Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models Review

Let’s Talk About Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models

The Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models is a holster designed for those who demand both secure retention and quick access while carrying concealed, especially with a red dot sight equipped pistol. From Safariland, a name synonymous with duty-grade holsters, this model aims to bridge the gap between law enforcement functionality and civilian concealment. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) is its centerpiece, promising a secure hold until you consciously release it.

I needed a holster that could accommodate my Glock 19 with a mounted red dot, and still be concealable enough for everyday carry. I was tired of holsters that felt flimsy or didn’t offer enough retention. I was specifically searching for something from Safariland, due to their reputation in the law enforcement community.

My first impression upon unboxing was that this holster felt substantial and well-made. The SafariLaminate material felt rigid and the suede lining gave it a quality touch. It wasn’t overly bulky, which was a relief, considering its ALS mechanism.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa and the Alien Gear ShapeShift Core Carry Pack. I chose the Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models because of its proven ALS retention system and reputation for durability. Other holsters felt like compromises, either in retention or concealability.

I was cautiously optimistic. The ALS system looked promising, but I was concerned about how easily I could draw under pressure. It’s a Safariland, so it must be great, right?

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models to the Test

First Use Experience

I initially tested the Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models at my local shooting range. I wanted to become familiar with the ALS release under controlled conditions. The weather was fairly mild, around 70 degrees with no rain.

The holster performed well in dry conditions, with the ALS release becoming intuitive after only a few draws. My draw was smooth and consistent after about 30 minutes of practice. There was no issue with the red dot sight snagging during the draw or re-holstering.

The initial learning curve was minimal, focusing primarily on the proper thumb placement for the ALS release. I was impressed by how quickly I could draw and engage my target once I got the hang of it. The paddle was comfortable, but I swapped to the belt loop attachment later.

After the first use, I noticed the importance of a good, firm grip during the draw to deactivate the ALS smoothly. If my grip was off even slightly, the ALS wouldn’t disengage consistently. It was a user error more than a product flaw.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models has proven itself to be incredibly reliable. I’ve carried it daily, during hiking trips, and at several shooting competitions. The holster hasn’t skipped a beat.

The holster has held up exceptionally well to daily wear and tear. The SafariLaminate shows no signs of cracking or deformation. There’s some minor cosmetic wear on the edges, but nothing that affects function.

Maintaining the holster is straightforward. I occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. I also apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

The Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models definitely outperforms my previous concealed carry holsters in terms of security and retention. The peace of mind the ALS provides is well worth the price. It instills more confidence than any friction fit holster I’ve ever used.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models

Specifications

• ALS (Automatic Locking System): Secures the weapon once holstered and allows for a simple straight-up draw after deactivation. This is the key feature and provides Level I retention.
• Optional ALS Guard: Available for increased security, preventing unauthorized access to the ALS release. This adds another layer of protection.
• Includes Paddle Attachment and Belt Loop: Allows for versatility in carrying, depending on user preference and clothing. This offers flexibility in carry style.
• Red Dot Optic Compatibility: Designed for use with red dot sight-equipped weapons, accommodating a wide range of optics. No more custom modifications required.
• SafariLaminate Thermal-Molded Construction: Protects the handgun and sights from impacts and the elements. This adds ruggedness and longevity.
• Suede Lined Interior: Protects the handgun’s finish from scratches and wear. The smooth suede keeps my finish looking new.

These specifications matter because they directly contribute to the holster’s performance, security, and user experience. The ALS provides active retention, the SafariLaminate ensures durability, and the suede lining protects the firearm. These are all critical factors for a concealed carry holster.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models performs its primary function—securely holding and quickly deploying a handgun—exceptionally well. The ALS system is reliable, and the draw stroke is natural after practice. It does its job perfectly!

The strength is definitely the ALS retention. It is secure and reliable. A weakness is the potential for user error if the grip is not perfect during the draw.

The Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models definitely meets my expectations. It gives me the retention I want in a concealable package.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models is built from durable SafariLaminate and is surprisingly lightweight for its size and retention capabilities. It’s comfortable enough for all-day carry.

There is a small learning curve to master the ALS release. After that, the draw stroke is smooth and consistent.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the SafariLaminate construction, the Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models should last for years with proper care. The holster feels like it will outlast me.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. This makes it very low-maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models comes standard with both a paddle attachment and a belt loop attachment. The optional ALS Guard can be purchased separately for added security.

The Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops and leg shrouds. It’s also compatible with any firearm that uses a similar Safariland holster size, meaning if you use a Glock 19 sized holster, you may be able to swap guns within the same holster.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models?

The Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsibly armed citizens who prioritize secure retention and quick access. It’s especially well-suited for those who carry a handgun with a red dot optic.

Those who are unwilling to invest the time to practice and master the ALS release should skip this product. Someone who prefers a purely passive retention holster might be happier with a simple friction fit.

A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for optimal comfort and stability. The optional ALS Guard can also provide added security and peace of mind.

Conclusion on Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models

The Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models is a well-designed and reliable holster that delivers on its promise of secure retention and quick access. At $120.60, the price is justified considering the quality of materials, construction, and the added security of the ALS system.

I would personally recommend the Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster, – 1 out of 46 models to anyone looking for a dependable concealed carry holster with active retention, especially if they use a red dot sight. It’s a significant upgrade in security and peace of mind. If you value retention above all else, then it is time to buy one today!