Should I switch to the Safariland ALS

[SNAFUG36]

I've been looking into doing some pistol classes and I've seen on here and on various class sights that no one seems to like/allow Blackhawk Serpa holsters. I'm trying to decide what to switch to. I'm leaning towards the Safariland ALS to switch over to for my holsters.

Please don't turn this into a 'Why Serpa holsters are EVIL' thread. I'm trying to find options that allow me to take various classes since a lot don't allow Serpa. Thanks.

[Philbert]

I like the ALS. I have it for my Glock 26 and it's a bit bulky for CC, but otherwise I like it.

[Curmudgeon]

I like the ALS. I have it for my Glock 26 and it's a bit bulky for CC, but otherwise I like it.

It's so bulky, I don't even like it for OC, but to be fair I don't think it's any bulkier than the Serpa.

I just don't like the thumb release on it. It is just a little too small, the release seems more uncertain than I am comfortable with, and worst of all, it is impossible to release the pistol without also releasing the manual safety, whether I want it to or not (1911).

http://www.safariland.com/DutyGear/p....aspx?pid=6378

^This one can be had for a good price, similar to that of the Serpa, so you don't have to spend a fortune to check it out.

[FNG19]

I like the ALS. I have it for my Glock 26 and it's a bit bulky for CC, but otherwise I like it.

Ditto on the ALS here. I only use it for those rare occasions that I OC. It's a serviceable holster in kydex that does what I need it to. And, I like the fact that you can swap out the paddle backplate for one with beltloops. It's bulky as noted, but that doesn't particularly bother me. Then again, I only use the holster a few times a year, but if I used it more regularly, it might be more of a concern.

[IronButt]

I have a few Safariland holsters. The ALS is a great OC holster. They're built like a tank, have good retention & function flawlessly. For concealment, they're not so great.

For a top tier, all around carry holster, you may want to look into a Raven Concealment (Long wait, unless you own a gun on their "Quick-Ship" list!), or an Atomic Dog, (Made by one of the members here, Brian Abate.) I have two Raven holsters & two more in their production queue. All other holsters pretty much stay at home.

http://www.ravenconcealment.com/
http://atomicdogholsters.com/Atomic/Main.html

[customloaded]

I have a two ALS's, one for my 1911 which I carry 99% of the time and one for Glocks.

I also use a 0701 Safariland. This holster hugs your body and isn't as bulky as the ALS. However, the security mechanisms are completely different. The 0701 can be used OC or CC but I will say the 0701 is not for deep concealment.

I feel in love with sarfariland products when I was a street cop. That is not to say I don't have other holsters, Milton Sparks for one, couple nice leather Galco's etc...but 99% of the time I OC so I use what I know will work, Safariland.

CL

http://www.opticsplanet.com/s/safariland+0701/

http://www.safariland.com/DutyGear/p....aspx?pid=0701

[QuackXP]

I have the ALS for my M&P 40. My only compliant is they do not make a model for the M&P with the TLR-2 laser/light combo. At home I keep it in a generic nylon holster. But at the range or training without the light I use the ALS.

[West Chester]

Safariland 6280