Let’s Dive into Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6005-51921-552
The Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6005-51921-552 is a purpose-built duty holster designed for left-handed shooters needing secure weapon retention and rapid deployment. Safariland, a leader in law enforcement and tactical gear, incorporates its proven Self Locking System (SLS) into this rig. This, combined with a robust leg harness, makes it a popular choice for professionals and serious enthusiasts alike.
My primary need was a secure and accessible holster for training scenarios involving movement and dynamic shooting. I needed a left-handed holster that could accommodate my S&W M&P .45 with a weapon light and offer multiple levels of retention. The Safariland 6005 seemed to perfectly address those needs.
Upon unboxing, I immediately noted the rugged construction and the attention to detail. The STX FDE Brown finish looked professional and durable, and the materials felt heavy-duty. The leg harness appeared well-designed, with multiple adjustment points promising a comfortable and secure fit.
Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa level 3 tactical holster and a Blade-Tech Total Eclipse, the Safariland 6005 stood out due to its superior retention system and robust leg harness. While the others were good for range use, I felt the Safariland offered the best combination of security and speed for tactical applications. I chose the Safariland for its professional reputation, enhanced retention features, and robust construction.
My first impression was one of excitement. This holster looked and felt like serious gear meant for serious use. I was eager to test it in a live-fire training environment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6005-51921-552 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The weather conditions were typical for the area: dry, dusty, and moderately warm.
The holster performed exceptionally well under these conditions. The SLS system allowed for a smooth, single-motion draw, even while moving, and the weapon remained secure throughout the exercise. It took a bit of practice to master the SLS release under pressure, but once I got the hang of it, my draw times improved significantly.
There were no major issues during my first use, although the leg straps required a bit of adjustment initially to ensure a snug and comfortable fit. The quick-release buckles on the leg harness proved very convenient for quickly donning and doffing the rig.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in various training scenarios, the Safariland 6005 has proven to be remarkably durable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, even after exposure to rough terrain and inclement weather.
The SAFARILAMINATE construction has held up well against abrasion, and the STX finish shows no signs of fading or cracking. Cleaning is straightforward, typically requiring only a damp cloth and a quick wipe-down. It is advisable to keep the SLS mechanism clean and lightly lubricated for optimal performance.
Compared to other holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6005 surpasses them in terms of security, durability, and overall reliability. The retention system provides peace of mind, knowing that my weapon is safe, yet readily accessible when needed.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6005-51921-552
Specifications
The Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster is designed for left-handed users and features a Safariland SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood. The finish is STX FDE Brown, providing a low-profile and durable exterior. It is categorized as a duty/tactical holster and is designed to fit the Smith & Wesson S&W M&P .45 with or without manual safeties, and with ITIM3, M6, TLR-1, TLR-2, Surefire X200, X300, and LAS-TAC weapon lights.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The SLS provides a secure Level II retention that is difficult for assailants to overcome, while still allowing for a quick and efficient draw. The STX FDE Brown finish minimizes visibility and provides excellent resistance to the elements. The specific fit ensures compatibility with my S&W M&P .45 and a range of popular weapon lights, making it a versatile choice for various operational requirements.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster excels in both performance and functionality. The draw is smooth and intuitive once the SLS mechanism is mastered, and the weapon locks securely back into the holster.
The SLS system provides excellent retention without hindering speed, which is critical in high-stress situations. The holster is very comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to the well-designed leg harness and adjustable straps. The only potential weakness is the need for consistent practice to maintain proficiency with the SLS release.
It definitely meets and exceeds my expectations, providing a superior combination of security, speed, and comfort compared to other tactical holsters I have used.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6005 is top-notch. The SAFARILAMINATE construction is rugged and durable, and the holster feels solid and well-made.
The leg harness is ergonomically designed to distribute weight evenly and prevent chafing, even during strenuous activity. The quick-release buckles are a convenient addition, allowing for easy donning and doffing of the rig. There is a slight learning curve associated with the SLS system, but once mastered, it becomes second nature.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6005 is built to last. The SAFARILAMINATE material is highly resistant to abrasion, moisture, and impact.
Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the SLS mechanism. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster comes standard with a double leg strap and leg shroud. The leg shroud has mounting holes for optional accessories, such as magazine pouches or other tactical gear.
While the holster itself does not offer extensive customization options, it is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, as well as those from other reputable brands. This allows users to tailor the rig to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6005-51921-552
Pros
- Superior Retention: The SLS system provides excellent Level II retention, ensuring that the weapon remains secure even during strenuous activity.
- Durable Construction: The SAFARILAMINATE material is incredibly rugged and resistant to wear and tear.
- Comfortable Leg Harness: The well-designed leg harness distributes weight evenly and prevents chafing.
- Compatibility: Designed specifically for the S&W M&P .45 with various weapon lights.
- Quick Release: The quick-release buckles on the leg harness allow for easy donning and doffing of the rig.
Cons
- Practice Required: Mastering the SLS system requires consistent practice and training.
- Price: The Safariland 6005 is more expensive than some other tactical holsters on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6005-51921-552?
The Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a secure and reliable duty holster. Left-handed shooters needing a robust and dependable holster for their S&W M&P .45 will find this an excellent choice.
Those who prefer a simpler, Level I retention system or those on a tight budget may want to skip this product. The cost and the need for dedicated practice with the SLS system may be deterrents for some users.
A must-have accessory is a Safariland magazine pouch mounted on the leg shroud to provide quick access to spare magazines. Additionally, regular cleaning and lubrication of the SLS mechanism will ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Conclusion on Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6005-51921-552
The Safariland 6005 SLS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX FDE Brown, Left Hand 6005-51921-552 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, durability, and functionality. While it may require some practice to master the SLS system, the benefits in terms of retention and speed are well worth the effort.
The price is certainly justified by the quality of materials and construction, as well as the enhanced security features. The Safariland 6005 is an investment in your safety and operational effectiveness.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to any left-handed professional or serious enthusiast who demands the best in tactical gear. If you need a secure, reliable, and comfortable duty holster for your S&W M&P .45, look no further than the Safariland 6005. Gear up, train hard, and stay safe!