Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – Tactical Black, Left Hand 6004-5340-122 Review

Going All In on the Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – Tactical Black, Left Hand 6004-5340-122

For over a decade, my world has revolved around outdoor and tactical gear, testing its limits and understanding its nuances. The Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – Tactical Black, Left Hand 6004-5340-122 is a piece of kit that I’ve been keen to get my hands on, especially given Safariland’s reputation for quality and durability in the law enforcement and military communities. It’s designed for left-handed users and, specifically, the model I have accommodates a Kimber Gold Combat RL Custom TLE/RL with a Surefire X200 light – a setup reflecting the requirements of many tactical professionals.

I was looking for a secure, reliable, and accessible holster for my 1911 platform. My primary requirement was something that would stand up to rigorous use in various environments. I’ve used several thigh rigs over the years, but I wanted to test Safariland’s SLS (Self Locking System) as it is highly regarded for both retention and speed of draw.

Out of the box, the Safariland 6004 feels robust and well-constructed. The SAFARI-LAMINATE material gives it a sturdy, almost armored feel, and the Tactical Black finish is clean and professional. Compared to a couple of older Blackhawk! Serpa holsters and a generic nylon thigh rig I own, the Safariland immediately exudes a higher level of quality and attention to detail. It’s clear why Safariland is a trusted name in the industry.

I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype. The initial impression was positive, with the holster feeling like a serious piece of equipment ready for demanding situations.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – Tactical Black, Left Hand 6004-5340-122 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Safariland 6004 was a combination of dry-fire drills at home and live-fire sessions at an outdoor shooting range. I wanted to assess the draw stroke, retention, and overall comfort during extended periods of wear. The weather conditions during my range sessions varied from sunny and mild to a moderately heavy rain – perfect for evaluating the holster’s performance in different scenarios.

The SLS hood system took a bit of getting used to. The rotating hood requires a deliberate downward push and rotation forward to release the handgun. It felt awkward at first, but after about an hour of practice, the motion became more fluid and intuitive. The retention was excellent, with no accidental releases even during vigorous movement.

One slight issue I noticed was that the initial adjustment of the leg straps was crucial for a comfortable fit. If the straps are too tight, they can restrict movement, while if they’re too loose, the holster bounces around excessively.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland 6004 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. I’ve worn it during force-on-force training, tactical exercises, and even on a few long hikes where I wanted the added security of having my sidearm readily accessible. There are only minimal signs of wear and tear.

The SAFARI-LAMINATE has held up remarkably well to abrasion and impact. The holster shows no signs of cracking or deformation. Cleaning is also straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime.

Compared to my older nylon thigh rig, the Safariland 6004 is in a different league. The improved retention, faster draw, and superior durability make it a clear winner. This holster inspires confidence.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – Tactical Black, Left Hand 6004-5340-122

Specifications

The Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – Tactical Black, Left Hand 6004-5340-122 is designed for left-handed shooters. It accommodates a Kimber Gold Combat RL Custom TLE/RL pistol equipped with a Surefire X200 weapon light. Here’s a breakdown of its key specifications:

• Material: SAFARI-LAMINATE thermal-molded construction for enhanced durability and protection. This is a proprietary nylon blend that’s both rigid and abrasion-resistant.
• Retention System: SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood for secure weapon retention and a smooth, single-motion draw. The SLS is a key feature setting Safariland holsters apart.
• Color: Tactical Black for a professional, low-profile appearance. This is a standard color for tactical applications.
• Configuration: Thigh rig with a standard double leg strap and leg shroud, featuring mounting holes for optional accessories. The thigh rig distributes weight comfortably.
• Compatibility: Specifically molded for Kimber Gold Combat RL Custom TLE/RL with Surefire X200. Ensure your firearm/light combination is compatible.

These specifications are crucial for understanding the holster’s performance and suitability for specific applications. The SAFARI-LAMINATE construction ensures long-lasting durability, while the SLS provides a balance of retention and speed.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6004 excels in its primary function: securely carrying and quickly deploying a sidearm. The SLS retention system provides excellent security, preventing unauthorized access to the weapon while still allowing for a fast and efficient draw. The holster’s rigid construction maintains its shape, ensuring a consistent draw stroke every time.

One of the strengths of the Safariland 6004 is its adaptability. The adjustable leg straps and shroud allow for a customized fit, accommodating different body types and gear configurations. However, the SLS system can take some time to master.

Overall, the Safariland 6004 meets and exceeds expectations. It provides a secure, reliable, and accessible platform for carrying a sidearm in tactical environments.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6004 is designed with both functionality and comfort in mind. The SAFARI-LAMINATE material is lightweight yet durable, minimizing bulk and weight. The leg shroud is contoured to fit comfortably against the thigh, while the adjustable straps allow for a secure and customized fit.

The SLS hood is designed to be intuitive to operate, requiring a simple downward push and rotation to release the weapon. The initial learning curve is minimal.

The design is user-friendly and well-thought-out. The Safariland 6004 is a comfortable and practical option for anyone who needs to carry a sidearm in a tactical environment.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6004 is built to last. The SAFARI-LAMINATE construction is highly resistant to abrasion, impact, and extreme temperatures. The holster shows no signs of cracking or deformation even after extended use in harsh conditions.

Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The holster also features drain holes to prevent water from accumulating inside.

The Safariland 6004 is designed for years of reliable service. Its robust construction and minimal maintenance requirements make it an excellent choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6004 features mounting holes on the leg shroud for attaching optional accessories such as magazine pouches, medical kits, or other tactical gear. Safariland also offers a range of compatible accessories, including different types of leg straps and drop adapters.

While the holster is specifically molded for the Kimber Gold Combat RL Custom TLE/RL with a Surefire X200, it may be compatible with other 1911-style pistols with similar dimensions and light configurations. It is important to check compatibility before purchasing. You can customize the fit and carry position of the holster.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – Tactical Black, Left Hand 6004-5340-122

Who Should Buy Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – Tactical Black, Left Hand 6004-5340-122?

The Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – Tactical Black, Left Hand 6004-5340-122 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical shooters. It’s also suitable for security professionals who require a secure, reliable, and accessible way to carry a sidearm. The left-handed configuration makes it ideal for southpaw shooters using a Kimber Gold Combat RL Custom TLE/RL with a Surefire X200.

This holster might not be the best choice for casual shooters or individuals primarily focused on concealed carry. The open-carry design and tactical features are geared towards more specialized applications.

A must-have accessory for this holster is a quality set of Safariland accessory pouches. You may also want to consider a drop leg extender for increased comfort and flexibility.

Conclusion on Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – Tactical Black, Left Hand 6004-5340-122

The Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – Tactical Black, Left Hand 6004-5340-122 is a top-tier holster that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. The SLS retention system, durable SAFARI-LAMINATE construction, and comfortable fit make it an excellent choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike. While the SLS requires some practice to master, the benefits in terms of security and speed are well worth the effort.

At a price of $195.20, the Safariland 6004 represents a solid value proposition. The quality, durability, and performance justify the investment.

I would highly recommend the Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – Tactical Black, Left Hand 6004-5340-122 to anyone seeking a secure, reliable, and accessible way to carry a sidearm in tactical environments. Get yours today and experience the Safariland difference!