Safariland 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light Review

My Experience with the Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light: Here’s the Truth

The Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light is a specialized piece of kit designed for concealed carry of firearms equipped with red dot sights and weapon lights. Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the law enforcement and tactical gear world, has once again delivered a product that promises both security and accessibility. This holster caught my eye due to its compatibility with red dot sights, a feature I’ve been incorporating more and more into my carry setup.

For years, I struggled with finding a concealment holster that could accommodate both a red dot optic and a weapon-mounted light without sacrificing comfort or ease of draw. Many holsters I tried were either too bulky, lacked secure retention, or were simply not designed for the specific combination of firearm, optic, and light that I preferred. I needed a holster that could keep my Sig Sauer P320 RX with a Streamlight TLR-1HL secure and concealed, while still allowing for a quick and natural draw.

Upon receiving the Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light, my initial impression was positive. The construction felt solid, the materials were high quality, and the ALS (Automatic Locking System) seemed robust and intuitive. Compared to a generic nylon holster I was using, this was a significant upgrade in both retention and build quality. The holster felt more streamlined than a previous Kydex holster that didn’t quite fit my light correctly.

Initially, I was excited to see if this holster would solve my concealment challenges, but also cautiously optimistic, knowing that many holsters promise more than they deliver. The fit and finish gave me confidence, but the real test would be how it performed in real-world use.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light was at an outdoor shooting range, where I spent several hours practicing drawing and re-holstering drills. I wanted to see how the holster performed under moderate physical activity and in typical range conditions. I also tested it in slightly damp conditions after a light rain shower.

The holster performed admirably, providing a secure hold on my Sig Sauer P320 RX even during rapid movements. The ALS release was intuitive and easy to operate, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke. Getting used to the paddle attachment took a little getting used to at first, as I’m more accustomed to belt loops, but after some adjustments, it felt secure.

There were no major issues after the first use, but I did notice that the paddle attachment could shift slightly during more aggressive movements. Also, the initial draw required a slightly firmer thumb press on the ALS release than I anticipated.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, including daily concealed carry and multiple range sessions, the Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. There is minimal wear and tear on the holster itself, and the ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly. I’ve worn it in both hot and humid conditions, and the SafariSeven material seems to resist moisture and maintain its shape well.

The only maintenance I’ve performed is a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. Comparing it to previous Kydex holsters, the Safariland holster is much more comfortable for extended carry, thanks to the smoother interior lining. It has exceeded my expectations for a concealment holster.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light

Specifications

• The Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light is specifically designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights and weapon lights. It accommodates a range of Sig Sauer P320 RX models, including those with Streamlight TLR-1, TLR-1HL, Surefire X200, X300, X300U, Inforce APL, and Nightstick TWM series lights.

• The holster utilizes Safariland’s renowned ALS (Automatic Locking System) for secure weapon retention. The ALS locks the firearm in place upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release for a smooth, natural draw.

• The holster’s construction includes Safarilaminate, providing a robust and durable exterior. The interior is lined with Safarisuede to protect the firearm’s finish and prevent wear on the front sight.

• The holster’s attachment system is a paddle, designed for easy on-and-off capability. It also boasts a Cordura finish.

• Additional specifications include a MultiCam color option and SafariSeven holster material.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s performance, durability, and overall user experience. The ALS provides a secure hold, the materials offer longevity and protection, and the compatibility with red dot sights and weapon lights makes it a versatile option for modern concealed carry setups.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light excels in its primary function: providing secure and accessible concealed carry for firearms with red dot sights and weapon lights. The ALS ensures the firearm remains securely in place until needed, and the thumb release allows for a quick and intuitive draw. The holster has a smooth draw.

The main strength is the ALS retention system. The holster also has quality construction. A minor weakness is the paddle attachment, which can shift slightly under extreme movement.

Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a concealment holster in this category.

Design & Ergonomics

The holster’s design is well thought out, with a focus on both functionality and comfort. The Safarilaminate and Safarisuede materials provide a durable and comfortable platform for concealed carry. There is minimal bulk.

The paddle attachment is easy to use, but as mentioned, can shift a bit. There is a slight learning curve with the ALS, but it becomes second nature with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light is built to last, thanks to its high-quality materials and robust construction. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light is primarily designed to accommodate specific firearm and weapon light combinations. It is compatible with a wide range of Sig Sauer P320 RX models and various weapon lights, including Streamlight, Surefire, and Nightstick options.

It’s also compatible with various red dot sights. While the holster itself does not offer extensive customization options, its compatibility with popular firearms and accessories makes it a versatile choice for many users.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light

Who Should Buy Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light?

The Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and responsible civilians who prioritize secure and accessible concealed carry of firearms equipped with red dot sights and weapon lights. It is ideal for those who demand a high level of retention and reliability in their carry gear. It’s a good fit for those who prefer the convenience of a paddle attachment.

Those who prefer belt loop attachments or require a more minimalist holster should skip this product. Users who aren’t running weapon lights should consider other options.

A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory.

Conclusion on Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light

The Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promises of security, accessibility, and durability. The ALS retention system, red dot sight compatibility, and weapon light integration make it a standout option for modern concealed carry setups. While the paddle attachment may require occasional adjustments, the overall performance and quality of the holster justify its price.

I would personally recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable and versatile concealed carry solution for their firearm with a red dot sight and weapon light. If you’re looking for a holster that combines security, accessibility, and durability, look no further than the Safariland Model 6378RDS ALS Concealment Paddle Holster w/Light. Upgrade your carry setup today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is securely and readily available when you need it most.