Safariland Level II Holster Review

What’s Special About the Safariland Level II Holster?

When you need reliable firearm retention, the Safariland Level II Holster emerges as a robust option. This particular model, designed for Sig P220R and P226R DASA pistols, promises a secure carry experience with its specific retention features. My own search for a dependable holster was driven by a need for greater security during dynamic training exercises, where the risk of accidental weapon release is a significant concern.

The initial impression upon handling this holster is one of solid construction. The Nylon Look material feels durable, and the overall build quality suggests it can withstand the rigors of consistent use. I had been using a simpler, open-top holster for convenience, but a close call during a rapid draw drill highlighted the need for a more secure solution.

Compared to the basic nylon holsters that offer minimal retention, or custom kydex options that can be prohibitively expensive, this Safariland offering attempts to strike a balance between security and accessibility. My first reaction was one of cautious optimism, hoping this would finally provide the peace of mind I was looking for.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Level II Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Safariland Level II Holster took place at a local indoor shooting range and during various defensive firearms training courses. I focused on drawing and reholstering drills, as well as simulating tactical movement scenarios to evaluate its performance under stress. The holster was mounted on a standard duty belt, allowing for consistent positioning and draw stroke practice.

Performance in different conditions was a key focus. I exposed the holster to the dust and grime inherent in range environments and even experienced a light misting of rain during an outdoor training session, noting no degradation in function or retention. Ease of use was surprisingly intuitive; the Level II retention mechanism, featuring a hood guard, engaged and disengaged with a deliberate, yet accessible, motion after a short acclimatization period.

There were no major issues, but the added hood guard did slightly increase the travel distance for a full draw compared to my previous open-top setup. This was an expected trade-off for the enhanced security, and one I was willing to accept.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, both at the range and during personal practice sessions, the Safariland Level II Holster has held up admirably. Day-to-day tasks, like simply carrying the firearm, remain comfortable and secure, with the Mid Ride positioning offering a good balance between accessibility and concealment under a jacket.

Durability has been impressive; there are no visible cracks, stiffness, or significant scuffs despite frequent use and occasional brushes against door frames or training props. The retention mechanism remains consistently firm, and the hood guard still operates smoothly without any signs of wear. Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving an occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris, a testament to its robust build.

Compared to the budget nylon holsters I’ve used in the past, which often lose their shape and retention after a short period, this Safariland unit far surpasses them in longevity and reliability. It doesn’t quite offer the custom-molded fit of a premium Kydex holster, but for its price point and security level, it’s a highly dependable choice.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Level II Holster

Specifications

This Safariland Level II Holster is specifically configured for Sig P220R and P226R DASA firearms, indicating a precise fit designed for these pistol models. It features a Level II Retention system, which includes a hood guard that adds an extra layer of security beyond a standard thumb break. The holster is constructed with a Nylon Look material, providing a balance of durability and a traditional aesthetic.

It is designed for a Left Hand (LH) shooter and sports a Black color. The Mid Ride cant means the holster sits at a standard belt height, offering good accessibility without being too high or too low. The added Sentry/hood guard combination is the defining characteristic of its Level II security, ensuring the firearm remains secured until intentionally released.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Safariland Level II Holster is to securely retain a firearm while allowing for a swift and controlled draw. In this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The Level II retention mechanism provides a significant barrier against opportunistic weapon grabs, a crucial feature for those in law enforcement or engaged in high-risk training.

The main strength lies in its reliable retention, ensuring the firearm stays put even during vigorous movement. Its primary weakness, if it can be called that, is the slightly longer draw stroke required due to the hood guard compared to open-top holsters. However, this is an acceptable trade-off for the enhanced security it offers, and with practice, the draw becomes efficient.

Considering its price and intended use, this holster more than meets expectations for secure firearm carry. It delivers on its promise of strong retention without being overly complex to operate.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland Level II Holster is immediately apparent. The Nylon Look material feels robust and resistant to abrasion, suggesting it can handle the wear and tear of daily duty or intense training. The overall feel is solid, and the holster exhibits a precise molded fit for the intended Sig Sauer pistols.

Ergonomically, the Mid Ride design positions the pistol comfortably for a natural draw, and the Left Hand (LH) configuration is standard for right-handed shooters needing a left-hand holster for cross-draw or administrative carry. The Sentry/hood guard combination is designed for intuitive operation, though it does require a specific sequence of movements to deploy the firearm smoothly. While there’s a slight learning curve to master the hood release under pressure, it quickly becomes second nature.

Practical design elements like the firm retention points and the sturdy mounting system contribute to its overall usability. These features ensure the holster stays securely attached to the belt and reliably holds the firearm.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction and the inherent toughness of its materials, the Safariland Level II Holster is built for longevity. Under normal use for its intended category, it is likely to last for many years, potentially a decade or more, before showing significant signs of degradation. It is designed for demanding environments and frequent use.

Maintenance is refreshingly straightforward. A simple cleaning with a damp cloth or a mild soap solution followed by air drying is usually sufficient to keep it in optimal condition. There are no complex parts or mechanisms that require specialized tools or lubricants.

Potential concerns are minimal, but like any mechanical retention device, the hood guard’s hinge mechanism could theoretically wear down over extremely prolonged periods of heavy use. However, Safariland’s reputation for quality suggests this is unlikely to be an issue for most users.

Accessories and Customization Options

This specific Safariland Level II Holster is designed for a precise firearm model and does not typically come with extensive accessories or customization options for the holster itself. Its primary feature is its integrated Level II Retention with the Sentry/hood guard combination.

However, it is designed to be mounted on a standard duty belt or similar tactical gear, which opens up compatibility with various belt systems and accessories that attach to such platforms. The holster itself is a finished product focused on its core function of secure retention. While some holster manufacturers offer interchangeable mounting systems, this model appears focused on a fixed belt attachment.

The key “accessory” is the pistol it’s designed for: the Sig P220R and P226R DASA. The holster’s design prioritizes a secure fit for these firearms above all else.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Level II Holster

Who Should Buy Safariland Level II Holster?

The Safariland Level II Holster is an excellent choice for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and individuals involved in rigorous defensive firearms training who prioritize firearm retention above all else. It is ideal for anyone carrying a Sig P220R or P226R DASA and requires a higher level of security than a basic open-top or Level I retention holster can provide. This holster is best suited for environments where accidental weapon dislodging is a significant risk, such as dynamic training scenarios or close-quarters security work.

Conversely, individuals seeking a simple, minimalist holster for concealed carry where speed is the absolute priority, or those who carry a different firearm model, should look elsewhere. Those who prefer a completely unobstructed draw or require a universally compatible holster might find this model too restrictive.

For optimal use, ensure you have a sturdy duty belt that can adequately support the holster and firearm. Pairing it with appropriate training ammunition for practice drawing and reholstering is also recommended to build proficiency with the retention system.

Conclusion on Safariland Level II Holster

The Safariland Level II Holster is a commendable piece of equipment that delivers on its promise of robust firearm security. Its Level II Retention system, combined with durable construction and a secure fit for specific Sig Sauer models, makes it a reliable choice for professionals and serious hobbyists. While the added security does introduce a slightly longer draw stroke, this is a deliberate and often necessary trade-off for enhanced safety.

The price point of $189.99 positions it as a mid-to-high range option, but the value derived from its reliability, durability, and peace of mind it offers justifies the investment for those who need its specific security features. I would personally recommend this holster to anyone carrying a compatible Sig Sauer pistol who demands a high level of retention. If your primary concern is absolute firearm security in demanding situations, this Safariland unit is a strong contender.