Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131 is a duty-grade, Level III retention holster designed for tactical environments. Manufactured by Safariland, a brand synonymous with law enforcement and military equipment, this holster promises security, speed, and durability. With its Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) hood, it aims to provide the user with peace of mind while maintaining a swift and intuitive draw.

After years of running various duty holsters from different manufacturers, I was looking for something that offered both a high level of retention and a smooth, natural draw. I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily use while providing a secure platform for my 1911. The Safariland 6304 seemed to tick all the boxes based on its reputation and feature set.

Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the robust construction. The STX Tactical finish felt incredibly durable, and the overall weight of the holster conveyed a sense of quality. The leg shroud assembly felt solid and well-designed.

I had been considering the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the Blade-Tech WRS Level II Duty Holster as alternatives. I ultimately chose the Safariland 6304 because of Safariland’s long-standing reputation for reliability and the proven track record of the ALS/SLS retention system in real-world applications. The modularity of the leg shroud was also a significant selling point.

My initial impression was one of excitement tempered by a bit of apprehension. I was eager to test its performance on the range, but I also knew that mastering a new retention system can take time and practice. The quality and design gave me confidence that this holster would be a worthwhile investment.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6304 at my local shooting range, focusing on drawing and re-holstering drills. The weather was dry, and the temperature was around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. I also ran some drills incorporating movement and simulated cover to get a feel for its stability.

The holster performed admirably in these conditions. The ALS system engaged smoothly upon re-holstering, and the SLS hood was easy to deactivate with practice. After about an hour of repetitions, I was drawing confidently and efficiently. There were no immediate issues or surprises, though I did notice that the leg straps needed some adjustment to prevent shifting during movement.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use in training scenarios and outdoor activities, the Safariland 6304 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. It has been exposed to rain, mud, and dust, and it has held up remarkably well. Minor scuff marks are visible on the STX Tactical finish, but the holster retains its structural integrity.

Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only occasional wiping down with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. Compared to my previous experiences with other duty holsters, the Safariland 6304 offers a superior level of retention and stability without sacrificing draw speed. The holster’s design inspires confidence in demanding tactical environments.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131

Specifications

• Automatic Locking System (ALS): This internal locking device secures the weapon once holstered. It provides Level I retention independent of the SLS.
• Self Locking System (SLS) Hood Assembly: The rotating hood provides Level II retention and protects the weapon from unauthorized removal. The SLS hood also features a Hood Guard for added security.
• STX Tactical Finish: A durable, textured finish that provides a secure grip and resists scratches and abrasions. This finish is designed to withstand the rigors of tactical environments.
• Safari-Laminate Construction: A thermal-molded laminate construction that protects the handgun and sights from impact and environmental factors.
• Double Leg Strap: Two adjustable leg straps that provide a secure and comfortable fit.
• Leg Shroud with Mounting Holes: The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching optional accessories such as magazine pouches or lights. This modularity allows the user to customize the holster setup to their specific needs.
• Adjustable Vertical Leg Strap: This strap allows the user to adjust the height of the holster to their preference.
• Fits: Colt Government 1911
• Hand: Right Hand

These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s security, draw speed, comfort, and durability. The combination of ALS and SLS provides a high level of retention, while the STX Tactical finish and Safari-Laminate construction ensure that the holster can withstand harsh conditions. The adjustable leg straps and modular leg shroud allow the user to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster excels in its primary function: securely retaining a firearm while allowing for a rapid and intuitive draw. The ALS system engages automatically upon re-holstering, providing immediate Level I retention. The SLS hood adds an additional layer of security, requiring a deliberate motion to deactivate.

The primary strength of the Safariland 6304 lies in its retention system. The combination of the ALS and SLS provides a very secure platform, even during strenuous activity. The draw stroke is smooth and natural, and the re-holstering process is intuitive. A minor weakness is that the SLS hood can sometimes be difficult to deactivate with gloved hands, requiring a slightly different technique.

The Safariland 6304 meets and, in some ways, exceeds expectations. It provides a level of security and reliability that is difficult to find in other duty holsters. The quality of construction and attention to detail are evident in every aspect of the holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6304 is designed with both security and ergonomics in mind. The STX Tactical finish provides a secure grip, and the leg shroud is contoured to fit comfortably against the leg. The weight of the holster is well-distributed, minimizing fatigue during extended wear.

The holster is relatively user-friendly, but it does require some practice to master the ALS and SLS systems. The learning curve is not steep, and most users will be able to draw and re-holster confidently after a few hours of practice. The adjustable leg straps allow for a customized fit, ensuring optimal comfort and stability.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6304 is built to last. The Safari-Laminate construction and STX Tactical finish are highly resistant to wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. The ALS mechanism should be lubricated regularly to ensure smooth operation. The STX Tactical finish can be cleaned with a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6304 comes standard with the SLS hood assembly and Hood Guard. The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching optional accessories such as magazine pouches, lights, or medical kits.

The Safariland 6304 is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, as well as many popular accessories from other brands. For example, users can add a Safariland Quick Locking System (QLS) to the leg shroud to allow for quick and easy attachment and removal of the holster. The Safariland Sentry is another popular addition, providing an additional layer of security against unauthorized weapon removal.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX TAC Black, Right Hand 6304-53-131