Here’s What You’ll Love (or Not) About the Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-2192-132
The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-2192-132 is a specialized piece of gear designed for law enforcement, military personnel, and serious tactical enthusiasts. It is a Level III Retention holster, meaning it provides a high degree of security for your firearm while still allowing for a relatively quick draw. The Safariland name carries a lot of weight in the industry, representing quality and dependability, so I went in with high expectations.
My need for a reliable and secure holster stemmed from my work as a tactical gear consultant and instructor. I needed a holster system that could stand up to rigorous training scenarios and provide the highest level of weapon retention. I unpacked the holster on my workbench, immediately noting the familiar Safariland quality in the STX Tactical Black finish and robust leg harness. It looked and felt like it could withstand some serious abuse.
I had been considering a few other options, including the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder System. I ultimately chose the Safariland 6305 ALS due to its proven track record, the active retention system, and the overall reputation of Safariland products. The Blackhawk! relies on a finger-actuated SERPA lock, which I’ve found can be prone to accidental releases under stress, and the Galco, while comfortable, isn’t ideal for dynamic movement. My initial feeling was a mix of excitement and relief; I was excited to finally get my hands on a holster I had heard so much about, but also relieved knowing I was making a solid investment in my safety and the safety of others around me.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-2192-132 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Safariland 6305 ALS was at a two-day tactical carbine and pistol course held at a local shooting range. We ran drills involving movement, shooting from various positions, and weapon transitions in both daylight and low-light conditions. The holster was tested while wearing typical tactical clothing and gear, including a plate carrier and battle belt. The weather was clear and mild for most of the first day but turned windy and dusty on the second, presenting a good test of the holster’s resilience.
The holster performed admirably during the drills. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) provided excellent retention, ensuring my weapon stayed secure even during dynamic movements and simulated grappling scenarios. Releasing the ALS was intuitive and quick after just a few practice draws, and the straight-up draw motion was smooth and efficient. I did experience a bit of initial difficulty adjusting the leg straps for optimal comfort and stability, but after some tweaking, I found the sweet spot.
The only initial issue I encountered was the positioning of the SLS (Self Locking System) hood. I found that it required a deliberate thumb movement to deactivate smoothly, which added a fraction of a second to my draw stroke. However, with practice and adjustment, this became less of a concern.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6305 ALS has proven to be a remarkably durable and reliable piece of gear. I’ve used it in a variety of training environments, from outdoor ranges to indoor shoot houses, and it has consistently performed without issue. The STX Tactical finish has held up well to abrasion and impacts, showing only minor cosmetic wear. The leg harness has maintained its integrity, with no signs of fraying or loosening of the straps.
I’ve found the holster relatively easy to clean and maintain. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Occasionally, I’ll apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. My previous experiences with other tactical holsters have often involved issues with retention systems failing or materials degrading over time. The Safariland 6305 ALS stands out for its robust construction and consistent performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-2192-132
Specifications
The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-2192-132 is designed for left-handed shooters and specifically fits Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm and .40 pistols equipped with ITI M3, TLR-1, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC 2, or SSL-1 weapon lights. It features the Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System), which provides Level I Retention by automatically securing the weapon upon holstering. The SLS (Self Locking System) hood adds another layer of security, creating a Level II Retention setup.
The holster is constructed from thermal-molded SAFARI-LAMINATE, a proprietary Safariland material known for its durability and resistance to abrasion, moisture, and extreme temperatures. The leg harness features dual leg straps and a quick-release detachable design, allowing for easy donning and doffing. The vertical leg strap is also adjustable for a customized fit. The STX Tactical Black finish provides a low-profile appearance. These specifications are crucial for ensuring the holster’s reliability, security, and compatibility with specific firearms and accessories, directly impacting the user’s confidence and performance in tactical situations.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6305 ALS excels in its primary function: securely retaining a weapon while allowing for a rapid and efficient draw. The ALS system is intuitive to use; once the release is mastered, the draw stroke is smooth and natural. The holster’s rigidity and secure attachment to the leg harness contribute to stability during movement and reduce muzzle wobble. It is important to note that the holster is designed for a specific firearm and weapon light combination. Using a different firearm or weapon light will likely result in improper fit and compromised retention.
One minor weakness is that the SLS hood can sometimes require a conscious effort to deactivate, especially when under stress. The holster meets and exceeds expectations in terms of weapon retention and durability. The ALS provides a high level of security, while the overall construction of the holster ensures it can withstand the rigors of tactical use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6305 ALS is designed with a focus on functionality and durability. The thermal-molded SAFARI-LAMINATE provides a rigid and protective shell for the firearm. The STX Tactical Black finish offers a professional and low-profile appearance. The leg harness is designed to distribute weight evenly and provide a secure and comfortable fit, even during extended periods of wear.
There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS and SLS release mechanisms, but once these are learned, the holster becomes intuitive to use. The holster’s design prioritizes security and accessibility, resulting in a well-balanced and user-friendly system.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6305 ALS is built to last. The SAFARI-LAMINATE material is highly resistant to abrasion, impact, and environmental factors. The leg harness is constructed from durable nylon webbing and features robust hardware. Proper maintenance is essential for ensuring the longevity of the holster. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism will help prevent dirt and debris from interfering with its operation.
With proper care, the Safariland 6305 ALS should provide years of reliable service, making it a worthwhile investment for serious tactical users.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6305 ALS includes the quick-release leg harness as a standard accessory, providing a secure and comfortable platform for carrying the holster. While the holster itself has limited customization options, the leg harness features mounting holes for attaching additional accessories such as magazine pouches or medical kits. The holster is specifically designed for Smith & Wesson M&P pistols with certain weapon lights, ensuring proper fit and function.
While not a direct customization, Safariland offers the optional Sentry, which adds another layer of security preventing unauthorized removal of the firearm from the holster. The compatibility with accessories from other brands is limited due to the specific design of the holster and leg harness, but users can typically find compatible pouches and attachments from Safariland or other tactical gear manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-2192-132
Pros
- Exceptional Weapon Retention: The ALS (Automatic Locking System) provides Level I Retention, automatically securing the firearm upon holstering, while the SLS (Self Locking System) hood adds another layer of security for Level II Retention. This instills confidence in even the most demanding tactical situations.
- Durable Construction: Made from thermal-molded SAFARI-LAMINATE, the holster is built to withstand abrasion, impact, and extreme temperatures, ensuring years of reliable service.
- Quick and Efficient Draw: Once mastered, the ALS release mechanism allows for a smooth and rapid draw stroke, crucial for responding quickly in dynamic environments.
- Comfortable and Secure Leg Harness: The quick-release leg harness distributes weight evenly and provides a stable platform for carrying the firearm, even during prolonged periods of wear.
- Specifically Designed for Compatibility: The holster is designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm & .40 w/ ITI M3, TLR-1, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC 2 or SSL-1, ensuring proper fit and function.
Cons
- SLS Hood Requires Practice: The SLS hood can initially require a deliberate thumb movement to deactivate smoothly, adding a fraction of a second to the draw stroke. Practice is needed to overcome this.
- Limited Customization: The holster itself has limited customization options beyond accessories that can be attached to the leg harness.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-2192-132?
The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical trainers who require a high degree of weapon retention and a reliable platform for carrying their firearm. It’s also well-suited for private security professionals and competition shooters who prioritize security and speed. Anyone who needs a Level II Retention holster and uses the specified Smith & Wesson M&P pistol with a compatible weapon light will greatly benefit.
This product is not ideal for concealed carry due to its size and design. It is also not recommended for individuals who are new to firearms or who are not familiar with active retention holsters. A good-quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to provide a stable and secure platform for the leg harness.
Conclusion on Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-2192-132
The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-2192-132 is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promise of security, durability, and performance. While the $226.80 price tag might seem steep, the holster’s robust construction, reliable retention system, and comfortable leg harness justify the investment for serious tactical users. I personally recommend this holster to anyone who needs a Level II Retention holster for their Smith & Wesson M&P pistol with the specified weapon lights. If you’re serious about your gear and demand the best, the Safariland 6305 ALS is a worthwhile addition to your kit. Take the plunge and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your weapon is secure and accessible when you need it most!