01 / START WITH THE MARKING
Ask for clear, complete photos
Request a sharp photo of the entire part number, including every letter, digit and hyphen. Ask for a second angle if wear, a belt attachment or glare hides part of the marking. Ask the seller to photograph all markings and any label; do not guess an obscured character.
Copy the number exactly as shown before searching it. A missing letter or one digit can change the model, fit, finish or draw-hand information. If the label is unreadable or absent, ask whether the seller can provide packaging or other reliable documentation; treat an uncertain code as unconfirmed.
02 / READ THE SEGMENTS
What the sections generally describe
Many duty holster part numbers are separated into segments by hyphens. Their general roles are useful for screening a listing, but details and code lengths vary by model and product generation.
| Segment | What it can identify |
|---|---|
| Model | Holster model or series; letters such as RDS may indicate an optic-ready variant. RDS alone does not guarantee fit. |
| Center fit | Firearm fit and, where applicable, light or laser combination; segment length varies. |
| Finish and hand | Finish/color code, then final hand digit: 1 right, 2 left, 3 ambidextrous where offered. |
| Optional added segment | May specify a non-standard belt width. |
Illustration only: In a finish-and-hand segment ending in 411, Safariland’s guide describes 41 as plain black for applicable configurations and the final 1 as right hand. This isolated illustration is not an item listing or a complete fit recommendation. The manufacturer’s decoder explains segment patterns, but a code should still be checked against the exact product and current fit resources.
03 / VERIFY COMPATIBILITY
Check fit against the full setup
Do not infer exact fit from the model number alone. Check the exact firearm make and model, generation where relevant, barrel length, and the specific weapon light or laser. For optic-ready models, verify the optic and slide configuration as well; an RDS designation does not promise universal optic clearance. Compare the complete setup with Safariland’s Holster Will Fit charts and Holster Finder. If the configuration is not listed or you are unsure, ask Safariland or the seller for confirmation before buying.
Use the Safariland part-number explanation to understand the segments. The manufacturer notes that codes evolve, and fit details can be model-specific.
04 / ASK BEFORE YOU BUY
A practical used-holster checklist
Before committing, ask the seller to confirm details in writing and provide photos where possible:
- Can they show the full number and the holster from several angles?
- What is its condition, and are there cracks, heavy wear, loose parts or alterations?
- Which mount, fork, receiver, belt loop or other components are included?
- Are the mounting hardware and screws present, and what belt width or interface do they suit?
- How many units are included, and what is the price for that quantity?
- What return terms apply if the item differs from the description or the configuration is not as represented?
Ask for specifics rather than relying on a model-family name or a stock photo. A used item’s condition, modifications and included parts may differ from a new manufacturer configuration.
05 / SEND THE DETAILS
Need help reviewing a part number?
Share the full number or clear photos, firearm and accessory configuration, draw hand, desired mount and quantity. We can discuss the information with you; fit, condition, included parts, price and availability must be confirmed for the specific item.
You can also browse holster options, check current holster inventory, or email sales@holstersmaster.com.
HolstersMaster is not affiliated with Safariland. Manufacturer names and codes are used to identify products and compatibility information.