Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131 Review

My Honest Thoughts on the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131 is a piece of kit that immediately speaks to professionals and serious enthusiasts. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and reliability in the law enforcement and military communities, and this holster appears to uphold that reputation. The combination of the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the tactical thigh platform promises both security and rapid access.

I was looking for a holster that provided a secure carry method for my Sig Sauer P225 while maintaining a fast draw. I needed a solution that would work effectively during dynamic training scenarios and potential real-world applications. The thigh holster design offered the potential for a comfortable carry with easy access, and the ALS seemed like a robust retention system.

Unboxing the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131 revealed a well-constructed piece of equipment. The STX Black finish looked durable and professional, and the overall feel was solid. The leg shroud and harness seemed well-designed, and the suede lining was a nice touch to protect the firearm’s finish.

Compared to some of the other thigh holsters I’ve used in the past, like the Blackhawk! Serpa thigh holster and the Condor Tactical Leg Holster, the Safariland felt like a significant step up in quality. The Blackhawk! offered decent retention, but the Serpa system’s release was sometimes awkward under stress. The Condor, while affordable, lacked the robust construction and reliable retention I needed.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see how the ALS performed in live-fire drills, and eager to evaluate the long-term comfort and durability of the entire system. The design and materials seemed promising, but the true test would come with real-world use.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131 at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. This involved a series of scenarios that required rapid target acquisition and engagement while moving through different obstacles. The weather conditions were dry and mild, providing a good baseline for evaluation.

The holster performed admirably. The ALS retention was secure, preventing the pistol from coming loose during movement, but the release lever was intuitive and easy to operate when needed. Drawing the pistol was smooth and consistent, allowing for quick target engagement.

There was a slight learning curve to master the draw stroke with the ALS. The release lever required a deliberate thumb press, but after a few repetitions, it became second nature. I was initially concerned about the holster rubbing against my thigh during extended periods of movement, but the leg shroud and adjustable straps provided a comfortable and stable fit.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. It has seen action in various training environments, from indoor ranges to outdoor tactical courses. The holster has also been used in less strenuous activities, like hiking, to assess its comfort and practicality for everyday carry (though not concealed).

The STX Black finish has held up well, showing only minor signs of wear and tear. The Safari-Laminate construction has resisted scratches and abrasions, and the stitching remains intact. The suede lining has kept the pistol’s finish protected, preventing any unwanted marks or damage.

Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or debris. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to other holsters I’ve owned, the Safariland 6355 requires minimal maintenance while providing maximum performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131

Specifications

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131 boasts several key specifications:

• Automatic Locking System (ALS): This is the core of the holster’s retention, securing the weapon until the release lever is deliberately activated. The ALS provides an excellent balance of security and speed.
• STX Black Finish: The STX Black finish is a durable, textured coating that resists scratches and abrasions. This helps maintain a professional appearance even with heavy use.
• Safari-Laminate Construction: The thermal-molded Safari-Laminate provides a rigid and protective shell for the handgun. This construction method also ensures a precise fit.
• Suede Lined Interior: The suede lining protects the firearm’s finish from scratches and wear. This is especially important for firearms with delicate finishes.
• Quick-Release Leg Harness: The adjustable leg harness with quick-release buckles allows for easy donning and doffing. The dual leg straps provide stability and comfort.
• Fits Sig Sauer P225: This particular model is specifically molded to fit the Sig Sauer P225. This guarantees a secure and snug fit.
• Right-Hand Configuration: This model is designed for right-handed shooters. This is important to ensure proper operation of the ALS.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s performance, durability, and user experience. The ALS provides secure retention, the materials ensure longevity, and the design offers comfort and ease of use.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131 excels in its primary function: securely carrying and rapidly deploying a handgun. The ALS works flawlessly, providing peace of mind knowing the weapon is secure during dynamic movements. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, enabling quick target acquisition.

One of the holster’s strengths is its adaptability. The adjustable leg harness allows for a customized fit, accommodating different body types and clothing. The placement of the holster on the thigh also helps to distribute the weight of the handgun, reducing strain on the waist.

The main area for potential improvement lies in the bulk of the thigh platform. While it provides stability, it can be somewhat cumbersome in confined spaces. Also, while the holster is designed specifically for the Sig Sauer P225, the P225 is no longer in common use, limiting the potential user base for this specific model number.

Overall, the Safariland 6355 meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of secure retention, rapid deployment, and comfortable carry.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131 is thoughtfully designed with ergonomics in mind. The leg shroud is contoured to fit comfortably against the thigh, and the adjustable straps allow for a secure and stable fit. The suede lining is a nice touch that protects the firearm’s finish.

The ALS release lever is intuitively placed for easy operation with the thumb. The draw stroke feels natural and consistent, minimizing the learning curve.

The overall build quality is exceptional. The Safari-Laminate construction feels incredibly durable, and the stitching is robust and precise. The holster feels solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in its reliability.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the materials and construction, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131 is built to last. The STX Black finish and Safari-Laminate construction are highly resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to remove most dirt and debris. Occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism will ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131 comes with a standard leg harness and mounting holes for accessories. This allows users to attach other pouches, such as magazine carriers or a small first aid kit.

While there are no direct customization options for the holster itself, the modular design allows for some degree of personalization. Users can swap out the standard leg straps for wider or more padded straps, or add a drop leg extender for a lower ride height. The holster is also compatible with Safariland’s line of tactical accessories, such as the Quick Locking System (QLS), which allows for easy transfer of the holster between different platforms.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131

Who Should Buy Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131?

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure and accessible carry method for their Sig Sauer P225. It’s also well-suited for tactical training and competitive shooting scenarios.

This product should be skipped by individuals seeking a concealed carry option, or those who own handguns other than the Sig Sauer P225. The thigh platform is not conducive to concealment.

Must-have accessories include additional magazine pouches, a drop leg extender (if a lower ride height is desired), and a bottle of silicone lubricant for the ALS mechanism.

Conclusion on Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131 is a high-quality, reliable, and durable holster that delivers on its promises. The ALS provides excellent retention, the construction is robust, and the design offers a comfortable and ergonomic carry experience. The price is justified considering the quality of materials and workmanship.

I would personally recommend this holster to anyone who needs a secure and accessible carry method for their Sig Sauer P225. Despite its bulk, the Safariland 6355 is a worthwhile investment for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike. If you’re a professional who still carries a Sig P225 and needs a secure and fast tactical holster, you can’t go wrong with the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Right Hand 6355-79-131.