Safariland Mid Ride ALS Holster Review

It’s Time to Talk About the Safariland Mid Ride ALS Holster

After more than a decade spent wrangling gear in every imaginable scenario – from the sterile quiet of a laboratory bench to the dust-choked chaos of a workshop and the unforgiving expanse of the field – I’ve developed a keen sense for what works and what’s just there. When it came time to find a secure and reliable way to carry my SIG Sauer P320, the Safariland Mid Ride ALS Holster kept surfacing in conversations. My previous holster, while serviceable, lacked the robust security features I needed, especially when navigating demanding environments. The inherent risk of an unsecured firearm, particularly when speed and accessibility are paramount, necessitated an upgrade.

From the moment it arrived, the build quality of this Safariland offering was apparent. The firm, molded polymer felt substantial, a stark contrast to some of the flimsier options I’d encountered. I’d briefly considered a kydex alternative from a smaller manufacturer, but Safariland’s reputation for duty-grade equipment, coupled with the ALS system’s proven design, made my decision easier. My initial impression was one of quiet confidence; this felt like a tool designed to perform under pressure, not just look good.

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

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds were practical, not theoretical. I fitted the holster to my duty belt, loaded my P320, and went through countless drawing and reholstering drills. This was done both stationary and while moving through simulated scenarios, mimicking the cadence of a tactical shift or a complex maintenance task requiring constant readiness. The holster’s mid-ride position offered a natural draw angle, neither too high nor too low, and it stayed securely against my body even during rapid directional changes.

In terms of environmental resilience, I deliberately exposed it to a light dusting of workshop grime and a few accidental brushes against rough surfaces during a particularly involved repair. The Safariland Mid Ride ALS Holster showed no signs of compromise; the mechanism remained smooth, and the exterior finish, a high gloss black in my case, proved surprisingly resilient to minor abrasions. The ALS (Automatic Locking System), which is the heart of this holster, engaged and disengaged with a consistent, satisfying click. It required a conscious thumb break to release, a crucial safety feature that felt entirely intuitive after just a few repetitions.

Extended Use & Reliability

Weeks bled into months, and this Safariland holster became an integral part of my daily loadout. It accompanied me on extended range sessions, through long shifts involving a mix of sedentary work and active patrol simulation, and even on a short but brisk hike where it remained unobtrusive. The holster has held up remarkably well, showing only the faintest of superficial scuffs on the exterior polymer, which are practically invisible on the hi gloss finish. The internal Safarisuede lining has done an admirable job of protecting my pistol’s sights and finish, with no undue wear observed.

Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and a touch of mild soap is usually all that’s needed to remove any accumulated dust or debris. Occasionally, a light application of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism keeps it operating with that factory-fresh smoothness. Compared to some older nylon holsters I’ve used, which tended to soak up water and grime, this molded polymer design is a dream to keep clean and functional. I haven’t encountered any stiffness or degradation in the retention mechanism, which is a common failure point in lesser holsters.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Mid Ride ALS Holster

Specifications

The Safariland Mid Ride ALS Holster is a testament to thoughtful engineering, designed with specific operational needs in mind. It features a Level II Retention system, meaning it offers two distinct points of retention to prevent unauthorized draws. The holster is crafted from durable, injection-molded polymer, chosen for its strength and resistance to environmental factors.

It incorporates the proprietary ALS (Automatic Locking System), which securely locks the firearm in all directions. The included 6070 UBL (Universal Belt Loop) positions the holster at a comfortable mid-ride height, keeping the firearm accessible without being overly exposed. This specific model reviewed is configured for the SIG Sauer P320 in a right-hand orientation and boasts a hi gloss finish. The Safarisuede lining is a key feature for protecting the firearm’s finish and sights.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of any holster is to retain and allow for the rapid, secure deployment of a firearm. The Safariland Mid Ride ALS Holster excels in both these areas. The ALS mechanism provides an exceptionally secure hold; during dynamic movement, there was zero felt muzzle-whip or lateral play of the pistol within the holster. Drawing the weapon requires a deliberate and trained motion—pressing the thumb release as you pull upwards—which is precisely what is needed for a duty-grade holster.

Its strength lies in its unwavering reliability. The retention is consistent, load after load, draw after draw. The Level II Retention is robust without being overly cumbersome to operate once the muscle memory is established. If there’s a minor point for consideration, it’s that the ALS requires a specific training regimen to ensure it can be operated under stress. However, for its intended application, this level of security is a significant advantage, far outweighing any minimal learning curve.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Safariland holster is clearly driven by function. The molded polymer offers a precise fit for the SIG Sauer P320, eliminating any unwanted slop. The mid-ride position afforded by the 6070 UBL is, in my opinion, the sweet spot for accessibility; it allows for a natural drawing motion without being so low that it interferes with movement or is easily snagged. The hi gloss finish, while aesthetically pleasing, also aids in the smooth drawing and reholstering process.

Ergonomically, the holster is well-shaped to conform to the body without creating excessive bulk or pressure points, even when worn for extended periods. The Safarisuede lining is a thoughtful touch, providing a soft interface that protects the firearm’s finish and, crucially, its sights. This detail speaks to Safariland’s understanding of firearm care and longevity.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the inherent robustness of Safariland’s construction, the Safariland Mid Ride ALS Holster is built for longevity. For its intended duty application, it’s designed to withstand daily rigorous use and exposure to the elements. The polymer is resistant to impacts, and the ALS mechanism, being internal and well-protected, is less susceptible to external damage than some external retention devices.

Maintenance is straightforward, as mentioned, requiring only basic cleaning. The UBL attaches securely to duty belts, and the connection between the UBL and the holster body feels solid and integrated. I’ve encountered no weak points or obvious areas for premature failure, which is a testament to the quality of materials and manufacturing. For users who are meticulous about maintaining their gear, this holster will likely serve them for many years.

Accessories and Customization Options

The primary configuration I reviewed came equipped with the 6070 UBL, a highly effective and common belt loop that allows for adjustable cant and ride height. This is the standard for many Safariland duty holsters and is an excellent base. While this specific package didn’t include additional accessories, Safariland offers a vast array of replacement UBLs, drop-leg platforms, and chest harnesses that can be adapted to this holster body.

This modularity is a significant advantage. If your role or carrying preference changes, you can often adapt the same holster body to a new mounting system without replacing the entire unit. The ALS system itself is also a feature that can be found on many other Safariland holsters, providing a consistent retention method across their product line.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Mid Ride ALS Holster

Who Should Buy Safariland Mid Ride ALS Holster?

This Safariland Mid Ride ALS Holster is an ideal choice for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and any responsible firearm owner who requires Level II Retention for their SIG Sauer P320. It’s perfect for individuals who operate in environments where weapon security and rapid, reliable access are critical. If you need a holster that can withstand the rigors of daily duty or demanding field use, this is a solid contender.

However, individuals seeking a lightweight, minimalist holster for casual concealed carry or those who are not willing to invest the time in training for the ALS system might find it less suitable. For those users, a simple passive retention holster would be more appropriate. For maximum effectiveness, I recommend pairing this holster with a quality, rigid duty belt and ensuring you practice your draw stroke consistently.

Conclusion on Safariland Mid Ride ALS Holster

The Safariland Mid Ride ALS Holster has proven itself to be a top-tier piece of equipment. It delivers on its promise of secure retention, comfortable wear, and durable construction, making it an excellent investment for professionals and serious firearm enthusiasts alike. While the price reflects its duty-grade nature, the value it provides in terms of security and reliability is undeniable.

I wholeheartedly recommend this holster for anyone needing Level II Retention for their SIG Sauer P320. It’s a product that, through extensive real-world use, has earned its place as a dependable tool in my gear arsenal, and I am confident it will do the same for others.