another 'which is the right duty holster for me?' thread...

[iLikeOldgunsIlikeNewGuns]

Hey all, I could really use some opinions here, isn't THR all about sharing experience to help pave the way for others anyhow?

I've been working as an armed guard for about a year now. My jobs are relatively low-risk, but I'd really like to upgrade to a holster with better retention than just a thumb-snap. I've been searching THR about this for a while now, and at the moment, though they cost more than I'd like to spend, I am considering a Safariland or Garrett, but that may change after hearing back from some of y'all.

My criteria is as follows; it will be worn on my duty-belt. I'd like to have a holster that locks my gun in
place until draw, and I think I want the hood-doohickey for extra security (Is this what's considered 'level 3 retention'? I'm no expert on this). I don't have an abundance of $$, however I understand that you get what you pay for, so I'd like to buy once - buy right. That being said, suggestions on where to get the best deals are also highly encouraged Out of a dozen or so handguns I own, I prefer to carry my S&W 1911, for caliber/ballistics reasons as well as that it's what I shoot the best. This has me considering the purchase of a leather-lined kydex or nylon holster to minimize wear, which I know is unavoidable. I don't mind a little honest wear, but I'd really like to keep it as minimal as possible. Looks like I want an open-ended muzzle on the holster for easier cleaning of grit and whatnot.

So are there any other guards or police officers out there with similar criteria and found that perfect holster? Any feedback and/or suggestions are greatly appreciated!

 

[joe_security]

Safariland 6280 is level 2. Optional hood guard and sentry make it more secure. Also see the ALS and level 3 070 holsters before you decide. See the demo videos on the Safariland web site. They also offer the 6287 for regular belts if you dont want to wear the sam browne style belt. Safariland is industry standard for retention holsters and duty equipment. They offer a magazine case that also holds a set of cuffs . Glock, Sig, Baretta S&W and others are all supported by the holster makers, the 1911 may limit holster choices .

 

[9mmepiphany]

The last issued holster I used was a Safariland 6280 (SLS) and I was very happy with it. While it doesn't automatically "lock the gun in" like the ALS would, flipping the hood back in place is very natural when you reholster.

Especially if you are considering carrying a 1911 style platform, the ergos on the SLS work better than the ALS.

 

[allaroundhunter]

Either a Safariland ALS or SLS is a good choice, or a holster that I recently purchased, a G-Code XLS. The XLS has a kydex strap that covers the back of the slide and is disengaged with a push button on the inward side of the holster by your strong hand thumb.

Downside to these G-Code holsters is that there is an 8 week lead time right now an growing.

I'll get a pic of it up for you when I get back home.

 

[iLikeOldgunsIlikeNewGuns]

Thanks a ton for the replies guys.

I posted this a month ago, and after a lot of internet research, I just a few days ago decided to go with a Safariland 6360 and ordered one. I looked at all my best options and put a lot of thought into it, plus once I decided on that model I found one for about $100 brand new including shipping, which seems to be a pretty good deal. Can't wait to bring it to my shooting spot and practice draw + fire.
I work mobile security / alarm response in a major city including some pretty rough areas where there have been shootings every week for months now, including two detectives that were killed less than a week ago, may they RIP. I haven't experienced any hostility while on the job but I would never take that for granted. My company is getting a great group deal on some level IIIa vests too that are supposedly 'breathable' and flexible. I really can't wait to try my 6360 out, I'll feel much more comfortable with a good retention holster. I'm especially curious about their 'Safarisuede' lining material. (at least I think that's what it's called...)

 

[allaroundhunter]

The 'Safarisuede' really is nothing to be amazed with. It is just a good liner to keep kydex from rubbing against metal. It almost seems like felt, but it much more durable.

 

[iLikeOldgunsIlikeNewGuns]

don't need amazing, sounds like what I want

 

[allaroundhunter]

Sorry, that sounded kinda like I was being critical of it. It really is a good idea and it helps to keep from wearing down the finish of the gun... Just don't look at it as a fashionable accessory for fancy nights