Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6287-260-131 Review

Beyond Specs: Living with the Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6287-260-131

The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6287-260-131 represents Safariland’s answer to the need for a secure, yet easily concealable, holster for law enforcement and responsible citizens alike. Its defining features include the SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood, coupled with a design that rides close to the body. The result is a balance between retention and accessibility that’s crucial in high-stress situations.

Years of open carrying on duty made me appreciate the value of good retention, but off-duty I needed something more discreet. I was searching for a holster that offered both security and comfort, without printing excessively under clothing. The Safariland 6287 seemed to strike that balance.

My initial experience with the holster was positive, right out of the box. The STX Tactical Black finish looked professional and durable, and the overall construction felt solid. It had a reassuring weight, not too heavy, but substantial enough to suggest quality materials.

I considered a few other options at the time, including a Galco leather pancake holster and a Blade-Tech Klipt appendix carry holster. I chose the Safariland 6287 primarily for its superior retention system and its ability to accommodate a variety of belt widths. Its SLS hood seemed significantly more secure than the friction-based retention of the Galco, and more versatile than the dedicated appendix carry of the Blade-Tech.

My first impression was excitement tempered by a bit of apprehension about the learning curve of the SLS system. It looked incredibly secure, but I wondered if it would be intuitive to draw from under pressure. Ultimately, my desire for enhanced retention won out.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6287-260-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6287 at my local shooting range during a self-defense course. I practiced drawing and re-holstering drills repeatedly, focusing on mastering the SLS release under simulated stress. The conditions were dry and sunny, ideal for getting acquainted with the holster.

The holster performed reliably, but it definitely took some getting used to. The SLS hood requires a deliberate motion to release, and initially, I fumbled with it a few times. However, after about an hour of practice, the motion became more fluid and intuitive.

My biggest initial issue was remembering to depress the SLS hood properly during the draw stroke. Early on, I would occasionally try to draw without fully releasing the hood, which obviously resulted in a failed draw. However, with consistent practice, this issue quickly resolved itself.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6287 has held up remarkably well. I have used it in a variety of conditions, from hot and humid summer days to cold and rainy autumn evenings. It remains secure and reliable, regardless of the weather.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear. The STX Tactical Black finish has proven to be quite durable, showing only minor scuff marks around the edges. The internal suede lining is still in excellent condition, protecting the finish of my firearm.

Maintenance is simple. I occasionally wipe down the holster with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris, and I apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the SLS mechanism to keep it functioning smoothly. The Safariland 6287 outperforms my previous concealment holsters in terms of both security and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6287-260-131

Specifications

The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6287-260-131 is designed for right-handed users and features Safariland’s renowned SLS (Self Locking System) for secure weapon retention. The holster is constructed from a durable, thermal-molded SafariSeven™ nylon blend and features an STX Tactical Black finish. It is designed to fit 1.50″, 1.75″, 2.00″ and 2.25″ belt loops, and comes standard with the 1.50″ & 1.75″ Combination Belt Loop.

The holster also has an adjustable tension device that allows users to customize the level of retention. It is designed for concealment and features a semi-hi-ride position with a slight forward cant for comfortable carry. The 6287-260-131 model is specifically molded to fit the Browning Pro-9 and FN FNP-9.

These specifications are important because they directly contribute to the holster’s effectiveness for concealed carry. The SLS system ensures that the firearm stays securely in place until deliberately drawn, providing peace of mind. The adjustable tension allows the user to fine-tune the draw stroke to their preference.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6287 performs admirably, providing a secure and relatively fast draw once the SLS is mastered. Weapon retention is top-notch, offering a significant advantage over simpler friction-based holsters. While the SLS adds a layer of complexity, the improved security is worth the trade-off.

The holster’s primary strength is its secure weapon retention. It offers a level of security that is reassuring in a variety of situations. The main area for improvement is the initial learning curve of the SLS system.

The Safariland 6287 largely meets my expectations. It offers a good balance of security, concealability, and comfort. However, mastering the SLS system does require dedicated practice.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6287 boasts a well-thought-out design. The STX Tactical Black finish is professional and durable. The holster rides comfortably on the belt, and the slight forward cant aids in concealment.

The holster is constructed from high-quality materials that are both durable and lightweight. The weight is noticeable but not burdensome, especially when using a sturdy belt. The holster is generally user-friendly, although the SLS system requires a dedicated training period to master the draw stroke.

There is a moderate learning curve associated with the SLS, but the security it provides is well worth the effort.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6287 is built to last. The SafariSeven™ nylon blend is highly resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, the holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the SLS mechanism are sufficient to keep the holster in good working order.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6287 itself does not come with a wide array of accessories, but its modular design allows for some degree of customization. The belt loop can be swapped out for different sizes or styles to accommodate different belt widths or carry positions.

While the Safariland 6287 is primarily designed for use with the Browning Pro-9 and FN FNP-9, it may also be compatible with similar-sized firearms from other manufacturers. However, it’s essential to verify compatibility before attempting to use the holster with a different firearm.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6287-260-131

Who Should Buy Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6287-260-131?

The Safariland 6287 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and licensed citizens who prioritize secure concealed carry. It benefits those who require a high level of weapon retention without sacrificing accessibility. It’s ideal for individuals who are willing to dedicate time to mastering the SLS system for a faster draw.

This product might not be suitable for individuals who are new to firearms or prefer a simpler, more intuitive holster design. It’s also not ideal for those who need to frequently draw and re-holster their firearm, as the SLS system adds an extra step to the process.

A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for the Safariland 6287. A sturdy belt will provide stability and prevent the holster from shifting during movement. Consider also a concealment garment designed to minimize printing.

Conclusion on Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6287-260-131

The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6287-260-131 is a well-designed and highly functional holster that offers excellent weapon retention and concealability. The SLS system requires practice, but the added security is well worth the effort for those who prioritize it.

The price of $106.00 is justified by the quality of materials, durable construction, and superior weapon retention capabilities. This holster offers a solid value proposition for those seeking a secure and reliable concealed carry option.

I would definitely recommend the Safariland 6287 to anyone who values security and is willing to invest the time in mastering the SLS system. If you’re looking for a dependable concealed carry holster that provides peace of mind, this is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and confidence – get the Safariland 6287 today!