Let’s Dive into Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6355-97-542
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6355-97-542 is a purpose-built piece of gear designed for tactical situations where a secure and readily accessible sidearm is paramount. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military-grade holsters, this thigh holster combines their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a robust thigh platform. Its intended purpose: to provide a secure, comfortable, and rapid-access solution for carrying a Heckler & Koch P2000, for left-handed users.
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I was seeking a holster that offered a superior balance of retention, accessibility, and comfort for scenarios demanding dynamic movement. I needed a left-handed option that would reliably secure my pistol during training exercises and potential field deployments, and the thigh-carry configuration provided a good solution.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6355 ALS immediately exuded quality. The STX Foliage Green finish was cleanly applied, and the Safari-Laminate construction felt incredibly durable. The initial impression was of a well-engineered, no-nonsense piece of kit, built to withstand considerable abuse.
I considered other thigh holsters, notably the Blackhawk! Serpa Tactical Holster and the Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder System (although not a thigh rig). However, I ultimately chose the Safariland 6355 due to Safariland’s reputation for rock-solid retention mechanisms and the specific ALS system, which I’ve found to be more intuitive than other active retention systems. I was excited to put it through its paces, hoping it would live up to the Safariland name and address my need for a reliable and comfortable tactical holster.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6355-97-542 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing occurred at an outdoor shooting range, simulating tactical movement drills. The Safariland 6355 ALS was subjected to running, crawling, and rapid target acquisition scenarios, with the holster housing a Heckler & Koch P2000. Despite the demanding activities, the holster remained stable, and the pistol stayed securely in place thanks to the ALS system.
The weather was dry and moderately warm during testing. The STX finish provided a good grip, even with slightly sweaty hands, and the thigh rig didn’t chafe or rub excessively against my leg. It took a few draws to fully acclimatize to the ALS release, but after a short period, it became second nature, and draws were smooth and efficient.
The only initial concern was the leg strap adjustment, which required some fine-tuning to achieve optimal placement and prevent the holster from sliding down during movement. However, once properly adjusted, the issue was resolved.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6355 ALS has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the holster body, and the STX finish has held up well to abrasion. The ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent retention and a smooth draw.
Maintaining the holster is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is generally sufficient to remove dirt and debris. I’ve occasionally applied a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation, especially after exposure to dusty conditions.
Compared to previous experiences with other thigh holsters, the Safariland 6355 ALS significantly outperforms them in terms of retention security, draw speed, and overall comfort. The ALS system offers a level of security that other passive retention holsters simply cannot match, and the thigh platform distributes the weight of the pistol more effectively, making it more comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6355-97-542
Specifications
Category: ALS Holsters. This designation highlights the holster’s primary feature: the Automatic Locking System for secure weapon retention.
Finish/Color: STX Foliage Green. The STX finish provides a textured surface for enhanced grip and durability, while the Foliage Green color offers effective camouflage in various environments.
Fits: Heckler & Koch – P2000. This holster is specifically molded to fit the H&K P2000, ensuring optimal retention and a smooth draw.
Type: Left Hand. The holster is designed for left-handed shooters, offering a comfortable and ergonomic draw.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s effectiveness. The ALS system provides a high level of security, preventing unauthorized access to the weapon. The precise fit for the H&K P2000 ensures a smooth and reliable draw, while the left-handed configuration caters to the needs of left-handed shooters, promoting a natural and efficient draw stroke.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6355 ALS excels in its primary function: securely retaining and providing rapid access to a sidearm. The ALS system is intuitive and easy to operate, allowing for a smooth and efficient draw with minimal training. The holster’s thigh platform distributes the weight of the pistol effectively, reducing fatigue and enhancing comfort during extended wear.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, secure retention, and comfortable carry. The main weakness is the initial adjustment of the leg straps, which can be time-consuming to achieve optimal fit. It absolutely meets and exceeds expectations for a tactical thigh holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6355 ALS features a durable Safari-Laminate construction, providing excellent protection for the handgun. The holster’s weight is well-balanced, and the thigh platform is designed to conform comfortably to the leg.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although some training is required to master the ALS release. The quick-release leg harness enhances convenience, allowing for easy attachment and removal.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6355 ALS is built to last, thanks to its robust Safari-Laminate construction. The STX finish is resistant to abrasion, and the ALS mechanism is designed for long-term reliability.
Maintaining the holster is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are sufficient to keep it in good working order.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6355 ALS is compatible with a range of accessories, including Safariland’s Quick Locking System (QLS) for easy attachment to other platforms. The leg shroud features mounting holes for optional accessories such as magazine pouches or medical kits.
The holster’s design allows for some customization, such as adjusting the ride height and cant. The ALS mechanism can also be adjusted to fine-tune the retention level.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6355-97-542
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides a secure level of retention, preventing unauthorized access to the weapon.
- Durable Construction: The Safari-Laminate construction and STX finish ensure long-term durability and resistance to abrasion.
- Comfortable Carry: The thigh platform distributes the weight of the pistol effectively, reducing fatigue and enhancing comfort.
- Rapid Access: The ALS system allows for a smooth and efficient draw with minimal training.
- Versatile Mounting Options: The holster is compatible with Safariland’s QLS system and features mounting holes for optional accessories.
Cons
- Initial Leg Strap Adjustment: Getting the leg straps adjusted perfectly can take some time and experimentation.
- Weapon Specific: This holster is specifically molded for the H&K P2000, limiting its use with other firearms.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6355-97-542?
This holster is perfect for: left-handed law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a secure and readily accessible sidearm. It benefits those who need a reliable retention system combined with comfortable all-day carry.
This product isn’t ideal for: individuals seeking a universal holster that can accommodate multiple firearm models, or those who prefer concealed carry options. Civilians who aren’t involved in tactical shooting or security work may find a smaller, more concealable holster more practical.
Must-have accessories or modifications: A Safariland QLS system for easy attachment to other platforms, and optional magazine pouches or medical kits mounted on the leg shroud. A proper belt to support the weight of the entire rig is also essential.
Conclusion on Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6355-97-542
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6355-97-542 is a well-designed and expertly crafted holster that delivers on its promise of secure retention, comfortable carry, and rapid access. It’s a professional-grade piece of gear that is built to withstand the rigors of tactical use.
The price of $188.80 is justified given the holster’s exceptional build quality, reliable retention system, and comfortable design. This holster offers a strong value proposition for left-handed users.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6355 ALS to anyone seeking a high-quality tactical thigh holster for the H&K P2000. Invest in your safety and efficiency – equip yourself with a Safariland 6355 ALS and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your sidearm is securely and readily accessible when you need it most.