Getting My Hands on the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-149-541
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-149-541 represents a significant piece of kit for anyone needing secure and readily accessible firearm carry in a tactical environment. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and dependability in the law enforcement and military communities, and the 6355 holster is designed to meet the rigorous demands of those professions. This holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a comfortable and adjustable thigh platform, making it an appealing option for those who need to keep their sidearm close at hand.
As a gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I was looking for a thigh holster that provided both exceptional retention and a smooth, quick draw for scenarios involving dynamic movement. I needed a holster I could trust in high-stress situations, something that wouldn’t snag or fail when speed and efficiency are paramount.
Unboxing the Safariland 6355, I immediately noticed the robust construction and the quality of the Safari-Laminate material. The STX Foliage Green finish appeared durable and provided excellent camouflage in various environments. The holster felt solid and well-made, with no obvious signs of manufacturing defects.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Thigh Holster and the Uncle Mike’s Tactical Thigh Holster, both of which offer similar functionality. I chose the Safariland for its reputation for superior retention and the ALS system’s intuitive operation. My past experiences with Safariland products have instilled confidence in their reliability, and I was willing to pay a premium for that peace of mind.
My initial excitement was tempered slightly by the realization that some adjustment might be required to achieve optimal fit and comfort. However, the overall impression was positive; the Safariland 6355 seemed to be a high-quality piece of equipment that could potentially revolutionize my carry experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-149-541 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test with the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster was at a local shooting range during a training session focused on dynamic shooting drills. I specifically wanted to evaluate the speed and ease of drawing from the holster while moving and engaging targets. The weather was dry and moderately warm, ideal conditions for testing gear.
The ALS system proved to be incredibly intuitive; after a few practice draws, I was able to consistently and quickly access my Springfield XD 9mm. The holster maintained excellent retention during movement, even when running and transitioning between shooting positions. I didn’t encounter any snags or malfunctions, and the suede lining protected the finish of my firearm.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including force-on-force training and practical shooting competitions, the Safariland 6355 has continued to perform admirably. The Safari-Laminate material shows minimal signs of wear, even after being exposed to dirt, mud, and occasional scrapes. The holster has retained its shape and rigidity, and the ALS system continues to function flawlessly.
Cleaning the holster is relatively simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. The leg straps have remained secure and comfortable, even during extended periods of wear. Compared to my previous experience with a cheaper nylon thigh holster, the Safariland 6355 offers a significantly more secure and reliable carry solution.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-149-541
Specifications
- Category: ALS Holsters.
This means it uses Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention. - Finish/Color: STX Foliage Green.
The STX finish offers a durable and textured surface for enhanced grip and wear resistance, while the Foliage Green provides camouflage in various environments. - Fits: Springfield Armory – .357, .40, .45, XD 9mm.
This holster is specifically molded to securely fit these Springfield Armory models. - Type: Right Hand.
The holster is designed for right-handed shooters.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s functionality, compatibility, and overall user experience. The ALS system ensures that the firearm remains securely holstered until intentionally released, a critical safety feature in tactical situations. The STX finish enhances durability and provides a non-slip surface, while the specific fit ensures proper retention and a smooth draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster excels at its primary function: securely carrying a firearm while providing rapid access when needed. The ALS system offers excellent retention, preventing the weapon from being dislodged accidentally or by an assailant. The intuitive release mechanism allows for a quick and efficient draw, even under stress.
The primary strength of this holster lies in its balance of security and accessibility. The ALS system is exceptionally reliable, and the thigh platform provides a stable and comfortable carry option. A minor weakness is that the initial adjustment of the leg straps can be time-consuming. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a tactical thigh holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6355 is constructed from durable Safari-Laminate, a thermal-molded material that provides excellent protection for the firearm. The holster feels solid and well-made, and the suede lining protects the firearm’s finish. The weight is well-distributed, and the thigh platform provides a stable and comfortable carry.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although some practice is required to master the ALS release mechanism. The adjustable leg straps allow for a customized fit, enhancing comfort and stability.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the high-quality materials and robust construction, the Safariland 6355 is expected to last for many years with proper care. The Safari-Laminate material is resistant to abrasions, impacts, and extreme temperatures.
Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning with a damp cloth is typically sufficient. The ALS mechanism may require occasional lubrication to ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6355 comes standard with a quick-release leg harness and mounting holes for optional accessories such as magazine pouches or tactical lights. The holster is compatible with various Safariland accessories, allowing users to customize their setup to meet specific needs. The modular design also allows for easy attachment of other MOLLE-compatible accessories.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-149-541
Pros
- Exceptional Retention with ALS: The Automatic Locking System provides secure weapon retention, preventing accidental dislodgement or unauthorized access.
- Rapid Draw: The ALS system allows for a quick and efficient draw, even under stress.
- Durable Construction: The Safari-Laminate material is highly resistant to abrasions, impacts, and extreme temperatures.
- Comfortable Thigh Platform: The adjustable leg straps and contoured thigh platform provide a comfortable and stable carry.
- Customizable: Mounting holes and compatibility with Safariland accessories allow for easy customization.
Cons
- Initial Adjustment Required: The leg straps may require some time and effort to adjust for optimal fit.
- Price: It is more expensive than some competing thigh holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-149-541?
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-149-541 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure and readily accessible firearm carry solution. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who demand a reliable and fast draw.
This product might not be ideal for casual shooters or individuals primarily concerned with concealed carry. A quality belt holster may be more suitable.
A must-have accessory is a compatible magazine pouch mounted on the thigh platform for quick reloads. Consider adding a tactical light if operating in low-light environments.
Conclusion on Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-149-541
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-149-541 is a top-tier thigh holster that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and security. While the price is higher than some competitors, the quality and reliability of Safariland products justify the investment.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a dependable and readily accessible firearm carry solution in a tactical environment. If you value security, speed, and durability, the Safariland 6355 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and efficiency—upgrade to the Safariland 6355 today!