Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131 Review

The Truth Revealed: Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131 is more than just a holster; it’s a complete tactical solution for securely carrying and deploying your sidearm. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and reliability in the law enforcement and military communities, this holster boasts the innovative ALS (Automatic Locking System) and the proven SLS (Self Locking System). It’s designed for right-handed users and features a durable STX TAC Black finish.

As a gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, but my interest in the Safariland 6304 stemmed from a need for a holster that could withstand the rigors of demanding tactical environments while offering unparalleled weapon security and a smooth, intuitive draw. I needed a holster I could trust to keep my firearm secure during dynamic movements but allow for rapid deployment when every second counts. This led me to seek out a Level III retention holster from a manufacturer I trusted.

Unboxing the 6304, my first impression was one of robust construction and purposeful design. The holster felt solid and well-made, the STX TAC Black finish providing a non-reflective, professional appearance. The leg shroud and dual leg straps exuded confidence that this holster would stay secure and comfortable for long periods of use.

Compared to other tactical holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the Blade-Tech WRS Level II Duty Holster, the Safariland 6304 stood out due to its ALS/SLS combination, offering a higher level of security without sacrificing draw speed. While the Blackhawk! offered a similar rapid-draw system, I found the Safariland’s retention to be more intuitive and reliable. I chose the Safariland for its proven track record, its reputation for quality, and the added security of its dual-retention system.

My first impression was definitely positive. I was excited to put it to the test and see if it lived up to its reputation as a top-tier tactical holster. It felt like a serious piece of kit designed for serious use.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Safariland 6304 took place at a dynamic shooting range, simulating real-world scenarios involving movement, transitions, and engaging targets from various positions. I also put it through its paces during force-on-force training, running and moving with the weapon in the holster.

The 6304 performed admirably in all conditions. During several days on the range, from bright sunlight to light rain, the holster consistently retained my firearm securely while allowing for a smooth, reliable draw. Reholstering was equally straightforward, with the ALS automatically engaging once the weapon was fully seated.

The initial draw stroke required some familiarization to reliably deactivate both the SLS hood and the ALS. I found that practicing the motions repeatedly helped to build muscle memory and improve my draw speed. After a few hours of dedicated practice, I was able to achieve consistent and rapid draws.

After my first range session, I noticed some minor discomfort from the leg shroud rubbing against my thigh during dynamic movements. A simple adjustment of the leg straps alleviated the issue, highlighting the importance of proper fit and adjustment.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use in various training scenarios, the Safariland 6304 has proven to be an incredibly durable and reliable piece of gear. The STX TAC Black finish has held up well to scuffs and abrasions, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.

The holster has maintained its structural integrity, with no loosening of screws or degradation of the Safari-Laminate construction. The ALS and SLS mechanisms continue to function flawlessly, providing consistent retention and release.

Maintenance is simple: I periodically clean the holster with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS and SLS mechanisms to ensure smooth operation. This minimal maintenance has kept the holster in top condition.

Compared to my previous experiences with other tactical holsters, the Safariland 6304 has significantly outperformed them in terms of both security and durability. The retention system offers a higher level of confidence, while the rugged construction ensures it can withstand the demands of real-world use.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131

Specifications

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131 is designed specifically for right-handed shooters. It’s molded from durable Safari-Laminate, offering excellent protection for the handgun and sights.

• The holster features the ALS (Automatic Locking System) which secures the weapon upon holstering and releases with a simple thumb activation. This allows for a natural and intuitive draw stroke.
• The SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood further enhances weapon retention, requiring a deliberate motion to disengage, adding a layer of security.
• The leg shroud assembly is the same as the popular Safariland 6004 series. This offers a stable and comfortable platform for carrying the handgun.
• The holster is finished in STX TAC Black. This provides a low-profile, non-reflective appearance.
• It is designed to fit the Colt Government 1911 model. This ensures a secure and precise fit for the specified firearm.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance, security, and user experience. The ALS/SLS combination provides a high level of retention, preventing unauthorized access or accidental weapon loss. The durable construction ensures the holster can withstand the rigors of tactical environments. The precise fit for the 1911 Government model guarantees reliable function and a smooth draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131 excels at its primary job: securely carrying a handgun and allowing for rapid, reliable deployment. The ALS and SLS systems work in tandem to provide exceptional retention.

The draw stroke is smooth and intuitive once the user becomes familiar with deactivating both retention mechanisms. The holster’s design promotes a natural grip on the handgun, facilitating a consistent and accurate draw.

The primary strength of the 6304 lies in its unparalleled security and retention. The ALS and SLS provide a high level of confidence that the weapon will remain securely holstered, even during strenuous activity. The only real area for improvement would be streamlining the deactivation of the SLS hood, perhaps with a slightly larger or more ergonomically shaped release lever.

Overall, the Safariland 6304 meets and exceeds expectations for a tactical holster. It delivers on its promise of secure weapon retention and reliable deployment.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6304 boasts a rugged and functional design. The Safari-Laminate construction provides excellent durability and protection for the handgun.

The holster’s weight is well-distributed, and the leg shroud and dual leg straps provide a stable and comfortable platform for carrying the weapon. While there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS and SLS release mechanisms, the design is ultimately user-friendly and intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6304 is built to last. The Safari-Laminate construction and durable hardware ensure it can withstand the rigors of demanding tactical environments.

Maintenance is straightforward: simply clean the holster with a damp cloth and lubricate the moving parts as needed. This minimal maintenance will keep the holster functioning properly for years to come.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6304 comes standard with the SLS hood assembly and hood guard. This is a solid base platform that needs nothing more.

The Safariland 6304 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, allowing users to customize the holster to their specific needs. Options include the Sentry, which adds an additional layer of security, and various mounting platforms. It will work perfectly well with other MOLLE platforms from other manufacturers.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131

Who Should Buy Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131?

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a secure and reliable method of carrying a handgun. This will be suitable for anyone who needs the confidence of Level III retention for their firearm.

This holster may not be ideal for casual shooters or those who prioritize concealability over security. It’s designed for open carry and tactical applications.

A must-have modification would be training. The holster is designed to be used with a specific technique that is best mastered through dedicated practice.

Conclusion on Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131 is a top-tier tactical holster that delivers on its promise of secure weapon retention, reliable deployment, and rugged durability. The ALS/SLS combination provides unparalleled security, while the Safari-Laminate construction ensures long-lasting performance.

At $167.99, the price is justified given the holster’s quality, features, and reputation. It represents a solid investment in personal safety and tactical readiness.

I would highly recommend the Safariland 6304 to anyone who needs a reliable and secure method of carrying a handgun in demanding environments. Invest in your safety and peace of mind. Get your Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster today!