Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-278-552 Review

How the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-278-552 Surprised Me

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-278-552 isn’t just another piece of tactical gear; it’s a statement. Manufactured by Safariland, a company synonymous with duty-grade equipment, this holster promises speed, security, and accessibility, all wrapped in a flat dark earth (FDE) package. As a left-handed shooter, finding quality gear tailored to my needs can be a challenge, so my initial hope was simply that this holster would live up to the Safariland name.

Years of using less-than-ideal holsters prompted my search for a reliable thigh rig. I needed something that would securely retain my sidearm during dynamic movements but still allow for a fast, intuitive draw. The allure of the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS) was strong, promising a secure hold until I intentionally released it.

Upon unboxing, the holster felt substantial and well-constructed. The STX FDE Brown finish looked fantastic and felt durable, and the suede lining inside gave me confidence it wouldn’t mar the finish of my pistol. Compared to some generic nylon thigh holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland exuded quality.

Compared to the Blackhawk! Serpa and the Blade-Tech WRS Level II Duty Holster, I chose the Safariland 6355 for its proven ALS retention system and the established reputation of Safariland in the law enforcement and military communities. Initially, I was excited by the robust design and the promise of a secure, quick draw.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-278-552 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Safariland 6355 ALS was at an outdoor shooting range during a training session focused on dynamic movement and weapon transitions. The temperature was moderate, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, but the humidity was high, creating a sweaty environment. The holster performed admirably, keeping my Sig Sauer P2022 secure even during sprints and simulated close-quarters combat drills.

The ALS system proved intuitive to use. After only a few practice draws, I was able to reliably deactivate the lock with my thumb during the draw stroke. There was a slight learning curve to ensure a smooth, consistent release, but it quickly became second nature. My only initial concern was the placement of the leg straps; I needed to adjust them several times to find the optimal balance between comfort and stability.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and a force-on-force training weekend, the Safariland 6355 ALS has proven remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the STX FDE Brown finish, and the ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly. The leg straps haven’t frayed or loosened, and the holster still feels as secure as it did on day one.

Cleaning the holster is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and sweat. The suede lining occasionally requires a bit more attention to remove any accumulated debris, but it’s nothing a small brush can’t handle. Compared to some cheaper holsters I’ve used, the Safariland requires significantly less maintenance and shows no signs of degradation.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-278-552

Specifications

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster is designed for left-handed users and finished in STX FDE Brown. It features the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS), which provides secure retention of the firearm until intentionally released. The holster is constructed from thermal-molded Safari-Laminate, providing both durability and protection for the handgun.

This model is specifically fitted for the Sig Sauer P2022. It includes a quick-release leg harness with adjustable vertical leg strap and a standard double leg strap for added stability. The interior is lined with suede to protect the firearm’s finish. These specifications are critical because they ensure a secure, comfortable, and reliable carry system tailored to my specific firearm and handedness.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6355 ALS excels in its primary function: securely retaining and rapidly deploying a handgun. The ALS system provides excellent retention, preventing accidental dislodgement even during rigorous activity. The draw stroke is smooth and intuitive, allowing for a consistently fast and accurate presentation.

The primary strength of this holster lies in its balance of security and speed. However, some users might find the ALS release requires a bit of practice to master, and the thigh rig can be slightly cumbersome for extended periods of sitting. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a tactical thigh holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland 6355 ALS is exceptional. The Safari-Laminate material feels rugged and durable, and the overall construction is solid. The holster is surprisingly lightweight considering its size and features. The leg straps are adjustable and comfortable, but finding the perfect fit requires some experimentation.

The holster is reasonably user-friendly. The ALS release is intuitive once mastered, and the adjustable leg straps allow for a customized fit. However, some users might find the thigh rig design inherently less comfortable than a belt-mounted holster, especially for prolonged use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6355 ALS is built to last. The Safari-Laminate material is highly resistant to scratches, abrasions, and the elements. The ALS mechanism is robust and reliable.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient, and the ALS mechanism can be lubricated periodically with a dry lubricant to ensure smooth operation. The holster appears to be easily repairable, though replacement parts may need to be sourced directly from Safariland.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6355 ALS comes standard with the quick-release leg harness and adjustable leg straps. The leg shroud features mounting holes for optional accessories such as magazine pouches or medical kits.

While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its compatibility with standard MOLLE attachments allows users to tailor the rig to their specific needs. Additional accessories, such as Safariland’s own line of magazine pouches and accessory mounts, can be easily attached to the leg shroud.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-278-552

Who Should Buy Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-278-552?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a secure and accessible way to carry a sidearm. It’s also well-suited for tactical training, force-on-force simulations, and any situation where dynamic movement and rapid weapon deployment are necessary. Left-handed shooters, especially, will appreciate finding a high-quality, duty-grade holster specifically designed for their needs.

Individuals who primarily engage in static shooting or prefer concealed carry may find this holster less practical. The thigh rig design can be cumbersome for everyday carry, and the ALS system is overkill for situations where retention is less critical. A good belt mounted holster would be preferable in those cases.

Must-have accessories include a compatible magazine pouch (ideally also from Safariland) and a reliable belt to which the leg harness can be securely attached.

Conclusion on Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-278-552

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-278-552 is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. The ALS retention system provides peace of mind, while the smooth draw stroke allows for rapid weapon deployment. The build quality is excellent, and the holster is comfortable to wear (once properly adjusted).

At a price of $188.80, this holster represents a significant investment, but it’s an investment that’s well worth making for those who rely on their gear in demanding situations. The Safariland name is synonymous with quality, and the 6355 ALS lives up to that reputation.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6355 ALS to any left-handed shooter seeking a reliable and high-performing tactical thigh holster. Don’t settle for anything less than the best – invest in a Safariland and experience the difference for yourself.