Safariland 6285 Level II Retention Drop Holster, Right Hand Review

Behind the Box: Testing the Safariland 6285 1.50″ Belt Drop, Level II Retention Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6285-27821-61

The Safariland 6285 1.50″ Belt Drop, Level II Retention Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6285-27821-61 is a duty holster designed for law enforcement and security personnel who require a secure and reliable way to carry their sidearm. Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and durability in the law enforcement world, has crafted this holster with a focus on retention and accessibility. Its Level II retention system and 1.50″ belt drop are key features that caught my eye, promising both security and a comfortable draw.

As a seasoned officer, I’ve seen my fair share of holsters fail at critical moments. I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily duty while providing quick and reliable access to my weapon. This Safariland offering appeared to be a promising solution to this need for a dependable and secure holster.

The holster arrived in typical Safariland packaging, a no-frills cardboard box that speaks to the company’s focus on functionality over aesthetics. Upon opening it, the first thing I noticed was the solid construction and the familiar feel of the Safariland STX finish. The plain black color is professional and understated, exactly what I need for duty wear.

I considered a few other options before settling on the 6285, namely the Safariland 7378RDS and the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Auto Lock Duty Holster. I ultimately chose the 6285 for its proven track record and its balance of retention and speed. The Serpa, while popular, felt too risky with its trigger finger release, and the 7378RDS, while accommodating red dot sights, wasn’t necessary for my current setup.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to try it out, given Safariland’s reputation. I have seen plenty of other officers use these holsters, and I was impressed with their durability, so I was hoping it would be a reliable holster for me as well.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6285 1.50″ Belt Drop, Level II Retention Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6285-27821-61 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Safariland 6285 at the police academy’s shooting range during our weekly firearms training. The weather was typical for our area – humid and slightly dusty. I put the holster through its paces, performing various drills, including drawing from seated and standing positions, moving and shooting, and retention exercises.

The holster performed admirably in these conditions. The Self-Locking System (SLS) retention mechanism provided a secure hold on my Sig Sauer P2022, while still allowing for a smooth and relatively quick draw. It did take a few practice draws to get used to the SLS hood release, but after about an hour, it became second nature.

The only initial issue I encountered was a slight bit of stiffness in the SLS hood rotation. It wasn’t a major problem, but it did require a deliberate motion to disengage. A bit of silicone spray seemed to do the trick and smooth things out.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of continuous use, the Safariland 6285 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, mainly some minor scuff marks on the STX finish. The holster has retained its shape and functionality, and the SLS mechanism continues to operate smoothly.

Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe down the holster with a damp cloth after each shift and occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the moving parts. The STX finish seems to repel dirt and grime effectively.

In comparison to my previous holster, a Level I retention model from a different manufacturer, the Safariland 6285 is a significant upgrade. The Level II retention gives me greater peace of mind, especially during confrontations with potentially combative subjects. The Safariland has outperformed my expectations regarding security.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6285 1.50″ Belt Drop, Level II Retention Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6285-27821-61

Specifications

The Safariland 6285 is a Level II retention duty holster designed for right-handed users. It features a 1.50″ (38mm) belt drop, which positions the firearm slightly lower on the hip for a more comfortable draw. The holster is constructed from Safariland’s proprietary STX material, a durable and weather-resistant polymer.

The holster utilizes the Safariland Self-Locking System (SLS) for Level II retention. This system consists of a rotating hood that must be depressed and rotated forward to release the firearm. The 6285 is designed for a top draw and features a straight drop cant, meaning the firearm is carried in a vertical position.

These specifications are crucial for duty use. The Level II retention provides a necessary level of security against unauthorized removal, while the 1.50″ belt drop enhances comfort and accessibility during prolonged wear. The robust STX construction ensures the holster can withstand the demands of daily duty.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6285 excels at its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a relatively quick and efficient draw. The SLS system is intuitive and easy to master with practice. The straight drop cant allows for a natural and comfortable grip on the firearm during the draw stroke.

One potential weakness is the slight learning curve associated with the SLS hood release. However, with consistent practice, this becomes a non-issue. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a Level II retention duty holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The 6285 boasts a simple and functional design. The STX material is durable yet lightweight, and the holster conforms comfortably to the body. The 1.50″ belt drop provides a good balance between accessibility and concealment.

The holster is generally user-friendly, although the SLS hood release may require some initial adjustment. The straight drop cant is comfortable for most users, but those with a preference for a forward cant may find it less ideal. The fit and finish is good, with no sharp edges or uncomfortable protrusions.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6285 is built to last. The STX material is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and weather. The holster’s internal components are also robust and well-protected.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. With proper care, the 6285 should provide years of reliable service. This holster is very easy to maintain.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6285 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including belt keepers, leg shrouds, and other mounting options. The holster can also be customized with different cant angles by using different mounting hardware.

The addition of the Safariland Sentry Locking System (SLS) guard is a common modification. This adds another layer of security, making it even more difficult for unauthorized individuals to remove the firearm. The 6285 also accepts various tactical lights designed to attach to the weapon.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6285 1.50″ Belt Drop, Level II Retention Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6285-27821-61

Who Should Buy Safariland 6285 1.50″ Belt Drop, Level II Retention Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6285-27821-61?

The Safariland 6285 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a secure and reliable duty holster. It’s also a good choice for private citizens who carry openly and want a holster with a higher level of retention. This holster is best used in the field by Law Enforcement officers and Security Personnel.

This product is not ideal for concealed carry due to its size and design. Also, it is not ideal for those who prefer a thumb break or other retention system over the SLS. These types of retention systems might not work as well for these individuals as the holster is not built for them.

A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry Locking System (SLS) guard. Additionally, a quality 1.50″ duty belt is essential for proper holster support. I would recommend getting this system if you work in law enforcement or a job that has high-risk physical altercations.

Conclusion on Safariland 6285 1.50″ Belt Drop, Level II Retention Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6285-27821-61

The Safariland 6285 1.50″ Belt Drop, Level II Retention Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6285-27821-61 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and reliability. The price of $185.49 is justified by the quality of construction and the peace of mind that comes with a Level II retention system. This holster is a staple in law enforcement.

I would personally recommend this holster to any law enforcement officer or security professional who needs a dependable and secure way to carry their firearm. It has exceeded my expectations and has become my go-to duty holster. Invest in your safety and order your Safariland 6285 today.