Let’s Dive into Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain
The Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain is a concealment holster designed for 1911 pistols equipped with rails, blending Safariland’s renowned durability with a focus on comfortable, discreet carry. This holster utilizes Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention, offering a balance of speed and security that is crucial for everyday carry. Its plain STX finish provides a low-profile aesthetic, ideal for blending into various environments.
I was searching for a holster that could confidently secure my rail-equipped 1911 without sacrificing concealability or drawing speed. Many holsters either lack sufficient retention for a heavier railed 1911 or are too bulky for comfortable all-day wear. The Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain promised to solve both problems, making it an appealing option.
Upon unboxing, the holster felt incredibly solid. The STX finish has a rugged texture, and the ALS lever felt positive and secure during initial manipulations. The weight was surprisingly manageable considering the holster’s robust construction.
Compared to a Galco leather pancake holster and a Blade-Tech Klipt IWB holster, the Safariland offered superior retention thanks to the ALS system. The Galco, while comfortable, lacked active retention, and the Blade-Tech didn’t accommodate the rail on my 1911. The Safariland seemed to bridge the gap between security and concealability.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality was undeniably excellent, and the ALS system was reassuring. I was excited to see how it performed in real-world scenarios, but also slightly concerned about the potential learning curve associated with the ALS draw.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain at an outdoor shooting range during a concealed carry qualification course. The weather was moderately humid, adding a slight slickness to the grip of both my pistol and the holster itself. The holster was worn in the appendix carry position, which is my preferred method of concealed carry.
The ALS system proved intuitive and relatively easy to master with just a few practice draws. Even with slightly sweaty hands, the holster provided a secure grip on the pistol until the ALS lever was deliberately disengaged. The draw stroke felt smooth and natural, allowing for quick and efficient target acquisition.
There were no immediate issues or surprises after the first range session. The holster retained the firearm securely, and the ALS system functioned flawlessly. The only minor adjustment was fine-tuning the holster’s cant to optimize draw angle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily concealed carry, the Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain has held up exceptionally well. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear on either the holster body or the ALS mechanism. The STX finish still looks new, despite being subjected to regular friction against clothing and gear.
Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes any accumulated dust or lint. The ALS mechanism requires only occasional lubrication with a dry lubricant to maintain smooth operation.
Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland offers a significant improvement in both security and comfort. The ALS system provides peace of mind knowing that my firearm is securely retained, and the holster’s relatively compact design allows for comfortable all-day wear. It outperforms my previous holsters in every aspect.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain
Specifications
The Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain is specifically designed for 1911-style pistols equipped with accessory rails. It is constructed from a durable, injection-molded polymer with Safariland’s proprietary STX finish. The holster features the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the firearm upon holstering.
The key specifications include right-hand orientation, compatibility with 1911s with rails, and a plain STX black finish. This holster is designed for concealment and offers a mid-ride height for easy draw. These specifications are important because they determine the holster’s compatibility, security level, and suitability for concealed carry.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain excels at its intended purpose: securely concealing and providing quick access to a 1911 pistol. The ALS system offers exceptional retention, preventing unauthorized removal of the firearm. The draw stroke is smooth and efficient, allowing for rapid target engagement.
The strengths include the highly secure ALS retention and the relatively compact design for comfortable concealed carry. A potential weakness might be the slight learning curve for mastering the ALS draw, although this is quickly overcome with practice. The holster absolutely meets and exceeds expectations for security and concealability.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster is constructed from high-quality, durable polymer with a textured STX finish, providing a secure grip and resisting wear. The holster’s weight is manageable, and the design allows for comfortable all-day carry, especially in the appendix or strong-side positions. The design is simple, practical, and focused on functionality.
The ALS lever is easily accessible, and the draw stroke feels natural and intuitive. There is a slight learning curve initially, but with practice, the draw becomes second nature. The holster is clearly designed with the user in mind.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain is built to last. The polymer construction and STX finish are highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and environmental factors. Regular cleaning involves simply wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and occasionally lubricating the ALS mechanism.
Given the robust construction and durable materials, the holster should provide years of reliable service. The simplicity of the design also minimizes potential failure points, making it easy to maintain and repair if necessary. This holster is built for the long haul.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain includes a quick kit attachment, allowing for adjustable belt loops and cant. While the holster itself is not highly customizable, Safariland offers a variety of belt loops and attachment options that can be used to tailor the holster to individual preferences. The quick kit attached is a welcome addition for fine tuning carry position.
The holster is compatible with standard belt widths and can be used with a variety of concealed carry belts. While the holster itself doesn’t offer accessory mounting points, the rail on the 1911 allows for the attachment of lights and lasers. The quick kit adds valuable flexibility.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain
Pros
- The Safariland ALS provides unmatched retention, securing the firearm until deliberately released.
- Relatively compact design for comfortable concealed carry, minimizing printing.
- Durable polymer construction with STX finish ensures long-lasting performance.
- The Quick Kit allows cant adjustment for optimal draw angle.
- Smooth and efficient draw stroke allows for rapid target engagement.
Cons
- The ALS system requires practice to master the draw stroke.
- Limited customization options beyond belt attachment variations.
Who Should Buy Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain?
The Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain is perfect for law enforcement officers, concealed carry permit holders, and anyone who prioritizes security and retention in a holster. It is also ideal for individuals who carry a 1911 with a rail and require a reliable and comfortable concealment option. This is a great option for people who take personal defense seriously.
Individuals who prefer a simpler, passive retention holster may want to skip this product. Those who require extensive customization options may also find the Safariland holster limiting.
A high-quality gun belt designed for concealed carry is a must-have accessory for optimal performance. Additionally, a weapon-mounted light may be a valuable modification for low-light situations.
Conclusion on Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain
The Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a secure and reliable concealment holster for their rail-equipped 1911. The ALS system provides unparalleled retention, while the holster’s compact design ensures comfortable all-day carry. The materials and robust construction justify the cost.
The price is justified for the level of security and durability offered. The peace of mind knowing your firearm is safely secured is well worth the investment.
I would definitely recommend the Safariland Als Conc. Hol. 1911 Rails Plain to anyone looking for a top-tier concealment holster for their 1911. Take the leap and experience the security and peace of mind that comes with carrying your 1911 in this exceptional Safariland holster.