Safariland Holster Cutaway Review

What You Should Know About the Safariland Holster Cutaway

As a long-time gear specialist with over a decade of experience across demanding environments, I’ve encountered my fair share of equipment failures and triumphs. My latest acquisition, the Safariland Holster Cutaway, specifically the 6360 ALS MIDRIDE LIVEL III STX TACTICAL FOR GLOCK 17/19/23 PLN BLK RH model, arrived with a specific need. My previous duty holster, while serviceable, had developed some significant wear, and I was looking for a robust, dependable replacement that offered a high level of retention. This particular model from Safariland, a name synonymous with reliable tactical gear, promised just that. Upon unboxing, my initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense construction. The STX Tactical material felt substantial, and the ALS (Automatic Locking System) mechanism felt precise. I had briefly considered a competitor’s offering, a polymer injection-molded unit, but ultimately opted for the proven ALS system. My first reaction was a sense of quiet confidence; this felt like a piece of equipment built to endure.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Holster Cutaway to the Test

First Use Experience

My primary testing ground for this Safariland holster was on the range, simulating both dry practice and live-fire drills. I conducted extensive draw and re-holster cycles, focusing on the speed and security of the ALS system. The mid-ride position, a key feature of this specific model, proved to be a comfortable compromise between accessibility and concealment, especially when worn with a duty belt. I also subjected it to a simulated stress scenario involving rapid movement and some minor impacts against door frames and vehicle interiors to test its resilience.

The holster performed admirably under these conditions. The ALS mechanism engaged with a satisfying click every time, and drawing the firearm was surprisingly fluid once I became accustomed to the thumb release. Even after repeated, rapid draws, the retention remained consistently strong, and I experienced no accidental disengagements. There were no immediate issues or surprises; the fit for my Glock 17 was snug and secure, exactly as expected.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months of regular use, this Safariland holster has become an indispensable part of my loadout. It has seen numerous range days, including a particularly dusty outdoor session, and has been exposed to light moisture during unexpected downpours. Throughout it all, the STX Tactical material has shown remarkable resistance to the elements, with no signs of degradation or stiffness.

The durability of the ALS system has been particularly impressive. It continues to function flawlessly, with the locking mechanism remaining crisp and responsive. I have not noticed any significant wear and tear, such as cracks or loosening of components, which is a testament to Safariland’s robust design and materials. Maintenance has been minimal; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of a light silicone lubricant to the ALS lever keeps it functioning optimally. Compared to some lighter-duty plastic holsters I’ve used in the past, this model’s longevity and consistent performance are significantly superior.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Holster Cutaway

Specifications

The Safariland Holster Cutaway, specifically the 6360 ALS MIDRIDE LIVEL III STX TACTICAL FOR GLOCK 17/19/23 PLN BLK RH, is a Level III Retention holster. It is constructed from durable STX Tactical material, known for its excellent abrasion resistance and ability to maintain its form in various environmental conditions. The holster features the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the firearm upon re-holstering, and an SLS (Self-Locking System), providing an additional layer of security. The mid-ride design places the firearm slightly lower on the hip than a high-ride holster, offering a good balance of access and comfort.

This combination of features is crucial for any professional requiring a secure firearm carry solution. The Level III Retention ensures that the firearm is protected against unauthorized removal, a critical factor in high-risk environments. The ALS system allows for a natural thumb-driven draw, facilitating quick access when needed, while the SLS acts as a secondary lock, preventing the firearm from being drawn inadvertently. The STX Tactical material’s resilience means it can withstand the rigors of daily use without compromising its protective capabilities. Compared to simpler duty holsters that may only offer Level I or II retention, this model provides a significantly higher degree of security.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role, the Safariland Holster Cutaway excels. The firearm is held securely with absolutely no slop or movement, a critical characteristic for any professional-grade holster. Drawing the pistol is smooth and intuitive once the ALS mechanism is mastered; the thumb release is perfectly positioned for a natural engagement during the draw stroke. Re-holstering is equally positive, with the ALS engaging automatically, providing audible and tactile confirmation that the firearm is secured.

The true strength of this holster lies in its unwavering retention. During rigorous drills and simulated dynamic movements, the Glock 17 remained firmly seated. I experienced no instances of the firearm shifting or coming loose, even when bumped or jostled. This level of security is paramount for peace of mind in demanding situations. The only minor point for improvement might be the initial learning curve for the ALS system for those completely new to Safariland’s design, but this is a minor hurdle easily overcome with practice.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland holster is immediately apparent. The STX Tactical material feels robust and has a consistent, non-slip texture. The molding for the Glock 17/19/23 is precise, ensuring a tight and secure fit that protects the firearm’s finish. The ALS lever is well-integrated into the holster’s design and feels durable, capable of withstanding repeated use.

Ergonomically, the mid-ride position is a significant advantage. It allows for a comfortable draw without being too high to access quickly or too low to create an obstruction. The holster’s profile, while substantial to accommodate the retention features, is surprisingly unobtrusive when worn. Markings on the holster are minimal, focusing on functionality rather than aesthetics, which is appropriate for its intended purpose. The overall feel is one of a tool built for serious use, not for show.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction and materials, the Safariland Holster Cutaway is built for longevity. I anticipate this holster will easily last for many years of consistent, professional use. The STX Tactical material is inherently resistant to abrasion and environmental factors. The internal components of the ALS system, being robustly engineered, are unlikely to fail under normal operational stress.

Maintenance is commendably simple. A light cleaning with water and a soft brush is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. For smoother operation, a very small amount of silicone lubricant can be applied to the ALS mechanism periodically. There are no complex parts to clean or delicate finishes to worry about. The potential failure point would likely be extreme abuse or damage to the ALS lever, but its solid construction makes this unlikely.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland Holster Cutaway is designed for direct mounting onto standard duty belts. This specific model comes configured for a Glock 17, 19, or 23 with its factory sights, fitting a wide range of common duty pistols. While the holster itself is not highly customizable in terms of color or material finish beyond the available options, Safariland offers various mounting systems that can be purchased separately, allowing users to adapt the holster to different belt widths or configurations if needed.

For users requiring specific firearm compatibility beyond what this model offers, Safariland provides a vast array of holsters tailored to different makes and models. While this specific holster doesn’t include extra accessories in the box, its robust design often means that its integrated features are all that’s truly necessary for its intended function. The lack of extensive customization is a trade-off for its streamlined, secure, and reliable design.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Holster Cutaway

Who Should Buy Safariland Holster Cutaway?

The Safariland Holster Cutaway is an ideal choice for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible citizens who require a high level of firearm retention and security. Its robust construction and reliable mechanisms make it perfect for duty use in demanding environments where accidental firearm dislodgement is a critical concern. Anyone prioritizing security and durability over extensive customization will find this holster to be an excellent investment.

Individuals who should probably skip this product would be those looking for a minimalist holster for concealed carry that prioritizes extreme concealability above all else, or those who only need basic retention for casual range use. For such users, simpler Level I or II holsters might be more appropriate and cost-effective. I highly recommend pairing this holster with a sturdy, quality duty belt and ensuring proper holster mounting to maximize its security and functionality.

Conclusion on Safariland Holster Cutaway

The Safariland Holster Cutaway, specifically the 6360 ALS model, is a premium piece of tactical equipment that absolutely delivers on its promises of security and reliability. Its robust STX Tactical construction, coupled with the proven ALS and SLS retention systems, provides an unparalleled level of confidence for professional users. While the initial investment is higher than many basic holsters, the exceptional durability, flawless performance, and peace of mind it offers make the price point entirely justified. I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to any professional who demands the utmost in firearm security and needs a tool that can keep up with the rigors of their job. This is a holster built to last and perform when it matters most.