Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6355-84-132 Review

The Story of My Time with the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6355-84-132

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6355-84-132 isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a specialized tool designed for professionals who demand speed, security, and comfort in high-pressure situations. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military equipment, this holster boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention and a tactical thigh platform for comfortable carry and rapid deployment. This left-hand model caters specifically to southpaw shooters.

My need for a tactical thigh holster stemmed from years of participating in tactical training scenarios and observing inefficiencies with standard belt-mounted options. Drawing from a standard belt holster, particularly under load with a full kit, felt slow and cumbersome. I needed a holster that would provide a faster, more natural draw stroke, and the Safariland 6355 ALS seemed to be the ideal solution.

The holster arrived in typical Safariland packaging – functional and secure. My initial impression was that of robust build quality; the Safari-Laminate construction felt incredibly durable, and the stitching was clean and precise. The STX Black finish gave it a professional, low-profile look.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Thigh Holster and the Blade-Tech WRS Level II Duty Holster, but ultimately chose the Safariland 6355 due to its proven ALS system and the Safariland‘s reputation for reliability within the law enforcement community. The ALS, in particular, seemed like a simpler, more intuitive retention system compared to the Serpa’s release mechanism. The Blade-Tech felt too bulky.

I was immediately impressed with the overall design and how securely it held my Walther P99. There was a slight learning curve understanding the ALS release, but overall I felt this holster was well-suited for tactical scenarios.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6355-84-132 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6355 ALS at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. This involved rapid movement, drawing under pressure, and engaging multiple targets. The exercise was designed to simulate a real-world scenario.

The holster performed admirably in the varied conditions we encountered, from bright sunlight to light rain. The ALS system provided secure retention during sprints and dynamic movements, and the draw stroke was consistently smooth and fast. I found it easy to access my weapon even while wearing tactical gloves.

It took some time to adjust the leg straps for a comfortable and secure fit, but once dialed in, the holster remained stable throughout the exercises. The initial “break-in” period for the ALS was minimal, and the release became intuitive after just a few repetitions. There were no major issues encountered during this first use, only a slight rubbing from one of the leg straps that required adjustment.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use in training and field exercises, the Safariland 6355 ALS has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are some minor scuff marks on the STX finish from crawling and maneuvering through rough terrain. These are purely cosmetic and do not affect the holster’s function.

The Safari-Laminate construction has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of cracking or deformation. The stitching remains intact and secure. I clean the holster periodically with a damp cloth and a mild detergent, and I apply a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous experiences with other thigh holsters, the Safariland 6355 ALS far surpasses them in terms of retention, draw speed, and overall comfort. The ALS provides a level of security that I haven’t found in other designs, giving me confidence that my weapon will remain securely in place even during strenuous activity. It’s a significant upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6355-84-132

Specifications

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6355-84-132 is designed for left-handed users and features the Automatic Locking System (ALS). The ALS is an internal locking device that secures the weapon once holstered.

• Material: Constructed from thermal-molded Safari-Laminate, this material offers superior protection for the handgun and sights, while also providing excellent durability.
• Finish: The holster features an STX Black finish, offering a low-profile, professional appearance and added resistance to scratches and abrasions.
• Retention System: The Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides Level I Retention, automatically securing the weapon upon holstering.
• Leg Harness: Includes a quick-release, detachable leg harness with adjustable vertical leg strap and standard double leg straps, offering a secure and comfortable fit.
• Lining: Suede lining protects the handgun’s finish, preventing scratches and wear.
• Compatibility: Specifically designed to fit the Walther P99.
• Handedness: Left Hand

These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s performance, durability, and user experience. The Safari-Laminate and ALS system ensure secure weapon retention and protection, while the adjustable leg harness provides a comfortable and customizable fit.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6355 ALS excels in its primary function: securely retaining and rapidly deploying a handgun. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a positive lock on the weapon that prevents accidental dislodgement. The release mechanism is intuitive and easy to operate with one hand.

The holster allows for a smooth, straight-up draw stroke without the need for twisting or other awkward motions. The leg platform distributes the weight of the handgun evenly, reducing fatigue during extended periods of wear. The design allows the user to maintain positive control while rapidly drawing and engaging targets.

One minor weakness is the potential for the ALS release lever to snag on clothing or gear. This can be mitigated with practice and careful attention to positioning. However, the benefits of the ALS system far outweigh this minor drawback.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6355 ALS boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The Safari-Laminate construction feels solid and durable, while the contoured leg platform conforms comfortably to the wearer’s leg. The weight distribution is excellent, minimizing discomfort even with a fully loaded handgun.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, although it does require some initial adjustment and familiarization with the ALS system. The quick-release buckles on the leg harness make it easy to put on and take off the holster quickly.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6355 ALS is built to withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The Safari-Laminate construction is highly resistant to impacts, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. The stitching is reinforced in high-stress areas, ensuring long-term durability.

Maintenance is relatively simple. The holster can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent, and the ALS mechanism can be lubricated periodically with a silicone-based product. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6355 ALS comes with a standard double leg strap and leg shroud with mounting holes for optional accessories. This allows users to attach items such as magazine pouches, tourniquets, or other essential gear directly to the holster platform.

The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including various belt attachments, leg shrouds, and tactical lights. While the holster is primarily designed for the Walther P99, it can be modified to accommodate other handguns with the appropriate ALS insert. Be sure to use Safariland approved accessories.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6355-84-132

Who Should Buy Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6355-84-132?

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6355-84-132 is perfect for:

• Law enforcement officers
• Military personnel
• Security professionals
• Tactical trainers
• Competitive shooters who need a secure and fast draw

Who should skip this product?

• Casual shooters who primarily use their handguns for recreational purposes.
• Concealed carry users, as the thigh holster is not suitable for concealed carry.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• Additional magazine pouches attached to the leg shroud for increased ammunition capacity.
• A tactical light mounted on the holster for low-light operations.

Conclusion on Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6355-84-132

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Black, Left Hand 6355-84-132 is a top-tier tactical holster that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and security. While the $188.80 price point might seem steep to some, the holster’s robust construction, reliable ALS system, and comfortable fit make it a worthwhile investment for professionals who rely on their handguns in high-pressure situations.

I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to any left-handed shooter who needs a secure, fast, and comfortable way to carry their Walther P99. The Safariland 6355 ALS has exceeded my expectations and has become an indispensable part of my tactical gear. If you’re serious about your gear and need a thigh holster you can depend on, don’t hesitate – invest in the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster today!