Safariland 537

[SouthNarc]

I just bought one of these to test after some questions came up on another forum about concealment holsters with a retention device.

http://www.safariland.com/belt-slide/model-537-gls-open-top-concealment-belt-slide-holster-53700.html

It just came in last night and I have to say my initial impressions are pretty favorable, especially for the price point. The retention device is pretty intuitive to use and the holster sits a lot flatter than I was expecting it to.

I'm going to run it through an ECQC this weekend and see if I can get some gun grapple time on it. Time will tell but I have to say I'm pleasantly surprised so far. If your agency mandates a retention device on concealment holsters or you just want one, then this looks to be a viable option.

[HCM]

I was just looking at these. How does it compare to the Bianchi autolock pancake?

[BJJ]

Thanks for starting the thread and I am looking forward to reading about the results of your expirementation.

[LittleLebowski]

I loaned mine out to Chuck Haggard, I like it as well but wish it was more rigid.

[SouthNarc]

I was just looking at these. How does it compare to the Bianchi autolock pancake?


It's been years since I played with one but if I remember correctly you push inboard towards your hip to release the gun right? On the 537 you make grip as usual and your middle finger knuckle drives the lever forward, releasing there pistol. I thought it was an inboard push to until I realized how it actually worked.

It's pretty nifty. Right now with no testing I'd give it a hard look for "Detective casual".

[JR1572]

I just bought one of these to test after some questions came up on another forum about concealment holsters with a retention device.

http://www.safariland.com/belt-slide/model-537-gls-open-top-concealment-belt-slide-holster-53700.html

It just came in last night and I have to say my initial impressions are pretty favorable, especially for the price point. The retention device is pretty intuitive to use and the holster sits a lot flatter than I was expecting it to.

I'm going to run it through an ECQC this weekend and see if I can get some gun grapple time on it. Time will tell but I have to say I'm pleasantly surprised so far. If your agency mandates a retention device on concealment holsters or you just want one, then this looks to be a viable option.


It's been years since I played with one but if I remember correctly you push inboard towards your hip to release the gun right? On the 537 you make grip as usual and your middle finger knuckle drives the lever forward, releasing there pistol. I thought it was an inboard push to until I realized how it actually worked.

It's pretty nifty. Right now with no testing I'd give it a hard look for "Detective casual".

Does the 537 ride closer to your body than the Safariland ALS offerings like the 7TS 6377? I'm using a 6377 with a 17 and a TLR-1 attached and it's huge.

Thanks,

JR1572

[SouthNarc]

Yeah it's a lot closer subjectively.

[TGS]

I'm questioning the efficacy of the GLS offering protection in a gun grab. I went with an ALS instead.

[SouthNarc]

I'm questioning the efficacy of the GLS offering protection in a gun grab. I went with an ALS instead.

Gonna' find out!:)

[matt7184]

Any updates on this holster?

[SouthNarc]

So I had two pretty good ground fights with this holster and one of them involved some pretty good tugging on the butt of the gun. The GLS bought the student just enough time to be able to establish limb control and get the guy's hand off of it.

I'm pretty impressed. It's not a super concealable holster, but concealable enough for "detective casual".

I like it and I don't see any significant issues with it and it provides just the right amount of retention to be able to buy one enough time to solve the problem with skill.

[RoyGBiv]

I'm questioning the efficacy of the GLS offering protection in a gun grab. I went with an ALS instead.

I can't quite get comfortable with the rigidity and bulk of the ALS (Model 82). It just doesn't "fit" anywhere on my waistline.
Would like to try the GLS as it looks smaller/slimmer, but they don't offer it for the P2KSK. At least not that I've found.

[Cool Breeze]

I can't quite get comfortable with the rigidity and bulk of the ALS (Model 82). It just doesn't "fit" anywhere on my waistline.
Would like to try the GLS as it looks smaller/slimmer, but they don't offer it for the P2KSK. At least not that I've found.

the GLS profit series doesn't work with that model? It thought they worked with a bunch of models? I just did a search on their website and it it seemed compatible it was also on the gunfit chart...that being said it is not the 537 but still has the GLS

[Lon]

The pro fit is different from the 537. The pro fit series uses the UBL template holes to mount the backplate, drop shank, etc. I have one for my 229. I wish they made the 537 for the 229, but last I checked they did not.

[TGS]

I can't quite get comfortable with the rigidity and bulk of the ALS (Model 82). It just doesn't "fit" anywhere on my waistline.
Would like to try the GLS as it looks smaller/slimmer, but they don't offer it for the P2KSK. At least not that I've found.

I'm confused...the only Model 82 I can find is a Bianchi Finger-Lock holster, not an ALS. The ALS "concealment" holster is the 6377/78, I believe.

With that said, the ALS is very bulky. It's not suitable for concealment underneath non-jacketed outfits. I bought mine for concealment in suits, raid jackets, wearing openly, ect. I don't think the GLS will be dramatically slimmer....I think the main element for a very concealable OWB rig suitable for wearing underneath lighter clothing are offset belt loops that pull the holster in tight to the body. As long as the belt loops are on the holster body itself, you're naturally getting some offset, which then causes it to cant outwards even if just a couple degrees. It adds up quickly.

If you put the GLS onto a Blackpoint LeatherWing, that'd be a pretty concealable OWB setup with a retention device.

[SouthNarc]

I'm confused...the only Model 82 I can find is a Bianchi Finger-Lock holster, not an ALS. The ALS "concealment" holster is the 6377/78, I believe.

With that said, the ALS is very bulky. It's not suitable for concealment underneath non-jacketed outfits. I bought mine for concealment in suits, raid jackets, wearing openly, ect. I don't think the GLS will be dramatically slimmer....I think the main element for a very concealable OWB rig suitable for wearing underneath lighter clothing are offset belt loops that pull the holster in tight to the body. As long as the belt loops are on the holster body itself, you're naturally getting some offset, which then causes it to cant outwards even if just a couple degrees. It adds up quickly.

If you put the GLS onto a Blackpoint LeatherWing, that'd be a pretty concealable OWB setup with a retention device.

I'm gonna' get some pics up in a bit but the 537 is a pretty damn concealable OWB holster. The more I play with it the more I like it.

[SouthNarc]

Two quick pics. The 537 is easily as concealable as the Raven Phantom or any of the kydex pancake variants.45394540

[TGS]

Awesome....thanks for the pics.

I was erroneously looking at the 577/78.

[SouthNarc]

Shot from behind with and without cover garment. It's a standard FBI cant.454445454546

[TGS]

How wide are the belt loops? Would it hold securely to a very stiff horsehide (x2 layer) 1.25" dress belt?

[SouthNarc]

Dude I had to REALLY fight to run my 1.5" Volund through there. I'd say you should be okay.

[TGS]

Doing some more reading and found this. Thoughts?

Caution About Safariland GLS Holsters (http://www.activeresponsetraining.net/caution-about-safariland-gls-holsters)

[SouthNarc]

Seems like a one-of problem to me but only time will tell. I have no problem carrying this particular model (537).

A little vid.

https://www.facebook.com/384993038366814/videos/419024121630372/?theater

[SouthNarc]

Just so we're clear:

Safariland DOES NOT rate the 537 as a retention holster thus the finger release is in essentially the same category as a thumb break.

[JodyH]

Thanks for the heads up, I ordered a 537 for my VP9.
When I'm out and about in the backcountry I prefer a OWB holster with retention because I'm either busting through brush, climbing around on stuff or riding my motorcycle.
And even though New Mexico is an open carry state I much prefer concealment, even if it's faux concealment like an unbuttoned shirt or light jacket.
The 537 looks like it'll be a little lower profile than the 6378 ALS I have been using.

[RoyGBiv]

I'm confused...the only Model 82 I can find is a Bianchi Finger-Lock holster, not an ALS. The ALS "concealment" holster is the 6377/78, I believe..

http://www.safariland.com/belt-slide/model-82-carrylok-hip-holster-10870.html

Finger lok. I think its same as ALS. Maybe not?

[DpdG]

Sorry, but the bianchi finger lock is an entirely different, and much less secure, mechanism. The ALS is a thumb actuated ejection port locking mechanism. I've yet to see a concealment version that is actually concealable. The 6378 is low profile at best, like detectives in polos and kakhis with a belt worn badge.

[RoyGBiv]

Sorry, but the bianchi finger lock is an entirely different, and much less secure, mechanism. The ALS is a thumb actuated ejection port locking mechanism. I've yet to see a concealment version that is actually concealable. The 6378 is low profile at best, like detectives in polos and kakhis with a belt worn badge.

Thanks for clarifying.
When I searched safariland by gun make, thats what it spit out.

[Cool Breeze]

Southnarc - Are you carrying a G19 or G17 in your rig?

[SouthNarc]

Southnarc - Are you carrying a G19 or G17 in your rig?

19 in the pics.

[jetfire]

We just got one of the GLS holsters in for an M&P CORE, because the ALS I have isn't compatible with dot-equipped guns. For me, the primary question I have about retention holsters is "are they fast into action" - the GLS is fast as hell. If what SN says about retention is true, I think I'll be moving a lot of my retention holster needs towards this model.

[JodyH]

A quick update and note for H&K shooters.
The "537-391 H&K-P10" is damn near a universal H&K holster.
My VP9, P2000 and HK45C all fit, lock in and release perfectly from this holster with just minor adjustments to the tension screw.

Also, if you use this holster with a Maxpedition Liger belt it's like they velcro to each other. You have to undo your belt and forcefully feed the belt through the loops to make any adjustments.
The rubber on rubber will not slide against each other no matter what you try short of relaxing all tension and feeding the belt through.
Great for the range once you get it where you want it, it aint moving. Not so much fun getting it exactly where you want it.

[HCM]

I picked up a 537 for the Glock 17 during Safailand's Black Friday / cyber Monday sale. Got it out to the range for work this past Friday and shot a Qualification course with it. Suffice to say I'm really liking this holster. It is fast and conceals significantly better than the plainclothes version of the ALS. It also works fine with my Glock 26. I found the GLS is very intuitive - The less you think about it the better it works.

[JodyH]

The 537 is now my primary "rural concealed" holster.
When I'm out and about trekking in the wilds, all day hiking comfort trumps concealability (since NM, CO, UT, AZ and soon TX are all open carry anyway) so I've always used a OWB w/retention (ALS usually).
The 537 is much easier to conceal under a long T-shirt or light jacket than the 6378 ALS I have been using and is more intuitive to release as well.

[HCM]

Still using the 537. My only real complaint is the belt slots are super tight and it's a PITA to get it on and off the belt.

Safariland is releasing an IWB version of this holster, the 575. I like the idea but I'm not crazy about the J hook. The J hook seems to defeat the purpose of having a retention holster. I'm curious to hear Craig's take on the J hook.

[TGS]

I'd be happy if they would at least make the damn thing for the P229. It seems strange to me that it's produced for the P99 and a variety of HKs but not the 2nd most popular handgun in US law enforcement.

[Det1397]

Switching to a more casual plainclothes detail soon... Is the 537 specific to the GLOCK 19/23 or is it more of a "universal" fit, meaning 17/19/22/23... Call me anal, but I prefer a holster made for a specific model.

[HCM]

Switching to a more casual plainclothes detail soon... Is the 537 specific to the GLOCK 19/23 or is it more of a "universal" fit, meaning 17/19/22/23... Call me anal, but I prefer a holster made for a specific model.

As Tom noted, there are specific models for the 17 and the 19. That said, because it is such a pain in the butt to get on and off the belt I've used my Glock 17 model with my Glock 26 at the range. It fits and locks in perfectly.

[Mas]

Craig, check out the new IWB version of the GLS that was set for debut at SHOT this year. I got mine from Bill Rogers the first week in January, spent some time carrying it and playing with it, and have been very happy with it so far (G26). Very well suited for AIWB. Haven't done any serious grappling with it yet though. Neither Bill nor Safariland consider it a "security holster" per se, but they also have pretty high standards for using that term...

[SouthNarc]

Still using the 537. My only real complaint is the belt slots are super tight and it's a PITA to get it on and off the belt.

Safariland is releasing an IWB version of this holster, the 575. I like the idea but I'm not crazy about the J hook. The J hook seems to defeat the purpose of having a retention holster. I'm curious to hear Craig's take on the J hook.

Historically I'm not a fan of them as I've observed a bunch pop off the edge of the belt, when fighting off your back. That being said I'm pretty agnostic though on this stuff and if Safariland's version holds up through a few ECQCs then I might change my mind.

[SouthNarc]

Craig, check out the new IWB version of the GLS that was set for debut at SHOT this year. I got mine from Bill Rogers the first week in January, spent some time carrying it and playing with it, and have been very happy with it so far (G26). Very well suited for AIWB. Haven't done any serious grappling with it yet though. Neither Bill nor Safariland consider it a "security holster" per se, but they also have pretty high standards for using that term...

Gonna' order one this week and start testing Mas! :)

[LittleLebowski]

Craig, check out the new IWB version of the GLS that was set for debut at SHOT this year. I got mine from Bill Rogers the first week in January, spent some time carrying it and playing with it, and have been very happy with it so far (G26). Very well suited for AIWB. Haven't done any serious grappling with it yet though. Neither Bill nor Safariland consider it a "security holster" per se, but they also have pretty high standards for using that term...

Interesting! Thanks for sharing that, if you can post pictures, it would be appreciated by many here.

[frozentundra]

Interesting! Thanks for sharing that, if you can post pictures, it would be appreciated by many here.

A couple pictures on his blog. http://backwoodshome.com/blogs/MassadAyoob/2016/01/29/shot-show-pre-and-post/

I like the look of that J hook.

[peterb]

Any more thoughts on the 537? I've got a 7377 ALS and would like a retention OWB for a G19 that's not as bulky.

[HCountyGuy]

I can only echo others in that I wish Safariland made one for the P229.

In regards to the GLS release, how easy is it for someone else to defeat it? For instance: If someone who was unfamiliar with the release tried to grab the gun approaching from the rear are they near guaranteed to be successful on the first try? Or, is there some "fumble factor" where they may fail to defeat the locking mechanism unless they get just the right grip?

[EM_]

Bumping this as I'm curious if the IWB has been tested much in ECQC and how it's held up.

[SouthNarc]

The IWB has not been tested yet but I'm hoping to have some feedback in coursework in a month or two. Honestly it's so bulky that no one really has wanted to try it.

[EM_]

Roger that. I'll just subscribe to this thread so if you get any updates post them.

My go-to is a Keeper but the idea of active retention on an IWB rig is a big deal to me.

[Edos]

I was reading through this post and heard mention of the new IWB offering from Safariland.
I have used the Safariland 575 IWB GLS on a regular basis during daily draw drills and a 3 day class requiring over 1,200 hundred rounds and several draw drills.

I've had it about 2 months. The holster has been used in mostly AIWB placement.

My impressions: The belt loop/mount needs to be modified to work properly, which I did before using.

The "J" hook arrangement for threading belt through is a poor design to say the least. The holster will easily flip off the belt over the top when applying any kind of downward pressure. The belt attachment point has a "J" shape...but could actually use more of a "C" shape to capture the belt inside it.
The GLS set-up works like a charm, as long as you do not drop the holster down below the pants line for deep concealment.
It can be adjusted for height changes and angled.
It's a bit on the bulky side, but I use it because it excepts a 3 guns(P99,P99c,PPS) I use for either a daily carry or shooting drills. outside.
I apologize in advance if I should of not replied about the new holster I tried. I know this thread was started with the Safariland 537 discussion.

[EM_]

Excellent, thanks for the post!

[HCountyGuy]

For my fellow Sig carriers, I contacted Safariland about a 537 for the P229R and was informed one is available.


We do have a fit for the P229R. 537-744-411 (411 is black right hand). If you are unable to pull this up on the web my searching the part number, give us a call and we can place an order over the phone for you.

[Gadfly]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0FNDwrcn9jg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3_SwY7Qpao

A couple of videos on the IWB and OWB versions...

[TGS]

For my fellow Sig carriers, I contacted Safariland about a 537 for the P229R and was informed one is available.

Thank you so much for posting this.

It doesn't show up for me either, so I called and they told me it has to be 537-744-61. Apparently 61 is the leather look, which the 537 is only available in. I just ordered it....apparently it's a custom holster, so it takes 2 weeks+.

[MGW]

Thank you so much for posting this.

It doesn't show up for me either, so I called and they told me it has to be 537-744-61. Apparently 61 is the leather look, which the 537 is only available in. I just ordered it....apparently it's a custom holster, so it takes 2 weeks+.

Would appreciate it if you post up your thoughts after you've had time to test it out.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[HCountyGuy]

Got my holster for the P229R in today from Safariland, after the seemingly eternal 2-week waiting period. As SouthNarc noted, trying to run a 1.5 inch belt through it is a serious PITA. Luckily I had an old reinforced Wal-Mart belt to play with.

Not sure that I can expand much beyond the review that's already been given. Solid "retention" (since they don't rate it as such) and hugs close to the body. The only issue I had starting out was the locking device not always engaging, resulting in my being able to remove the gun without hitting the release. I believe I may not have been seating the gun in the holster properly or lightly contacting the release. Otherwise it's an outstanding piece of hardware I'm thoroughly enjoying!

9683

[TGS]

They must've made ours together. Mine is in the mail...might be sitting at the front door as I type this.

[TGS]

So, yeah, the rig was sitting at home waiting for my arrival.

I love this holster so far. It's clearly going to replace my ALS and Raven. Previously I wore the Raven for concealment under jackets when I could reasonably expect to be a gray man, and wore the ALS under jackets when it was clear I was armed so that I had some second-chance reassurance with the retention mechanism.

The 537 conceals just as well as the Raven, but with that reassurance. In addition, unlike any other kydex holster I've tried, the pancake wings on this actually have some give almost like a leather holster. The result is that it conforms better to your waist unlike a kydex pancake. The raven leaves a huge gap with me, for instance.

[JDM]

Does this holster lock on the trigger guard or the ejection port?

[Lon]

Does this holster lock on the trigger guard or the ejection port?

Trigger guard

[JDM]

Trigger guard

Thanks!

[HCountyGuy]

Has anyone else with one of these noticed any vertical play for the gun in the holster? To elaborate, when trying to pull the firearm from the holster without engaging the release, it has some noticeable give.

Watching the video of SouthNarc demonstrating the holster, I didn't observe this but it happens with my Sig.

The retention screw is as tight as it will go, but thankfully the firearm doesn't seem to break out of the holster.

[TGS]

Yeah, it'll jiggle up and down by about 1/4" or so with my P229r. Doesn't seem to be of any detriment.

Still happy with the holster so far. The curvature is a little "wide" for my waist....I'd like to have the wings bent in a little more, as wearing it as 3-3:30 results in there being a pretty big gap between my waist and the front of the holster/belt. Anyone have the same thought?

[peterb]

The curvature is a little "wide" for my waist....I'd like to have the wings bent in a little more, as wearing it as 3-3:30 results in there being a pretty big gap between my waist and the front of the holster/belt. Anyone have the same thought?

That's also my impression -- on my 33" waist it doesn't conform very well unless it's back farther than I'd like. It may break in with use.

The other thing I noticed was that if I wear it on a pair of pants that ride at my natural waist(old guy pants), it's high enough that drawing starts to become awkward. I suspect that'd be true of any similar high-rise holster. With pants that ride at my "jeans waist" it's a lot more comfortable.

Here's a comparison of the ride height with a JM IWB:
16166

On the plus side, I like the solid construction and the draw is fast. I'm not really worried about retention from a grab -- it's more just peace of mind when being active.

Here's a good look at the release lever:
16167

[HCountyGuy]

Wanted to bump this up due to the occasional inquiry about concealment holsters with retention.

Also wanted to ask if the 537 across the various generations of Glock (or at least Gens 3-5).

[pastaslinger]

Any good mag pouches to pair this with? Safariland has those pretty basic pull the dot style concealment mag carriers but they can be annoying to put on, I'm wondering if there is anything else slim.

Also wondering if safariland happens to make the 537 in G34 or M9 size, that would be interesting (though the G19 is likely most practical).

[HCM]

Wanted to bump this up due to the occasional inquiry about concealment holsters with retention.

Also wanted to ask if the 537 across the various generations of Glock (or at least Gens 3-5).

Yes, it works with all generations including G5/M models.

[FNFAN]

Other than the previously mentioned issue holstering when the retention is 'locked,' it seems there haven't been any negatives. Ordered one to test with an eye toward replacing my ALS.