Safariland ALS Paddle Holster 6378-91 Review

The Final Word on the Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561

The Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561 is a concealment holster designed for professionals and responsible citizens who prioritize both security and quick access to their firearm. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the law enforcement and tactical gear arena, this holster boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for enhanced retention. It’s a right-hand holster specifically molded for Heckler & Koch USP 9/40 models with a 4.25″ barrel, featuring an OD Green finish.

I was on the hunt for a reliable and secure holster for my H&K USP that allowed for concealed carry without sacrificing quick draw capability. Many holsters sacrifice one for the other, leaning too heavily on retention and making it difficult to draw quickly when every second counts. The Safariland ALS system promised a good balance, and I was eager to test if it lived up to the hype.

Upon receiving the holster, I was immediately impressed by the solid feel and the quality of the materials. The SAFARILAMINATE construction felt incredibly durable, and the suede lining was a nice touch, indicating a focus on protecting the firearm’s finish. The OD Green color was exactly as pictured and gives the holster a tactical, yet understated look.

Compared to some cheaper injection-molded holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland ALS felt like a significant step up in terms of build quality and retention. I considered a few other ALS holsters from Safariland and other manufacturers like Blackhawk, but the paddle design and the specific fit for my USP were key factors in my decision. I was looking for the most secure and comfortable concealed carry holster.

My initial impression was positive; I was eager to get the Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561 out to the range and see how it performed under pressure. The holster felt secure, and the ALS system engaged smoothly, giving me confidence that my firearm would stay put until I needed it.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561 at my local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. I wanted to get a feel for the ALS release under controlled conditions before trusting it in a more dynamic environment. The range offered a mix of indoor and outdoor bays, allowing me to assess performance in varying light conditions.

The holster performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions. The ALS system remained functional even when my hands were slightly damp from sweat. It took a few repetitions to become fully comfortable with deactivating the ALS while establishing a proper grip, but the motion quickly became intuitive.

The learning curve was minimal; after about an hour of practice, drawing and re-holstering became fluid and consistent. The paddle design initially felt a bit bulky, but I quickly appreciated how securely it anchored the holster to my waistband. There were no significant issues or surprises during my first range session.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. I have carried it both during training exercises and as part of my everyday carry setup. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the SAFARILAMINATE exterior.

The suede lining is still intact and continues to protect the finish of my H&K USP. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. Occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism with a dry lubricant keeps the release smooth and consistent.

Having used a variety of holsters over the years, the Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561 stands out for its excellent balance of security, accessibility, and comfort. It has outperformed other paddle holsters I’ve used in the past, particularly in terms of retention and draw speed. It has not disappointed me and has become my everyday carry holster of choice.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561 is specifically designed for right-handed users and compatible with Heckler & Koch USP 9 and 40 models with a 4.25″ barrel. Its primary retention mechanism is the Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon upon holstering. The holster features a durable SAFARILAMINATE construction.

The OD Green finish provides a low-profile, tactical appearance. The interior is lined with suede to protect the firearm’s finish and sights. The paddle is injection-molded and designed for close-to-body carry, offering concealment with a slight forward cant.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s functionality and suitability for concealed carry. The ALS ensures secure retention, which is critical for preventing accidental or unauthorized removal of the firearm. The SAFARILAMINATE construction guarantees durability and resistance to wear and tear.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561 excels in its primary function: securely retaining the firearm while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive to operate, requiring only a thumb release to deactivate the locking mechanism while establishing a firing grip. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent.

One of the strengths of this holster is its balance of security and accessibility. The ALS provides a high level of retention, but the draw is still fast and natural. The paddle design allows for comfortable and secure carry, even during extended periods of use.

There are very few weaknesses with this holster, although some users may find the paddle design slightly bulky compared to other attachment methods like belt loops or IWB clips. However, this is a minor trade-off for the added stability and retention provided by the paddle. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561 is constructed from high-quality materials, including SAFARILAMINATE and injection-molded polymer. The holster feels robust and well-made. The weight is reasonable for a holster of this type, not too light nor too heavy.

The paddle design is contoured to fit comfortably against the body, and the forward cant aids in concealment. The ALS release is well-positioned and easy to access with the thumb. The holster is generally user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its SAFARILAMINATE construction, the Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561 is expected to last for many years with proper care. The materials are resistant to abrasion and environmental factors. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.

Replacing parts is possible, though typically not needed, and Safariland is well-known for its customer support and readily available replacement parts. This holster is built to last.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561 comes as a complete unit with the paddle attachment pre-installed. While there are no specific customization options directly available for this particular model, it is compatible with Safariland’s extensive range of mounting options. Users can replace the paddle with belt loops or other attachments to suit their preferences.

Furthermore, the Safariland platform is generally compatible with various accessories, such as drop leg platforms or chest harnesses. The ALS retention system is also compatible with Safariland’s quick-locking system (QLS), allowing for rapid holster swapping between different carry platforms.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561?

The Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and responsible armed citizens who prioritize both security and quick access to their firearm. It’s also ideal for anyone who carries an H&K USP 9/40 with a 4.25″ barrel and prefers a paddle-style holster.

Individuals seeking the absolute lowest profile concealment might find the paddle a bit bulky, and may consider alternative attachment methods or IWB (Inside-the-Waistband) holsters. Users with firearms other than the specified H&K USP model should, of course, avoid this holster. A quality belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster support and stability.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561

The Safariland ALS Paddle Holster – OD Green, Right 6378-91-561 is a well-designed and highly functional holster that delivers on its promise of secure retention and quick access. The build quality is excellent, and the ALS system is both intuitive and effective. The price is justified.

I would definitely recommend this holster to anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable paddle holster for their H&K USP 9/40. It’s a worthwhile investment in your personal safety and preparedness. If you value security, accessibility, and durability in a holster, the Safariland ALS is an excellent choice. Get yours today and experience the Safariland difference!