Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6354-278-132 Review

The Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6354-278-132 and What It Taught Me

The Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6354-278-132 isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a commitment to secure firearm retention and rapid deployment when seconds count. Made by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military circles, this holster combines their proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a comfortable and adjustable thigh rig. Specifically designed for left-handed users and the Sig Sauer P2022, it promises a secure and intuitive draw.

My journey to this particular holster began with a growing need for a more adaptable and secure carry method for training exercises and potential tactical scenarios. I was seeking a holster that wouldn’t sacrifice speed for security. The desire was further fueled by frustrating experiences with retention straps and slow draw times during drills.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the robustness of the STX Tactical Black finish and the overall solid feel of the rig. The materials felt durable, promising resistance to the wear and tear of regular use. The double leg straps and adjustable belt attachment gave an impression of a comfortable and secure fit.

Compared to other thigh holsters I’ve used – namely a generic nylon rig and an older Blackhawk! model – the Safariland 6354 felt significantly more refined. The Blackhawk! lacked the positive retention of the ALS, while the nylon rig felt flimsy and unstable. The Safariland immediately felt like a professional-grade piece of kit.

Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The promise of quick, secure access to my Sig P2022 was enticing, but I also knew that thigh holsters can sometimes be uncomfortable and unwieldy. My hope was that the Safariland 6354 would live up to its reputation and provide a reliable and comfortable carry solution.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6354-278-132 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6354-278-132 was at an outdoor shooting range, during a full-day defensive pistol course. This allowed me to assess its performance during dynamic movement drills and prolonged use. The course involved drawing from the holster repeatedly, engaging targets from various positions, and performing reloads under simulated stress.

The holster performed exceptionally well, even in the humid conditions of that day. The silicone-backed leg straps minimized movement, preventing the rig from shifting during sprints and transitions. The ALS system proved to be incredibly intuitive: a simple thumb release allowed for a smooth, straight-up draw, even with sweaty hands.

Initially, adjusting the leg straps to the perfect tension took a few minutes, but once dialed in, the holster felt remarkably stable. One minor surprise was the audible “click” of the ALS engaging, providing clear confirmation that the weapon was securely retained.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, including multiple training sessions and dry-fire practice at home, the Safariland 6354 has proven to be exceptionally durable. The SafariLaminate thermoformed construction shows no signs of cracking or deformation, even after being exposed to dirt, sweat, and minor bumps. The internal suede lining has also effectively protected the finish of my Sig Sauer P2022.

Maintenance is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to some other holsters I’ve owned that require constant adjustments and tightening, the Safariland 6354 has been remarkably low-maintenance.

Having used various carry methods over the years, including belt holsters and shoulder rigs, the Safariland 6354 has quickly become my preferred option for tactical scenarios and training. Its combination of security, speed, and comfort has exceeded my initial expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6354-278-132

Specifications

The Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6354-278-132 is designed specifically for left-handed shooters using a Sig Sauer P2022. It features Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention, without the need for straps or snaps. The holster is constructed from durable SafariLaminate, a thermoformed material known for its resilience.

The holster’s finish is STX Tactical Black, providing a low-profile and professional appearance. The leg platform features dual, silicone-backed leg straps for enhanced stability and reduced movement. An adjustable belt attachment allows compatibility with various belt sizes.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6354 excels in its primary function: providing secure and rapid access to a firearm. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, allowing for a natural drawing motion once the release is deactivated. The open-top design facilitates quick retrieval, essential in dynamic situations.

One of the strengths of this holster is its ability to retain the weapon securely, even during strenuous activity. Conversely, a minor weakness could be that users unfamiliar with the ALS system may require some practice to master the release. It absolutely meets my expectations as a reliable and secure tactical holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6354 is thoughtfully designed with both functionality and comfort in mind. The SafariLaminate construction is both lightweight and durable, providing a balance between protection and user comfort. The contoured leg shroud and adjustable straps contribute to a secure and comfortable fit.

The design prioritizes user-friendliness. The ALS release is easily accessible with the thumb during the drawing motion, and the holster’s open-top design eliminates any unnecessary barriers to weapon retrieval. The learning curve is minimal, especially for those already familiar with similar retention systems.

Durability & Maintenance

Given Safariland’s reputation, the 6354 is built to last. The SafariLaminate material is resistant to abrasions, impacts, and extreme temperatures. The high-quality construction suggests that this holster will withstand years of rigorous use.

Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning with a mild soap and water solution is sufficient to remove dirt and debris. The ALS mechanism can be lubricated periodically to ensure smooth operation, but otherwise, the holster requires minimal upkeep.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6354 comes standard with a hood guard to protect the weapon’s controls. An optional ALS guard is available for added security against unauthorized access. The leg shroud features mounting points compatible with ELS, QLS, and MLS systems, allowing users to attach accessories such as magazine pouches, flashlights, or knives.

While the holster itself is primarily designed for the Sig Sauer P2022, its modular design allows for a degree of customization through the addition of compatible accessories from Safariland and other manufacturers.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6354-278-132

Who Should Buy Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6354-278-132?

The Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6354-278-132 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical trainers who require a secure and readily accessible holster for their Sig Sauer P2022. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and reliability. Left-handed shooters seeking a high-quality, dedicated thigh holster will find this model particularly valuable.

Individuals prioritizing concealed carry or those with smaller body types may find a belt holster or other carry method more suitable. Those unfamiliar with active retention systems may prefer a simpler holster design, although the ALS system is relatively easy to learn with practice.

A must-have accessory is a compatible magazine pouch mounted on the leg shroud for quick reloads. Investing in quality training to familiarize oneself with the ALS system is also highly recommended.

Conclusion on Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6354-278-132

The Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6354-278-132 is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promise of secure weapon retention, rapid deployment, and durable construction. While the $180.80 price tag may seem steep, the holster’s performance, reliability, and longevity justify the investment.

I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to any left-handed user seeking a professional-grade thigh rig for their Sig Sauer P2022. If you prioritize security, speed, and durability in a tactical holster, the Safariland 6354 is an excellent choice. Take the plunge and experience the confidence that comes with knowing your firearm is secure and readily accessible when you need it most.