Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 14 models Review

What Makes Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 14 models Stand Out?

The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 14 models is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a balance of retention and quick access to their firearm. Safariland is known for its rugged and reliable holsters, and this model, specifically designed for the S&W M&P 9L 5-inch without thumb safety with a Streamlight X200/X300, caters to a niche but important segment. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides a solid Level-I retention, while the low-ride height and open-top design facilitate a fast draw.

I needed a holster that offered a secure carry for my S&W M&P 9L while maintaining speed and accessibility, especially when using a weapon-mounted light. My previous holster, a simple open-top design, lacked sufficient retention for dynamic situations. I also found myself struggling to clear my duty belt due to the higher ride height of my older holster.

The holster arrived in a standard Safariland package, well-protected. The first thing I noticed was the robust construction; the SafariLaminate felt incredibly durable. The foliage green color was a nice touch, blending well with various tactical environments. It felt noticeably lighter than my old leather holster, despite the added security features.

I was torn between this holster and the Blackhawk Serpa Level 2 and the Safariland 7378RDS. The Blackhawk, while offering good retention, felt less durable in terms of the locking mechanism. The 7378RDS, while versatile with its RDS compatibility, added bulk that I didn’t need for my specific setup. I chose the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride for its streamlined design, reliable ALS system, and perfect fit for my weapon and light combo.

I was genuinely excited to try it out, and my initial impression was one of confidence. This holster seemed like a significant upgrade from my previous setup, promising both security and speed in a well-designed package.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 14 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was at the shooting range, simulating various scenarios involving drawing and re-holstering under pressure. I specifically focused on getting used to the ALS release while maintaining a consistent grip and draw stroke. The holster was subjected to draw exercises, shooting drills, and movement drills to evaluate real-world practicality.

I also tested the holster in varying weather conditions, including light rain and a particularly dusty day. The ALS system remained functional and reliable despite the environmental challenges. The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride performed admirably, showing no degradation in retention or draw speed.

It took me about an hour to become truly comfortable with the ALS release. The key was training my thumb to naturally deactivate the lock during my grip acquisition. Once muscle memory kicked in, the draw became incredibly fast and intuitive.

Initially, the low-ride felt a bit different, and I had to adjust my belt setup slightly. However, this minor adjustment ultimately improved my draw speed and comfort. There were no major issues, but I did notice the importance of regularly cleaning the ALS mechanism to prevent dust buildup.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of continuous use, including weekly range sessions and a security detail assignment, the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride has proven to be exceptionally durable. The SafariLaminate construction shows minimal wear and tear, even after rubbing against gear and equipment. The foliage green color has remained consistent with no fading or discoloration.

The holster requires minimal maintenance. Regular wiping with a damp cloth to remove surface dirt and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism keeps it functioning smoothly. I use a silicone-based lubricant specifically designed for firearms accessories.

Compared to my previous leather holster, the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride is a massive upgrade. The retention is far superior, the draw is faster, and the overall durability is significantly improved. It has exceeded my expectations in every way. It has provided a secure and accessible platform for my firearm.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 14 models

Specifications

The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 14 models is specifically molded for the S&W M&P 9L 5-inch without thumb safety, with a Streamlight X200/X300 weapon light.

• It features Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) for Level-I Retention.
• The holster has a 1.5-inch drop, positioning the firearm lower on the hip for easier draw.
• Made from durable SafariLaminate material for long-lasting performance.
• Open-top design facilitates a quick draw without the need for an SLS (Self Locking System).
• Available in foliage green, suitable for various operational environments.
• Designed for left-hand shooters.

These specifications are important because they ensure a secure, comfortable, and efficient carry for the intended firearm and light combination. The ALS provides peace of mind, knowing the weapon is secure, while the low-ride height enhances draw speed and accessibility. The SafariLaminate ensures durability in demanding conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride performs its job exceptionally well. The ALS system provides reliable retention without hindering the draw. The low-ride height promotes a natural and fast draw stroke.

Its strengths lie in its balance of security, speed, and durability. The ALS is intuitive and reliable. The SafariLaminate is tough and resistant to wear.

I have found no significant weaknesses in the holster’s performance. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS is necessary to maintain optimal function in dusty environments. The holster meets and exceeds my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is outstanding. The SafariLaminate feels robust and well-molded, providing a secure fit for the firearm. The holster is surprisingly lightweight, considering its durable construction and retention features.

The holster is designed for user-friendliness. The ALS release is intuitively placed and easily activated with the thumb during the draw stroke. There is a slight learning curve to master the ALS release, but with practice, it becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride is built to last. The SafariLaminate material is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and impacts. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that’s required. No special tools or skills are needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride itself doesn’t come with many accessories, focusing on its core function. However, Safariland offers an optional ALS guard. This increases the security to Level II Retention.

The holster is compatible with various Safariland mounting platforms, allowing for customization of the carry position and angle. You can mount it to a thigh rig, a MOLLE platform, or a different belt attachment.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 14 models