Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry

The Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry isn’t just another piece of tactical gear; it’s a meticulously crafted holster designed for professionals who demand speed, security, and comfort. Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military holsters, has packed decades of experience into this model, offering a unique combination of their renowned SLS (Self Locking System) retention with an added sentry lock for enhanced security. This holster promises to be a reliable companion in the most demanding situations.

I’ve spent years searching for the perfect holster, one that balances quick access with unwavering retention, especially in dynamic training scenarios. Many holsters I’ve used offered one or the other, but rarely both. I was particularly drawn to the Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry due to its reputation for secure weapon retention and the promise of a mid-ride platform for comfortable carry.

Out of the box, the Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry makes a strong impression. The STX Tactical Black finish is clean and professional, and the holster feels incredibly robust. The build quality is immediately apparent, and the SLS hood operates smoothly and positively.

Compared to other holsters I’ve used, like some Level 2 retention models from Blackhawk and Galco, the Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry‘s added sentry feature provides an extra layer of security that others lack. I also considered the Safariland 7TS ALS series, but I ultimately chose the SLS Sentry for its familiar operation and enhanced protection against unauthorized removal. The added security of the Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry gives peace of mind.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The holster looked and felt fantastic, but I knew the real test would be in its performance under pressure. I was eager to see if the hype surrounding Safariland‘s SLS system was justified and how the sentry feature would perform in real-world drills.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. This scenario involved simulating high-stress engagements, drawing and reholstering repeatedly while moving and communicating with teammates. The varied terrain and dynamic movements proved an ideal testing ground for the Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry.

The weather was typical for the Pacific Northwest, damp and drizzly. This provided an unexpected opportunity to test the holster’s grip and retention in wet conditions. The SLS hood, even when slightly wet, remained easy to disengage with a gloved hand.

The Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry took some getting used to, specifically the position of the SLS hood release in conjunction with the sentry lock. After about an hour of dedicated practice draws, I found a consistent and efficient technique. Initial draws were slow, but repetition built muscle memory.

After the first day, my only minor complaint was the slight stiffness of the sentry lock. However, I anticipated this would improve with use. The security of the Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry was impressive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of weekly range trips and continued force-on-force training, the Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry has proven to be remarkably durable. There are some minor scuff marks on the STX Tactical Black finish, but the holster’s structural integrity remains unchanged. The Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry has stood up to a lot of abuse.

The SLS hood and sentry lock operate just as smoothly as they did on day one, perhaps even more so. The sentry lock loosened up nicely after continued usage. The holster shows no signs of wear that impact its function.

Cleaning the Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each range session is usually sufficient. Periodically, I use a silicone-based lubricant on the SLS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Maintenance is a breeze.

Compared to my previous open-top holsters, the Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry offers vastly superior retention and peace of mind, especially when moving through dense brush or engaging in physical altercations during training. It’s a significant upgrade. I am very happy with my purchase.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry

Specifications

The Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry, model 6280, is specifically designed for the Beretta Px4 Storm 9mm and .40 caliber pistols without an attached light. This particular model is configured for right-handed users.

• Material: Constructed from Safariland‘s durable STX Tactical Black material, providing excellent resistance to scratches and abrasions. The STX finish also reduces the holster’s infrared signature.
• Retention: Features Safariland‘s patented SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood and an added sentry lock for enhanced security. The SLS allows for a smooth, single-motion draw while providing excellent weapon retention.
• Ride: The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster lower on the hip, improving comfort and accessibility, particularly when wearing tactical gear or body armor. The mid-ride height also enhances concealment under a jacket or other outer garment.
• Compatibility: Designed to accommodate the Beretta Px4 Storm 9mm/.40 without weapon lights. It is not compatible with models equipped with an ITI M3/M6, TLR-1/TLR-2, Insight XTI Procyon, or Surefire X200/X300 weapon light.
• Color: Available in STX Tactical Black. This color provides a low-profile and professional appearance suitable for law enforcement and tactical applications.
• Handedness: Right Hand.

These specifications are crucial because they dictate the holster’s compatibility, security level, and carry comfort. The STX material ensures longevity, while the SLS and sentry lock provide peace of mind knowing the weapon is secure.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a Beretta Px4 Storm. The SLS hood rotates forward smoothly with thumb pressure, allowing for a clean draw. The added sentry provides increased security.

The holster’s primary strength lies in its exceptional weapon retention. The combination of the SLS and sentry lock provides a high level of security against weapon takeaways, even in close-quarters combat situations. However, it requires dedicated practice to master.

The holster does require a deliberate and practiced draw stroke to disengage both the sentry and SLS hood efficiently. Newer users may find the draw awkward initially. Training overcomes this.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry boasts a functional and ergonomic design. The mid-ride height positions the weapon comfortably on the hip, allowing for a natural draw stroke. The durable material and secure retention make this holster a great option.

The holster is robustly built and designed for duty use, leading to a slightly bulkier feel than minimalist concealed carry holsters. The Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry prioritizes durability.

There is a learning curve associated with mastering the SLS and sentry system, but the payoff in security and weapon retention is well worth the effort. With focused practice, proficient draws and reholstering become intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The STX Tactical finish is highly resistant to scratches and abrasions. This holster is designed to last.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the SLS mechanism will keep the holster functioning smoothly for years. Minimal upkeep is needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

This specific model of the Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry doesn’t come with a vast array of accessories. The main focus is on the holster itself and its core functionality.

The holster is compatible with various Safariland belt loops and mounting platforms, allowing users to adjust the ride height and cant to their preference. The mounting options allow customization.

Users can also purchase different SLS hoods or modify the sentry lock to suit their specific needs and preferences. It is critical to confirm compatibility before modification.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry

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Who Should Buy Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry?

The Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and military professionals who require a high-security holster with reliable weapon retention. It’s also well-suited for those who prioritize weapon security and comfortable carry in demanding environments.

This product is not ideal for concealed carry due to its size and duty-oriented design. This holster might be too much for casual shooters.

A must-have accessory is a dedicated training regimen to master the SLS and sentry lock system. Consistent practice will build muscle memory and ensure efficient draws in high-stress situations.

Conclusion on Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry

The Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry is a well-engineered and highly functional holster that excels in weapon retention and durability. While it requires dedicated training to master, the peace of mind and security it provides are well worth the effort.

The price of $169.99 is justified considering the holster’s robust construction, advanced security features, and the reputation of Safariland as a leading manufacturer of law enforcement and military gear. It’s an investment in safety and reliability.

I would personally recommend the Safariland Sls Mid-ride Holster Sentry to anyone who needs a dependable and secure holster for their Beretta Px4 Storm. Practice your draw, trust the system, and you’ll have a holster that performs when it matters most. Don’t compromise on security – choose Safariland.