Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holsters Review

What to Expect from the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holsters

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holsters are designed for professionals who need a secure and rapidly accessible sidearm. Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military-grade gear, built these holsters to withstand the rigors of tactical environments. The standout feature is the Automatic Locking System (ALS), which provides excellent retention while allowing for a smooth, intuitive draw.

I sought out the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster after a near mishap during a training exercise. My previous holster, a basic nylon model, lacked adequate retention, causing my sidearm to shift unexpectedly during a dynamic movement drill. I needed a holster that offered both security and speed, something that wouldn’t fail under pressure.

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster arrived in a no-nonsense package, reflecting its practical purpose. My first impression was of robust construction and high-quality materials. The STX TAC Black finish looked durable and non-reflective, ideal for tactical applications.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the G-Code SOC Holster. I ultimately chose the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster because of Safariland’s proven track record, the ALS retention system, and the adjustability of the thigh rig. The Blackhawk! Serpa system raised concerns about accidental discharges under stress, and the G-Code, while modular, seemed less secure for my needs.

My initial excitement was tempered by the realization that setting up the thigh rig for my specific body type would take some time. However, the overall build quality and the positive click of the ALS engaging inspired confidence. This felt like a serious piece of kit.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holsters to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holsters at my local shooting range, integrating it into various drills, including drawing under pressure, movement exercises, and target transitions. The range provided a controlled environment to familiarize myself with the ALS and the overall feel of the holster. The tests were performed on a 80 degree sunny day.

The holster performed flawlessly in dry conditions. The ALS retention system worked as advertised, providing a secure hold while allowing for a quick and clean draw. It took a few repetitions to master the thumb release, but once I got the hang of it, the draw became instinctive.

The learning curve was minimal. It took about an hour of dedicated practice to become proficient with the ALS release. I did find the thigh rig slightly uncomfortable at first, but after adjusting the straps for a more ergonomic fit, the comfort improved significantly.

The only initial issue was a slight bit of drag during the draw stroke, which I later attributed to the holster being brand new. After applying some silicone lubricant to the interior, the draw became noticeably smoother.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holsters has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I have used it in various training scenarios, including force-on-force simulations and tactical exercises, and it has consistently performed without issue. The holster remained tightly on my thigh even while running.

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The STX TAC finish is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches and abrasions. The only noticeable wear is some slight discoloration on the interior of the holster, likely due to repeated drawing and re-holstering.

Maintaining the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster is straightforward. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use to remove any dirt or debris. Periodically, I apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism and the interior of the holster to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous nylon holster, the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holsters is a night-and-day improvement. The security, speed, and durability are unmatched. I have complete confidence in its ability to perform under any circumstances.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holsters

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Safariland
• Color: Black
• Holster Material: Hard Polymer
• Hand: Right
• Holster Type: Thigh Holster
• Application: Tactical

These specifications highlight the holster’s intended use. The hard polymer construction and thigh holster design suggest a focus on durability and tactical applications. The “Right” hand designation is critical, ensuring compatibility for right-handed shooters.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holsters excels in its primary function: providing secure retention and rapid access to a sidearm. The ALS system works flawlessly, offering a positive lock that prevents accidental dislodgement. The draw is smooth and intuitive, allowing for quick and efficient target acquisition.

Its strengths are its retention, speed, and durability. The main weakness, noted in user feedback, is the holster’s specific compatibility. You must ensure the holster is molded for your exact firearm model to guarantee proper function and fit.

It exceeds my expectations. The level of security and speed it offers gives me confidence in high-stress situations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional. The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holsters is constructed from SAFARIfort material, a proprietary synthetic known for its strength and rigidity. The materials are durable and rugged. The adjustable leg shroud and thigh strap ensure a secure and comfortable fit.

The holster is user-friendly, but there is a learning curve associated with the ALS system. Once the user becomes familiar with the thumb release, the draw becomes natural and instinctive.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holsters is built to last. The hard polymer construction and durable finish ensure that it can withstand the rigors of tactical environments.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that is required to keep it in optimal condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holsters features an adjustable belt tie-down, an external leg strap, and a leg shroud, allowing the user to adjust the height and stability of the holster.

Safariland offers a range of accessories, including different thigh straps, drop adapters, and mounting platforms. The holster is also compatible with various aftermarket accessories, such as weapon lights and optics.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holsters