Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6034-7312-131 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6034-7312-131

The Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6034-7312-131 is more than just a piece of gear; it’s a vital component of a professional’s or serious enthusiast’s kit. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and reliability in the law enforcement and military communities, this holster is designed for duty and tactical applications. Its core strength lies in the SLS (Self Locking System), offering both speed and security, a combination that’s often hard to find.

My journey to this particular holster began with a need for a secure and reliable carry option for my Beretta M9 during tactical training exercises. I’d previously used universal holsters, finding them lacking in both retention and speed, a dangerous combination in high-pressure scenarios. The promise of Safariland’s SLS system and the holster’s compatibility with my specific firearm immediately caught my attention.

Unboxing the Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6034-7312-131, my initial impression was one of rugged durability. The STX Tactical Black finish exudes a professional, no-nonsense aesthetic, and the thermal-molded SafariLaminate construction felt incredibly robust. The weight was substantial, but not excessive, suggesting a build quality that could withstand serious abuse.

Compared to other tactical holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk! Serpa and the Uncle Mike’s Kydex holster, the Safariland stood out for its intuitive SLS mechanism and purpose-built design. While the Serpa offered a fast draw, I always had concerns about its potential for accidental discharges under stress. The Uncle Mike’s was simple and affordable, but lacked the retention needed for dynamic movement. The Safariland seemed to offer the best of both worlds: speed and security.

My first impression was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism. Could this holster really live up to the hype and provide the secure, fast, and reliable carry I needed? Only real-world testing would tell.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6034-7312-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6034-7312-131 took place at a local shooting range during a day-long tactical carbine and pistol course. The course involved a significant amount of movement, including running, kneeling, and transitioning between firing positions. This provided an ideal environment to assess the holster’s retention capabilities and draw speed under pressure.

The holster performed admirably in various conditions, from bright sunlight to a brief, unexpected rain shower. The SLS system proved easy to manipulate even with gloved hands, and the draw stroke felt smooth and natural after only a few repetitions. Importantly, the Beretta M9 remained securely in place throughout all drills, even during vigorous movement.

The only initial issue was a slight learning curve with the SLS hood release; however, after a short period of familiarization, it became second nature. There were no malfunctions or surprises, and the holster functioned exactly as advertised.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use in training scenarios and a week-long field exercise in a woodland environment, the Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6034-7312-131 has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, despite exposure to mud, dust, and the occasional bump against hard surfaces. The STX Tactical Black finish has held up well, resisting scratches and abrasions.

Maintenance is straightforward: a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The internal mechanisms have remained smooth and functional with no need for lubrication. Compared to my experiences with other holsters that quickly became loose or exhibited signs of wear, the Safariland has far exceeded expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6034-7312-131

Specifications

The Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6034-7312-131 boasts the following specifications:

• Designed for: Beretta M9/92F or Sig P226 with or without a light or LAM unit. The specific model (6034-7312-131) is confirmed to fit the Beretta 92F with an ITI Mount Streamlight M3/M6 or a Surefire 6V light and a 4.9″ barrel.
• Retention System: SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood.
• Construction Material: Thermal-molded SafariLaminate. This material is incredibly durable and provides excellent protection for the firearm and its sights.
• Leg Straps: Standard double leg strap.
• Leg Shroud: Includes a leg shroud with mounting holes for optional accessories. This allows for customization with pouches, knives, or other essential gear.
• Finish: STX Tactical Black.
• Hand: Right.
• Category: Duty Gear.
• Group: Duty/Tactical Holsters.

These specifications are critical because they directly impact the holster’s performance, security, and overall user experience. The SLS system, for example, provides superior retention while still allowing for a relatively fast and smooth draw. The SafariLaminate construction ensures that the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6034-7312-131 excels at its primary job: securely and reliably carrying a handgun while allowing for a rapid draw when needed. The SLS system is intuitive and easy to operate with practice, even under stress. Its design prevents accidental weapon takeaways, providing a significant advantage in potentially dangerous situations.

One of the holster’s greatest strengths is its superior retention, ensuring that the firearm remains secure regardless of movement or environmental conditions. A potential weakness is the initial learning curve associated with the SLS system, though this is easily overcome with practice. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade tactical holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6034-7312-131 features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and user comfort. The thermal-molded SafariLaminate construction is robust yet relatively lightweight. The holster sits comfortably on the leg, thanks to the adjustable leg straps and leg shroud, distributing the weight of the firearm evenly.

The SLS hood is easily accessible and doesn’t interfere with the draw stroke once disengaged. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the SLS mechanism, but it quickly becomes intuitive with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

Built with Safariland’s signature SafariLaminate, this holster is built to last. The Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6034-7312-131 is designed to withstand harsh conditions and heavy use. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to maintain its functionality and appearance. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6034-7312-131 is compatible with a wide range of accessories, thanks to the mounting holes on the leg shroud. This allows users to attach magazine pouches, knives, or other essential gear directly to the holster platform. The Safariland also works with various drop-leg platforms and belt attachments, offering a high degree of customization.

Users can replace the standard leg straps with wider or padded straps for increased comfort. The SLS hood can also be swapped out for different colors or configurations. This holster offers a significant amount of customization to suit individual needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6034-7312-131