Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6004-73-561 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6004-73-561

The Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6004-73-561 is a serious piece of kit designed for professionals who need secure weapon retention and rapid deployment. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military gear, this holster offers a blend of security, durability, and ease of use. Its most prominent feature is the SLS (Self Locking System), a rotating hood that provides enhanced weapon security.

My search for a level II retention holster for my Beretta 92FS led me to the Safariland 6004 SLS. I needed something secure enough for open carry during training exercises, yet fast enough to draw from in a dynamic situation. This holster appeared to strike that perfect balance.

Unboxing the Safariland 6004 SLS was a reassuring experience. The OD Green SAFARILAMINATE material felt rugged and well-constructed, and the holster itself had a substantial, confidence-inspiring weight. The build quality was immediately apparent, with clean stitching and robust hardware.

Compared to the Blackhawk! Serpa and the Bianchi UM84R, the Safariland 6004 SLS stood out due to its enhanced retention system and modularity. While the Serpa offered a quick draw, its security was questionable. The Bianchi was secure, but slow to deploy.

My first impression was one of excitement tempered with a bit of intimidation. The holster looked and felt professional, but I knew mastering the SLS would take practice. I was eager to see if it lived up to its reputation.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6004-73-561 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6004 SLS at an outdoor shooting range during a tactical pistol training course. The weather was sunny, with a slight breeze, providing ideal conditions for evaluating the holster’s performance. I ran drills that involved drawing and firing from various positions.

The holster performed admirably even when subjected to some serious stress testing. The SLS system initially took some getting used to, but after a few repetitions, the draw became smooth and instinctive. There were no malfunctions or issues with the holster itself throughout the day.

After the initial use, I found the SLS system to be more intuitive than expected. The slight learning curve was worth the added security it provided. The leg shroud and double leg straps kept the holster stable and secure, even during rapid movements.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use in various training scenarios, the Safariland 6004 SLS has proven to be incredibly durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after being exposed to dirt, mud, and abrasion. The SAFARILAMINATE material has held up remarkably well.

Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. The holster has retained its shape and function, with no degradation of the retention system. The robust construction and quality materials have clearly contributed to its long-term reliability.

Compared to my previous nylon thigh holster, the Safariland 6004 SLS is a significant upgrade in terms of both security and durability. It offers a superior level of weapon retention and is built to withstand the rigors of professional use. It far outperforms anything else I have used.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6004-73-561

Specifications

The Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6004-73-561 is designed for right-handed users and comes in OD Green. It’s specifically molded to fit the Beretta 92/96 series pistols, including the 92FS, 96, M9A1, and Vertec models. Note: The weapon will not fit in the holster with the accessory rail cover attached.

The holster features the SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood, providing Level II Retention. It’s constructed from thermal-molded SAFARILAMINATE, offering excellent protection for the handgun and sights. The holster includes a standard double leg strap and leg shroud with mounting holes for optional accessories.

These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The SLS system provides a high degree of weapon security, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access. The SAFARILAMINATE construction ensures durability and protects the firearm from damage. The leg shroud offers a stable and comfortable carry option, especially during dynamic movements.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6004 SLS excels in its primary function: secure and rapid weapon deployment. The SLS system allows for a smooth, single-motion draw once mastered. The holster maintains a secure grip on the firearm, even under strenuous conditions.

The holster’s main strength lies in its balance of security and speed. However, the SLS system can be challenging to learn initially. Once proficient, the draw is exceptionally fast and fluid. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a tactical holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6004 SLS boasts a rugged and functional design. The SAFARILAMINATE material is durable and provides excellent protection. The leg shroud and double leg straps distribute the weight of the firearm comfortably.

While the holster is not the lightest on the market, the weight is justified by its robust construction and security features. There is a moderate learning curve associated with the SLS system, but it becomes intuitive with practice. The holster has been thoughtfully designed.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction with SAFARILAMINATE, the Safariland 6004 SLS is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is straightforward.

Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the holster in good working order. The SAFARILAMINATE material is resistant to wear and tear, making the holster easy to maintain. Its inherent design assures long-term usability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6004 SLS is designed to be compatible with a range of accessories. The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching pouches, magazine carriers, or other tactical gear. Users can customize the holster to suit their specific needs and preferences.

While the holster itself doesn’t come with a wide array of included accessories, its modular design allows for significant customization. Safariland offers a variety of compatible accessories, such as magazine pouches and flashlight holders. Its modular design ensures easy expansion.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6004 SLS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6004-73-561