Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL

The Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL holster is more than just a place to secure your sidearm; it’s a critical piece of equipment for law enforcement and security professionals, offering a balance of retention, accessibility, and comfort. This particular model, crafted by Safariland, combines the proven SLS (Self Locking System) retention with a mid-ride design, making it a popular choice for officers who need a reliable and easily accessible holster. The basketweave brown finish adds a touch of classic professionalism to its functional design.

For years, I’ve relied on various holsters, but I always struggled to find one that offered both secure retention and a natural, quick draw, especially during high-stress training scenarios. I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily duty while providing me with immediate access to my sidearm when seconds mattered. That’s why the Safariland 6280 series caught my attention.

My first impression upon receiving the Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL was of its solid construction and classic aesthetics. The basketweave leather looked sharp, and the overall build felt robust and duty-ready. The mid-ride height seemed like a perfect compromise between concealment and draw speed.

I considered other holsters like the Blackhawk! Serpa and the Bianchi Accumold Elite, but the Safariland stood out due to its reputation for superior retention and durability, along with its wide acceptance within law enforcement agencies. The Serpa’s release mechanism, while fast, sometimes felt less secure in close-quarters combat scenarios, while the Accumold, though comfortable, lacked the same level of active retention. I chose the Safariland for its peace of mind, trusting that it would keep my weapon secure while allowing a smooth and consistent draw.

Initially, I was excited by the potential of the Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL to be the ultimate duty holster, but also a little apprehensive about the SLS system. I wondered if the SLS system might be cumbersome to master, possibly hindering my draw speed in critical situations. Only real-world testing would reveal if it lived up to the hype.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test of the Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL took place at a local shooting range during a defensive pistol course. The course simulated real-world scenarios requiring quick draws, re-holstering, and movement under stress. It was the perfect environment to push the Safariland to its limits.

During the course, the Safariland performed admirably, even in the dusty conditions of the range. The SLS retention system initially felt a bit awkward, requiring a conscious effort to depress the lever while establishing a proper grip. However, after only a few practice draws, the motion became fluid and intuitive, granting a surprisingly fast and secure release.

The mid-ride height proved to be a significant advantage. It allowed for a comfortable draw stroke, clearing my vest and duty belt with ease. There were no immediate issues or surprises other than the initial adjustment to the SLS release.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, both on the range and during actual patrol duties, the Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL continues to perform reliably. The basketweave finish has shown minimal signs of wear, maintaining its professional appearance. The holster has stood up to regular contact with vehicle seats, doorways, and other equipment without any noticeable damage.

The holster requires minimal maintenance, only needing occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. The SLS mechanism still operates smoothly, and there has been no degradation in its retention capabilities. Compared to my previous experience with cheaper nylon holsters, the Safariland outperforms them significantly in terms of durability, retention, and overall build quality. This is a holster designed for the long haul.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL

Specifications

The Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL is designed with the following key specifications:

• SLS (Self Locking System): This primary retention system requires depressing a lever with the thumb while simultaneously establishing a firing grip on the weapon, preventing unauthorized removal.
• Mid-Ride Position: The mid-ride design allows the weapon to sit lower on the hip, providing greater comfort, improved weapon protection, and a faster, easier draw, especially when wearing tactical vests or other equipment.
• Top Draw and Straight Drop Cant: The straight drop cant ensures a natural and consistent draw angle, optimizing speed and efficiency.
• For pistols or revolvers, specifically the Taser International X26.
• Level III Retention: Achieved with optional Sentry installed or tension screw properly adjusted.
• Level IV Retention: Achieved with optional Sentry installed and tension screw properly adjusted.
• Basketweave Brown Finish: Provides a professional and classic look, ideal for uniformed officers and security personnel.
• Right-Handed configuration.
• Old Belt Style Loop.

These specifications are essential because they directly impact the holster’s performance, security, and user experience. The SLS system ensures that the weapon remains secure during strenuous activities, while the mid-ride position optimizes comfort and accessibility.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL excels at its primary job: securely retaining and rapidly deploying a sidearm. Its Level II retention, enhanced by the SLS system, provides excellent security against weapon takeaways without sacrificing draw speed. The mid-ride height allows for a natural and comfortable draw stroke, even when wearing body armor or other bulky gear.

One of the strengths of this holster is its intuitive SLS mechanism. While it requires initial practice, it quickly becomes second nature, providing a consistent and reliable draw. The only real weakness is that the draw stroke does require an adjustment for anyone used to thumb-break systems. Overall, the Safariland meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL is crafted from durable materials, providing a solid and confidence-inspiring feel. The mid-ride design positions the weapon comfortably on the hip. This design makes it ideal for extended wear.

The holster is generally user-friendly, with a minimal learning curve once the SLS mechanism is mastered. The basketweave finish adds a touch of professionalism and resists scratches and abrasions.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL is built to last, with its robust construction and high-quality materials. With proper care, it should withstand years of daily use in demanding environments. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the SLS mechanism.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL doesn’t come with a vast array of accessories, its modular design allows for some customization. The optional Safariland Sentry can be installed to increase retention to Level III or IV, providing an extra layer of security in high-risk situations. The holster is compatible with various Safariland belt loops and mounting platforms. This allows users to tailor the carry position to their specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL?

The Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and anyone who prioritizes weapon retention and accessibility, specifically when carrying a Taser International X26. Its durable construction and reliable SLS system make it an ideal choice for those working in high-risk environments where weapon security is paramount.

Those who should skip this product include individuals looking for a universal holster that can accommodate multiple firearms or those who prefer simpler, thumb-break retention systems. Furthermore, if you don’t plan to carry the specified Taser International X26, this is not the holster for you.

A must-have accessory for this holster is the Safariland Sentry, which upgrades the retention level to III or IV, providing an extra layer of security in extreme situations.

Conclusion on Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL

The Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and accessibility. While the SLS system requires some practice, the benefits in terms of weapon retention and draw speed are well worth the effort.

At $171.40, the price is justified considering the quality of construction and the level of security it provides. The Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL is an investment in your safety and professionalism.

I would highly recommend the Safariland Level II Retention, Mid-Ride – Basketweave Brown, Right 6280-64-071OBL to any law enforcement officer or security professional who demands the best in weapon retention and accessibility. It’s a holster you can trust your life with. Secure your Safariland today and experience the difference!