Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster

The Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster is designed for professionals who need a secure and reliable way to carry their sidearm. Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military gear, crafted this holster to meet the demanding needs of tactical environments. It features their renowned SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood, offering enhanced weapon retention and a smooth, single-motion draw.

I was searching for a holster that provided both superior retention and ease of access while maintaining a comfortable carry position. After several unsettling range incidents involving poorly retained firearms, I needed a professional-grade holster with proven security. The mid-ride height was appealing because it balances accessibility and comfort, crucial for extended wear during training and potential real-world deployments.

Unboxing the Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster revealed a robust and well-constructed piece of equipment. The SafariLaminate construction felt incredibly durable, and the STX Tactical finish gave it a professional, non-reflective appearance. The SLS hood rotated smoothly, inspiring confidence in its retention capabilities.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900 Holster. The Safariland SLS edged out the competition due to its superior retention system and the proven track record of Safariland holsters within military and law enforcement circles. I appreciated the intuitive design of the SLS, which seemed less prone to accidental release than other retention mechanisms.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. While the holster looked and felt incredibly robust, I was eager to test its real-world performance and confirm that the SLS system was as user-friendly as advertised. I was genuinely excited to see if it could deliver on its promise of security and accessibility.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster at my local shooting range during a dynamic training session. The range session involved drawing and re-holstering drills, as well as movement and shooting from various positions. I also incorporated some force-on-force scenarios to simulate real-world stress.

The holster performed admirably in dry conditions. The SLS system was easy to manipulate with practice, allowing for a quick and efficient draw stroke. Re-holstering was equally smooth, and the firearm felt secure at all times.

However, after two hours of continuous use on a hot and humid day, some sweat started to build up in the holster body. This created a slight friction at re-holstering. After wiping down the inside, the friction disappeared.

The learning curve was minimal. While the SLS system requires a specific motion to disengage, it quickly became second nature after a few repetitions. The mid-ride height positioned the firearm comfortably, allowing for a natural draw stroke without interfering with my body armor.

The only initial issue was getting used to the placement of the SLS hood release. After adjusting my grip slightly, I was able to consistently disengage the hood without fumbling.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster continues to perform reliably. It has become my go-to holster for range training, tactical courses, and even some open carry situations (where permitted). It has withstood countless draw strokes and re-holstering cycles without any significant degradation.

The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The SafariLaminate construction has proven to be highly resistant to scratches and abrasions. The STX Tactical finish has also held up well, maintaining its non-reflective properties.

Maintenance is straightforward. I simply wipe down the holster with a damp cloth after each use to remove any dirt or debris. Occasionally, I apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the SLS hood pivot point to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous experiences with nylon and leather holsters, the Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster is far superior in terms of durability, retention, and overall performance. It provides a level of security and peace of mind that I have not experienced with other holsters. It definitely outperforms my old Level 2 holster.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Safariland
• Color: Black
• Gun Make: Beretta
• Gun Model: Beretta 92F, Beretta M9
• Finish: STX Tactical
• Application: Tactical
• Holster Finish: STX Tactical
• Features the SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood system: The SLS allows for a smoother, single motion draw and greater protection against attempted weapon takeaways.
• Thermal-molded SafariLaminate construction: Protects handgun and sights.
• Ambidextrous body design: Allows the holster to be used by both right- and left-handed shooters.

These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The SafariLaminate construction ensures the holster can withstand the rigors of tactical environments. The SLS system provides a high level of weapon retention, preventing unauthorized access or accidental loss of the firearm.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster excels in its primary function: securely carrying and quickly deploying a sidearm. The SLS system provides excellent retention, preventing the weapon from being easily removed by anyone other than the user. The mid-ride height offers a comfortable and accessible carry position.

The main strength is the SLS retention system, which is both secure and intuitive to use. The STX Tactical finish is also a plus, as it provides a low-profile appearance and resists scratches. The user feedback indicating the holster will not fit the Beretta 92A1 highlights a weakness.

The holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a tactical holster. It provides a level of security, accessibility, and durability that is unmatched by other holsters I have used.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster is designed with both functionality and ergonomics in mind. The SafariLaminate construction provides a rigid and durable platform, while the mid-ride height ensures a comfortable carry position. The SLS hood is easy to manipulate, even with gloved hands.

The build quality is exceptional, with high-quality materials and precise molding. The holster feels solid and well-constructed. The learning curve is minimal, as the SLS system is relatively intuitive to use with some practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster is built to last. The SafariLaminate construction is highly resistant to wear and tear. The STX Tactical finish provides additional protection against scratches and abrasions.

The holster is easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. The SLS hood pivot point may require occasional lubrication to ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, including belt loops, drop leg platforms, and shoulder harnesses. This allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.

The holster is also compatible with many popular aftermarket accessories, such as weapon lights and red dot sights (depending on the specific model). This makes it a versatile platform for a wide range of tactical applications. You can easily swap out belt attachments to suit different carry styles.

Pros and Cons of Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster

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Who Should Buy Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster?

The Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure and reliable way to carry their sidearm. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters and shooting enthusiasts who prioritize weapon retention and a smooth draw stroke.

This product may not be ideal for individuals who prefer a simpler holster design without active retention mechanisms. It’s also not recommended for those who own a Beretta 92A1, unless they are willing to modify the holster for a proper fit.

A must-have accessory is a Safariland belt loop that is compatible with the user’s belt width. A weapon light compatible with the holster’s design can also enhance its functionality in low-light conditions.

Conclusion on Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster

The Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster is an exceptional holster that delivers on its promise of security, accessibility, and durability. Its robust construction, innovative SLS retention system, and comfortable mid-ride height make it a top choice for professionals and serious shooting enthusiasts.

The price of $161.49 is justified by the holster’s quality, performance, and long-lasting durability. It’s an investment that will provide years of reliable service.

I would highly recommend the Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster to anyone who needs a high-quality tactical holster. Despite the potential fit issues with certain Beretta models, its overall performance and reliability make it a worthwhile investment. If you’re looking for a holster that will keep your firearm secure and accessible, the Safariland SLS Mid Ride Military Holster is an excellent choice. Consider Safariland for your next holster purchase.