Safariland

Safariland Retention Levels: I, II, and III Explained

Safariland uses a retention level system that describes how many independent motions are required to draw the pistol. Level I uses passive retention only — friction and tension hold the gun in place, released by a straight-up draw. Level II adds an active retention device (typically a thumb release button or hood) that must be deliberately disengaged before drawing. Level III adds a second active retention mechanism — typically a rotating hood plus a secondary locking device. Most law enforcement agencies require Level II minimum for duty use; high-threat environments often specify Level III. For civilian concealed carry, Level I or II provides adequate retention without excessive draw complexity.

Safariland 6390 and 6354 DO: The Duty Holster Standards

The 6390 ALS (Automatic Locking System) is Safariland’s most popular duty holster — Level II retention that locks the pistol automatically on reholstering and releases with a thumb on the ALS lever during the draw stroke. Once trained, the ALS release becomes automatic and doesn’t slow the draw. The 6354 DO (Drop Offset) adds a cant and lower ride height for patrol and tactical use. The ALS system is simpler and faster than earlier retention designs, which is why it has become the dominant choice in law enforcement holster upgrades over the past decade.

Safariland Competition Holsters: Open, Limited & 3-Gun

Safariland’s Competition Series ELS (Enhanced Locking System) holsters are the most popular competition holsters in USPSA Open and Limited divisions. The open-top design provides the fastest possible draw while the adjustable retention prevents the pistol from falling out during vigorous movement. The ELS attachment system allows the holster to be quickly swapped between different belt configurations. For USPSA competitors who want Safariland’s quality in a competition-specific design, the 5197 and 5198 models are the primary choices. Paired with Safariland’s double magazine pouches, a complete Safariland rig is the default setup for serious USPSA competitors.

Safariland for Optic-Ready Pistols

As red dot optics on carry and duty pistols have become standard, Safariland has expanded their holster line to accommodate optic-equipped pistols. Most current Safariland duty and competition holsters are available in optic-compatible versions that provide clearance for mounted red dots including the Holosun 507C, Trijicon RMR, and Leupold DeltaPoint Pro. When ordering a Safariland holster for an optic-equipped pistol, always specify the optic model to ensure proper fit. Generic “optic compatible” designations may not accommodate all optic heights and widths.

Safariland Holster Fit: Finding Your Model

Safariland holsters are pistol-specific — each holster is molded to fit a specific pistol model and barrel length. Finding the correct Safariland model requires your pistol make, model, generation, and barrel length. Safariland’s online holster finder tool is the most reliable way to identify compatible models. Popular Safariland holsters are available for Glock 17, Glock 19, Sig P320, FN 509, HK VP9, and virtually every other major duty and carry pistol.

Safariland Holsters & Related Pages

For competing holster brands, see our Alien Gear holsters page. For competition shooting resources where Safariland competition holsters are most relevant, see our competition guns page. For duty and carry pistols that Safariland holsters are designed for, see our Glock, Sig Sauer, and FN 509 pages.