First Impressions of Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster
The Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster promises a blend of security, speed, and comfort for concealed carry, especially for firearms equipped with red dot sights. Safariland is a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, and this holster aims to bring that professional-grade reliability to everyday concealed carry.
I needed a reliable holster for my Staccato P DUO that accommodates the mounted red dot, offering both secure retention and quick access. Many holsters either lack the necessary clearance for optics or compromise on retention. The Safariland‘s ALS (Automatic Locking System) seemed like the perfect solution, offering a positive lock with a natural thumb release.
My first impression was positive; the holster felt robust and well-made. The SafariLaminate material felt durable, and the paddle design seemed comfortable enough for all-day wear. Compared to generic Kydex holsters I’ve used, the Safariland had a more refined feel, suggesting better quality control and attention to detail. I was cautiously optimistic, hoping its performance would live up to Safariland‘s reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster at my local shooting range, focusing on drawing and reholstering drills. The ALS system took a few practice runs to master, but the thumb release became intuitive after only about fifteen minutes. Under slightly wet conditions (a light drizzle), the paddle maintained a secure grip against my clothing, and the draw stroke remained smooth.
The initial draw felt a bit stiff, but after applying some silicone lubricant to the interior, the action became noticeably smoother. I did experience a slight rubbing against my skin from the paddle during more active drills, but I adjusted my belt position to mitigate this. Overall, the first use was promising, highlighting both the holster’s strengths and areas where slight adjustments were needed for optimal comfort.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily carry, the Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the SafariLaminate exterior, despite constant contact with clothing and occasional bumps. The SafariSuede lining shows no signs of scratching or marring the finish of my Staccato P DUO.
Maintaining the holster is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps it clean. Compared to previous leather holsters I’ve used, the Safariland‘s synthetic construction resists moisture and maintains its shape more consistently. The ALS system continues to function flawlessly, providing secure retention and a consistent draw stroke, exceeding my expectations for a concealment holster.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Safariland.
- Gun Make: Staccato (Specifically designed for Staccato).
- Gun Model: STI International Staccato P DUO.
- Holster Type: Paddle Holster.
- Application: Tactical, Hunting, Target.
- Quantity: 1.
- Primer Style: Centerfire.
These specifications are vital because they ensure the holster is purpose-built for my specific firearm and its intended use. The compatibility with the Staccato P DUO, including its red dot sight, is essential for optimal performance and secure fit.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster excels in providing both secure retention and a rapid draw. The ALS system engages automatically upon holstering, ensuring the firearm remains secure until the thumb release is activated. Its primary strength lies in its balanced approach to security and accessibility.
The only weakness I’ve found is that the paddle can sometimes shift slightly when drawing from a seated position, requiring a minor adjustment. Despite this, the holster meets and exceeds expectations, delivering reliable performance in various concealed carry scenarios.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional; the Safariland SafariLaminate material is robust and resistant to abrasion. The holster’s weight is well-balanced, adding minimal bulk while maintaining a secure and comfortable fit against the body. The design is user-friendly, requiring minimal training to master the ALS system and achieve a consistent draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
The holster’s synthetic construction ensures long-term durability and resistance to environmental factors. Regular cleaning involves simply wiping down the exterior with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris, and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism. With proper care, the Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster is specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights, eliminating the need for modifications to accommodate optics. While the paddle is not easily interchangeable, Safariland offers other mounting options that can be purchased separately. The holster is also compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as leg shrouds and quick-release systems, for enhanced versatility.
Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster
Pros
- Robust and durable SafariLaminate construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- ALS (Automatic Locking System) provides secure retention with a natural thumb release.
- Specifically designed for firearms with red dot sights, offering seamless compatibility.
- Comfortable paddle design allows for all-day concealed carry.
- Straightforward maintenance and care ensure continued reliability.
Cons
- Paddle can sometimes shift during draws from seated positions.
- The initial draw stroke can be slightly stiff, requiring lubrication.
Who Should Buy Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster?
The Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible citizens who prioritize secure concealed carry with a red dot equipped pistol. It’s ideal for individuals who demand a holster that offers both retention and rapid access.
Those who prefer extremely minimalist designs or alternative carry methods (such as appendix carry) might find this holster too bulky. A must-have modification would be adding some mole skin to the area where the paddle comes in contact with the skin to mitigate rubbing, or a smaller holster with less surface area would be better.
Conclusion on Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster
The Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster delivers on its promises, providing a secure, reliable, and comfortable concealed carry option for firearms with red dot sights. The price of $120.60 is justified by the holster’s quality construction, innovative retention system, and specialized design.
I would personally recommend this holster to anyone seeking a professional-grade concealed carry solution for their Staccato P DUO or similar firearm. Invest in the Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is both secure and readily accessible.