Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6354-84-132 Review

Discovering the Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6354-84-132: My Take

As a seasoned gear specialist with over a decade in the field, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each promising the pinnacle of security and accessibility. However, the Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6354-84-132 caught my attention with its reputation for ruggedness and the promise of Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS). This holster seemed to offer the perfect blend of retention and rapid deployment – a critical balance for any tactical operator or serious shooter.

I was searching for a secure and reliable holster system that could accommodate my left-handed draw and offer uncompromised access in high-stress situations. My previous holsters often fell short, lacking either sufficient retention or hindering a smooth, efficient draw. The Safariland 6354 ALS promised to solve this dilemma.

Upon unboxing, the holster exuded quality. The STX Black finish was flawless, the Safari-Laminate construction felt incredibly robust, and the overall design appeared well-thought-out. Its lightweight design surprised me.

Compared to the Blackhawk! Serpa thigh holster and the Blade-Tech WRS Level 2 Duty Holster, the Safariland offering stood out due to its simpler, more intuitive ALS mechanism and its arguably more durable construction. I chose the Safariland for its proven track record in law enforcement and military applications, hoping it would live up to the hype. I was both excited and cautiously optimistic, eager to see if it would deliver on its promises of security and speed.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6354-84-132 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Safariland 6354 ALS extensively at my local shooting range and during several force-on-force training scenarios. These scenarios demanded quick draws, re-holstering under pressure, and active movement, simulating real-world tactical situations. The holster performed admirably under varied conditions.

Even when soaked with rain or coated in range dust, the ALS mechanism functioned flawlessly, providing consistent retention and a smooth draw. The draw became second nature after only a few hours of practice. Re-holstering was positive and secure.

My initial concerns revolved around the thigh rig’s comfort during extended wear. However, the adjustable leg straps and padded shroud distributed the weight effectively, preventing chafing or discomfort even after hours of use. I was immediately impressed by the instinctive nature of the ALS release.

Extended Use & Reliability

After months of consistent use, the Safariland 6354 ALS has proven its durability and reliability. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite the rough handling it has endured during training and simulated operations. The STX Black finish has resisted scratches and abrasions remarkably well.

Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The suede lining protects the handgun’s finish.

Compared to my previous experiences with other tactical holsters, the Safariland 6354 ALS outperforms them in nearly every aspect. Its superior retention system, comfortable design, and robust construction make it a clear winner. This holster gives me confidence that my firearm is secure and accessible at all times.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6354-84-132

Specifications

The Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6354-84-132 is specifically designed for left-handed users and compatible with the Walther P99. It features the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention. The holster boasts a durable Safari-Laminate thermal-molded construction and a STX Black finish.

The thigh rig includes a standard double leg strap and leg shroud, both of which offer mounting points for accessories. It also features an adjustable vertical leg strap lined with suede to protect the handgun’s finish. These specifications combine to provide a holster that is secure, comfortable, and customizable.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6354 ALS excels in its primary function: securely retaining and rapidly deploying a handgun. The ALS system provides excellent retention, preventing unauthorized removal of the weapon while still allowing for a fast, smooth draw with practice. The holster offers confident weapon retention.

The only minor weakness is the potential for clothing interference with the ALS lever if worn too loosely. This can be mitigated with proper adjustment and practice. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The holster is constructed from durable Safari-Laminate material and the STX Black finish provides a professional appearance. The design is ergonomic, with the thigh rig distributing the weight of the handgun evenly. The suede lining protects the handgun’s finish and prevents scratches.

There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release, but it becomes intuitive with practice. The Safariland 6354 ALS is incredibly user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6354 ALS is built to last, constructed from high-quality materials designed to withstand harsh conditions. The Safari-Laminate shell is resistant to impacts, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. This holster is meant to be used in extreme conditions.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism will keep it functioning smoothly.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6354 ALS thigh rig includes mounting holes on the leg shroud for attaching various accessories, such as magazine pouches, flashlights, or medical kits. The adjustable leg straps ensure a secure and comfortable fit. The mounting holes provide lots of customization options.

While the holster is primarily designed for use with the Walther P99, it is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories. It can be fitted with different mounting options to suit individual preferences.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6354-84-132