Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster

The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who rely on the Walther P99QA. This holster, manufactured by Safariland, offers a blend of secure weapon retention and rapid accessibility, making it a popular choice for those who need a reliable sidearm solution.

My search for a new holster began when my old duty holster, a generic Level I retention model, failed me during a training exercise; the retention strap snapped, and I nearly lost my sidearm. I needed a holster that offered superior retention without sacrificing speed, leading me to research options like the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster.

Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of quality; the SafariLaminate material felt robust, and the suede lining gave me confidence that my Walther P99QA’s finish would be protected. The low-ride belt loop seemed like a practical feature for increased comfort and concealability.

Compared to other holsters I considered, such as the Blackhawk Serpa and the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse, the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster stood out because of its ALS (Automatic Locking System) and reputation for durability. I was specifically looking for Level II retention without the fuss of straps, and the ALS seemed like the perfect solution.

My first impression was excitement mixed with cautious optimism. I was eager to test the ALS system and see if it lived up to the hype, ensuring my firearm was secure without hindering my draw speed.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster was at the shooting range, where I focused on draw speed and weapon retention during various drills. The holster performed admirably, securing my Walther P99QA firmly in place even during rapid movement and simulated close-quarters combat scenarios.

I also tested the holster in wet conditions, simulating rainy weather, and the ALS system continued to function flawlessly; the weapon remained secure, and the draw stroke remained smooth and consistent. It took a bit of practice to get used to the thumb release, but after a few hours, it became intuitive.

Initially, I was concerned that the low-ride design might interfere with my vest or other gear, but it actually improved comfort and accessibility. The only minor issue was the slight learning curve associated with the ALS release, but it was easily overcome with practice.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster has proven to be incredibly reliable and durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the SafariLaminate material or the ALS mechanism.

Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward; I simply wipe down the holster with a damp cloth and occasionally apply a silicone-based protectant to the ALS components. Compared to my previous holsters, which required constant adjustments and repairs, the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster has been a significant improvement in terms of reliability and ease of maintenance.

The holster consistently outperforms my previous experiences with other retention systems, providing a secure and accessible platform for my Walther P99QA in all conditions. Its durability and reliability have made it an indispensable part of my duty gear.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster

Specifications

• The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster is specifically designed for the Walther P99QA. It is compatible with the Streamlight TLR-1, SureFire X300, SureFire X200, and Insight Technology M3 weapon lights.
• It features the ALS (Automatic Locking System) for Level I retention (Level II with optional ALS Guard) and is constructed from durable SafariLaminate. The holster has a low-ride belt loop that sits 1.5 inches lower than standard, improving comfort and concealability.
• The holster’s finish is STX Tactical, providing a matte appearance and added scratch resistance. Its application is primarily for duty use, offering a secure and accessible platform for law enforcement and security personnel.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance, retention, and compatibility with essential duty gear. The compatibility with popular weapon lights ensures seamless integration into existing loadouts.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster excels in its primary function: securing and providing quick access to the firearm. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, offering a Level I retention that can be upgraded to Level II with the addition of an optional ALS guard.

The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, reliable ALS system, and comfortable low-ride design. One potential area for improvement is the accessibility of the ALS release for users with smaller hands, which might require slight adjustment in grip.

The holster meets and often exceeds expectations by delivering a secure, accessible, and comfortable carry solution for the Walther P99QA. It instills confidence knowing the firearm is securely retained during dynamic movements.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional, with durable SafariLaminate construction providing excellent protection for the firearm. The holster’s low-ride design positions the firearm comfortably on the hip, enhancing ergonomics and minimizing interference with other gear.

The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster is relatively user-friendly, although some users may require practice to master the ALS release. The design promotes a natural and efficient draw stroke once the release is activated.

Durability & Maintenance

The holster’s durable SafariLaminate construction ensures a long service life, even under harsh conditions. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are sufficient to maintain optimal performance.

Maintaining and repairing the Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster is simple, requiring minimal effort to keep it in optimal condition. The SafariLaminate material is resistant to scratches and abrasions, contributing to its longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster comes standard with a low-ride belt loop. Optional accessories include the ALS Guard for increased retention and various belt attachments.

While customization options are limited, the holster is compatible with popular weapon lights like the Streamlight TLR-1 and SureFire X300. This compatibility allows users to tailor the holster to their specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6395 ALS Low-Ride Walther Holster