Exploring the Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-1376-62: My Review
For over a decade, my life has revolved around outdoor and tactical gear. I’ve seen holsters come and go, each promising secure carry and lightning-fast access, but few truly deliver. The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-1376-62, however, caught my eye with its promise of both concealment and the renowned Safariland SLS (Self Locking System) retention. As a left-handed shooter who values both security and discreet carry, I was eager to see if this holster lived up to the hype.
My primary need was a reliable and secure concealment holster for my Browning High Power. I needed something that wouldn’t print excessively under clothing and would offer Level II retention. I had grown weary of holsters that felt flimsy or insecure, especially when moving dynamically.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6287 exuded quality. The plain black finish was understated yet professional, and the molded construction felt robust and well-engineered. The holster felt lightweight considering the retention mechanism, a definite plus for all-day carry.
I’ve used the Galco KingTuk and the Alien Gear ShapeShift Core Carry Pack in the past. The Galco was comfortable but lacked active retention, while the Alien Gear, while versatile, felt a bit bulky. The Safariland 6287 seemed to offer a better balance of concealment, retention, and quality, at least initially.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality was undeniably excellent, and the SLS hood felt secure and intuitive, but I knew the true test would be in real-world application. The price of $173.80 felt steep, but I was hoping the performance would justify the investment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-1376-62 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland 6287 was at an outdoor shooting range during a concealed carry qualification course. I wore it with a light cover garment while running drills that involved drawing, shooting, and re-holstering under time pressure. The temperature was moderate, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight breeze and plenty of sunshine.
The Safariland 6287’s SLS system proved remarkably intuitive. After a few practice draws, I was able to consistently disengage the hood and acquire a firing grip quickly and smoothly. The semi-hi-ride position and forward cant facilitated a natural draw stroke, and the holster kept the weapon close to my body, minimizing printing.
I initially found the thumb release required a conscious effort to push down and rotate; but after several repetitions, it became second nature. Re-holstering was equally smooth, with the SLS hood automatically engaging and securing the weapon. No issues arose during the first use, other than the adjustment to a new draw method.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6287 has proven to be a reliable and trustworthy companion. I’ve worn it during daily carry, training sessions, and even a few weekend hiking trips. The holster has remained secure and comfortable throughout.
The plain black finish has held up remarkably well, showing only minor scuff marks from daily wear and tear. The molded construction has retained its shape, and the SLS system continues to function flawlessly. The holster is easy to clean with a damp cloth and a bit of mild soap, and the tension adjustment screw allows for fine-tuning of the draw resistance.
In comparison to my previous experiences with other concealment holsters, the Safariland 6287 stands out for its superior retention, durability, and overall quality. While it may not be the most comfortable holster on the market, the added security and peace of mind are well worth the trade-off. The other concealed holsters I own have been relegated to the drawer; this one is my go-to.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-1376-62
Specifications
The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-1376-62 is specifically designed for left-handed users and the Browning High Power 9mm (Hammer Down). The holster features the Safariland Self Locking System (SLS) rotating hood, providing Level II Retention. It is constructed from a durable, molded synthetic material with a plain black finish.
The holster fits 1.50″, 1.75″, 2.00″, and 2.25″ belt loops, with the 1.50″ & 1.75″ Combination Belt Loop included as standard. It features a semi-hi-ride position with a slight forward cant to aid in concealment and weapon retention. The adjustable tension device allows the user to customize the draw resistance.
These specifications are critical for several reasons. The SLS system provides a high level of security, preventing unauthorized access to the weapon. The various belt loop options provide compatibility with a wide range of belts. The hi-ride position and forward cant contribute to both concealment and a comfortable draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6287 excels in its primary function: securely concealing and retaining a handgun while allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The SLS system is remarkably effective, preventing the weapon from being easily snatched or dislodged. The adjustable tension device allows for a customized draw stroke, ensuring a balance of speed and security.
The main strength of this holster is its retention system. The SLS hood is both secure and relatively easy to disengage with practice. One area for potential improvement is the comfort of the holster against the body, particularly during extended wear in hot weather. A padded backing could enhance comfort.
The Safariland 6287 meets my expectations for a high-quality concealment holster. It provides the security and reliability I demand, while still allowing for a reasonably fast draw. The retention system is excellent, and the build quality is top-notch.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6287 features a simple and functional design. The plain black finish is understated and professional, and the molded construction provides a secure and precise fit for the weapon. The semi-hi-ride position and forward cant contribute to both concealment and a comfortable draw.
The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and solid construction. The holster feels robust and well-engineered, inspiring confidence in its long-term reliability. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the SLS system, but it quickly becomes intuitive with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6287 is built to last. The durable synthetic materials and solid construction ensure that it can withstand years of daily use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and a bit of mild soap. The adjustable tension device may require occasional adjustments to maintain the desired draw resistance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6287 comes standard with the 1.50″ & 1.75″ Combination Belt Loop. While Safariland offers various other belt attachments, there are limited customization options specific to this holster model. The SLS hood cannot be easily swapped for different colors or styles. However, Safariland holsters are known for their compatibility with a variety of mounting platforms, allowing users to adapt the holster to different carry positions.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-1376-62
Pros
- Superior Level II Retention: The Safariland SLS system provides excellent weapon security.
- Durable Construction: Built from high-quality materials for long-lasting performance.
- Concealable Design: Semi-hi-ride position and forward cant aid in discreet carry.
- Adjustable Tension: Allows for customized draw resistance.
- Compatibility: Fits a wide range of belt sizes.
Cons
- Comfort: The holster can be uncomfortable during extended wear, especially in hot weather.
- SLS Learning Curve: Requires practice to master the SLS release.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-1376-62?
The Safariland 6287 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and licensed concealed carry holders who prioritize weapon retention and security. It is also a good choice for individuals who carry firearms in potentially high-risk environments. The left-handed configuration makes it specifically suited to left-handed shooters.
Individuals who prioritize maximum comfort over weapon retention may want to consider other options. Those who are new to firearms or prefer simpler holster designs may find the SLS system initially challenging. A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper support and concealment.
Conclusion on Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-1376-62
The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-1376-62 is a well-built and highly functional holster that excels in weapon retention and concealment. While it may not be the most comfortable holster on the market, the added security and peace of mind are well worth the trade-off. The Safariland SLS system is remarkably effective, preventing unauthorized access to the weapon.
The price of $173.80 is justified by the holster’s quality, durability, and performance. It is an investment in your personal safety and security.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6287 to anyone who needs a reliable and secure concealment holster for their Browning High Power. If you value weapon retention and peace of mind, this holster is an excellent choice. Equip yourself with the Safariland 6287 and experience the confidence that comes with knowing your firearm is safe, secure, and readily accessible.