Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6287-6121-132 Review

Getting My Hands on the Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6287-6121-132

The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster has been a staple in the law enforcement and tactical communities for years, renowned for its robust security features and comfortable concealability. This particular model, the 6287-6121-132, caters to left-handed shooters and comes in a sleek STX Tactical Black finish, promising a blend of functionality and professional appearance. I’ve always been a fan of Safariland’s dedication to quality and innovation, and I was eager to see how this holster lived up to their reputation, especially considering my increasing need for a reliable and discreet carry solution.

For years, I relied on a generic, pancake-style holster for concealed carry, but its lack of active retention made me increasingly uneasy, especially during higher-risk scenarios. The Safariland 6287, with its SLS (Self Locking System), seemed like the perfect solution to address my concerns about weapon security without sacrificing concealability. I wanted something that offered a higher level of retention than friction alone, without being overly bulky or cumbersome for everyday carry.

Upon unboxing the Safariland 6287, the first thing I noticed was the solid construction and the quality of the STX Tactical Black finish. The holster felt substantial without being overly heavy, and the molded design seemed to fit my FN Five-Seven perfectly. The SLS hood rotated smoothly, and the overall impression was one of durability and thoughtful design.

Compared to my previous holster, a generic leather pancake holster, the Safariland 6287 was in a different league altogether. While the leather holster offered minimal retention and required constant adjustment, the Safariland provided a secure and consistent draw, along with adjustable tension. I also considered the Safariland 7378RDS, but the 6287’s focus on dedicated concealment and slightly lower profile ultimately won me over. My initial excitement was definitely justified; the Safariland 6287 appeared to be exactly what I needed to elevate my concealed carry setup.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6287-6121-132 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Safariland 6287 was at an outdoor shooting range, where I put it through its paces with various drills and exercises. I focused specifically on drawing speed, retention security during simulated struggles, and overall comfort throughout several hours of use. The weather was fairly mild, but the range was dusty, providing a decent initial challenge for the holster.

The SLS system took a little getting used to initially, requiring a deliberate thumb movement to disengage the rotating hood. However, after a few repetitions, the draw became smooth and intuitive, and I was consistently able to achieve quick and efficient presentations. There were no malfunctions or accidental releases, and the holster retained the weapon securely even during more aggressive movements.

I was particularly impressed with the holster’s stability and comfort. The semi-hi-ride design and slight forward cant positioned the weapon close to my body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort throughout the day. The dust on the range didn’t seem to affect the mechanism, and overall the Safariland 6287 performed admirably right out of the box.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, both at the range and during everyday carry, the Safariland 6287 has proven to be an exceptionally reliable and durable piece of gear. I’ve carried it in various conditions, from hot and humid summer days to colder and wetter autumn outings. I even used it during a training weekend that involved crawling, running, and simulated combat scenarios.

The STX Tactical finish has held up remarkably well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear despite the rigorous use. The SLS mechanism continues to function smoothly and reliably, providing consistent retention and a secure draw. I periodically clean the holster with a damp cloth and a bit of mild soap, which keeps it functioning optimally.

Compared to other holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6287 stands out for its combination of security, comfort, and durability. It consistently outperforms friction-based holsters in terms of retention and offers a more streamlined and concealable profile than many bulkier duty holsters. The Safariland 6287 has completely changed the way I think about concealed carry.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6287-6121-132

Specifications

The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6287-6121-132 is specifically designed for left-handed users and is constructed from a durable thermal-molded SafariSeven™ nylon blend. It features Safariland’s renowned SLS (Self Locking System) for enhanced weapon retention.

• Category: EDW Holsters. This signifies it’s designed for Electronic Discharge Weapons and compatible firearms.
• Finish/Color: STX Tactical Black. This provides a low-profile, non-reflective appearance.
• Fits: FN Five-Seven W/ ITI Tactical Illuminator Light M3/M6 (N/A for M3X and M6X). This holster is specifically molded for this firearm and light combination, ensuring a secure fit.
• Type: Left Hand. Designed specifically for left-handed users.
• The holster is designed for belt carry and accommodates 1.50″, 1.75″, 2.00″ and 2.25″ belt loops with the included combination belt loop.

These specifications are critical because they ensure the holster is compatible with the intended firearm, provides a secure and reliable retention system, and is comfortable for all-day concealed carry. The left-handed design ensures proper ergonomics and accessibility for left-handed users, while the STX Tactical Black finish offers a professional and discreet appearance.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6287 excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while providing a relatively quick and efficient draw. The SLS system offers a significant advantage over friction-based holsters, reducing the risk of accidental weapon release during physical activity or confrontations. The adjustable tension device allows users to fine-tune the draw stroke to their preference.

The primary strength of the 6287 lies in its balance of security and accessibility. A potential weakness could be the slight learning curve associated with mastering the SLS release, but this is quickly overcome with practice. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a concealment-oriented, retention-based holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6287 features a streamlined and ergonomic design that prioritizes concealability and comfort. The semi-hi-ride position and slight forward cant position the weapon close to the body, minimizing printing and enhancing comfort. The SafariSeven™ material is lightweight yet durable, contributing to a comfortable all-day carry experience.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, although the SLS system requires some initial familiarization. Once mastered, the draw stroke becomes intuitive and efficient. The adjustability of the tension device is a welcome feature, allowing users to customize the draw to their preference.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6287 is constructed from high-quality materials and is designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. The SafariSeven™ material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and moisture, ensuring long-lasting performance. The holster is also relatively easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap.

Based on my experience and the reputation of Safariland products, I expect the 6287 to last for many years with proper care. The robust construction and durable materials suggest that it can withstand the demands of law enforcement, military, and civilian concealed carry. The holster’s simple design and durable components contribute to its ease of maintenance and potential for long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6287 comes standard with a combination belt loop that accommodates 1.50″, 1.75″, 2.00″ and 2.25″ belt widths. While the holster itself offers limited customization options, users can explore different belt attachments to further refine the carry position and comfort.

Safariland offers a variety of belt loops and adapters that are compatible with the 6287, allowing users to experiment with different carry heights and angles. Aftermarket accessories, such as wedges and pads, can also be added to further enhance comfort and concealability. While the 6287 is designed for a specific firearm and light combination, users can potentially modify the holster to accommodate other accessories, although this may void the warranty and affect performance.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6287-6121-132

Who Should Buy Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6287-6121-132?

The Safariland 6287 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and licensed civilians who require a secure and concealable holster for their FN Five-Seven with ITI Tactical Illuminator Light M3/M6. It’s especially well-suited for individuals who prioritize weapon retention and demand a durable and reliable holster for daily carry. Left-handed shooters will appreciate the dedicated design and ergonomic advantages of this specific model.

This holster might not be ideal for individuals who prefer simpler, friction-based holsters or who frequently switch between different firearms. It is also not suitable for users who require extensive customization options or who do not own the specific firearm and light combination that the holster is designed for. For those individuals, consider a more universal style holster.

A must-have accessory would be a high-quality gun belt designed to support the weight of the firearm and holster comfortably. A wedge or pad can also be added to further enhance concealability and comfort. Regular cleaning and maintenance are also essential to ensure the long-term performance and reliability of the holster.

Conclusion on Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6287-6121-132

The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6287-6121-132 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a secure, comfortable, and concealable holster for their FN Five-Seven with ITI Tactical Illuminator Light M3/M6. Its combination of the SLS retention system, durable construction, and ergonomic design make it a standout option in the crowded holster market. While the SLS system requires a bit of practice, the added security and peace of mind are well worth the effort.

At $118.00, the price is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and the added security provided by the SLS system. It might seem like a premium compared to simpler holsters, but the peace of mind and long-term durability make it a worthwhile investment. The Safariland 6287 is a testament to Safariland’s commitment to quality and innovation.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6287 to any left-handed shooter looking for a reliable and concealable holster for their FN Five-Seven with the specified light attachment. If you value security, comfort, and durability, the Safariland 6287 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and confidence – get your hands on the Safariland 6287 today!