First Impressions of Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork
The Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork is not just another holster; it’s a statement. Designed for those who take their gear seriously, this holster combines rapid access with secure retention, all while accommodating red dot sights. It’s a purpose-built piece of equipment from a name synonymous with law enforcement and military professionals: Safariland.
My journey to this holster began with a simple problem: finding a secure and accessible way to carry my Glock 19 with a mounted red dot sight during training exercises. Standard belt holsters felt too restrictive, and traditional drop legs lacked the security I needed. I wanted something that could handle the rigors of dynamic movement, maintain positive retention, and allow for a lightning-fast draw.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland holster immediately impressed me with its robust construction. The SafariLaminate felt incredibly durable, while the double leg straps and shroud instilled confidence. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) was smooth and intuitive in initial dry-fire drills.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the Blade-Tech WRS Level 2 Duty Holster as alternatives. However, the Safariland stood out because of its proven track record with law enforcement, accommodating red dot sights, and the included QLS system for easy attachment and detachment. I chose the Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork because I value proven reliability and rapid deployment over gimmicky features.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of apprehension. Would it live up to the hype, or would I find myself wrestling with another piece of gear that promises more than it delivers? I was eager to put it through its paces and find out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was a two-day tactical shooting course focused on dynamic movement and close-quarters combat. The course took place on an outdoor range with varied terrain, including gravel, sand, and uneven surfaces. This provided a perfect environment to assess the holster’s stability and retention capabilities.
The weather was unpredictable, with periods of heavy rain and bright sunshine, simulating various operational conditions. The Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork performed admirably in both wet and dry conditions, with no slippage or degradation in the ALS system’s functionality. The draw stroke remained consistent despite the changing weather.
Initially, there was a slight learning curve with the ALS release. After a few hours of practice, however, it became second nature. The drop leg platform felt comfortable and didn’t interfere with my movement, even during sprints and tactical maneuvers.
The only minor issue was some initial chafing from the leg straps. This was easily resolved by adjusting the strap tightness and wearing appropriate base layers.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in training, competitions, and field exercises, the Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, primarily some slight scuffing on the SafariLaminate finish. The ALS system continues to function flawlessly, providing secure retention and a consistent draw.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism is all that’s required to keep it in optimal condition. The SafariSuede lining has held up well and shows no signs of damage to the firearm’s finish.
Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland significantly outperforms them in terms of retention, accessibility, and overall durability. It has exceeded my expectations and has become an indispensable part of my tactical gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork
Specifications
Holster Material: The SafariLaminate construction provides exceptional durability and resistance to abrasion and impact. This ensures that the holster can withstand the rigors of demanding environments and prolonged use.
Accessory Attachment System: The QLS 19 Fork allows for quick and easy attachment and detachment of the holster from various platforms. This provides versatility in configuring your gear setup and switching between different carry methods.
Holster Type: It’s a drop leg/thigh holster, offering a lower carry position for improved accessibility and comfort, especially when wearing body armor. This lowers the weapon for a more natural draw stroke when tactical gear is worn.
Finish: Cordura Nylon wrap adds an extra layer of protection and durability while also providing a low-profile appearance. This blends seamlessly with tactical clothing and reduces the risk of snagging.
Fastener/Closure Type: The ALS (Automatic Locking System) provides secure retention of the weapon until intentionally released by the user. This provides peace of mind knowing your firearm is securely held.
Age Group: Designed for adults, considering ergonomic factors and demanding use scenarios. It is tailored for professional use by trained individuals.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork performs its primary job of securely retaining and rapidly deploying a firearm with exceptional efficiency. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, providing a consistent draw stroke under pressure. The drop leg platform enhances accessibility, particularly when wearing body armor or other tactical gear.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, secure retention, and compatibility with red dot sights. The only area for potential improvement would be a more adjustable leg strap system for enhanced comfort across different body types.
It meets and, in many ways, exceeds expectations for a tactical holster in this price range. The quality, reliability, and performance justify the investment.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork is built with durable materials. This promotes long-term use and reliability in demanding conditions. The holster’s SafariSuede lining is gentle on the firearm’s finish, preventing scratches and wear.
The holster is generally user-friendly, although the ALS system requires some practice to master. Once familiar, it becomes second nature, allowing for a quick and efficient draw.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork is built to last. The SafariLaminate construction is highly resistant to abrasion, impact, and environmental factors.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication. With proper care, the holster should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork comes standard with the QLS 19 Locking Fork, enabling rapid attachment to various platforms. The holster is designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights.
The Safariland holster is compatible with a wide range of accessories. These include different leg shrouds, leg straps, and mounting platforms. Aftermarket options for customizing the draw angle and ride height are also available.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides secure Level I Retention, preventing unauthorized access while still allowing for a rapid draw.
- Red Dot Sight Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate firearms with mounted red dot sights, making it ideal for modern tactical setups.
- Durable Construction: Built with SafariLaminate, offering outstanding resistance to wear, tear, and environmental factors.
- QLS System: The included QLS 19 Fork allows for quick and easy attachment and detachment from various platforms, increasing versatility.
- Comfortable Design: The drop leg platform distributes weight effectively and enhances accessibility, particularly when wearing body armor.
Cons
- Leg strap chafing can occur, but adjusting the tightness and proper layering of clothing minimizes the effects.
- ALS Learning Curve: Requires practice to master, though once familiar, draw becomes quick.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork?
The Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical trainers who require a secure, accessible, and durable holster for firearms with red dot sights. Competitive shooters who use red dot-equipped pistols and appreciate a drop-leg configuration will also benefit.
This product might not be ideal for individuals seeking a low-profile concealed carry holster or those who prioritize comfort above all else.
A must-have accessory is a quality set of base layers to prevent chafing from the leg straps during extended wear.
Conclusion on Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork
The Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork is a top-tier tactical holster that delivers on its promises. Its combination of secure retention, rapid accessibility, and durable construction makes it an excellent choice for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike.
The price is justified by the quality, reliability, and performance of the holster. It’s an investment in your safety and efficiency.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork to anyone seeking a high-performance tactical holster. If you demand the best, look no further. Gear up, train hard, and stay safe!