALS system provides exceptional retention, while its paddle design allows for easy on and off.

The price of around $60 is more than justified given the holster’s performance, durability, and versatility. It represents an excellent value for anyone seeking a reliable and high-quality holster.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6378 ALS Paddle Holster to anyone looking for a secure, comfortable, and versatile carry solution. Invest in your peace of mind and get yours today! You won’t be disappointed.