Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6367-320-62 Review

Does the Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6367-320-62 Deliver?

For anyone who carries a firearm for professional duty or personal protection, the holster is far more than just an accessory; it’s a critical piece of equipment. I’ve spent over a decade in environments ranging from dusty workshops to rigorous field conditions, and I’ve learned that reliable, secure, and accessible weapon retention is non-negotiable. This led me to the Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6367-320-62. Safariland has a reputation for robust gear, and I was particularly interested in how this specific ALS model, designed for models like the Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5943 DAO without rails, would perform. My previous holster, while functional, lacked the advanced retention features I now deem essential, especially after a close call where a slightly looser fit became a concerning liability. Upon receiving this Safariland holster, my initial impression was one of solid construction. The plain black finish is understated yet professional, and the material felt substantial. I’d briefly considered some OWB Kydex options from smaller manufacturers, but Safariland’s track record for durability and their ALS system won out. My immediate feeling was one of cautious optimism, a sense that this holster might finally address the shortcomings I’d been experiencing.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6367-320-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing began immediately after unboxing. I fitted the Safariland 6367 holster onto my duty belt, which is a standard 1.75-inch tactical belt. The 567BL belt loop provided was surprisingly adaptable, securing snugly without any looseness. Drawing my Smith & Wesson 5946 DAO from the holster required a deliberate press of the thumb to disengage the ALS mechanism, a process that felt secure yet fluid after just a few repetitions. Reholstering was just as straightforward; the weapon clicked satisfyingly into place, indicating positive engagement of the retention system.

I wore this holster during a full 10-hour shift, which included significant movement, bending, and even some light physical exertion. The holster sat comfortably high on my hip, close to the body, minimizing any printing and avoiding excessive sway. Exposure to a dusty workshop environment and a brief, unexpected drizzle didn’t seem to impact its performance; the ALS mechanism remained responsive, and the holster material showed no signs of degradation. The primary quirk I noticed was the slight learning curve with the ALS thumb break; it required a conscious motion distinct from simply gripping the firearm. However, this is by design and a deliberate feature to prevent accidental disengagement.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months of consistent daily wear and periodic range sessions, the Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster has proven itself to be a remarkably reliable piece of kit. The polymer construction shows minimal wear, with only faint scuffs on the exterior from regular contact with clothing and gear, but no cracks or structural compromise. The ALS retention system has remained consistently positive and secure, providing the peace of mind that my firearm stays put, even during dynamic movement or when navigating crowded spaces.

Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of a mild lubricant to the ALS mechanism are all that’s needed to keep it functioning optimally. I’ve experienced no stiffness, no loss of retention, and no degradation in the draw or reholstering process. Compared to previous fabric holsters that quickly lost their shape or leather holsters that required meticulous care, this Safariland unit feels like it’s built for the long haul. It has certainly outperformed the generic, lower-cost options I’ve used in the past, which often developed play or unreliable retention after only a short period.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6367-320-62

Specifications

The Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6367-320-62 is crafted from a durable, injection-molded polymer, designed for robust performance in demanding conditions. Its plain black finish offers a low-profile, professional appearance suitable for tactical or duty applications. The holster features the proprietary ALS (Automatic Locking System), which automatically secures the weapon upon holstering and requires a specific thumb press to release. This model comes standard with the 567BL belt loop, accommodating belts sized at 1.50″ or 1.75″, ensuring a snug and stable fit.

These specifications are crucial for practical use. The durable polymer ensures longevity, resisting abrasion and impact common in field environments. The ALS retention provides a significant security advantage over passive systems, minimizing the risk of weapon loss or unauthorized access. The inclusion of the 567BL belt loop makes this holster versatile for many standard duty belts, and the high-ride design helps maintain a low profile for better concealment and easier access. The left-hand orientation is specifically for left-handed shooters, ensuring comfortable and intuitive operation.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster is to securely house a firearm while allowing for rapid, yet controlled, deployment. In this regard, it excels. The ALS system provides an exceptional level of retention; once the firearm is holstered, it feels absolutely locked in place, instilling confidence during rigorous activity. The draw is smooth once the ALS is disengaged, with the internal contours of the holster guiding the firearm out without snagging.

However, the ALS system, while a strength, also represents a slight compromise in raw speed compared to an open-top holster without active retention. The deliberate thumb press is an additional step that, while important for security, might be a fraction slower for pure speed shooting scenarios. For its intended purpose of secure duty carry, the balance between security and access is exceptionally well-managed, but users prioritizing absolute fastest draw times above all else might need to weigh this factor. The holster’s fit for the specified Smith & Wesson models is precise, offering a snug embrace that prevents unnecessary movement.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Safariland holster prioritizes functionality and security above all else. The injection-molded polymer provides a rigid shell that maintains its shape under stress. The high-ride design positions the firearm close to the body, aiding in concealment and ensuring it doesn’t interfere with vest or plate carrier systems. Its overall profile is clean and utilitarian, reflecting its tactical intent.

Ergonomically, the holster is well-designed for its purpose. The grip is angled slightly to facilitate a natural drawing motion once the ALS is disengaged. The plain black finish is not only discreet but also resists glare, which can be important in tactical situations. While it is a functional piece of equipment, the smooth polymer surfaces don’t offer significant grip enhancements themselves, relying instead on the firearm’s grip and the user’s technique. There’s a slight learning curve associated with the ALS thumb break, requiring a conscious, deliberate motion rather than an instinctive grab, but this is a user-training consideration rather than a design flaw.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a significant strong suit of the Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster. Constructed from robust polymer, it’s built to withstand the rigors of professional use, including impacts, abrasion, and environmental exposure. I’ve seen lesser holsters crack or warp after minimal abuse, but this model has held up impressively.

Maintenance is minimal, which is a huge benefit for busy professionals. A simple rinse with water and a light cleaning solution, followed by air drying, is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Applying a small amount of silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism periodically ensures smooth operation, especially after exposure to dust or grit. There are no complex parts to disassemble or maintain, making it a low-fuss option. Potential failure points, while rare with Safariland products, could theoretically involve excessive force applied to the ALS lever or extreme temperature fluctuations causing temporary stiffness. However, in my experience, these are unlikely under normal operational conditions.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster comes standard with the 567BL belt loop, designed to fit both 1.50″ and 1.75″ belts. This is a practical inclusion, making the holster ready for immediate use with common tactical or duty belts. Safariland offers a variety of other belt loop accessories for this holster model, including options for wider belts (up to 2.25″) and 1.00″ drop loops for a lowered ride height.

These additional belt loops provide a degree of customization that can significantly impact comfort, accessibility, and compatibility with other gear. For instance, the drop loops can be invaluable when wearing body armor or a plate carrier, ensuring a clean draw without interference. While this specific model doesn’t accommodate optics or accessories attached to the firearm itself, the ability to swap belt attachments makes it adaptable to different user preferences and operational setups.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6367-320-62

Who Should Buy Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6367-320-62?

This Safariland holster is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible citizens who prioritize weapon retention and durability. It is ideal for individuals carrying specific pistol models like the Smith & Wesson 5946 and 5943 DAO (without rails) and who operate in environments where weapon security is paramount. The high-ride design also makes it suitable for those seeking a balance between accessibility and concealment under a jacket or tactical vest.

Those who should likely skip this product are individuals needing a universal holster for multiple firearm models, those carrying firearms with mounted accessories like lights or lasers, or individuals who absolutely require the fastest possible draw with a passive retention system. For users not concerned with active retention and prioritizing bare-bones simplicity and speed, other holster types might be a better fit. Essential complementary items would be a quality duty belt capable of supporting the holster securely, and potentially the Safariland 1.00″ drop loop accessory if a lower ride height is preferred for better clearance with body armor.

Conclusion on Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6367-320-62

The Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6367-320-62 stands as a testament to Safariland’s commitment to producing reliable, secure, and durable gear. Its ALS retention system is a standout feature, providing a level of confidence in weapon security that is hard to match. Combined with its robust polymer construction and thoughtful high-ride design, it offers an exceptional blend of performance and practicality for its intended users. Considering the $171.40 price point, the value proposition is strong; you’re investing in a holster built for professional use that is designed to last.

I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who carries the specific compatible firearms and places a premium on secure retention and long-term durability. It’s a piece of equipment that performs its core function flawlessly and offers the peace of mind necessary for those who rely on their sidearm daily. If you need a dependable, secure carry solution for your S&W 5946/5943 DAO (without rails), this Safariland model is an investment that will not disappoint.