Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness, Right Hand 6005-73-541 Review

Testing the Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness, Right Hand 6005-73-541: What You Need to Know

As someone who’s spent over a decade in the outdoor and tactical gear world, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go. But the Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness, Right Hand 6005-73-541 immediately caught my attention due to its reputation for security and rapid deployment in high-stress scenarios. This holster, manufactured by Safariland, combines the reliable Self Locking System (SLS) with a quick-release leg harness, promising both weapon retention and ease of access for professionals and serious enthusiasts.

My search for the perfect tactical holster stemmed from a need for a secure, yet rapidly accessible, carry solution for situations where open carry wasn’t practical, but a concealed setup was too slow. I was looking for something that could handle the rigors of field training and potentially real-world deployments.

Unboxing the Safariland 6005, I was immediately struck by the ruggedness of the STX Tactical finish and the quality of the Safarilaminate construction. The holster felt substantial, but not overly heavy, and the quick-release buckles on the leg harness seemed robust and well-designed.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder Holster before settling on the Safariland 6005. Ultimately, the Safariland’s combination of active retention, quick deployment, and leg-mounted stability won me over. I was also drawn to the level of customization that the Safariland platform offered.

My first impression was excitement mixed with a bit of anticipation; the Safariland 6005 looked and felt like a serious piece of kit, and I was eager to see if its performance matched its appearance. I immediately appreciated the SLS rotating hood, which felt incredibly secure.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness, Right Hand 6005-73-541 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Safariland 6005 was at a local shooting range, incorporating drills that simulated dynamic movement and rapid target acquisition. I used it with a Beretta 92FS, the holster being specifically molded for that model.

The holster performed exceptionally well in varied conditions, including a slightly drizzly day where the STX finish provided excellent grip even with wet hands. The SLS system took a little getting used to, but once mastered, it allowed for a smooth, single-motion draw that was noticeably faster than my previous holsters.

Initially, I had some minor issues with the leg straps slipping slightly during aggressive movements. After some adjustments to the strap tension, however, the holster became rock solid on my thigh.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including weekly range sessions and a weekend-long tactical training course, the Safariland 6005 has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. There are only minor scuff marks on the STX Tactical finish, but the Safarilaminate construction shows no signs of wear or degradation.

Cleaning the holster is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and debris. The SafariSuede lining inside the holster helps protect the gun’s finish and prevents excessive wear.

Compared to my previous experience with a cheaper nylon thigh holster, the Safariland 6005 is in a different league altogether. The Safariland’s superior retention, stability, and build quality make it a clear winner.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness, Right Hand 6005-73-541

Specifications

The Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness, Right Hand 6005-73-541 is specifically designed for right-handed users and comes in a Foliage Green color. This holster is molded for Beretta 96 and 92 series pistols, accommodating barrel lengths of 4.92, 4.3, 5.91, and 4.69 inches. The holster size is designated as 73, and it’s constructed from a hard polymer material with a STX finish.

It features a Self Locking System (SLS) for Level II retention, providing a balance between security and ease of access. Its overall height is 12 inches, with a width of 8 inches and a length of 6 inches, and it weighs in at 11.2 oz. The holster’s hard polymer construction and Safarilaminate lining protect both the firearm and its sights.

These specifications are important because they dictate the holster’s compatibility, durability, and level of security. The SLS system, for example, ensures that the weapon stays securely holstered during strenuous activity but can be quickly drawn when needed.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6005 performs its primary job—securely holding and rapidly deploying a handgun—exceptionally well. The SLS hood is intuitive to operate with practice, and the quick-release leg harness allows for easy donning and doffing of the entire system.

The holster’s main strength is its retention; the SLS system makes it extremely difficult for anyone other than the wearer to remove the weapon. One area for potential improvement is the adjustability of the leg straps; while they are generally comfortable, a wider range of adjustment would accommodate a greater variety of body types.

The holster more than meets my expectations for a tactical thigh holster; it’s secure, comfortable, and allows for a very fast draw. It’s also incredibly durable, and I feel confident that it will hold up to years of hard use.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6005 boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The Safarilaminate construction is rugged and resistant to abrasion, while the STX Tactical finish provides a secure grip even in wet conditions. The weight is balanced, and the holster sits comfortably on the leg without feeling cumbersome.

The SLS hood is cleverly designed to become more secure as upward force is applied, preventing accidental or unauthorized weapon removal. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the SLS release, but it quickly becomes second nature with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6005 is built to last, with its hard polymer shell and robust construction. I expect this holster to withstand years of heavy use without any significant degradation.

Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the SLS hood mechanism are all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. The SafariSuede lining helps protect the firearm’s finish and minimizes the need for frequent cleaning.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6005 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including magazine pouches, flashlight mounts, and drop-leg extenders. The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching these optional accessories, allowing for a highly customizable setup.

While the holster is primarily designed for Safariland accessories, some users have reported success using it with accessories from other brands, though compatibility may vary. I added a Safariland model 7447TS single magazine pouch which attached very easily to the existing holes.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness, Right Hand 6005-73-541