Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562

The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562 is a duty-grade holster designed for tactical applications. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military equipment, this holster features their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention and a smooth, fast draw.

I was looking for a holster that offered both security and accessibility for my sidearm during training exercises and potential real-world scenarios. I needed something that wouldn’t slow me down but would also prevent accidental dislodgement of my weapon.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the robust construction and quality of materials. The OD Green SafariLaminate felt incredibly durable, and the overall design instilled confidence. It was heavier than some of my previous holsters, but the weight suggested a higher level of protection.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the Bianchi UM84R Universal Military Holster, but ultimately chose the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562 due to its superior retention system and adjustable fit. The ALS system seemed more intuitive and faster than the Serpa’s push-button release, and the Bianchi’s universal design lacked the tailored fit I desired.

My initial impression was excitement mixed with a slight learning curve concern. The ALS system felt incredibly secure, but I knew I’d need to practice to master the release under pressure. This holster promised a significant upgrade in both security and performance.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562 at my local shooting range during a dynamic drills session. I ran through various scenarios involving movement, target acquisition, and rapid engagement. The holster performed admirably in dry conditions with relatively mild temperatures.

The ALS system initially felt a bit stiff, but after a few repetitions, the draw became much smoother and more natural. I was able to consistently achieve a fast and clean draw stroke, even while moving. One small issue, the position on my thigh needed adjusting a few times before feeling truly natural.

There were no significant issues encountered during the first range session other than adjusting it to my body shape. I was, however, surprised by how well the thigh rig stayed in place during rapid movements. The dual leg straps provided excellent stability, preventing the holster from flopping around.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use in various training scenarios, the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562 has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The SafariLaminate construction has shown no signs of wear or cracking, even after being exposed to rain, mud, and impacts.

Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed. I occasionally use a silicone-based lubricant on the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to my previous nylon holsters, the Safariland holster is far more durable and requires less maintenance.

This holster outperforms all my previous holsters in terms of retention, draw speed, and overall durability. The ALS system provides a level of security that gives me peace of mind knowing my weapon is safe, yet readily accessible. It’s a significant upgrade in both performance and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562

Specifications

• The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562 features the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS), an intuitive retention mechanism that secures the weapon upon holstering. The ALS is deactivated by a simple thumb release, allowing for a fast and natural draw.
• It’s constructed from thermal-molded SafariLaminate, a durable composite material that protects the handgun and its sights. The SafariLaminate is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and moisture.
• The holster is designed to fit the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C without Thumb Safety IT M3. This ensures a snug and secure fit for the specified handgun model.
• It features a standard double leg strap and leg shroud with mounting holes for optional accessories. The double leg strap design distributes weight evenly and provides added stability.
• The holster is OD Green in color and designed for left-handed shooters. This ensures compatibility with standard tactical loadouts and caters to the user’s dominant hand.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance, reliability, and user experience. The ALS system provides secure retention without sacrificing draw speed, while the SafariLaminate construction ensures durability and protection. The tailored fit and adjustable straps enhance comfort and stability during dynamic movements.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562 excels at its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a handgun. The ALS system works flawlessly, providing positive retention without hindering the draw stroke.

A major strength is the intuitive nature of the ALS release. With practice, it becomes second nature, allowing for a lightning-fast draw. The only minor weakness is the initial stiffness of the ALS mechanism, which requires a short break-in period.

The holster exceeds my expectations in terms of both security and draw speed. It provides a level of confidence that my weapon is secure while offering a significantly faster draw than my previous holsters.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional, with high-quality materials and precise molding. The SafariLaminate feels incredibly durable, and the overall construction inspires confidence.

There’s a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system, but the intuitive design makes it relatively easy to master. The adjustable leg straps allow for a customized fit, enhancing comfort and stability.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562 is built to last. The SafariLaminate construction is incredibly resistant to wear and tear.

Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism will ensure smooth operation.

Accessories and Customization Options

The holster comes standard with double leg straps and a leg shroud with mounting holes. These mounting holes allow for the attachment of various accessories, such as magazine pouches, flashlights, or knives.

Safariland offers a wide range of compatible accessories, including different leg shrouds, straps, and mounting adapters. The holster is also compatible with many popular MOLLE-compatible accessories from other brands, offering extensive customization options.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562

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Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical trainers who require a secure and accessible way to carry their sidearm. It’s also a great choice for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and efficiency.

This product might not be the best choice for casual shooters or those who prioritize comfort over security and draw speed. The thigh rig design may not be suitable for concealed carry or everyday use.

A must-have accessory is a quality magazine pouch that can be mounted on the leg shroud. Also, consider using a silicone-based lubricant to maintain the smooth operation of the ALS mechanism.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562

The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562 is a top-tier tactical holster that delivers exceptional security, draw speed, and durability. While it may require a short break-in period and comes at a premium price, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks for those who demand the best.

The price is justified by the superior quality, reliability, and performance of the holster. This is an investment in your safety and efficiency.

I would highly recommend the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-9192-562 to anyone looking for a duty-grade tactical holster. If you need a holster that offers unmatched security, a lightning-fast draw, and unwavering reliability, then look no further. Take your tactical readiness to the next level – you won’t regret it.