Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster

The Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a statement. This Level III retention holster, manufactured by Safariland, blends the classic aesthetics of leather with the modern durability and security of synthetic materials, offering a unique combination for law enforcement and tactical professionals. Its Automatic Locking System (ALS®) promises secure weapon retention, while the leather-look finish provides a professional appearance – a tough balance to achieve, and one I was eager to explore.

Having spent over a decade in demanding outdoor and tactical environments, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of a reliable and secure holster. My previous holster lacked the desired level of retention, making me uneasy during dynamic scenarios where weapon security was paramount. I needed a holster that offered both peace of mind and a professional look, prompting my search and ultimate selection of the Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster.

Unboxing the Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster, I was immediately struck by the quality of the finish and the overall build. The Safarilaminate™ material closely mimics the look and feel of leather, while the holster itself felt incredibly sturdy. The initial impression was one of quality and thoughtful design, blending classic aesthetics with modern functionality.

Compared to the Blackhawk Serpa and the Galco Cop 3-Point holster that I had used before, the Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster seemed to offer a superior level of security and a more refined appearance. The Serpa felt too flimsy, while the Galco lacked the active retention I was now seeking. The Safariland offered the best balance of security, accessibility, and professional appearance in my view.

My initial reaction was one of excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism. Could it really deliver on its promises of both security and style? I couldn’t wait to put the Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster through its paces and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster at the local shooting range, simulating duty scenarios with rapid draws and re-holstering drills. It was a controlled environment, ideal for getting a feel for the ALS® mechanism and overall ergonomics. I tested the holster with my SIG Sauer P320, which the product details indicated was compatible.

The weather was slightly humid, presenting an opportunity to evaluate the grip and accessibility of the holster in less-than-ideal conditions. The ALS® system took a few practice runs to master, but once I got the hang of it, the draw was smooth and surprisingly fast. The holster was also easy to use, even in wet conditions.

Initially, I had a slight issue with the thumb placement required to disengage the ALS®, but after about an hour of practice, it became second nature. There were no other major issues or surprises during the first range session, and the holster performed as advertised.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including daily wear during training exercises, the Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after being exposed to rain, dust, and the occasional bump against hard surfaces. The material seems to withstand daily wear and tear quite well.

The Safarisuede™ lining has kept my pistol’s finish pristine, preventing scratches and abrasions. Cleaning the holster is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Maintenance has proven to be quite minimal.

Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster has significantly outperformed in terms of retention, durability, and overall comfort. The ALS® provides a superior level of security, while the leather-look finish maintains a professional appearance – a combination I truly appreciate. It’s safe to say it has definitely exceeded expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and user experience. Here are some important factors to note:

• Level III Retention™: This indicates that the holster offers three levels of security to prevent unauthorized removal of the weapon. This provides great piece of mind.
• ALS® Automatic Locking System: An internal locking device automatically engages when the weapon is holstered, securing it in any direction. This is the core of the holster’s retention capability.
• Hood Guard: A standard feature on the 6360 holsters, the hood guard offers another layer of security. This can help to prevent unauthorized access to the weapon.
• Mid-Ride Belt Loop: The 6070UBL allows the holster to ride close to the body for enhanced comfort and concealment. This helps to maintain a low profile.
• Safarilaminate™ Finish: This synthetic material mimics the appearance of leather while providing superior durability and ease of cleaning. This is a great balance of aesthetic and functionality.
• Safarisuede™ Lining: Protects the weapon’s finish from scratches and abrasions. This helps to maintain the appearance and value of the weapon.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s ability to securely retain the weapon, provide comfortable carry, and withstand the rigors of daily use. The combination of these features makes the Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster a top contender in its class.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster excels in its primary function: securely retaining the weapon while allowing for a smooth and rapid draw. The ALS® system works flawlessly, providing a confident level of security. The holster is accurate and easy to use.

The holster’s strengths lie in its robust retention, comfortable carry, and professional appearance. One area for potential improvement could be the initial learning curve associated with the ALS® system, which may require some practice to master. Overall, it works perfectly and meets expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster features a slim and compact design, allowing the weapon to ride close to the body. The Safarilaminate™ material provides a comfortable feel against the body, while the mid-ride belt loop ensures a secure and stable fit. The build quality is superb, and it is built from quality materials.

The holster is user-friendly, although the ALS® system requires some initial familiarization. Once mastered, the draw becomes intuitive and efficient. The weight is well-balanced, and it is comfortable in hand.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster is built to last, with durable materials and robust construction. The Safarilaminate™ finish resists scratches and abrasions, while the Safarisuede™ lining protects the weapon’s finish. The holster should last for a long time and is easy to maintain.

Maintaining the holster is straightforward; regular cleaning with a damp cloth is typically sufficient to remove dirt and grime. No specialized tools or cleaning agents are required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster comes standard with a hood guard and the 6070UBL mid-ride belt loop. An optional Sentry is available for Level IV Retention™, providing an even higher level of security. There are plenty of customization options.

The holster is also compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, such as different belt loops and leg shrouds. This allows users to tailor the holster to their specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster