Safariland ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Duty, – 1 out of 2 models Review

What Makes Safariland ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Duty, – 1 out of 2 models Stand Out?

The Safariland ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Duty holster, specifically model 6390-9192-491, offers a blend of secure retention and relatively easy access. Designed by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, this holster is built for duty use, pairing the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a comfortable mid-ride carry position. The specific configuration reviewed here is designed for the S&W M&P .45C with an X300 weapon light, finished in STX Black Hi-Gloss, and configured for a right-handed draw.

My journey to this holster started with a need for a more secure and comfortable duty setup. I was previously using a Level II retention holster that, while secure, proved slow and cumbersome during drills. The mid-ride height and Level I retention of the Safariland ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Duty promised a better balance of speed and security.

Unboxing the Safariland, the first thing that struck me was its robust construction. The STX finish gives it a professional, polished look, and the molded polymer felt exceptionally solid. The ALS lever moved smoothly, indicating a well-engineered mechanism, and the overall weight suggested a durable piece of equipment without being overly heavy.

Compared to other holsters I’ve used, like the Blackhawk! Serpa (Level II retention) and the Galco Gunleather FLETCH (Level I, open top), the Safariland ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Duty offers a different approach. The Blackhawk! was secure but clunky; the Galco, comfortable but lacking adequate retention for duty use. The Safariland promised a middle ground, a blend of active retention without sacrificing speed and accessibility.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The Safariland ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Duty seemed well-made and thoughtfully designed, but the proof would be in its performance under real-world conditions. Would it truly offer the secure retention and rapid draw I was looking for?

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Duty, – 1 out of 2 models to the Test

First Use Experience

The initial testing ground for the Safariland ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Duty was the shooting range. I focused on drawing and re-holstering drills, practicing different grip techniques to find the most efficient way to defeat the ALS mechanism. The holster performed well in dry conditions. The release lever was intuitive to engage with my thumb during the draw stroke.

However, the real test came during a simulated force-on-force training exercise in wet and muddy conditions. Even with gloves and reduced dexterity, the ALS remained functional. The mid-ride height helped keep the weapon clear of my gear and allowed for a smoother draw stroke compared to a higher-riding holster. The initial learning curve was minimal; after a few hours of practice, the draw stroke felt natural and efficient.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Duty has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are some minor scuff marks on the STX finish, but the polymer body shows no signs of cracking or structural fatigue. Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps it clean, and a light application of silicone lubricant ensures smooth ALS operation.

Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland offers a significant upgrade in both security and comfort. It outperforms the Blackhawk! Serpa in terms of draw speed and the Galco FLETCH in terms of retention. The mid-ride position is comfortable for all-day wear, even when sitting in a patrol vehicle for extended periods.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Duty, – 1 out of 2 models

Specifications

• Model: 6390-9192-491.
• Retention Level: Level I with ALS (Automatic Locking System).
• Firearm Compatibility: S&W M&P .45C with Surefire X300 weapon light.
• Handedness: Right-hand.
• Finish: STX Black Hi-Gloss.
• Ride: Mid-Ride.
• Material: Safariland‘s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance and suitability for duty use. The ALS provides a secure level of retention, while the mid-ride height allows for a comfortable and accessible draw. The SafariSeven material is incredibly durable and resistant to the elements.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Duty excels at its primary job: securely retaining the firearm while allowing for a rapid draw. The ALS is intuitive to disengage, and the mid-ride height places the firearm in a comfortable and easily accessible position. Its main strength lies in its balance of speed and security.

The only potential weakness is the Level I retention. While adequate for most duty situations, it may not be sufficient for specialized environments requiring a higher level of security. The Safariland meets my expectations and exceeds them in terms of comfort and draw speed.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Duty boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The molded polymer body is lightweight yet incredibly strong, and the mid-ride height distributes the weight of the firearm evenly. The holster is user-friendly. Minimal training is required to master the ALS mechanism.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Duty is built to last. The SafariSeven material is resistant to abrasions, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.

Accessories and Customization Options

The holster comes with the standard Safariland mid-ride UBL (Universal Belt Loop). It is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. The holster is specifically molded to accommodate the Surefire X300 weapon light, but may not be compatible with other light models without modification.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Mid-Ride Level I Retention Duty, – 1 out of 2 models