Let’s Dive into Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination
The Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination is designed to enhance the security of your existing SLS (Self Locking System) holster. Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, aims to provide an extra layer of retention with this simple yet effective add-on. It promises to upgrade your holster to a Level 4 retention, offering increased peace of mind in demanding situations.
My journey to this product stemmed from a heightened concern about weapon security during high-risk scenarios. While the SLS system itself is robust, the thought of someone potentially disarming me motivated me to seek an additional layer of protection. The Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination seemed like the perfect solution to bolster my existing setup.
Unboxing the guard was uneventful, but the simplicity of the design was immediately apparent. The black polymer felt solid, though lightweight, and the Sentry mechanism appeared well-integrated into the hood guard. The build quality seemed reliable, as expected from Safariland.
I considered other retention devices, like thumb-break straps or specialized holsters with complex locking mechanisms. However, the Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination won out because of its seamless integration with my existing SLS holster and its relatively low profile. It offered an additional layer of security without drastically altering my draw stroke.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see if the added security would come at the expense of draw speed and efficiency. I was also curious to see how well the mechanism would hold up under constant use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at a local shooting range, focusing on controlled draw exercises and re-holstering drills. I wanted to assess the impact of the Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination on my response time and overall handling. The weather was clear and dry, providing ideal conditions for familiarizing myself with the new system.
The added layer of retention definitely required some adjustment. Releasing the Sentry mechanism before disengaging the SLS hood added a step that demanded practice to master. Initially, my draw speed suffered, but after about an hour of dedicated practice, I began to find a rhythm.
There were no major issues initially, but the added complexity did reveal a need for consistent training. One minor surprise was the increased audible “click” during the draw, potentially alerting others to my action in certain tactical situations. It was something I would need to consider.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use during training exercises and range sessions, the Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination continued to perform reliably. The polymer showed no signs of cracking or wear, even after repeated draws and re-holstering. The Sentry mechanism remained smooth and functional.
The guard and sentry showed great durability. Regular cleaning with a simple brush and a dry cloth kept the mechanism functioning smoothly. Compared to other retention devices I’ve used in the past, this combination proved to be remarkably low-maintenance.
Over time, the increased level of retention gave me a greater sense of confidence in weapon retention. While it initially slowed my draw, consistent training mitigated this drawback. The Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination has proven to be a worthy addition to my duty gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination
Specifications
- The Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination is designed to adapt to any existing Safariland SLS holster. This feature allows for easy upgrades without needing to replace the entire holster system.
- The combination features the Sentry already installed into the hood guard. This provides an all-in-one upgrade for increased security.
- The Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination only comes in black. This may be a limitation for users requiring other colors.
- It is designed to elevate the retention level of an SLS holster. This enhances weapon security in high-risk environments.
These specifications are crucial because they highlight the simplicity and effectiveness of the upgrade. The ease of installation and immediate increase in security contribute to a more confident user experience. The black color, while potentially limiting, is standard for most law enforcement and tactical applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination excels at its primary function: enhancing weapon retention. With both the SLS and the Sentry engaged, unauthorized access to the firearm becomes significantly more difficult. However, this increased security comes at the expense of draw speed, requiring dedicated training to overcome.
The strength lies in its simplicity and compatibility. Its weakness is the added step in the draw stroke which, requires practice. It meets the expectation of increased security, but exceeds it in the sense that it’s very low profile.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is minimalist and functional, prioritizing security over aesthetics. The polymer construction is lightweight yet durable, adding minimal bulk to the holster. The Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination feels solid in the hand and integrates seamlessly with the existing SLS holster.
The design ensures that the user has to get used to it at first. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its simple design and robust polymer construction, the Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination is expected to last for years with proper care. The absence of complex moving parts reduces the likelihood of mechanical failure. Regular cleaning with a brush and a dry cloth is sufficient to maintain optimal performance.
The Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination is easy to fix yourself. A user can simply swap out parts as needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination itself does not offer extensive customization options. However, it is compatible with existing Safariland SLS holsters and accessories. Users can still customize their holster setup with different belt attachments, leg shrouds, and optic-compatible hoods, while benefiting from the added security of the Sentry system.
It is compatible with other Safariland accessories. You are able to create your own custom setup.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination
Pros
- Significantly enhances weapon retention, providing Level 4 security.
- Seamlessly integrates with existing Safariland SLS holsters, no need for a complete system replacement.
- Durable polymer construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Simple design makes it easy to install and maintain.
- Low profile adds minimal bulk.
Cons
- Increased draw time requires practice and training.
- Only available in black, limiting aesthetic options.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination?
- Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, security personnel, and private citizens who prioritize weapon retention and operate in high-risk environments. Anyone using an SLS holster that wants level 4 retention.
- Who should skip this product? Those unwilling to invest time in practicing their draw stroke, or those prioritizing speed over maximum security.
- Must-have accessories or modifications? A shot timer for draw-stroke practice, and potentially a Safariland leg shroud for added stability.
Conclusion on Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination
The Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to enhance the security of their Safariland SLS holster. The increased level of retention provides peace of mind, knowing that your weapon is less susceptible to unauthorized access. While the added complexity requires dedicated training, the benefits of enhanced security outweigh the minor inconvenience.
At $15.40, the price is more than justified, considering the added security and durability. I would recommend it to anyone serious about weapon retention. Invest in your safety, and upgrade your SLS holster with the Safariland 6002 SLS Hood Guard / Sentry Combination today.