Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-09-62 Review

Was the Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-09-62 Worth It?

For years, I’ve trusted Safariland holsters on duty and in training, so I was eager to try the Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-09-62. This holster promises a blend of security and concealability, a crucial balance for anyone carrying a firearm off-duty or in a civilian capacity. It boasts the Safariland Self Locking System (SLS) in a design intended for discreet carry, and I was interested to see if it lived up to the hype.

My primary need was a reliable, left-handed holster for my Smith & Wesson Model 66 that I could comfortably and confidently wear concealed. I needed a holster that provided secure retention, easy draw, and all-day comfort, and that I can be 100% confident in. Many “concealment” holsters sacrifice retention for comfort, or vice versa, and finding the right balance has been a constant challenge.

Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6287 immediately impressed me with its solid construction and clean, plain black finish. The holster felt robust, and the SLS hood rotated smoothly and locked securely into place. The molded design fit my Model 66 perfectly, and the semi-hi-ride position appeared ideal for concealment under a jacket or untucked shirt.

I considered other popular concealment holsters like the Galco Combat Master and the DeSantis Speed Scabbard. However, the Safariland 6287’s SLS retention system was the deciding factor. I value the added security that SLS provides, especially when carrying concealed in potentially crowded or unpredictable environments, which is often the case when I am off duty.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-09-62 looked and felt like a high-quality piece of equipment. I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it could truly deliver on its promises of secure concealment and reliable performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-09-62 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test run with the Safariland 6287 was at my local outdoor shooting range. I spent several hours drawing and re-holstering, practicing various shooting drills to assess the holster’s speed and retention. The weather was typical for early spring: damp and slightly chilly.

The SLS system proved intuitive to operate, even with gloved hands. The draw stroke was smooth and consistent, and I quickly adapted to the slight forward cant of the holster. One minor issue I noticed was that the plain black finish showed fingerprints and smudges easily, though this is purely cosmetic.

After my first use, there were no major surprises or disappointments. The holster performed as expected, providing secure retention and a relatively smooth draw stroke. I was eager to see how it would hold up over extended use in more challenging conditions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6287 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. I’ve worn it during various outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and even some light tactical training exercises. The holster has consistently held up well under demanding conditions.

The Safariland 6287 shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to sweat, dust, and abrasion. The SLS mechanism still operates smoothly and locks securely into place. I periodically clean the holster with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the SLS hood to ensure smooth operation, which has kept the SLS like new.

Compared to other concealment holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6287 offers a superior combination of security and concealment. The SLS system provides a level of retention that is unmatched by most open-top designs, without compromising the speed or ease of draw. It has become my preferred holster for off-duty carry.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-09-62

Specifications

The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-09-62 is designed for left-handed users and is available in plain black. It is compatible with several medium frame revolvers, including Ruger Security Six/Service Six/Speed Six and Smith & Wesson Models 10, 12, 13, 15, 19, 617, 64, 648, 65, 66, and 67. The holster is designed to fit 1.50″, 1.75″, 2.00″ and 2.25″ belt loops, coming standard with the 1.50″ & 1.75″ Combination Belt Loop.

The holster features the Safariland SLS (Self Locking System), which provides secure retention with a rotating hood. It has a semi-hi-ride position and a slight forward cant for enhanced concealment and weapon retention. An adjustable tension device allows users to customize the holster’s grip on the firearm.

These specifications are crucial for ensuring proper fit, secure retention, and comfortable concealment. The SLS system provides an additional layer of security, while the adjustable tension device allows users to fine-tune the holster’s performance to their individual preferences. The belt loop options ensure compatibility with a wide range of belt sizes.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-09-62 excels in its primary function: providing secure and concealable carry for medium frame revolvers. The SLS system offers excellent retention, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm, while the semi-hi-ride position and forward cant aid in concealment under clothing. The design allows for a smooth and relatively quick draw stroke.

One of the holster’s strengths is its robust construction and reliable SLS mechanism. However, the draw stroke is not as fast as some open-top designs. It requires some practice to master the SLS release while maintaining a secure grip on the firearm. Overall, the Safariland 6287 meets and exceeds expectations for a concealment holster with enhanced security features.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6287 features a molded design that closely conforms to the shape of the firearm, minimizing bulk and maximizing concealment. The plain black finish is discreet and professional. The holster is constructed from durable synthetic materials that provide excellent resistance to wear and tear.

The holster is reasonably comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to its semi-hi-ride position and smooth edges. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the SLS release. Once the user becomes accustomed to the system, it becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6287 is built to last, thanks to its durable synthetic construction and robust SLS mechanism. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service. The holster is easy to clean with a damp cloth and mild soap.

Regular lubrication of the SLS hood with silicone lubricant will help maintain smooth operation. The holster’s simple design makes it easy to inspect and maintain, ensuring long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6287 comes standard with a combination belt loop that fits both 1.50″ and 1.75″ belts. While there are not many customization options specific to this model, Safariland offers a wide range of accessories, such as different belt loops and mounting options, that may be compatible with the 6287. It is designed to be a standalone concealment holster without needing many add-ons.

The Safariland 6287 is primarily designed for concealment and secure retention. It does not offer the same level of modularity as some other Safariland duty holsters. However, its focus on simplicity and reliability makes it an excellent choice for concealed carry.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-09-62

Who Should Buy Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-09-62?

The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-09-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and licensed civilians who carry a medium frame revolver for self-defense. It is especially well-suited for those who prioritize secure retention and reliable concealment.

This product may not be the best choice for competitive shooters or individuals who require the fastest possible draw stroke. Those who are very sensitive to cosmetic imperfections may also want to consider a different finish.

A high-quality gun belt is a must-have accessory for comfortable and secure carry. Regular practice with the SLS system is also essential to develop a smooth and efficient draw stroke.

Conclusion on Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-09-62

The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-09-62 is a well-designed and expertly constructed holster that offers a compelling combination of security and concealability. The SLS retention system provides a significant advantage over traditional open-top designs. The holster’s durable construction ensures years of reliable service.

At a price of $153.80, the Safariland 6287 represents a solid value for those who prioritize secure and discreet carry. The added peace of mind provided by the SLS system is well worth the investment.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-09-62 to anyone seeking a high-quality, left-handed concealment holster for their medium frame revolver. If you’re looking for a secure and reliable way to carry your firearm, this holster is definitely worth considering. Invest in your safety and carry with confidence!