What Makes Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 5 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 5 models is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and tactical professionals who require a secure and easily accessible firearm. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster industry, this holster distinguishes itself with its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and low-ride design. This combination offers a secure Level I retention with a rapid, intuitive draw, making it a favorite among those who prioritize speed and safety.
For years, I struggled to find a duty holster that balanced retention with a smooth, natural draw. I needed something that could withstand the rigors of daily patrol while allowing for a quick response in critical situations. My search led me to the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noticed the robust construction of the holster. The thermal-molded SafariLaminate felt incredibly durable, and the overall design exuded quality craftsmanship. Its low-ride height seemed ideal for comfortable wear with body armor, a common issue with standard duty holsters.
Compared to my previous Blackhawk! Serpa, which relied on a trigger finger release, the ALS system felt more secure and less prone to accidental activation. It also offered a significant improvement over a Safariland 6280, which, while reliable, lacked the speed of the ALS. The low-ride design was preferable to the higher-riding Safariland 7378RDS, which sometimes interfered with my range of motion.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to try the ALS system and see if it lived up to its reputation, but also aware that new holsters often require a break-in period and adjustments to my draw stroke.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 5 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at the local shooting range during a departmental training day. I focused on drawing and re-holstering drills to familiarize myself with the ALS system. The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride performed admirably, allowing for a smooth, consistent draw after a short period of familiarization.
The weather was typical for a mid-summer day: hot and humid, leading to sweaty hands and gear. Despite these conditions, the ALS release remained reliable, and the holster’s design prevented any noticeable discomfort. I quickly appreciated the open-top design, which minimized any snagging or friction during the draw.
Initially, I needed to consciously depress the ALS lever with my thumb during the draw, but after about 50 repetitions, it became second nature. One minor issue I noticed was that the hood guard sometimes interfered with my grip during the draw, but this was easily resolved with a slight adjustment in technique.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily use on patrol, the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride has proven to be a dependable and comfortable piece of gear. The SafariLaminate has shown no signs of cracking or deformation, despite being exposed to rain, mud, and the occasional accidental bump. The finish has held up well, with only minor scuff marks in high-wear areas.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism keep it functioning smoothly. Compared to my previous leather holsters, the SafariLaminate requires significantly less upkeep and resists moisture much better. It far exceeds my experience with nylon holsters which tend to fray and wear out much faster.
Compared to other duty holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride offers a superior combination of retention, speed, and comfort. It outperforms any of my previous Level I or Level II holsters in terms of draw speed, while providing a secure hold on my firearm.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 5 models
Specifications
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I holster is constructed from durable, thermal-molded SafariLaminate. It is a Level I retention holster, meaning it relies on a single active retention device – the Automatic Locking System (ALS). The holster fits duty belts 2 or 2.25 inches wide and features a 1.5-inch drop for comfortable wear with body armor.
The ALS automatically secures the firearm upon holstering and is deactivated with a simple thumb release during the draw. The hood guard provides additional security against unauthorized removal. Its open-top design allows for a rapid, vertical draw.
- The SafariLaminate material provides excellent protection against the elements and resists abrasion, essential for daily duty use.
- The 1.5-inch drop ensures the handgun sits comfortably below body armor, preventing interference and improving accessibility.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride excels in providing both security and speed. The ALS system offers a high level of retention, preventing accidental or unauthorized removal of the firearm. The intuitive thumb release allows for a smooth, natural draw stroke, minimizing response time in critical situations.
The holster’s open-top design eliminates any unnecessary barriers to a quick draw, while the low-ride height enhances comfort and accessibility. One potential weakness is that the Level I retention may not be sufficient for all environments or users. However, the optional ALS Guard can easily upgrade the holster to Level II retention.
It meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty holster, providing a reliable and comfortable platform for carrying my firearm.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride features a streamlined design that minimizes bulk and maximizes comfort. The SafariLaminate material is lightweight yet incredibly durable. The 1.5-inch drop positions the firearm in an optimal location for both accessibility and concealment under a jacket or coat.
The holster is generally user-friendly, though it requires some practice to master the ALS release. After a short break-in period, the draw becomes intuitive and natural.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride is built to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The SafariLaminate material is highly resistant to abrasion, moisture, and impact. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are typically sufficient. The simple design minimizes the number of moving parts, reducing the likelihood of mechanical failure.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including the ALS Guard for Level II retention. It is also compatible with various Safariland belt loops and attachments, allowing for customization of ride height and cant angle. The holster accommodates a variety of firearms, depending on the specific model.
While the holster does not offer extensive customization options like adjustable cant or tension, its modular design allows for adaptation to different belt systems and retention levels. The compatibility with the ALS Guard is a significant advantage, allowing users to easily upgrade the holster to meet changing security needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 5 models
Pros
- Excellent retention with the ALS system.
- Fast and smooth draw.
- Durable SafariLaminate construction.
- Comfortable low-ride design.
- Compatible with Safariland accessories.
Cons
- Level I retention may not be sufficient for all users.
- Hood guard can slightly interfere with grip initially.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 5 models?
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and tactical shooters who require a secure and easily accessible duty holster. It is also well-suited for concealed carry in situations where a high level of retention is desired.
This holster might not be ideal for individuals who prefer passive retention systems or those who require a Level III or higher retention level. Individuals new to ALS systems may find a break-in period is required.
A must-have accessory is the Safariland ALS Guard for upgrading to Level II retention. Additionally, consider a Safariland compatible belt for optimal stability and comfort.
Conclusion on Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I – 1 out of 5 models
The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride 1.5in. Drop, Level-I is a top-tier duty holster that offers a winning combination of security, speed, and comfort. Its durable construction, intuitive ALS system, and comfortable low-ride design make it a standout choice for law enforcement and tactical professionals.
The price of $135.99 is justified given the holster’s quality, reliability, and performance. I would highly recommend it to anyone seeking a dependable and effective duty holster. If you are looking for a holster that offers both security and speed, the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride is an excellent choice.