Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6305-53-131 Review

The Real-Use Review: Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6305-53-131

The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6305-53-131 is a robust and reliable piece of equipment designed for professionals who require secure and readily accessible weapon carry. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military gear, this holster combines their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a comfortable and adjustable leg harness. This holster aims to provide a secure and accessible carry solution for those who demand the best in tactical gear.

I needed a holster that would keep my sidearm secure during dynamic training exercises, while still allowing for rapid deployment. My old holster, a generic nylon rig, was simply not up to the task; it lacked retention, was uncomfortable during prolonged use, and felt flimsy. After extensive research and recommendations from colleagues, the Safariland 6305 ALS seemed like the perfect upgrade.

The Safariland 6305 ALS arrived in a no-frills cardboard box, typical of tactical gear. The first thing I noticed was the weight; it feels substantial, a testament to the durable materials. The STX TAC Black finish looks professional and seems resistant to scratches and abrasions.

I was considering the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster before deciding on the 6305. The Blackhawk! felt less robust and the Serpa’s release mechanism has received criticism, whereas the 6004 lacked the ALS, which I specifically wanted. The Safariland 6305 ALS offered the best combination of active retention, quick release, and Safariland’s proven quality.

I was immediately impressed; the build quality is exceptional, and the ALS mechanism felt solid and secure. The leg harness looked comfortable and adjustable, addressing my primary concern with my previous holster. The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6305-53-131 seemed like a serious piece of kit designed for serious use, and I was eager to put it through its paces.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6305-53-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test was at a local shooting range during a tactical pistol course focused on weapon retention and close-quarters combat. I used my Colt Government 1911, the specific firearm the holster is designed for. The weather was dry and relatively warm, ideal for getting a feel for the holster’s performance.

The holster performed flawlessly; the ALS system provided excellent retention during dynamic movement, including running and grappling drills. The draw was quick and intuitive once I got used to deactivating the ALS lever with my thumb. There were no issues during the first use, and the leg harness remained comfortable even after several hours of continuous wear.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use in various training scenarios, the Safariland 6305 ALS has held up remarkably well. There are some minor scuff marks on the STX TAC Black finish, but no significant wear and tear. The holster’s functionality remains unaffected, and the ALS system continues to operate smoothly.

Maintenance is simple; I wipe down the holster with a damp cloth after each use to remove any dirt or debris. Occasionally, I’ll apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to my previous nylon holster, which required constant adjustments and showed signs of fraying after only a few weeks, the Safariland 6305 ALS is a clear winner in terms of durability and ease of maintenance.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6305-53-131

Specifications

• ALS (Automatic Locking System): This is Safariland’s primary active retention system, securing the weapon once holstered. The ALS requires a thumb-operated lever to be depressed during the draw, providing a secure hold and preventing unauthorized removal of the firearm.
• SLS (Self Locking System) Hood: The SLS hood adds an additional layer of security, further preventing unauthorized access to the weapon. The hood rotates forward for quick and easy access when needed, adding another layer of retention to the already secure ALS system.
• Hood Guard: The hood guard protects the SLS hood from accidental manipulation or damage. It prevents the hood from being inadvertently released, ensuring that the weapon remains securely holstered in demanding environments.
• STX TAC Black Finish: The STX TAC Black finish provides a durable and non-reflective surface. It’s designed to withstand the rigors of tactical use, offering excellent resistance to scratches, abrasions, and the elements.
• SAFARI-LAMINATE Construction: Safariland’s thermal-molded SAFARI-LAMINATE construction provides exceptional protection for the handgun and its sights. This durable material offers excellent resistance to impacts, moisture, and extreme temperatures, ensuring that the weapon remains safe and functional.
• Quick Release Leg Harness: The quick-release leg harness allows for rapid removal of the holster. This is essential in situations where the holster needs to be quickly detached, such as medical emergencies or when transitioning to a different carry method.
• Double Leg Straps: The standard double leg straps provide a secure and stable fit. They distribute the weight of the weapon evenly across the leg, reducing fatigue and improving comfort during extended use.
• Adjustable Vertical Leg Strap: The adjustable vertical leg strap allows for customized fit and ride height. This ensures that the holster can be positioned comfortably and securely on the leg, accommodating different body types and preferences.
• Right-Hand Configuration: This holster is specifically designed for right-handed users. This ensures that the ALS lever and SLS hood are positioned for easy and intuitive operation with the right hand.
• Fits Colt Government 1911: The holster is specifically molded to fit the Colt Government 1911 pistol. This ensures a secure and precise fit, optimizing retention and draw speed.

These specifications matter because they contribute to the holster’s overall security, durability, and user-friendliness. The ALS and SLS systems provide multiple layers of retention, while the SAFARI-LAMINATE construction ensures the weapon remains protected in harsh environments. The adjustable leg harness allows for a comfortable and customized fit, making it suitable for prolonged use.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6305-53-131 excels at its primary function: securing a handgun while allowing for rapid deployment. The ALS and SLS systems work seamlessly together to provide exceptional retention, giving the user confidence that their weapon will remain secure even during strenuous activity. The draw stroke is smooth and intuitive, allowing for quick and efficient weapon presentation.

The main strength of the holster is its security; the combination of ALS and SLS provides unparalleled retention. However, the initial learning curve for mastering the release mechanisms might be a minor weakness for some users. Overall, the holster exceeds expectations in terms of security, durability, and ease of use.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6305 ALS features a rugged and functional design, built for demanding tactical environments. The materials used are top-notch, and the holster feels incredibly durable. The leg harness is surprisingly comfortable, even during extended wear, thanks to the adjustable straps and even weight distribution.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, although mastering the ALS and SLS release mechanisms requires some practice. The quick-release leg harness is a welcome addition, allowing for rapid removal of the holster when needed.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6305 ALS is built to last; the SAFARI-LAMINATE construction and STX TAC Black finish are highly resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6305 ALS comes standard with the quick-release leg harness and hood guard. Safariland offers a range of accessories for their holsters, including different mounting options, belt loops, and light/laser attachments. The holster is also compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as the Sentry, which provides an additional layer of security by preventing the ALS lever from being accidentally depressed.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6305-53-131

Who Should Buy Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6305-53-131?

The Safariland 6305 ALS is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a secure and readily accessible weapon carry. It’s also a good choice for anyone who values quality, durability, and reliability in their tactical gear.

Those who are new to active retention holsters or who prefer simpler designs might find the ALS and SLS systems overly complex. Individuals on a tight budget might find the price point prohibitive.

A weapon-mounted light is a must-have accessory to use with this holster. The addition of the Safariland Sentry locking device also further improves the safety of this system when holstered.

Conclusion on Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6305-53-131

The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6305-53-131 is a top-tier holster that delivers exceptional security, durability, and comfort. While it may come with a higher price tag and a slight learning curve, the benefits it offers are well worth the investment for those who demand the best in tactical gear.

The price is justified by the exceptional quality, proven reliability, and advanced features of the Safariland 6305 ALS. I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a secure and readily accessible weapon carry solution.

If you’re serious about your gear and demand the best, invest in the Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6305-53-131. You won’t be disappointed.