Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 14 models Review

What Makes Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 14 models Stand Out?

The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 14 models is more than just a holster; it’s a statement of preparedness and trust in a proven system. Safariland has a long history of equipping law enforcement and military professionals, and the 6395 ALS embodies their commitment to security, accessibility, and durability. It’s designed for duty officers needing a reliable Level I Retention holster with a focus on a fast, intuitive draw.

I’d been searching for a duty holster that offered a balance of retention and speed. My previous holster, a Level II retention with a thumb break, felt slow and cumbersome during drills. I needed something I could trust in high-stress situations without sacrificing draw speed.

The first thing I noticed was the build quality and the low-ride design. The SafariLaminate felt incredibly robust, and the suede lining was a nice touch, showing attention to detail. It sat lower on my belt than my old holster, which felt more natural and comfortable.

Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa (which I found overly complicated) and a standard thumb-break holster (too slow), the Safariland 6395 ALS offered a perfect middle ground. The ALS system seemed simpler and more reliable than the Serpa’s push-button mechanism, and much faster than the thumb break. I needed something that would be faster than my previous holster.

My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. I was excited to finally have a holster that felt like a true upgrade, offering both security and speed.


Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 14 models to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6395 ALS at my local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. The range offered a controlled environment to familiarize myself with the ALS system. I practiced drawing from various positions to get a feel for the release.

The holster performed flawlessly, even with sweaty hands after a particularly intense drill. The ALS system was easy to disengage with my thumb, and the straight-up draw felt incredibly natural. I experienced zero malfunctions or snags during the entire session.

It took a little practice to get used to the thumb placement for deactivation. But once I mastered it, the draw felt lightning-fast. The low-ride design kept the weapon close to my body, preventing any unwanted movement.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Safariland 6395 ALS has proven to be incredibly reliable. I’ve used it during training exercises, qualifications, and even some outdoor tactical scenarios. It has been exposed to rain, mud, and dust, and has held up remarkably well.

The SafariLaminate shows no signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to some rough handling. The suede lining has kept my firearm’s finish pristine. Maintenance is straightforward; I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and occasionally apply a silicone-based protectant.

The Safariland 6395 ALS far outperforms my previous holsters in terms of both speed and retention. I feel much more confident knowing my firearm is secure, yet readily accessible when needed.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 14 models

Specifications

  • ALS (Automatic Locking System): This is the heart of the holster, providing Level I retention. Upon holstering, the weapon is automatically secured, requiring only a thumb release for a straight-up draw.
  • SafariLaminate Construction: The holster is constructed from durable SafariLaminate, providing excellent protection for the firearm and resistance to the elements. This thermoformed construction ensures a snug and secure fit.
  • Suede Lining: The interior of the holster is lined with suede to protect the firearm’s finish and sights. This prevents scratches and minimizes wear during repeated drawing and re-holstering.
  • Low-Ride Belt Loop: The holster features a low-ride belt loop that positions the firearm 1.5 inches lower than standard. This allows for a more comfortable carry and easier access, especially when wearing body armor or other gear.
  • Open-Top Design: The open-top design allows for a quick and unobstructed draw. There are no flaps or straps to manipulate other than the ALS release.
  • Removable Hood Guard: A removable hood guard is included to further protect against attempted takeaways. The hood guard adds a layer of security and is easily removed if desired.

These specifications translate to a holster that is both secure and incredibly fast to deploy. The SafariLaminate ensures longevity, while the low-ride design improves comfort and accessibility.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6395 ALS performs its job exceptionally well, providing a secure and reliable platform for carrying a duty weapon. The ALS system works flawlessly, engaging automatically and releasing smoothly with minimal effort. Accuracy is maintained as the draw stroke remains consistent every time.

The primary strength is the balance between retention and speed. The ALS system is intuitive and requires minimal training to master. One area for improvement is the addition of an optional ALS guard to increase the level of security to Level II.

It meets and exceeds my expectations for a Level I retention holster. It’s a significant upgrade from traditional thumb-break holsters in terms of speed and ease of use.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional, with the SafariLaminate providing a rigid and durable shell. The weight is reasonable, especially considering the robust construction. The low-ride design is comfortable for extended wear.

The design is user-friendly. The ALS system is intuitive, and the straight-up draw is natural and efficient.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Safariland 6395 ALS should last for many years. The SafariLaminate is highly resistant to wear and tear, and the suede lining is easy to clean.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and a silicone-based protectant. Replacement parts are readily available from Safariland, ensuring a long service life.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6395 ALS is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including various belt loops and mounting options. An optional ALS guard can be added to increase the level of security to Level II retention.

It’s also compatible with various weapon-mounted lights and lasers, depending on the specific model. Check Safariland’s website for specific compatibility information.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 14 models

Pros

  • Exceptional Balance of Retention and Speed: The ALS system provides reliable Level I retention while allowing for a lightning-fast draw.
  • Durable SafariLaminate Construction: The SafariLaminate is incredibly tough and resistant to wear and tear, ensuring a long service life.
  • Comfortable Low-Ride Design: The low-ride belt loop positions the firearm for a more comfortable and natural carry.
  • Easy to Use and Maintain: The ALS system is intuitive, and the holster requires minimal maintenance.
  • Proven Reliability: Safariland is a trusted brand with a long history of equipping law enforcement and military professionals.

Cons

  • Potential for Accidental Release: With practice the ALS disengagement is simple, though in a high-stress situation, improper thumb placement could lead to accidental release. This can be mitigated with consistent training.
  • Level I Retention May Not Be Sufficient for All: While secure, Level I retention might not be suitable for environments requiring a higher level of security. Consider adding the optional ALS guard.


Who Should Buy Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 14 models?

  • Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who needs a reliable and fast Level I retention holster for duty use. Those needing a balance between security and speed will benefit most.
  • Who should skip this product? Those requiring Level II or Level III retention due to specific security concerns.
  • Must-have accessories or modifications? Consider the optional ALS guard for increased security. A good quality duty belt is also essential for proper holster support and stability.

Conclusion on Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 14 models

The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Level I Retention – 1 out of 14 models is an outstanding holster that delivers on its promise of security, speed, and durability. The price is justified by the quality of materials, the innovative ALS system, and the overall reliability of the Safariland brand.

I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a Level I retention duty holster that can stand up to the rigors of daily use. If you need a holster that you can trust your life with, the Safariland 6395 ALS is an excellent choice. Upgrade your carry today, you won’t regret it!

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