First Impressions of Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent over a decade relying on top-tier equipment. The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork immediately caught my attention for its promise of secure weapon retention, red dot optic compatibility, and rapid draw capability – essential features in demanding operational environments. Safariland has a long-standing reputation for quality, and this holster seemed to blend their proven ALS system with modern red dot sight integration, making it a potentially perfect addition to my duty rig.
My search for this holster stemmed from a need for a reliable and secure OWB (Outside the Waistband) option compatible with my Glock 47 equipped with both a Surefire X300 and an Aimpoint ACRO P2. I needed a holster that could withstand daily use and offer quick access to my firearm. This particular model also promised an open pocket design, protecting my expensive optic without the added complexity of a dust cover.
The holster arrived well-packaged. Lifting it from the box, I was immediately struck by its robust construction and clean lines. The SafariSeven material felt incredibly durable, and the fit and finish were impeccable.
I considered other holsters, including offerings from Blackhawk and Blade-Tech. I ultimately chose the Safariland because of its proven ALS retention system and reputation for reliability under stress. The integrated QLS (Quick Locking System) also appealed to me because of its versatility and compatibility with my existing gear.
My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork appeared to be a well-engineered and thoughtfully designed piece of kit. I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork was at the local shooting range. I wanted to get a feel for the draw stroke and re-holstering process in a controlled environment. The weather was partly cloudy, but dry.
The ALS system proved to be intuitive and efficient. Deactivating the release with my thumb felt natural, and the draw stroke was smooth and consistent. Re-holstering was equally seamless, with the ALS automatically engaging and securing the weapon. I also practiced drawing from different positions (seated, kneeling, prone) to see if the holster would cause any interference. It did not.
There were no immediate issues or surprises after the initial range session. The holster performed exactly as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, the Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve worn it during training exercises, outdoor activities, and even under heavy rain, snow, and mud. The SafariSeven material has shown no signs of significant wear and tear, resisting scratches and abrasions remarkably well.
The holster requires minimal maintenance. I wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use to remove any dirt or debris. The ALS mechanism continues to function smoothly, and I haven’t experienced any issues with retention or release. Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland feels significantly more robust and secure. It instills confidence knowing my firearm is safely retained, regardless of the circumstances.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork
Specifications
The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork is an outside-the-waistband (OWB) holster designed for firearms equipped with red dot sights. It’s constructed from SafariSeven, a proprietary nylon blend known for its extreme durability and resistance to heat, cold, and abrasions. It’s also specifically molded to accommodate a variety of weapon-mounted lights including SureFire X300U, SureFire X300, INFORCE APL, Streamlight TLR-1, Streamlight TLR-1HL, and Olight PL-Pro Valkyrie, as well as red dot sights from Vortex, Burris, Leupold, and Trijicon.
The holster features Safariland‘s Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the firearm upon holstering and is released with a simple thumb activation. The open pocket design protects the red dot sight without the need for a dust cover. It comes standard with the QLS 19 Locking Fork, allowing for quick attachment and detachment from any QLS 22 Receiver Plate equipped platform.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork excels at its primary job: securely retaining and providing rapid access to a firearm. The ALS system is exceptionally reliable. Once the firearm is holstered, it is locked in place until the release is intentionally activated.
The open-top design facilitates a fast and unencumbered draw. The holster body is molded to accommodate various weapon-mounted lights and red dot sights, ensuring a snug and secure fit. The holster easily meets and exceeds my expectations for duty carry.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork is designed with both functionality and user comfort in mind. The SafariSeven material is surprisingly lightweight, and the holster sits comfortably against the body. There’s a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release, but the motion quickly becomes second nature with practice.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariSeven construction of the Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork suggests a very long service life. It resists scratches, abrasions, and extreme temperatures. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork comes with the QLS 19 Locking Fork. This provides compatibility with a wide range of Safariland mounting platforms, including belt loops, leg shrouds, and MOLLE adapters. The holster can be further customized with different ride heights and cant angles by using different mounting hardware. It is compatible with a wide range of weapon lights and red dot sights, making it highly versatile.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides unparalleled security, ensuring the firearm remains in the holster until intentionally released.
- Red Dot Optic Compatibility: The open-top design accommodates a wide range of red dot sights without hindering the draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: The SafariSeven material is incredibly tough and resistant to wear and tear.
- QLS Compatibility: The included QLS 19 Fork allows for quick and easy attachment and detachment from various mounting platforms.
- Accommodates Weapon Lights: Designed to fit popular weapon-mounted lights, providing versatility for different operational needs.
Cons
- Learning Curve: The ALS system requires practice to master the release mechanism, which may be a drawback for new users.
- Price: The initial investment can be relatively high compared to other OWB holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork?
The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure and reliable OWB holster for their red dot optic-equipped firearms. It’s also ideal for competitive shooters and shooting enthusiasts who prioritize retention and quick draw capability.
This holster may not be the best choice for concealed carry due to its OWB design and larger footprint. Individuals new to firearms or who prefer simpler retention systems might find the ALS system initially challenging.
A weapon-mounted light is a must-have accessory to maximize the functionality of this holster. Additional QLS receiver plates are highly recommended for quickly switching the holster between different platforms.
Conclusion on Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork
The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. Its robust construction, secure retention system, and red dot optic compatibility make it a standout choice for professionals and serious shooters. The price is justified by the quality of materials, engineering, and overall performance.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6354RDSO ALS OWB Holster w/ QLS19 Fork to anyone seeking a dependable and versatile OWB holster for their red dot sight-equipped firearm. Invest in your safety and performance, and experience the Safariland difference. Upgrade your kit today!