Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 Review

Was the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 Worth It?

As a tactical gear specialist with over a decade in the field, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each promising the moon but often falling short in real-world application. The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 promised a blend of security, accessibility, and comfort, a trifecta many fail to deliver. Could this holster finally bridge the gap between tactical necessity and practical usability?

I needed a reliable thigh holster for my Springfield XD 9mm, something that wouldn’t shift during dynamic movements or compromise weapon retention in high-stress scenarios. I’ve tried universal holsters that claimed to fit everything but ended up fitting nothing well. The Safariland name carries weight, a reputation built on providing law enforcement and military personnel with dependable gear.

Unboxing the 6355, my initial impression was of ruggedness and purposeful design. The STX Tactical Black finish looked durable, and the molded Safari-Laminate felt solid in hand. It had a reassuring weight, suggesting quality materials without being cumbersome.

Compared to some cheaper, injection-molded polymer holsters I’ve used, the Safariland felt significantly more robust. I also considered the Blackhawk! Serpa thigh platform and the Blade-Tech WRS Level 2 Duty Holster, both popular options. I chose the Safariland 6355 for its ALS (Automatic Locking System), which seemed a more intuitive and secure retention method than the Serpa’s finger release.

Excited was my initial feeling, a cautious optimism tempered by years of experience. I was keen to see if the Safariland 6355 lived up to the hype, or if it was just another name trading on reputation.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 was at a local shooting range, followed by a day of force-on-force training. The range provided a controlled environment to get acquainted with the draw stroke and retention system. The force-on-force training introduced the stress and physical demands of real-world application.

The weather was typical for a Pacific Northwest spring, damp and cool. I found the holster performed admirably even with wet hands and gear. It took a few practice draws to become proficient with the ALS release mechanism, but once I developed the muscle memory, it became second nature.

The initial setup took about 15 minutes, adjusting the straps for optimal fit and ride height. There was a bit of chafing on my thigh after several hours, but this was easily remedied by adjusting the straps and wearing appropriate base layers. There were no major issues, just the expected adjustments needed when integrating new gear into a familiar workflow.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6355 has proven to be a dependable piece of kit. It’s accompanied me on several training exercises and even a week-long wilderness survival course where it was exposed to dust, mud, and extreme temperatures. The holster held up remarkably well, with no signs of cracking or structural failure.

The Safari-Laminate material has resisted scratches and abrasions far better than expected. The suede lining is doing a good job protecting the finish of my Springfield XD. Cleaning is straightforward: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth keeps it looking and functioning like new.

Compared to previous thigh holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6355 offers a superior balance of retention, accessibility, and comfort. The ALS system provides unparalleled security, giving me confidence that my weapon is secure even during strenuous activity.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131

Specifications

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 is specifically designed for right-handed users and features the ALS (Automatic Locking System) for secure weapon retention. The holster is finished in a durable STX Tactical Black. It is designed to fit Springfield Armory XD models in .357, .40, .45, and 9mm calibers.

The holster is constructed from thermal-molded Safari-Laminate, providing a rigid and protective shell. It includes a quick-release leg harness with adjustable vertical leg strap and standard double leg straps. The interior is lined with suede to protect the handgun’s finish. The leg shroud also features mounting holes for optional accessories, expanding its versatility.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance and usability. The ALS ensures the weapon remains secure, while the Safari-Laminate construction guarantees durability in demanding environments. The suede lining protects the firearm from scratches and wear.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and readily deploying a handgun. The ALS system provides a positive lock, preventing accidental dislodgement. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, requiring only a thumb release to deactivate the locking mechanism.

A key strength is the holster’s ability to adapt to different user preferences. The adjustable straps and ride height allow for a customized fit. The weakness lies in the initial learning curve associated with the ALS system; it requires practice to master the draw stroke. However, once mastered, the ALS provides a faster and more secure draw than many competing systems.

Overall, the Safariland 6355 meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of secure retention and rapid deployment.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6355 boasts a thoughtful and practical design. The Safari-Laminate construction feels robust and well-made, yet the holster remains surprisingly lightweight. The holster sits comfortably on the thigh, distributing the weight evenly and minimizing fatigue.

The ALS release mechanism is intuitively placed for easy access with the thumb. There is a slight learning curve, but it’s a user-friendly design overall.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6355 is built to last. The Safari-Laminate material is highly resistant to abrasion, impact, and extreme temperatures. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The suede lining may require occasional brushing to remove debris.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 features a leg shroud with mounting holes for optional accessories. This allows the user to attach items such as magazine pouches, flashlights, or medical kits. The Safariland is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, as well as many third-party MOLLE-compatible pouches and attachments.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131

Who Should Buy Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131?

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals. It is also a great choice for competitive shooters and tactical training enthusiasts who prioritize weapon retention and rapid deployment.

Those looking for a simple, low-profile concealed carry holster should skip this product. This is a full-sized tactical thigh holster designed for open carry and demanding environments.

A must-have accessory is a quality base layer to prevent chafing during extended wear. Consider adding a magazine pouch or flashlight attachment to the leg shroud for increased functionality.

Conclusion on Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 is a well-designed, durable, and highly functional piece of tactical gear. The ALS retention system provides unparalleled security, while the adjustable design allows for a comfortable and customized fit. At $188.80, the price is justified given the quality of materials and construction.

I would personally recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and secure way to carry a handgun in a tactical environment. If you need a holster that will withstand the rigors of daily use and provide quick access to your weapon, the Safariland 6355 is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and performance; purchase the Safariland 6355 today.