Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-97-552 Review

Was the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-97-552 Worth It?

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-97-552 is more than just a holster; it’s a statement of preparedness and a testament to Safariland’s commitment to quality. This holster combines the proven Active Locking System (ALS) with a robust thigh platform, designed for professionals who demand secure weapon retention and rapid access. Specifically crafted for left-handed users and finished in a tactical-friendly STX FDE Brown, this holster promises a blend of security, speed, and comfort that’s hard to ignore.

My journey to this particular holster started with a growing frustration. I needed a reliable, secure, and easily accessible way to carry my Heckler & Koch P2000 during tactical training exercises, and waist-mounted options were proving cumbersome and restrictive. The initial impression upon unboxing was overwhelmingly positive; the STX FDE Brown finish had a professional look, and the overall construction felt incredibly solid.

Compared to similar thigh holsters from Blackhawk and Uncle Mike’s, the Safariland stood out due to its superior retention system and seemingly more durable build quality. I was initially excited, but a bit skeptical, hoping that the real-world performance would live up to the initial promise.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-97-552 to the Test

First Use Experience

The first real test came during a weekend-long tactical training course focused on close-quarters combat. The training ground was a mix of urban environments and wooded areas, providing a diverse testing ground for the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-97-552. The holster performed exceptionally well in varied conditions, from maneuvering through tight corridors to crawling through dirt and brush.

The ALS system required a bit of familiarization, but once mastered, drawing the weapon became incredibly fast and intuitive. There were no unexpected snags or malfunctions, even when the holster was exposed to mud and rain.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-97-552 has proven to be remarkably durable. The Safari-Laminate construction has resisted scratches and abrasions, and the suede lining continues to protect the handgun’s finish. Cleaning is a simple matter of wiping down the holster with a damp cloth, and the hardware has shown no signs of rust or corrosion.

Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, this Safariland model offers a significantly more secure and comfortable carry experience. It outshines competitors in both retention and long-term reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-97-552

Specifications

• The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-97-552 is designed specifically for left-handed users, ensuring proper ergonomics and draw stroke. This is crucial for efficient weapon deployment in high-stress situations.
• It features the Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon once holstered and allows for a straight-up draw once deactivated. This provides a significant increase in security while maintaining rapid access.
• The holster is constructed from durable Safari-Laminate, a thermal-molded material that protects the handgun and its sights. This ensures the firearm remains secure and undamaged, even in harsh environments.
• Finished in STX FDE Brown, the holster provides a low-profile, tactical appearance. This makes it suitable for a wide range of operational environments.
• The thigh platform includes a quick-release detachable leg harness and standard double leg straps for a secure and adjustable fit. This distributes the weight of the handgun evenly, enhancing comfort during extended wear.
• It is specifically molded to fit the Heckler & Koch P2000. This ensures optimal retention and a smooth, reliable draw.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-97-552 performs its job exceptionally well, offering a secure and reliable carry solution. The ALS system provides excellent retention. Releasing the weapon is quick and intuitive with minimal training.

The holster’s primary strength is its combination of security and speed. Its weakness is that the ALS release mechanism might require some initial practice to master. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for tactical applications.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-97-552 features a well-thought-out design, built from high-quality materials that ensure both durability and comfort. The weight is evenly distributed across the thigh, minimizing fatigue during extended wear.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, though the ALS system has a slight learning curve. Once familiar, the draw becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safari-Laminate construction suggests excellent longevity, and after months of use, there are no signs of significant wear. Maintaining the holster is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism.

The durable construction ensures that this holster will last for years. The simple maintenance requirements make it a practical choice for professionals.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-97-552 comes with a standard double leg strap and leg shroud, featuring mounting holes for optional accessories such as magazine pouches or lights. While the holster itself does not offer extensive customization options, the thigh platform’s mounting points allow for personalized configurations.

It is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories and other MOLLE-compatible pouches, allowing users to tailor their setup to their specific needs.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-97-552

Who Should Buy Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-97-552?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a secure and readily accessible carry solution. It is particularly well-suited for tactical training exercises and operations where a thigh-mounted holster is preferred.

Individuals who prioritize concealability or require a minimalist setup might find this holster too bulky. Those new to ALS-style holsters should also be prepared to invest time in familiarizing themselves with the release mechanism.

A must-have accessory is a compatible magazine pouch mounted on the leg shroud for quick access to spare magazines. Proper adjustment of the straps is also crucial for optimal comfort and stability.

Conclusion on Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-97-552

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6355-97-552 is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. While the price of $188.80 might seem steep, the value is justified by the quality of materials, the reliability of the ALS system, and the overall performance of the holster.

I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a dependable and efficient thigh-mounted carry solution for their Heckler & Koch P2000. If you are a left-handed shooter seeking a tactical edge, this holster is definitely worth the investment – upgrade your gear and experience the Safariland difference today!