Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 Review

What Makes the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 Stand Out?

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 represents a pinnacle of retention and accessibility for left-handed shooters. Crafted by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military gear, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a comfortable and adjustable thigh platform. The result is a secure and readily available sidearm, perfect for tactical operations, range training, or even open carry where permitted.

As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve always sought reliable and rapid access to my firearm. I needed a holster that could keep my sidearm secure during dynamic movements, yet allow for a smooth and intuitive draw when seconds count. I was looking for a left-handed thigh holster with a solid retention system, proven durability, and adjustable fit.

Upon unboxing the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132, I immediately noticed the robust construction. The STX Tactical Black finish provides a professional and low-profile look, while the thermal-molded Safari-Laminate feels incredibly durable. The suede lining inside the holster was a welcome touch, promising to protect my firearm’s finish.

Compared to other thigh holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Thigh Holster and the Condor Tactical Leg Holster, the Safariland offers a noticeable upgrade in retention and build quality. While the Blackhawk! offers a similar level of retention, the Safariland’s ALS system felt more intuitive and reliable. The Condor holster, while more affordable, lacked the rigid construction and refined retention of the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132.

My initial impression was one of excitement and confidence. The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 looked and felt like a professional-grade piece of equipment, ready to handle demanding situations. I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 was at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. This environment allowed me to test the holster’s retention and draw speed under pressure. The weather conditions were dry and sunny, perfect for evaluating the holster’s comfort and accessibility.

The ALS system proved incredibly intuitive; after a few practice draws, I was able to consistently and smoothly release the firearm without fumbling. The holster maintained excellent retention even while running and moving dynamically through various simulated scenarios. There were no immediate issues or surprises.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, including multiple range sessions and a weekend-long tactical training course, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 continued to perform admirably. The Safari-Laminate showed no signs of wear and tear despite being exposed to dirt, sweat, and abrasion from gear. Maintenance was simple; I only needed to wipe down the holster with a damp cloth and occasionally apply a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism.

Compared to my previous experiences with other tactical holsters, the Safariland surpassed them in both durability and reliability. While some holsters would loosen or develop retention issues over time, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 maintained its secure hold and smooth draw consistently. It definitely outperformed my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132

Specifications

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 boasts several key specifications:

• ALS (Automatic Locking System): This is Safariland’s renowned retention system that secures the firearm upon holstering and releases with a simple thumb activation. The ALS provides a high level of security while allowing for a fast and intuitive draw.
• STX Tactical Black Finish: The STX Tactical Black finish offers a non-reflective, professional appearance and adds to the holster’s durability. It’s a robust coating that withstands scratches and abrasions.
• Thermal-Molded Safari-Laminate Construction: Safariland’s Safari-Laminate is a proprietary material that provides exceptional strength and durability while being lightweight. This construction protects both the firearm and the holster itself from damage.
• Suede Lined Interior: The holster’s interior is lined with suede, which protects the firearm’s finish from scratches and wear. This feature ensures that the holster doesn’t damage your sidearm during repeated draws and re-holstering.
• Quick-Release Leg Harness: The holster comes with a quick-release leg harness that allows for easy donning and doffing. The harness is also adjustable for a comfortable and secure fit.
• Fits Springfield Armory .357, .40, .45, XD 9mm: This particular model of the 6355 ALS is specifically molded to fit these Springfield Armory models, providing a secure and snug fit. This ensures proper retention and a smooth draw.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance, durability, and user experience. The ALS system ensures secure retention, while the durable construction guarantees longevity. The suede lining protects the firearm, and the adjustable leg harness ensures a comfortable and customizable fit.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 performs exceptionally well in its primary function: securely retaining and providing rapid access to a sidearm. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing a confident level of retention without hindering draw speed. The holster’s rigidity and molded design ensure that the firearm sits securely and doesn’t shift during movement.

The holster’s strengths lie in its secure retention, intuitive draw, and durable construction. One potential weakness is that the ALS system may require some practice to master, especially for users unfamiliar with thumb-activated retention mechanisms. However, with a few repetitions, the draw becomes smooth and natural.

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 exceeded my expectations in terms of security and accessibility. The ALS system provides a level of retention that gives me confidence in demanding situations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 features a well-thought-out design with a focus on ergonomics. The holster sits comfortably on the thigh, distributing the weight of the firearm evenly. The adjustable leg straps allow for a customized fit, ensuring that the holster doesn’t move or chafe during activity.

The holster is user-friendly, although the ALS system does require some familiarization. The thumb release is positioned naturally and is easy to activate with minimal effort.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 is built to last. The Safari-Laminate construction is incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that’s needed to keep the holster in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 comes with the standard leg harness and mounting holes for optional accessories. Safariland offers various accessories, such as magazine pouches and flashlight holders, that can be attached to the leg shroud. The holster is also compatible with various drop leg platforms and MOLLE attachments from other brands, allowing for a high degree of customization.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132

Who Should Buy Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132?

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security contractors who require a secure and readily accessible sidearm. It is also a great choice for competitive shooters and serious range enthusiasts who value speed and reliability. The left-hand configuration specifically caters to left-handed shooters.

Those who should skip this product might include casual shooters who only occasionally visit the range and don’t require the level of retention and durability offered by the Safariland 6355 ALS. Also, users with smaller frames may find the thigh holster design bulky or uncomfortable.

A must-have accessory would be additional Safariland accessories such as a double magazine pouch and a flashlight holder to complement your load-bearing setup. A drop leg extender can also be useful for adjusting the holster’s position for optimal draw and comfort.

Conclusion on Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 is a top-tier tactical holster that delivers exceptional performance, durability, and security. The ALS system, combined with the robust Safari-Laminate construction, makes this holster a reliable choice for demanding situations. While the price may be higher than some alternatives, the investment is justified by the quality and performance offered.

I would personally recommend the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6355-149-132 to anyone who needs a professional-grade tactical holster. If you value secure retention, rapid access, and lasting durability, this holster is an excellent choice. Upgrade your tactical gear and experience the difference that Safariland quality makes!