Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 Review

True Results from the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 is more than just a holster; it’s a meticulously designed piece of equipment that promises both security and rapid access. Designed by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, this thigh holster features the innovative ALS (Automatic Locking System) which provides a secure hold on your firearm until you’re ready to draw. The STX Foliage Green finish offers excellent camouflage in various environments, making it ideal for tactical operations and outdoor pursuits. This right-hand specific holster is designed for Sig Sauer P220 and P226 models, ensuring a snug and secure fit.

As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve always prioritized reliable and accessible carry options. I needed a holster that could withstand rigorous use in the field while providing a fast, secure draw. I was seeking a thigh holster for its comfortable weight distribution and ease of access when wearing body armor or a fully loaded kit.

Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 immediately impressed with its robust construction. The thermal-molded Safari-Laminate felt incredibly durable, and the foliage green finish looked professional. The holster felt lightweight considering its size and the amount of hardware present.

Compared to similar thigh holsters from Blackhawk and Blade-Tech, the Safariland stood out due to its ALS retention system. While the others offered adjustable friction retention, I felt the active retention of the ALS provided a superior level of security, especially in dynamic situations. The overall build quality also seemed more refined than the comparable models.

My first impression was excitement tempered with a touch of skepticism. The ALS system looked foolproof, but I wondered if it would be truly intuitive and fast under pressure. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the Safariland name.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 at a local shooting range during a practical pistol course. The course involved dynamic movement, shooting from various positions, and timed drills, providing an ideal environment to assess the holster’s performance. I experienced varying weather conditions, from dry and sunny to light rain.

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 performed admirably in all conditions. The ALS system proved to be intuitive and incredibly fast to use with practice. Drawing the weapon became second nature after only a few repetitions.

There was a small learning curve associated with finding the optimal position for the ALS release lever. After a few adjustments to the holster’s position on my thigh and some dedicated practice, the draw stroke became fluid and natural. The only initial issue was ensuring the straps were adjusted properly to avoid any movement of the holster during rapid movements.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 has held up remarkably well. It has seen action in multiple training scenarios, tactical exercises, and even a few hunting trips. It continues to inspire confidence.

The holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The Safari-Laminate material is incredibly resistant to scuffs and abrasions, and the ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly. The suede lining is still in excellent condition.

Maintaining the holster is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and grime. I occasionally apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. This is a minimal amount of work.

Compared to previous thigh holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 significantly outperforms them in terms of retention, draw speed, and overall durability. The ALS system is a game-changer. It provides a level of security that is unmatched by other retention methods I’ve tested.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541

Specifications

• Category: ALS Holsters – Indicates that the holster utilizes Safariland’s Automatic Locking System for retention.
• Finish/Color: STX Foliage Green – Provides a tactical advantage by blending into various outdoor environments.
• Fits: Sig Sauer – P220, P226 – Specifically molded to securely fit these Sig Sauer models.
• Type: Right Hand – Designed for right-handed users, ensuring a natural and efficient draw.
• Automatic Locking System (ALS): An internal locking device that secures the weapon once holstered. This provides enhanced retention and prevents unauthorized removal.
• Safari-Laminate Construction: A thermal-molded construction that protects both the handgun and its sights. This material offers excellent durability and resistance to the elements.
• Quick-Release Leg Harness: Facilitates rapid attachment and detachment of the holster from the leg. This is important for quickly donning or doffing gear.
• Double Leg Strap: Enhances stability and distributes weight evenly across the thigh. This minimizes movement and ensures a comfortable fit during extended use.
• Leg Shroud with Mounting Holes: Provides a stable platform and allows for the attachment of additional accessories. This provides the user with modularity.
• Suede Lined: Protects the handgun’s finish from scratches and abrasions during repeated holstering and drawing. This adds an additional layer of protection for the weapon.
• Adjustable Vertical Leg Strap: Enables customized fit for various leg lengths and preferences. This assures comfort and stability.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s performance, reliability, and user experience. The ALS system ensures the weapon remains secure, while the Safari-Laminate construction guarantees durability. The adjustable leg straps and quick-release harness provide a comfortable and customizable fit.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and providing quick access to a firearm. The ALS system is incredibly reliable, and the draw stroke is smooth and consistent. It has proven itself in live fire drills.

The primary strength of the holster is its ALS retention system, offering unmatched security and peace of mind. The only potential weakness is the initial learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release.

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 meets and exceeds my expectations for a tactical thigh holster. It provides a secure, comfortable, and accessible carry solution that inspires confidence in the field.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 is exceptional. The Safari-Laminate material is robust and well-formed, and the stitching is clean and precise. The holster is lightweight enough to not cause discomfort, but substantial enough to withstand rigorous use.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, although some practice is required to master the ALS release. Once the user becomes familiar with the draw stroke, the holster becomes an extension of their body.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 should last for many years with proper care. The Safari-Laminate material is highly resistant to wear and tear.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Parts should be readily available through Safariland should any repairs be needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 comes standard with the quick-release leg harness and adjustable leg straps. The leg shroud features mounting holes that allow for the attachment of various accessories, such as magazine pouches, flashlights, or knives.

The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories and other popular brands. These include Safariland‘s drop leg extenders and various MOLLE-compatible pouches.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541

Who Should Buy Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541?

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and competitive shooters who prioritize security, speed, and reliability. It’s also well-suited for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts who carry a Sig Sauer P220 or P226 in demanding environments.

This product might not be ideal for casual shooters or those who prefer simpler retention methods. If you’re not comfortable with practicing and mastering the ALS release, you may find the holster cumbersome.

A must-have accessory for this holster is a Safariland drop leg extender, which allows for further customization of the holster’s ride height. Additional magazine pouches or a flashlight can also be attached to the leg shroud for enhanced functionality.

Conclusion on Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 is a top-tier tactical holster that delivers on its promises. Its unmatched security, rapid draw speed, and exceptional durability make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who relies on their firearm in demanding situations.

The price is justified given the holster’s quality construction and performance benefits. It provides peace of mind.

I would highly recommend the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 to anyone seeking a secure, reliable, and accessible carry solution for their Sig Sauer P220 or P226. Invest in your safety and performance – equip yourself with the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Right Hand 6355-77-541 today.