Breaking Down My First Experience with the Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6367-185-132
For years, I’ve relied on durable, dependable gear to navigate a variety of demanding environments, from dusty workshop floors to unforgiving field conditions. My toolkit demands reliability, and when it came to securing a firearm, particularly my Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP, I needed something that offered both security and quick access. This led me to the Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6367-185-132.
The need for a robust, left-hand holster became apparent after a rather unsettling incident involving a less-than-secure OWB holster that allowed my sidearm to shift precariously during a training exercise. The thought of an accidental dislodging, especially in a critical situation, was unacceptable. I considered a few other tactical holster brands, but the reputation of Safariland for law enforcement and professional use was a strong draw, alongside the ALS system.
My initial impression upon unboxing this Safariland holster was one of solid construction. The STX Tactical Black finish felt substantial and ready for abuse, and the holster itself had a reassuring heft. It immediately felt like a significant upgrade from my previous solution, offering a sense of confidence even before it was fitted to my belt.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6367-185-132 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first put this Safariland holster through its paces during an extended range day, incorporating various drills from static shooting to rapid drawing and re-holstering. The holster is designed for belt carry, so I primarily tested it with a sturdy 1.75-inch tactical belt, which it accommodated with ease. The STX Tactical Black finish handled the inevitable scuffs and brushes against target stands and range furniture without showing significant wear.
The ALS (Automatic Locking System) proved immediately intuitive. A simple thumb press disengages the lock, allowing for a smooth draw, and the audible click upon re-holstering confirmed the weapon was securely retained. I experienced no issues with the fit; my Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP slid in and out with a satisfying, predictable resistance.
One minor quirk I noticed initially was the slight stiffness in the belt loop adjustment. It required a bit of force to slide it to the optimal position for my preferred ride height. However, once set, it remained firmly in place throughout the day, showcasing its 1.75″ belt loop compatibility.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including carrying on and off the range, and even during some less formal field training scenarios, the Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster has held up exceptionally well. The polymer has shown no signs of cracking or becoming brittle, and the retention mechanism remains as firm and reliable as day one. Even after countless draws and re-holsters, the ALS continues to engage positively, providing that crucial peace of mind.
Maintenance has been remarkably straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of a light lubricant to the ALS mechanism keeps it functioning flawlessly. Unlike some softer material holsters that can develop an oily sheen or attract excessive lint, this unit maintains its professional appearance.
Compared to previous holsters, including some custom Kydex options, this Safariland model offers a superior balance of retention and accessibility without being overly bulky. The high ride design is particularly effective for keeping the firearm close to the body, minimizing printing while still allowing for a swift draw, something I hadn’t quite achieved with past choices.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6367-185-132
Specifications
The Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster is constructed from a durable, proprietary STX Tactical polymer, known for its resilience in a wide range of temperatures and conditions. This specific model, the 6367-185-132, is configured for Left Hand draw and is designed to fit the Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP. It features the highly regarded ALS system, which automatically locks the firearm in place once holstered, providing a high level of security.
The holster is a high ride model, designed to sit close to the body, which aids in concealment and comfort during extended wear. It comes standard with the 567BL belt loop, which is adjustable for either a 1.50″ or 1.75″ belt. This adaptability ensures a secure fit on most duty or tactical belts, preventing the holster from shifting or sagging.
Performance & Functionality
The core function of any holster is to secure a firearm while allowing for a quick, safe draw. The Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster excels in this regard. The ALS mechanism is brilliantly engineered; it’s intuitive enough for rapid deployment under stress but robust enough to prevent accidental firearm release.
The primary strength of this ALS holster is its dual retention system. The ALS lock works in conjunction with the natural friction fit of the firearm within the holster body, creating a very secure hold. This redundancy is crucial for professionals and enthusiasts alike, offering confidence in active environments.
While the ALS system is highly effective, a minor point to consider is the slight learning curve for those unfamiliar with thumb-release retention systems. However, this is a common trait of active retention holsters, and the ease of mastering it makes it a non-issue for most users after minimal practice.
Design & Ergonomics
Safariland’s design philosophy for this holster prioritizes functionality and durability. The STX Tactical Black finish is not just aesthetically pleasing; it offers a non-reflective surface that is beneficial for tactical applications. The polymer construction feels robust, resisting impacts and abrasions common in field use.
Ergonomically, the holster is designed for comfortable, close-to-the-body carry. The high ride position places the firearm at a natural drawing angle, reducing the need for excessive body contortions. The contour of the holster is sculpted to minimize bulk against the wearer’s hip, enhancing concealment without sacrificing accessibility.
The 567BL belt loop is a well-thought-out component, offering versatility for different belt widths. Its rigid construction helps distribute the weight of the firearm and holster evenly across the belt, improving overall carry comfort.
Durability & Maintenance
In terms of durability, the Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster is built to last. The STX Tactical polymer is known for its longevity and resistance to environmental factors. It doesn’t degrade under UV exposure or become brittle in cold temperatures, which are common failure points for lesser materials.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving periodic cleaning to remove dust and debris that could impede the ALS mechanism or the firearm’s fit. A simple rinse and dry, perhaps with a touch of silicone lubricant on the ALS lever pivot points, is usually sufficient. This ease of maintenance is a significant advantage for anyone who doesn’t want to spend a lot of time on gear upkeep.
There are no obvious weak points that I’ve encountered. The ALS mechanism, being internal, is well-protected from external damage. The belt loop, typically a point of failure in many holsters, feels exceptionally stout on this model.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster comes standard with the adaptable 567BL belt loop for 1.5″ or 1.75″ belts. While this model is a fixed belt loop, Safariland offers a wide array of alternative belt loops and mounting systems for their holsters, allowing for significant customization. This includes options for drop-down configurations or other tactical attachments, should the user require them.
This particular model is optimized for the Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP and is not designed for interchangeable firearms. However, the robustness of the ALS system and Safariland’s commitment to modularity mean that if you switch firearms within their supported list, you can often find a comparable Safariland holster and potentially swap components like the belt loop.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6367-185-132
Pros
- Automatic Locking System (ALS): Provides secure firearm retention with a natural thumb-release draw.
- Durable STX Tactical Polymer: Offers excellent resistance to impacts, abrasions, and environmental conditions.
- High Ride Design: Promotes comfortable, close-to-body carry for better concealment and ease of access.
- Adjustable 567BL Belt Loop: Accommodates both 1.50″ and 1.75″ belts securely, preventing slippage.
- Proven Reliability: Backed by Safariland’s reputation for law enforcement and military-grade gear.
Cons
- Right-Handed Shooters Will Need a Different Model: This is a specific Left Hand configuration.
- Limited Firearm Specificity: Designed precisely for the Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP; not a universal fit.
- Initial Belt Loop Stiffness: The 567BL belt loop can be a bit stiff to adjust when first setting it up.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6367-185-132?
This holster is an excellent choice for left-handed shooters who carry a Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP and prioritize security and reliable retention. It’s ideal for law enforcement officers, security personnel, competitive shooters, or anyone who needs a dependable sidearm carrier for training or duty. If you value a holster that keeps your firearm locked down but accessible, this model is a strong contender.
Those who should consider alternatives are right-handed shooters, as this specific model is exclusively for left-hand draw. Additionally, individuals looking for a one-size-fits-all holster for multiple firearms will need to look elsewhere, as the 6367 is firearm-specific. If extreme concealment is the absolute top priority over retention, a thinner Kydex holster might offer a marginal advantage, though at the cost of active locking features.
For optimal use, I recommend pairing this holster with a sturdy, stiff belt capable of supporting the weight of the firearm without sagging, such as a dedicated tactical or duty belt.
Conclusion on Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6367-185-132
The Safariland 6367 ALS Belt Slide Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6367-185-132 has proven itself to be a superior piece of gear for securing a Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP. Its combination of the ALS retention system, robust STX Tactical construction, and ergonomic design delivers on its promise of security and accessibility. The high ride profile and adaptable belt loop make it comfortable and versatile for everyday carry and professional use.
At $123.60, the price point reflects the quality and advanced features offered by a reputable manufacturer like Safariland. It represents solid value for anyone demanding top-tier retention and durability from their holster. I would absolutely recommend this holster to any left-handed owner of a Beretta PX4 Storm .45ACP who values a secure, reliable, and well-constructed carrying solution.