Safariland Holsters

**Lightningwit** · January 2nd, 2009, 05:26 PM

Obviously the SERPA is a favorite here, but I'm looking for opinions on the Safariland ALS if anyone is familiar with them. I like the design at first glance, and the activation by the thumb would mean easier transition for me as I'm used to thumb-breaks. Any positive or negative would be appreciated.

**gf45acp** · January 2nd, 2009, 06:04 PM

Howdy Lightningwit.
Just got one for Christmas. I also used thumb break holsters for most of my duty holsters.
I have been trying to get used to it for a bit, still much slower for me than a thumb break.
It will take a while to build the muscle memory of the two movement rather than one.
Also, the one I got is very tight, even with the tension screw all the way out.
My holster is for my FNP-9.
If you do not know how to release this holster, you are not going to do it. The lock on the Serpa is visible, not the one on the Safariland, and the Safariland's is behind the gun, not in front.
Work it, and eventually it will come.

**LM4300** · January 2nd, 2009, 06:09 PM

Like anything else, you need to practice with what you use.
I know some in the "Tactical" community do not like the SERPA because dirt can get stuck in the release mechanism. I think this is less of a factor for civilian CCW. I have tried the ALS and liked it. It felt natural with some practice. But I primarily use an open top kydex holster for CCW. I think being a "thumb break" guy would be a benefit to you sticking with the ALS style retention.

**Legion_Prime** · January 2nd, 2009, 06:25 PM

I'll take a Safariland over a SERPA any day of the week.

**TonyF** · January 2nd, 2009, 06:27 PM

IMO the ALS is a cut above the serpa in both quality and functionality. As others have mentioned it may take some getting used to but achieving a smooth, quick presentation is not insurmountable.

I've seen many people on the range using them and each and every one has been very adept using them.

Recently bought one myself for grins and giggles.

**Pa. Patriot** · January 2nd, 2009, 06:48 PM

I think the ALS holsters are better than the SERPA also.

Problem with the ALS is the models available and the virtual unavailability due to Safarilands ridiculous marketing/distribution methods.

**Lightningwit** · January 2nd, 2009, 07:27 PM

Patriot, it sounds as if you have some experience worth sharing with the rest of the class. I've never purchased Safariland before either direct or indirect, but am now very curious.

**gf45acp** · January 2nd, 2009, 08:24 PM

This is where I got my holster from:

http://www.copquest.com/index.htm

**Philbert** · January 2nd, 2009, 08:25 PM

Originally Posted by Pa. Patriot

I think the ALS holsters are better than the SERPA also.

Problem with the ALS is the models available and the virtual unavailability due to Safarilands ridiculous marketing/distribution methods.

This. They are hard to track down.

**ZEUS** · January 23rd, 2009, 06:16 PM

Dudes! You wont beleive this but I found a holster that the FN P9 fits into perfectly! The new Fobus Elite made for the S&WMP on the package it reads SWMP 9m, 40s&w and 45. The FN p9 fits! The only thing is when you try to remove it you must twist the FN in towards your body to get it out of the holster. There is no play in the fit. The FN fits perfectly, snug and rides high. The Fobus looks great too. the holster has to break in. It fits perfectly!