Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551 Review

My Experience with the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551: Here’s the Truth

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551 is a piece of kit that promises both security and rapid access, essential for anyone in a tactical environment. Safariland has built a solid reputation for durable and reliable holsters, often seen on law enforcement and military personnel, and this model aims to deliver that same dependability in a thigh-mounted platform. Its standout feature is the Automatic Locking System (ALS), designed to provide a secure hold on your weapon while still allowing for a quick, intuitive draw.

I’ve spent years searching for the ideal holster system. I needed something that would comfortably carry a sidearm during extended periods of activity without sacrificing speed. I previously used a standard belt holster, but I found it cumbersome and restrictive when wearing tactical gear or body armor.

Upon receiving the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551, I was immediately struck by its robust construction. The STX FDE Brown finish gives it a professional and discreet look. My first impression was positive; this holster felt like it could withstand some serious abuse.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder Holster before deciding on the Safariland. The Safariland’s ALS system stood out because of its simplicity and security, whereas the Serpa’s release mechanism worried me in high-stress situations, and the shoulder holster wasn’t ideal for the specific operational needs I had. Initial excitement was high – this holster seemed to be the solution I was looking for.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range and during a force-on-force training exercise at a tactical training facility. I focused on evaluating draw speed, retention under stress, and overall comfort while moving. Conditions varied from sunny and dry to light rain, providing a decent initial assessment.

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551 performed admirably in both environments. I needed a few practice draws to become proficient with the ALS release, but once I became accustomed to it, the draw was smooth and consistently fast. My initial surprise was how secure the holster felt even during dynamic movements, such as running and transitioning between positions.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use during training and field exercises, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551 continues to impress. Durability has proven excellent, with only minor cosmetic wear on the STX finish. I’ve exposed it to mud, dust, and rain, and the holster still functions flawlessly.

Maintenance is straightforward; wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and occasionally lubricating the ALS mechanism is all that’s required. Compared to my previous holster, which required constant adjustments and cleaning, the Safariland is a significant upgrade. It outperforms my expectations in terms of both reliability and ease of use.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551

Specifications

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551 features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) which secures the weapon once holstered. The holster also includes a quick-release leg harness for easy donning and doffing. Constructed from thermal-molded Safari-Laminate, the holster offers excellent protection for the handgun.

The suede lining protects the handgun’s finish from scratches and wear. The holster is available in STX FDE Brown, and is specifically designed for right-hand users. It’s fitted for the Sig Sauer P2022. These specifications are important because they directly contribute to the holster’s security, durability, and comfortable carry.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551 excels at securely retaining the weapon and allowing for a rapid, consistent draw. The ALS system provides excellent retention, preventing accidental dislodging of the handgun. The thigh rig is comfortable to wear for extended periods, distributing the weight of the firearm evenly.

One area for improvement is the adjustability of the leg straps; while they are adjustable, some users may find it challenging to achieve a perfect fit. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations in both retention and draw speed, however the lack of Safariland’s SLS (Self Locking System) is a drawback if the highest level of weapon retention is required.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is top-notch, using durable Safari-Laminate that can withstand significant abuse. The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551 is lightweight, which reduces fatigue during prolonged use. The holster design is relatively user-friendly, but mastering the ALS release takes practice.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551 is expected to last for years under normal use. Minimal maintenance is required, primarily consisting of cleaning and occasional lubrication. Repairing the holster would likely require sending it back to Safariland, but the durable construction minimizes the chances of needing repairs.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551 comes with a standard double leg strap and leg shroud. The leg shroud includes mounting holes for attaching optional accessories such as magazine pouches or medical kits. The holster is compatible with various Safariland accessories, allowing users to customize their setup.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551

Who Should Buy Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551?

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical training participants. It’s also a good option for competitive shooters seeking a secure and accessible holster system. Anyone who needs a reliable and durable holster for carrying a Sig Sauer P2022 will benefit from this product.

Individuals who prioritize the highest level of weapon retention (those who need SLS in addition to ALS) should consider other models. Those who prefer simpler, passive retention systems might also find the ALS system unnecessary. Must-have accessories include additional magazine pouches and a quality tourniquet for mounting on the leg shroud.

Conclusion on Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551 is a well-designed and durable holster that provides excellent weapon retention and accessibility. At $188.80, the price is justified by the quality of materials and performance. I would recommend this holster to anyone seeking a reliable and secure thigh-mounted holster for tactical applications.

If you’re looking for a holster that combines security, durability, and rapid access, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6355-278-551 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and performance—check it out today!