Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster Review

What Happened When I Tried the Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster

The Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster is a duty-grade holster designed for secure firearm retention. For over a decade, my work has spanned various demanding environments, and a reliable holster is non-negotiable. Recently, a shift in my operational requirements necessitated a robust, level III retention holster that could handle the rigors of professional use while offering a discreet, traditional aesthetic. I considered other ALS-compatible models, but the promise of Safarilaminate™ to mimic leather with superior durability caught my attention. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid construction; the material felt substantial, and the molding for my SIG Sauer P320 was precise. It offered an immediate sense of security, a welcome feeling after dealing with less secure alternatives.

The need arose from a specific scenario where a greater degree of weapon security was mandated. Standard retention holsters, while adequate for many situations, were deemed insufficient for the elevated security protocols. I needed something that provided an additional layer of protection against unauthorized weapon access without compromising the speed of a trained draw. The thought of a holster that looked like traditional leather but offered the synthetic advantages of modern materials was particularly appealing, addressing both form and function. My first encounter with this unit suggested it was engineered for purpose, a relief for someone who values practical, no-nonsense gear.

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for the Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster were primarily at the range and during simulated duty drills. The specific scenario involved drawing and re-holstering the SIG Sauer P320 under timed conditions, focusing on the ALS mechanism and the hood. I also tested its compatibility with my duty belt and standard tactical trousers, ensuring a secure fit without excessive bulk. The holster’s mid-ride position kept the firearm accessible without being obtrusive during movement.

Conditions during testing included controlled indoor ranges and simulated outdoor scenarios that mimicked light environmental factors like dust. The Safarilaminate™ finish held up well, showing no immediate signs of scuffing or degradation from moderate contact. Functionally, the ALS mechanism engaged with a satisfying click, confirming the weapon was locked. The Hood Guard provided an additional tactile point of reference for disengagement.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple range days and integrated into my daily wear during off-duty training, the Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster has proven remarkably resilient. The Safarilaminate™ material, designed to emulate leather, continues to maintain its form and finish. There are no signs of cracking or premature wear, even with daily friction against clothing and equipment.

Maintenance has been straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and debris. The internal Safarisuede™ lining remains intact, doing its job of protecting the firearm’s finish. Compared to older leather holsters I’ve used, which would often stiffen or show significant creasing, this synthetic alternative offers superior longevity and ease of care, especially considering its duty application.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster, specifically the 6360 model, is built with Safarilaminate™ construction, offering a blend of traditional leather aesthetics with synthetic durability. This material is key to its longevity and ease of maintenance, resisting water and abrasion far better than genuine leather. It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS®), a core retention mechanism that securely holds the weapon in any direction once holstered.

This holster provides Level III Retention™ as standard, meaning it uses three points of security to prevent unauthorized firearm removal. It is also capable of Level IV Retention™ with the optional Sentry device installed, adding an extra layer of security for high-risk environments. The design incorporates a Hood Guard as standard, which protects the ALS lever and offers a positive tactile point for deactivation.

A significant design choice is the mid-ride belt loop (6070ubl), which positions the holster closer to the body, reducing its profile and improving concealment potential for a duty-level holster. This design also facilitates a more natural draw stroke, aligning the firearm with the shooter’s line of sight quickly. The interior is lined with Safarisuede™, a soft material that protects the firearm’s sights and finish from scratches during insertion and removal.

The holster is designed for a simple, straight-up draw once all retention devices are deactivated, emphasizing a smooth and efficient deployment. It comes in various finishes including STX Plain, Basket Weave, and Hi-Gloss, though the model reviewed mimics traditional leather looks. The specific unit examined is configured for a SIG Sauer P320 and designed for a right-hand draw.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function, the Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster excels at securely retaining the SIG Sauer P320. The ALS® Automatic Locking System is robust; once the firearm is seated, it feels unequivocally locked in place. Disengaging the ALS requires a deliberate press of the thumb lever, which, with practice, becomes an instinctive part of the draw stroke.

The Level III retention is noticeable and reassuring, especially in dynamic movement or crowded environments. The Hood Guard adds a crucial element, preventing accidental deactivation of the ALS and providing a consistent contact point for the thumb during the draw. While the draw is described as “straight up,” the initial part of the motion involves disengaging the ALS, followed by clearing the Hood Guard, and then drawing the weapon. This sequence is achievable rapidly with training.

A key aspect of its functionality is the balance between security and accessibility. For its security level, the draw is surprisingly efficient. The design effectively prevents any rotational or vertical movement of the firearm within the holster, even under significant stress. This level of reliability is paramount for professional use where weapon retention is a critical safety factor.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster presents a traditional leather appearance due to its Safarilaminate™ finish, but its construction is far more modern and durable. The material feels rigid and precisely molded, ensuring a snug fit for the intended firearm without being so tight as to require excessive force for holstering. This precise molding is crucial for consistent ALS engagement.

Ergonomically, the mid-ride belt loop is a significant advantage. It allows the holster to sit comfortably against the hip, making it less prone to snagging on doorways or equipment. This positioning also aids in a fluid draw, as the firearm grip is presented at a natural angle.

The controls, primarily the ALS lever and the Hood Guard, are well-placed for right-handed operation. Once accustomed to the sequence of disengagement, the ergonomics facilitate a quick and confident draw. The slightly textured surface of the ALS lever provides good tactile feedback, even with gloved hands.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster is built for durability, designed to withstand the rigors of daily duty use. The Safarilaminate™ material is inherently resistant to water, sweat, and common environmental contaminants, a significant advantage over traditional leather. This means it won’t degrade, warp, or become stiff with exposure.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dust and debris, typically with a damp cloth. The Safarisuede™ lining is also durable and resistant to wear, continuing to protect the firearm’s finish over time. There are no complex mechanisms prone to failure, apart from the ALS itself, which is a proven and robust system.

Potential failure points are generally related to extreme environmental conditions or abuse, but within its intended duty context, this holster is expected to last for many years. The design is straightforward, with no easily broken external components beyond the ALS lever, which is well-protected by the Hood Guard.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster comes with a Hood Guard as a standard feature, enhancing retention and protecting the ALS mechanism. It is also designed to accommodate the optional Sentry, an additional active retention device that can be installed to achieve Level IV retention. This provides a clear upgrade path for users requiring maximum security.

While the holster itself is a specific molded unit for a particular firearm model, the 6070ubl mid-ride belt loop is a standard attachment point. This means it is compatible with a wide range of duty belts and other Safariland belt attachment accessories, offering some flexibility in how it is worn. However, the holster’s primary customization is the addition of the Sentry for enhanced retention.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster?

This holster is ideally suited for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible citizens who require duty-grade firearm retention. Anyone operating in environments where weapon security is paramount, and a Level III retention system is mandated or highly recommended, will find this a solid choice. It’s for those who value the proven ALS system and appreciate the robust, low-maintenance nature of Safarilaminate™.

Individuals who should likely avoid this particular model are those seeking a lightweight concealed carry holster or those who prefer the natural feel and break-in of traditional leather. If simple retention is all that’s needed and Level III security is overkill, less complex options might be more appropriate. For optimal use, a good duty belt and consistent training are highly recommended to master the ALS draw stroke.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster

The Safariland ALS Leather Look Holster delivers on its promise of high-level retention and durable, low-maintenance construction. For professionals who demand security and reliability, the ALS® system combined with the Safarilaminate™ finish offers a compelling package. Its design prioritizes function and security, with the mid-ride belt loop providing a comfortable and accessible carry profile for its class.

While the price point is higher than many entry-level holsters, the value is evident in its robust build and advanced retention features. For those who require or prefer Level III Retention™, this model offers an excellent blend of modern synthetic performance and a classic aesthetic. I would personally recommend this holster to any professional needing a secure, dependable, and resilient option for their SIG Sauer P320.