Pushing the Threshold of Retention

We put our holsters to the ultimate test

safariland holsters

tested to the extreme

How safe are Safariland’s retention-rated holsters? So safe, we’ve tested them with our lives. From 8000 feet high, 50 mph, high forces, torque and jolts, your firearm is secure. But don’t take our word for it, watch our video to see for yourself:

WARNING: The following video contains stunts performed by trained professionals in a closed environment. Do not attempt.

FOUR LAYERS OF PROTECTION

For years Safariland has set the standard of how firearms are retained within a holster.  These standards are defined as Retention Levels, rating them as I, II, III, IV.  Each level subjects the holster with a single or combination of security mechanisms and tested against the type of force expected of an adversary trying to release the firearm from the holster.

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ALS® + ALS® Guard

The ALS is often called a thumb release or lever, and it sits to the inside of the body of the holster against the user. The system uses an internal locking mechanism that secures the gun in all directions simply upon re-holstering. To release the firearm from a positive lock, the operator must press the lever back and once the device is released, the weapon can be drawn straight out of the holster. The ALS Guard can be added to any ALS only or Level I holster to provide an additional level of protection. 

Durable SafariSeven™ Construction

Constructed from SafariSeven™ the holster is built to withstand the elements, including extremes of heat and cold (300° F to -50° F). In addition, the holster retains its structural integrity even when submersed indefinitely. On the inside of the holster, the SafariSeven material is non-abrasive to protect your firearm’s finish.

SLS™ Hood Guard + Sentry

The Hood Guard provides added protection to the SLS holster system while the Sentry increases the retention level by one. It attaches to any SLS holster. Rated for retention on duty models only.

SLS™

The SLS utilizes a rotating hood retention device, which allows for a smoother, single-motion draw and greater protection against attempted weapon takeaways. To unlock the mechanism, the user rotates the hood forward as they obtain the shooting grip, and holds it in the unlocked position, which allows an opening to draw the firearm from the holster. The SLS strap has a ridge (a small flat purchase surface) along the inside area next to the operator. The ridge or button must be pushed down and then forward to flip the SLS strap out of the way, thus allowing the gun to be drawn.

secure against high force, jolts and torque

Strength, power, and endurance. All elements you build in a gym, and qualities you seek in a holster. Why not put our product to the test on the gym floor? Tested by free will and brute force.

tested against the elements

This isn’t your backyard slip and slide. Twin 225HP engines in a maritime playground make for a high speed day on the water. Enough excitement to push the threshold of our Level IV holster.

releases on command

Retention is critical at every altitude, and we never let fear get in the way of product testing. Even for some Mission Impossible type action. Oh and Tom Cruise? Never heard of her.

Innovation. Performance. Excellence. Legacy.

At The Safariland Group we live these values every day. Since 1964, we’ve empowered over two thousand people to design, engineer, research and deliver our protective equipment products to those that keep us safe. We’re continuously seeking new innovations to add to the premier group of products that protect law enforcement, military and security professionals.

1960s – 1970s

From Foundation to Innovation

In 1964, following his father’s request for a custom holster, Neale Perkins launched a holster business from his garage in Sierra Madre, California. He named his new company after the African safaris he and his father enjoyed together. From these humble beginnings, Safariland quickly went from making a few hundred holsters to more than 5,000 within a few months.

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1980s – 1990s

Introducing Holster Retention

With continuing success in the holster market, Safariland purchased Rogers Holster Company in 1985. Rogers Holsters were the first to market with a system of simple holster tests, from Levels I – III allowing for a consistent and reliable method for the holster buyer to field test to determine the relative retention level of different holsters models. This partnership took holster design to a new level. In 1996, Safariland introduced the truly innovative Self Locking System (SLS™), a unique rotating hood design providing enhanced security for duty holsters.

2000s – 2010s

Building Momentum

In 2000, Safariland introduced the concealment Model 0702, the first holster where no straps or snaps are required to retain the weapon. This innovation came years ahead of any competitor product in the market. The Raptor™ Holster System was introduced shortly thereafter, offering the first holster with Level IV security. Safariland continued to release new innovations and in 2006 the ALS® (Automatic Locking System) was developed, setting a standard that is still used today.

2020 and beyond

Innovation, Not Imitation

Safariland stands on a foundation built from the passion, spirit and values that began more than a half-century ago. Inspired by a legacy of principles and guided by a goal of excellence, Safariland will continue to produce high-quality and innovative products for our law enforcement, competitive shooting, outdoor sportsman and military customers.

the most trusted holsters on the market

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