Safariland Holsters: Understanding Retention, QLS, and Mounting Platforms

At first glance, the Safariland holster lineup can look like a maze of numbers, abbreviations, and nearly identical components. Beyond the holsters themselves, the system includes ALS and SLS retention mechanisms, the QLS quick-detach interface, belt mounts, and thigh platforms. Each component is part of a broader modular system that allows the setup to be configured for a specific handgun, the required level of retention, and the preferred carry position.

We will begin by covering the fundamentals of the Safariland system: how active and passive retention work, what the individual retention levels mean, and how holsters, adapters, and mounting platforms fit together. We will then use specific models to illustrate the differences between various duty and concealed-carry solutions.

The modular Safariland Incog X accepts a separate spare-magazine carrier and, in selected versions, accommodates an optic-equipped pistol. Photo: Rigad

Safariland in Brief: From a Garage Workshop to Military Contracts

Safariland’s history dates back to 1964. Over more than six decades, a small custom holster operation evolved into a comprehensive system of duty and tactical holsters, retention mechanisms, and mounting platforms used by military and law enforcement agencies.

• 1964 – starting out in a California garage: Neale Perkins made a custom gun holster at his father’s request and subsequently launched his own business. Within a few months, he increased production from several hundred to more than 5,000 holsters per month.
• 1970s – first major law enforcement contract: Safariland expanded into concealable body armor and secured its first contract to supply it to the Los Angeles Police Department.
• 1980s and 1990s – development of active retention: The company introduced the first Level III retention duty holster and continued developing systems designed to prevent unauthorized access to the firearm.
• 2018 – equipment for the M17 and M18 pistols: The Safariland Modular Handgun Holster system was selected for the SIG Sauer M17 and M18 pistols adopted by the U.S. military. It combines an active-retention holster with components that support multiple mounting configurations.

The gradual development of retention mechanisms and interchangeable mounting platforms shaped the Safariland lineup as we know it today. To navigate the system, we first need to separate two fundamental concepts: how the firearm is secured inside the holster and how the holster attaches to the user’s gear.

How Safariland Retention Systems Work

With Safariland holsters, it is important to distinguish between passive and active retention. Both help keep the firearm inside the holster, but they work differently and are rated differently by the manufacturer.

Passive Retention

Passive retention relies on the holster’s precise molding and friction to prevent the firearm from being drawn unintentionally. On some models, the amount of resistance can be adjusted using tension screws. There is no separate locking mechanism to release during the draw. The shooter simply overcomes the preset resistance and draws the firearm.

This principle is used primarily in concealed-carry holsters such as the Incog X and Species. Although this is referred to as passive retention, Safariland does not count it toward its Duty Rated retention levels. The firearm is held in place by pressure and friction rather than a mechanical lock.

ALS: Automatic Locking When the Firearm Is Holstered

ALS, or the Automatic Locking System, is an internal active-retention mechanism. Once the firearm is fully seated in the holster, it locks automatically without any additional action from the user.

To draw, the shooter releases the ALS lever with the thumb and pulls the firearm straight upward. There is no need to rotate the firearm or use any other unconventional motion. Because the mechanism must be deliberately disengaged before the draw, ALS provides greater protection against both firearm loss and unauthorized access than passive retention alone.

SLS: Rotating Hood over the Slide

SLS, or the Self-Locking System, uses a rotating hood positioned over the rear of the slide. Before drawing, the shooter presses the hood down with the thumb and rotates it forward, clearing the firearm for removal.

Unlike ALS, SLS does not lock automatically when the firearm is holstered. The hood must be returned manually to the locked position. SLS can be used on its own or in combination with ALS. Combining both mechanisms provides a higher level of protection because the shooter must release the rotating hood and the internal lock in sequence before drawing.

The active-retention mechanism must be deliberately released before the draw. Its controls allow the shooter to perform this movement with the thumb while establishing a firing grip. Photo: Rigad

What Safariland Retention Levels Mean

A retention level is not determined solely by the number of mechanisms installed on the holster. Safariland bases its rating on the number of separate movements required to release them. The holster must also pass the company’s own testing for resistance to a forcible firearm takeaway.

• Duty Rated Level I: one movement is required to release the firearm; typically a holster equipped with ALS.
• Duty Rated Level II: two separate movements; typically a holster with SLS or an ALS holster fitted with an ALS Guard.
• Duty Rated Level III: three separate movements; most commonly a combination of ALS and SLS.
• Duty Rated Level IV: four separate movements; a combination of ALS, SLS, and an additional Sentry Guard.

These ratings are specific to Safariland’s testing system and may not be directly comparable with retention levels used by other manufacturers. The stated rating also applies to a tested holster configuration attached to an approved mounting platform and duty belt. Replacing it with an unapproved belt mount or other platform may therefore mean that the complete setup no longer meets the requirements of that retention level.

How the Safariland Mounting System Works

The retention mechanism determines how the firearm is secured inside the holster. The mounting system, by contrast, determines how the holster attaches to a belt mount, thigh platform, or another load-bearing component. The Safariland system is built around a standardized three-hole mounting pattern that allows compatible components to be combined.

Three-Hole Mounting Pattern

The rear of compatible Safariland holsters features three mounting holes arranged in a T-shaped pattern: two at the top and one below. Safariland belt mounts, thigh platforms, and other mounting components use the corresponding hole pattern.

This shared pattern means the holster is not permanently tied to a single carry configuration. Depending on the user’s requirements, it can be attached to a UBL belt mount, a compatible thigh platform, or a QLS quick-detach fork. However, it is always necessary to confirm that both the specific holster and the selected mounting component use the same three-hole pattern.

Direct Holster Mounting

The simplest option is to bolt the holster directly to the mounting platform. The mounting holes on the holster align with the corresponding holes on a UBL belt mount, thigh platform, or another compatible component.

This creates a fixed assembly with no additional quick-detach interface between the holster and the mounting platform. To move the holster to another platform, the user must remove the mounting screws, detach the holster, and bolt it to the new platform. Direct mounting therefore makes the most sense when the gear configuration is not changed frequently.

QLS 19 and QLS 22: Two Parts of One System

The QLS, or Quick Locking System, adds a two-piece interface between the holster and its mounting platform:

• The QLS 19 Locking Fork attaches to the rear of the holster using the three-hole mounting pattern.
• The QLS 22 Receiver Plate attaches to a belt mount, thigh platform, or another secure mounting point.

The QLS 19 fork slides into the QLS 22 receiver plate and locks into place. Pressing the fork’s side tabs releases the connection, allowing the holster to slide out of the receiver. The complete holster can therefore be moved with the firearm still secured inside, without removing mounting screws or unholstering the firearm.

To move one holster between several mounting platforms, each platform must have its own QLS 22 receiver plate. Conversely, to use several different holsters on a single platform, each holster must be fitted with its own QLS 19 locking fork.

The QLS 19 locking fork attaches to the three-hole mounting pattern on the rear of the holster. It can then slide into a QLS 22 receiver plate installed on a belt mount or another mounting platform. Photo: Rigad

Direct Mounting or QLS?

Both options use the same three-hole mounting pattern. The main difference is whether the connection must be removed with tools or can be released using a quick-detach mechanism.

With direct mounting, the holster is bolted straight to the mounting platform. The QLS allows the user to swap holsters quickly or move them between different platforms. This is useful when switching between a duty belt and tactical gear, using several holsters, or changing holster placement to suit a specific mission.

However, the QLS itself does not determine the height or position of the holster. These are still defined by the selected belt mount, thigh platform, or other mounting component to which the receiver plate is attached.

Firearm Compatibility Is Not the Same as Platform Compatibility

When configuring the system, it is important to separate two different considerations:

• Firearm compatibility is determined by the holster itself. It must match the specific pistol model and size, the right- or left-handed configuration, and any weapon light, red dot sight, or other accessories fitted to the firearm.
• Mounting-platform compatibility is determined by the mounting interface. The key factors are the three-hole pattern, the direct-mount configuration, or the matching QLS 19 and QLS 22 components.

Fitting a QLS 19 fork therefore does not make a holster universally compatible with different pistols. It only allows an already compatible holster to be moved between mounting platforms fitted with the corresponding receiver plate.

The next step is to select the platform that determines whether the holster will be worn on the belt or thigh, as well as its ride height.

Safariland Mounting Platforms

The mounting platform determines where the holster sits and at what height. Safariland offers belt mounts with different ride heights, as well as thigh platforms that position the holster below the belt line. Some accept a directly mounted holster, while others come with the QLS quick-detach interface already installed.

High-, Mid-, and Low-Ride: Holster Height on the Belt

High-Ride, Mid-Ride, and Low-Ride refer to the holster’s position relative to the belt. They do not describe different retention systems, but the height at which the firearm is carried.

• High-Ride positions the pistol grip approximately 38 mm above the Mid-Ride position. Less of the holster extends below the belt, which is generally more comfortable when seated or riding in a vehicle. However, the higher position may interfere with the draw when body armor or other torso-mounted gear is worn.
• Mid-Ride places the grip approximately level with the belt. This is the most common duty configuration and offers a compromise between access to the firearm, seated comfort, and compatibility with other equipment.
• Low-Ride positions the holster approximately 38 mm below the Mid-Ride position. The firearm sits closer to the hand’s natural resting position and is less likely to interfere with the lower edge of a vest. The lower position can, however, be less comfortable during extended periods of sitting.

The appropriate ride height depends on the user’s body proportions, equipment setup, and the activities performed while carrying the firearm.

6004-25 and 6004-27 Thigh Platforms

The Safariland 6004-25 is a single-strap thigh platform equipped with a Drop Flex Adapter, or DFA. The adapter suspends the platform below the belt while keeping it higher on the thigh than a traditional low-mounted drop-leg rig. This reduces unwanted holster movement and improves stability when walking or running. A thigh strap with silicone grip strips further helps keep the platform in place.

A holster can be attached directly to the 6004-25 using the three-hole mounting pattern. If quick removal or transfer is required, the platform can be fitted separately with a QLS 22 receiver plate.

The Safariland 6004-27 uses the same single-strap design and DFA but comes with a QLS 22 receiver plate already installed. It is therefore intended for holsters equipped with a QLS 19 locking fork. This setup allows the holster to be detached from the thigh platform without removing any screws and transferred, for example, to a compatible belt mount.

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CUBL Gen 2 Mid-Ride

The CUBL Gen 2 Mid-Ride is a belt mount with a fixed mid-ride height. Unlike a thigh platform, it keeps the holster directly on the belt and requires no thigh strap. It is a versatile option for duty use, range training, and other situations where torso-mounted gear does not interfere with access to the firearm.

CUBL stands for Cantable Universal Belt Loop. Its design allows the holster cant to be adjusted 15° forward or rearward. The holster can be attached directly using the three-hole mounting pattern, or a QLS interface can be installed between the holster and the belt mount.

QUBL Gen 2

The QUBL Gen 2 combines a belt mount with a quick-detach interface compatible with the QLS 19 locking fork. It also allows the holster height to be switched between High-, Mid-, and Low-Ride positions without tools. Once selected, the ride height locks automatically into place.

The QUBL is therefore well suited to users who need to change not only the holster itself, but also its height to suit their equipment or current activity. The QLS 19 locking fork that attaches to the holster is sold separately.

Platform selection primarily comes down to the required ride height and carry position. The 6004-25 and 6004-27 position the holster on the thigh, while the CUBL provides a belt-mounted platform with adjustable cant. The QUBL adds both quick holster changes and adjustable ride height.

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Safariland 6390RDS vs. 6354RDSO: What Are the Differences?

The Safariland 6390RDS ALS and Safariland 6354RDSO ALS are designed for optic-equipped pistols and, depending on the specific version, a compatible weapon-mounted light. Both are rigid holsters equipped with the active ALS – Automatic Locking System. Once the ALS is released with the thumb, the pistol can be drawn naturally in a straight upward motion.

Safariland 6390RDS ALS

The 6390RDS is a conventional duty holster with a certified Duty Rated Level I Retention rating. It comes standard with a Mid-Ride UBL, which positions the pistol grip approximately level with the belt. This keeps the firearm close to the body and stable during movement, while providing better clearance around tactical or ballistic armor than a higher-mounted configuration.

The holster is made from thermoformed SafariLaminate and features a suede lining that helps protect the pistol’s finish. A hinged red dot sight cover is also available for the 6390RDS, although it may be an optional accessory depending on the specific configuration. This model is intended primarily for everyday duty carry by law enforcement officers, security personnel, and armed protection professionals.

The included Mid-Ride UBL is not the only mounting option. Thanks to the three-hole mounting pattern, the holster can also be fitted to another compatible mount or equipped with the QLS.

Safariland duty holsters can combine the internal ALS lock with the rotating SLS hood. Each mechanism requires a separate movement before the draw, providing greater protection against unauthorized firearm access. Photo: Rigad

Safariland 6354RDSO ALS with QLS 19

The 6354RDSO is designed primarily for tactical and modular applications. It also uses the ALS system, but its standard configuration comes with a preinstalled QLS 19 locking fork instead of a belt mount. The fork slides into a QLS 22receiver plate attached to a belt mount, thigh platform, or another compatible base.

In its supplied configuration, the holster cannot be attached directly to a belt. The QLS 19 fork requires a corresponding QLS 22 receiver plate. The advantage is that the complete holster can be transferred quickly between several platforms without tools. For example, the same holster can be used on a duty belt or thigh platform, provided that both are equipped with a QLS 22 receiver plate.

The abbreviation RDSO – Red Dot Sight Open refers to the open design of the optic area. Unlike the RDS series, the 6354RDSO does not use a hinged protective cover. The red dot sight sits within a molded section of the holster that protects it from the sides while leaving it exposed from above. The holster has an open-top design without an additional SLS system, so the firearm is secured by ALS.

Key Differences Between the 6390RDS and 6354RDSO

The most significant differences are the mounting hardware supplied with each holster and the design of the optic area. The Safariland 6390RDS comes standard with a Mid-Ride UBL belt mount and is classified by the manufacturer as a Duty Rated Level I Retention holster. The Safariland 6354RDSO comes with a QLS 19 locking fork, ready for quick transfer between platforms fitted with a QLS 22 receiver plate.

However, this is not a fixed distinction between a “belt-mounted” and a “modular” holster. The 6390RDS can be retrofitted with the QLS, while the QLS 19 fork on the 6354RDSO can be replaced with another compatible mounting component.

The 6390RDS also uses the more enclosed design of the RDS series, with the option of a hinged optic cover. The 6354RDSO leaves the optic area open and uses no movable cover. This open design accommodates a wider range of red dot sight profiles, although compatibility with the specific holster must always be confirmed.

Both holsters must be selected for the exact pistol model, slide length, weapon-mounted light, and red dot sight. They are not universal, and compatibility may also be affected by optic adapter plates, sight height, or its position on the slide. Safariland therefore notes that compatibility cannot be assumed, particularly with optics mounted in non-standard positions.

In simple terms: the 6390RDS comes configured for duty-belt carry and can protect the optic with a hinged cover. The 6354RDSO comes with a QLS 19 locking fork and uses an open optic area with no top cover. Thanks to the three-hole mounting pattern, however, the mounting configuration can be changed on either holster.

Safariland Incog X and Species IWB Holsters

In addition to duty holsters, Safariland offers models designed for civilian concealed carry. Two of the most notable options are the modular Safariland Incog X and the simpler, minimalist Safariland Species.

Safariland Incog X

The Safariland Incog X is a modern IWB holster developed in collaboration with Haley Strategic. It supports inside-the-waistband carry in several positions, although it is most commonly used for appendix carry. The holster accommodates optic-equipped pistols and, in selected versions, a weapon-mounted light. Passive retention secures the firearm around the trigger guard and ejection port, and the draw resistance can be adjusted.

One of the main advantages of the Incog X is its modularity. A separate spare-magazine carrier, which Safariland calls a magazine caddy, can be attached to the holster. Both its ride height and magazine retention are adjustable. Because both belt clips are mounted directly to the holster body, the magazine caddy can be removed without compromising the stability of the overall setup.

The design also includes interchangeable concealment shims. These alter the angle between the holster and the belt, helping pull the pistol grip closer to the body and reduce printing under clothing. Safariland supplies them in three thicknesses, allowing the holster position to be adjusted for the user’s build, clothing, and preferred carry setup. The body-facing side of the holster is covered with soft microfiber suede for greater comfort during extended wear.

The Incog X is aimed primarily at users who want to carry an optic-equipped pistol, optionally with a weapon light and spare magazine. Its larger overall size, especially with the magazine caddy attached, and multiple adjustment points require more careful setup. Under some conditions, it may also be more difficult to conceal than a simpler holster.

The Incog X uses two separate belt clips mounted directly to the holster body. The spare-magazine carrier can therefore be removed without compromising holster stability. Photo: Rigad

Safariland Species

The Safariland Species is a simpler, more compact option for everyday concealed carry. The holster features a minimalist, thermoformed SafariLaminate construction and uses only the material necessary to enclose the firearm. This reduces its outline under clothing and makes it particularly suitable for compact and subcompact pistols.

The interior has a suede lining that helps protect the firearm’s finish and improves its fit inside the holster. The pistol is secured by passive retention around the trigger guard, with resistance adjustable by a tension screw. The belt clip accommodates belts up to 38 mm wide and allows both ride height and cant adjustment, supporting appendix or strong-side carry. The Species is also available for pistols equipped with selected compact red dot sights, including the Holosun 407K and 507K, Shield RMS and RMS-C, and Trijicon RMRcc. However, the holster is available only in a right-handed configuration.

Unlike the Incog X, the Species is not designed to accept a magazine caddy, adjustable shims, or other modular components. It is also not intended for pistols equipped with a weapon-mounted light. Its main advantages are its low profile, simplicity, and comfort for everyday carry.

Key Differences Between the Incog X and Species

The Incog X is a more advanced modular system for users who want to add a spare magazine, adjust how the holster sits against the body, and carry an optic-equipped pistol or, in selected configurations, one fitted with a weapon light. The Species, by contrast, is a smaller and simpler holster focused on maintaining the lowest possible profile while carrying the pistol comfortably and discreetly.

The choice therefore depends primarily on the user’s priorities. The Incog X offers more adjustment options and accepts a spare-magazine carrier, while the Species is better suited to those looking for a lightweight, minimalist holster from an established manufacturer.

From Duty Holsters to Concealed Carry

Safariland offers a comprehensive system that combines different retention methods, mounting components, and carry platforms. Choosing the right setup therefore involves more than looking at the model designation alone. The required retention level, carry method, compatibility with the pistol and its accessories, and the ability to transfer the holster between platforms must all be considered.

The 6390RDS and 6354RDSO are intended primarily for duty and tactical use, while the Incog X and Species address different concealed-carry requirements. The right solution ultimately depends on where and how the firearm will be carried, how quickly it must be accessed, and what equipment will be used with it.