Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6304-73-132 Review

After the Test: My Review of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6304-73-132

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6304-73-132 isn’t just another piece of kit; it’s a serious investment in security and efficiency. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster boasts their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a rugged STX TAC Black finish, designed for left-handed shooters who demand uncompromising performance in the field. It’s built to withstand the rigors of tactical environments while providing a smooth, intuitive draw when every second counts.

My search for this holster stemmed from a frustrating experience with a previous retention system. I needed a holster that offered superior weapon security without sacrificing speed, especially in dynamic training scenarios. The promise of the Safariland ALS system, coupled with the proven durability of their leg shroud, immediately piqued my interest.

Out of the box, the holster feels substantial and well-made. The SAFARI-LAMINATE construction exudes quality, and the STX TAC Black finish provides a low-profile, professional look. The leg shroud is robust, and the adjustable straps offer a custom fit that enhances stability and comfort.

Compared to a generic nylon holster and a molded Kydex option I’ve used previously, the Safariland 6304 felt like a significant upgrade. While the nylon offered minimal retention and the Kydex lacked adjustability, the Safariland provided a perfect balance of security, comfort, and speed. I chose the Safariland for its reputation for reliability and the proven track record of its ALS system.

My initial impression was one of excitement. The fit and finish were excellent, and the ALS system felt both secure and intuitive. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6304-73-132 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real-world test of the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6304-73-132 took place at an advanced pistol training course. This involved dynamic drills, simulated scenarios, and extended periods of wear in varying conditions. The holster was subjected to rapid draws, re-holstering under pressure, and movement through diverse terrain.

The holster performed admirably in all conditions, including light rain and dusty environments. The ALS system remained reliable, and the weapon stayed secure even during strenuous activity. The straight-up draw was surprisingly fast and intuitive once I became familiar with the ALS release.

Initially, there was a slight learning curve with the ALS release, requiring a deliberate thumb movement to disengage the locking mechanism. However, after a few hours of practice, the draw became second nature. No other significant issues arose during the first use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6304 has proven to be remarkably durable. It’s seen action during multiple training courses, range sessions, and even a few backcountry excursions. The SAFARI-LAMINATE construction has held up well, showing only minor signs of wear and tear.

The holster exhibits no functional degradation. The ALS system continues to operate smoothly and reliably, and the leg shroud remains stable and secure. Cleaning is simple, requiring only occasional wiping down with a damp cloth.

Compared to cheaper holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6304 outperforms them in every aspect. The superior retention, durability, and comfort make it a worthwhile investment for serious users. It’s exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and longevity.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6304-73-132

Specifications

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6304-73-132 is designed for left-handed shooters and compatible with Beretta 92F, 92FS, 92G, 96, and 96G series pistols. It features Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon once holstered. The holster also includes the SLS hood assembly and Hood Guard for enhanced security.

The finish is STX TAC Black, providing a durable and low-profile appearance. It is constructed from SAFARI-LAMINATE, a thermal-molded material designed to protect the handgun and sights. The holster is mounted on the same leg shroud assembly as the popular Safariland 6004 series and includes a standard double leg strap and leg shroud with mounting holes for optional accessories, along with an adjustable vertical leg strap.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance and usability. The ALS system ensures secure weapon retention, while the leg shroud and adjustable straps provide a stable and comfortable fit. The durable construction ensures the holster can withstand the demands of tactical environments. The compatibility with specific Beretta models guarantees a proper and secure fit.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6304-73-132 performs its job exceptionally well. The ALS system provides reliable weapon retention, while the SLS hood adds an extra layer of security. The straight-up draw is quick and efficient, allowing for rapid target engagement.

One of the holster’s strengths is its balance of security and accessibility. The ALS system provides a high level of retention without hindering the draw stroke. The leg shroud and adjustable straps ensure a stable and comfortable carry, even during prolonged periods of activity.

While the ALS release requires some initial training, it becomes intuitive with practice. The holster meets and even exceeds expectations in terms of performance and reliability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6304-73-132 boasts excellent build quality, utilizing durable SAFARI-LAMINATE material. Despite its robust construction, the holster remains relatively lightweight and comfortable to wear. The contoured leg shroud and adjustable straps conform to the leg, minimizing discomfort and maximizing stability.

The holster’s design is user-friendly, although the ALS system requires some initial familiarization. The straight-up draw is natural and efficient, allowing for rapid target acquisition. The STX TAC Black finish provides a low-profile and professional appearance.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6304-73-132 is built to last. The SAFARI-LAMINATE construction and robust hardware ensure that it can withstand the rigors of demanding environments. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap. The ALS system benefits from periodic lubrication to ensure smooth operation. The durable construction and simple maintenance make this holster a practical choice for serious users.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6304-73-132 comes standard with the SLS hood assembly and Hood Guard. The leg shroud features mounting holes for optional accessories, such as magazine pouches, flashlights, and medical kits. The holster is also compatible with Safariland’s optional Sentry, which provides an additional layer of security.

Safariland offers a wide range of accessories that can be used to customize the holster to meet specific needs. These include different types of leg straps, drop adapters, and mounting platforms. The ability to customize the holster with accessories enhances its versatility and adaptability.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6304-73-132

Who Should Buy Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6304-73-132?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical shooters who demand the highest levels of weapon security and accessibility. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who require a fast and reliable draw. Anyone looking for a durable, secure, and comfortable holster for their Beretta 92/96 series pistol will benefit from the Safariland 6304.

Those who should skip this product are individuals who primarily carry concealed and require a low-profile holster, or those on a very tight budget. A must-have modification is the Safariland Sentry, for users wanting additional security.

Conclusion on Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6304-73-132

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Left Hand 6304-73-132 is an outstanding piece of equipment that delivers on its promises. The combination of secure weapon retention, durable construction, and comfortable wear makes it a top choice for serious users. While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the superior performance and reliability justify the investment.

I would personally recommend this holster to anyone who needs a dependable and efficient way to carry their Beretta 92/96 series pistol in a tactical environment. If you value security, durability, and performance, the Safariland 6304 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and efficiency; you won’t regret it!