Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561

For over a decade, I’ve handled and tested countless pieces of outdoor and tactical gear, from the mundane to the extraordinary. Few pieces are as critical as a reliable holster, a tool that bridges the gap between readiness and responsibility. That’s why I was eager to get my hands on the Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561, a concealment-focused offering from the renowned Safariland brand.

As a firearms instructor, I constantly evaluate gear that balances security, accessibility, and comfort. I needed a holster that offered more than just retention; it needed to be intuitive, durable, and concealable for everyday carry. I’ve used open-top holsters and other retention systems, but I was drawn to Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS) for its reputation and balance of speed and security.

Out of the box, the Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561 immediately impressed me. The OD Green color is a subtle but welcome departure from the standard black, offering a touch of personality without sacrificing professionalism. Its construction felt solid, with the SAFARILAMINATE material exuding a sense of durability. I was comparing this holster to a Blackhawk! Serpa and a Galco Concealable, ultimately choosing the Safariland for its reputation for reliability and its ALS system.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The ALS system seemed ingenious, but I was concerned about the learning curve. It was a different feel from the friction-based retention of my existing holsters. My hope was that the Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561 would provide a secure and reliable carry option, and after thoroughly testing it, I am confident it delivers.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561 at my local shooting range during a defensive pistol course. The course involved a variety of drills, including drawing from concealment, shooting on the move, and engaging multiple targets. The weather was typical for a Texas summer: hot and humid.

Drawing from the holster took some initial practice to get used to deactivating the ALS with my thumb while establishing a proper grip. However, after a few repetitions, the motion became fluid and natural. I found the holster to be secure, even during dynamic movements. There were no issues with retention.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of weekly use at the range and occasional concealed carry, the Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the SAFARILAMINATE exterior or the internal suede lining. I have found the holster to be durable and consistent in performance.

Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The holster has not required any special maintenance. I found the Safariland to be far superior to a cheaper nylon holster I previously used. The Safariland is more secure, comfortable, and durable.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561

Specifications

• Category: Duty Gear. This positions the holster for professional use, suggesting a high level of reliability and durability.

• Group: ALS Holsters. The ALS system is Safariland’s patented automatic locking system, designed for secure weapon retention.

• Finish/Color: OD Green. This gives the holster a less tactical and more discreet look than traditional black finishes.

• Gun Fit: Smith & Wesson M&P .45 without thumb safety, BBL 4.50″. This holster is specifically molded for this firearm. This ensures a snug and secure fit.

• Hand: Right. Indicates this holster is designed for right-handed shooters.

These specifications matter because they dictate the holster’s compatibility, security, and overall functionality. The specific gun fit is crucial for proper retention and a smooth draw. The ALS system provides an added layer of security, while the OD Green finish enhances concealability.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561 performs its primary function of securing and allowing quick access to my firearm exceptionally well. The ALS system provides a positive, audible click when the weapon is holstered, assuring me that it is locked in place. The release is intuitive and requires only a natural thumb movement.

The holster’s strengths lie in its secure retention, comfortable paddle design, and relatively low profile for a duty-style holster. The main weakness is the initial learning curve required to master the ALS release. It meets my expectations and surpasses those of other paddle holsters I’ve used.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561 boasts a robust build quality. The SAFARILAMINATE material feels incredibly durable and resistant to scratches and abrasions. The holster is surprisingly lightweight, considering its robust construction.

The paddle design is comfortable for all-day wear, distributing the weight of the firearm evenly. There is a slight learning curve due to the ALS system, but it is easily overcome with practice. After a couple of range sessions, the draw became smooth and instinctive.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the SAFARILAMINATE construction and reinforced design, I expect the Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561 to last for many years of regular use. The holster is designed to withstand the rigors of duty use. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561 comes standard with the paddle attachment. It is compatible with other Safariland mounting options, such as belt loops and drop-leg platforms. This allows for customization based on individual needs and preferences.

While there are no inherent accessories, the modularity of the Safariland system allows for numerous configurations. Users can add magazine pouches, flashlight holders, and other accessories directly to the holster platform. This makes it compatible with a wide range of popular accessories from other brands, further enhancing its versatility.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561

• Durable Construction: The SAFARILAMINATE material is tough and resistant to wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting performance.

• Comfortable Paddle Design: The paddle is ergonomically designed for comfortable all-day carry.

• Modularity: Compatible with various Safariland mounting options for customized carry configurations.

• Relatively Low Profile: The holster is designed to be concealable despite being a duty-style holster.

• Specific Gun Fit: The holster is molded for a specific firearm, limiting its versatility.

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561?

The Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize secure weapon retention and comfortable concealed carry. It’s also a great fit for firearms instructors who need a reliable and durable holster for training purposes.

Those who prefer a simpler, friction-based retention system or require a holster that can accommodate multiple firearms should skip this product. If you need a holster for a different handgun model or caliber, this specific model will not work. A quality gun belt designed for concealed carry is a must-have accessory for optimal comfort and stability.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561

Overall, the Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a secure, durable, and relatively concealable holster for their Smith & Wesson M&P .45. The price is justified by the quality of construction, the reliability of the ALS system, and the overall performance of the holster.

I would personally recommend this holster to anyone who meets the criteria outlined above. The Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561 provides peace of mind knowing that your firearm is secure and readily accessible when needed. Invest in your safety and preparedness; check out the Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-419-561 today.