Safariland Model 6378rds Als Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models Review

What Makes Safariland Model 6378rds Als Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models Stand Out?

The Safariland Model 6378rds Als Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models is a holster designed specifically for firearms equipped with red dot sights. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster boasts the ALS (Automatic Locking System) for secure retention and a paddle design for comfortable concealment. Its unique construction and compatibility with optics make it a compelling option for both law enforcement and responsible armed citizens.

Years of dealing with subpar holsters that compromise security for convenience, or vice versa, made me seek something different. I needed a holster that offered both a high level of retention and comfortable concealed carry, especially now that I run a red dot sight on my FN 509T. The Safariland name carries a lot of weight, and the ALS system promised the security I was looking for.

Upon unboxing, the holster felt solid and well-made. The SafariLaminate exterior gives a reassuring rigidity, while the SafariSuede lining felt gentle enough to protect my firearm’s finish. The paddle itself seems robust and contours nicely, suggesting all-day comfort, and the overall design is undeniably practical.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa and the Blade-Tech Total Eclipse, both popular choices, but neither offered the same level of active retention and red dot sight compatibility in a dedicated concealment package. Safariland’s reputation for quality and the specific features of the 6378RDS swayed my decision. My initial impression was definitely excitement. This holster seems to address many of the shortcomings I’ve experienced with previous concealment options, with a promise of both security and comfort.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 6378rds Als Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Safariland Model 6378rds Als Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models was at my local shooting range. I wanted to assess its draw speed and retention capabilities under controlled conditions. The weather was slightly damp, which offered a chance to see how the grip held up with moisture.

Drawing the FN 509T from the holster required a deliberate, yet natural, thumb swipe to disengage the ALS. It felt secure, and reholstering was equally smooth, with a satisfying click indicating the ALS had engaged. No issues arose during the initial range session, and the paddle remained secure against my body throughout various drills.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of daily carry, the Safariland Model 6378rds Als Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models has proven to be remarkably reliable. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, and the SafariSuede lining has kept my firearm’s finish pristine. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.

Compared to my previous leather holster, the Safariland offers superior retention and weather resistance. The leather tended to sag and become less secure over time, especially in humid conditions. The Safariland has surpassed my expectations, delivering consistent performance day after day.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 6378rds Als Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models

Specifications

• Gun Fit: Specifically designed for the FN 509T with a SureFire X300U weapon light attached. This ensures a snug and secure fit, preventing unwanted movement during carry.
• ALS (Automatic Locking System): This is the core of the holster’s security, locking the firearm in place until the thumb release is deliberately activated. The ALS provides excellent retention without sacrificing draw speed.
• SafariLaminate Construction: The outer shell is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary SafariLaminate, providing exceptional durability and resistance to abrasion. This material is known for its ruggedness and ability to withstand harsh conditions.
• SafariSuede Lining: The interior of the holster is lined with SafariSuede, a soft material designed to protect the firearm’s finish. This prevents scratches and wear marks that can occur with other holster materials.
• Concealment Paddle: The paddle attachment is designed for comfortable and secure concealed carry. It hugs the body closely and distributes weight evenly for all-day comfort.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Model 6378rds Als Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models performs its job admirably. The ALS system provides a high level of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. The draw stroke is smooth and efficient, allowing for a quick and accurate presentation.

The holster’s primary strength is its combination of security and accessibility. The ALS offers peace of mind, while the paddle design provides comfortable concealment. The only minor weakness is that the ALS release requires some practice to master, but this is a small price to pay for the added security. It meets and exceeds my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. The materials feel robust and durable, suggesting that this holster will last for years. The weight is reasonable, and the paddle design distributes it well, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods.

The holster is user-friendly, although the ALS system does have a slight learning curve. After a few practice draws, the motion becomes natural and intuitive. The paddle is comfortable against the skin and stays firmly in place, even during strenuous activity.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland Model 6378rds Als Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models is built to last. The SafariLaminate exterior is highly resistant to scratches and abrasion, and the SafariSuede lining is gentle on the firearm’s finish. Regular cleaning involves simply wiping the holster down with a damp cloth.

Repair, if ever needed, would likely involve replacing the ALS mechanism, which appears to be a straightforward process. Overall, this holster is designed for longevity and ease of maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland Model 6378rds Als Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models comes as a complete package with the paddle attachment. It is not designed for extensive customization beyond that. However, the holster is compatible with various Safariland mounting options, such as belt loops and drop-leg platforms, allowing you to adapt it to different carry styles.

As it is designed for the FN 509T with a SureFire X300U weapon light, it will likely only work with similarly sized lights and firearms. This may limit compatibility with accessories from other brands, but it’s designed to be a streamlined, specific setup.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 6378rds Als Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models

Who Should Buy Safariland Model 6378rds Als Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible armed citizens who carry an FN 509T with a SureFire X300U weapon light and prioritize secure concealed carry. It’s also a good choice for those who value a holster specifically designed for red dot sights.

Those who should skip this product are individuals who do not own the specified firearm and weapon light combination or prefer a more minimalist holster design. Also, if you prefer a simpler retention system without an active locking mechanism, this holster may not be the best fit. A must-have modification could be exploring other Safariland mounting options for more versatility.

Conclusion on Safariland Model 6378rds Als Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models

The Safariland Model 6378rds Als Concealment Paddle – 1 out of 2 models is a well-designed and reliable holster that delivers on its promise of secure concealed carry for red dot sight-equipped firearms. The price is justified by the quality of materials, the innovative ALS retention system, and the overall performance.

I would personally recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality holster for their FN 509T with a SureFire X300U. If you value security, comfort, and durability, then this holster is definitely worth considering. Invest in your peace of mind and grab the Safariland Model 6378rds Als Concealment Paddle today!