Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-20-61 Review

What You Should Know About the Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-20-61

The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-20-61 represents a fusion of duty-grade retention with a design tailored for discreet carry. Crafted by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military gear, this holster promises a secure and accessible platform for your sidearm, without sacrificing comfort or concealability. The 6287 caught my eye because I needed a reliable holster for off-duty carry that wouldn’t compromise on the security I’m accustomed to on the job.

I was searching for a holster that offered more than just basic retention; I needed something that could withstand a struggle and keep my firearm secure. Upon unboxing the Safariland 6287, I immediately noticed its robust construction and the smooth action of the SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood. The plain black finish and streamlined profile suggested it would indeed be easily concealed under clothing.

Compared to other concealment holsters I’ve used, like simple pancake holsters or IWB (Inside the Waistband) options, the 6287 seemed to offer a superior level of retention. I chose this holster over others primarily for the added security of the SLS system, which is a feature often found in duty holsters but rarely in concealment models. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited by the promise of enhanced retention but also slightly concerned about the potential for printing, given the holster’s size.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-20-61 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Safariland 6287 took place at my local shooting range, followed by several days of wearing it during my off-duty activities. I focused on drawing and reholstering drills to get accustomed to the SLS system and the holster’s cant. The weather during my initial testing was typical for the region: humid and occasionally rainy.

The holster performed admirably in both dry and slightly damp conditions, with the SLS hood remaining easy to manipulate even with wet hands. Drawing from the holster required a deliberate motion to disengage the hood, which initially felt slower than with open-top designs, but quickly became second nature with practice. There were no immediate issues, though I did notice a slight “printing” effect when wearing lighter clothing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6287 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the holster itself, despite regular use and exposure to varying weather conditions. The plain black finish has held up well, with no noticeable fading or scratches.

Maintenance has been minimal, consisting primarily of wiping down the holster with a damp cloth to remove dust and sweat. Compared to previous concealment holsters I’ve used, the 6287 offers a superior balance of retention, accessibility, and durability. It has definitely outperformed my expectations in terms of long-term reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-20-61

Specifications

• Category: Edw Holsters, signifying its design and purpose within the Safariland product line. This categorisation immediately highlights its suitability for law enforcement and security applications.
• Finish/Color: Plain Black, offering a low-profile and professional appearance. The Plain Black finish ensures the holster blends seamlessly with a variety of clothing styles, further aiding in concealment.
• Fits: Smith & Wesson – 3913TSW Short Round Trigger Guard, 4013TSW, 6904, 6906, 6924, 6926. This specifies the exact firearm models the holster is designed to accommodate, ensuring a secure and precise fit.
• Type: Right Hand, indicating the holster’s intended orientation for right-handed users. This is a critical detail for ensuring proper fit and functionality.
• SLS (Self Locking System): A rotating hood design that provides a high level of weapon retention. The SLS is a key feature, offering a secure hold while still allowing for a relatively quick and natural draw.
• Belt Loop Compatibility: Fits 1.50″, 1.75″, 2.00″ and 2.25″ belt loops, providing versatility in attachment options. The wide range of belt loop compatibility makes it adaptable to different belt sizes commonly used for both duty and off-duty carry.
• Cant: Features a semi-hi-ride position and a slightly forward cant. The forward cant enhances concealability by positioning the firearm closer to the body.
• Tension Adjustment: An adjustable tension device allows the user to customize the draw resistance. This feature allows for a tailored draw stroke, ensuring the firearm is secure yet accessible.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6287 excels in its primary function: securely and discreetly carrying a handgun. The SLS system provides exceptional retention, giving the user confidence that their firearm will remain in place during physical activity or a struggle. The holster’s usability is generally good, although it does require some practice to master the SLS release.

A major strength is the holster’s secure retention, which exceeds that of many other concealment holsters. The main weakness is that the SLS system can add a fraction of a second to the draw time compared to simpler designs. Overall, the Safariland 6287 meets and even exceeds expectations for a concealment holster with a focus on retention.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6287 is constructed from a durable synthetic material, providing a balance of strength and light weight. The holster’s design is relatively streamlined, which aids in concealment but also results in a slightly bulkier profile than some minimalist designs. The holster is generally comfortable to wear, thanks to its contoured shape and semi-hi-ride position.

There is a slight learning curve associated with the SLS system, but once mastered, it becomes a natural and efficient part of the draw stroke.

Durability & Maintenance

Given Safariland’s reputation, the 6287 is expected to last for many years with proper care. The holster is relatively easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. There are no easily damaged parts, and the overall construction is very robust.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6287 comes standard with a combination belt loop that fits both 1.50″ and 1.75″ belts. While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, it is compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as different belt loop attachments. There aren’t many aftermarket accessories specific to this holster, but its design is generally compatible with standard belt widths.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-20-61

Who Should Buy Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-20-61?

The Safariland 6287 is perfect for law enforcement officers carrying off-duty, or any responsible citizen who prioritizes secure retention in a concealment holster. It’s well-suited for individuals who may encounter situations where weapon retention is critical. Individuals who prefer the quickest possible draw, or who primarily wear very light and form-fitting clothing, might want to explore other options.

A sturdy gun belt is a must-have accessory to properly support the holster and firearm. No modifications are absolutely necessary, but some users might find that adjusting the tension device to their preferred draw resistance enhances the experience.

Conclusion on Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-20-61

The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-20-61 is a well-built and reliable holster that offers a strong balance of retention and concealability. The price is justified, given the Safariland name, the quality of materials, and the added security of the SLS system. I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a secure and discreet way to carry their handgun.

If you need a concealment holster that prioritizes weapon retention without sacrificing comfort, the Safariland 6287 is an excellent choice. Consider investing in a quality gun belt to maximize its performance, and practice your draw stroke to become proficient with the SLS system.