Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6304-519-551 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6304-519-551

In the world of tactical gear, where milliseconds can matter, the choice of a holster is paramount. The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6304-519-551 stands out as a serious contender for those demanding both security and rapid access. This isn’t just a piece of plastic; it’s a meticulously engineered system designed to keep your firearm secure while allowing for a lightning-fast draw when needed. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) and sturdy leg shroud assembly are just two of the features that have drawn my attention after years of relying on less sophisticated options in the field.

As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve used countless holsters, each with its own set of compromises. My biggest frustration has always been finding the balance between retention and draw speed. Many level II and III holsters are bulky, slow, and prone to malfunction in adverse conditions. This holster, with its promises of intuitive operation and rugged durability, seemed like it could finally solve that persistent problem, hence my deep dive into understanding its capabilities.

Upon receiving the Safariland 6304 ALS, I was immediately struck by the quality of the STX FDE Brown finish and the robust construction. The holster felt substantial, but not overly heavy, and the SAFARILAMINATE construction exuded confidence. It’s evident that Safariland prioritizes durability. Compared to some of the cheaper polymer holsters I’ve used in the past, this feels like a professional piece of kit.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder System before settling on the Safariland 6304. While the Serpa offered a similar level of retention, I was concerned about the potential for accidental discharges under stress, a known issue with that design. The Galco, while comfortable for concealed carry, lacked the tactical features I needed for open carry scenarios. The Safariland 6304, with its ALS and leg shroud, appeared to offer the best combination of speed, security, and tactical adaptability.

My initial reaction was one of cautious excitement. I was eager to see if the ALS lived up to the hype and if the leg shroud provided a stable and comfortable platform for carrying a full-sized handgun. There was also a hint of apprehension – could a holster this complex really be as intuitive and reliable as the marketing materials suggested?

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6304-519-551 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test took place at an outdoor shooting range during a practical pistol course. The weather was typical for the area: dry, dusty, and hovering around 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This provided a good initial proving ground for the Safariland 6304. The course involved a series of dynamic drills, including drawing from concealment, shooting on the move, and engaging multiple targets.

The most immediate observation was the ease and speed of the draw. The ALS release was intuitive, requiring only a slight thumb movement to disengage, and the straight-up draw felt natural and efficient. Even under the stress of the drills, I was able to consistently achieve a fast and clean draw stroke. The leg shroud remained stable throughout the exercises, distributing the weight of the firearm evenly and preventing any unwanted movement. There was a slight learning curve with the ALS release at first, but after a few repetitions, it became second nature.

There was one minor issue: the adjustable vertical leg strap needed to be tightened after the first few drills to prevent the holster from shifting slightly on my thigh. However, this was easily rectified and didn’t affect the overall performance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and a multi-day tactical training exercise, the Safariland 6304 has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The STX TACTICAL finish has held up well to abrasion and impacts, and the SAFARILAMINATE construction shows no signs of cracking or delamination.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is all that’s required to keep the holster clean and functioning properly. I’ve also applied a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism every few weeks to ensure smooth operation.

Compared to my previous experience with a leather thigh holster, the Safariland 6304 is a clear winner. The Safariland offers superior retention, faster draw speed, and greater durability. It’s a noticeable upgrade in terms of both performance and reliability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6304-519-551

Specifications

• Category: ALS Holsters
• Finish/Color: STX FDE Brown
• Fits: Smith & Wesson – S&W M&P .45 with or without thumb safety
• Type: Right Hand
• Automatic Locking System (ALS): This automatically secures the weapon once holstered, requiring only a thumb release for a smooth, straight-up draw.
• SLS Hood Assembly and Hood Guard: The Self Locking System (SLS) hood adds another layer of security, further preventing unauthorized removal of the firearm.
• SAFARILAMINATE Construction: This thermal-molded laminate provides exceptional durability and protection for both the handgun and its sights.
• Leg Shroud Assembly: The same robust leg shroud used on the popular Safariland 6004 series, with mounting holes for optional accessories.
• Double Leg Strap: The standard double leg strap ensures a secure and comfortable fit, even during strenuous activity.
• Adjustable Vertical Leg Strap: This allows for fine-tuning the holster’s position on the leg for optimal comfort and draw speed.

These specifications are crucial for a tactical holster. The ALS and SLS systems provide unparalleled security, while the SAFARILAMINATE construction ensures long-lasting durability. The leg shroud assembly distributes the weight of the firearm comfortably. The adjustability ensures a custom fit for different body types.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster excels at its primary job: securely carrying and quickly deploying a handgun. The ALS mechanism is intuitive and reliable, providing a positive lock on the firearm without hindering the draw stroke. The straight-up draw is efficient and minimizes unnecessary movement, allowing for rapid target acquisition.

The strengths of this holster are its security, speed, and durability. The ALS and SLS provide excellent retention, even during demanding activities. The draw stroke is fast and smooth, and the SAFARILAMINATE construction can withstand significant abuse. The main area for potential improvement would be the addition of more padding on the leg shroud for enhanced comfort during extended wear.

Overall, the Safariland 6304 meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability, making it a top-tier choice for tactical professionals and serious shooting enthusiasts.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6304 is designed with a focus on functionality and durability. The STX TACTICAL finish provides a non-slip grip and resists scratches and abrasions. The leg shroud is contoured to fit the leg comfortably. The weight is well-distributed.

The holster is generally user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release. The adjustable leg straps allow for a customized fit. The overall design is optimized for a fast and efficient draw stroke.

Durability & Maintenance

The SAFARILAMINATE construction of the Safariland 6304 is exceptionally durable. It can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The holster is also resistant to moisture, chemicals, and temperature extremes.

Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s required to keep the holster functioning properly for years.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6304 is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including magazine pouches, flashlights, and other tactical gear that can be attached to the leg shroud. The holster also accepts the optional Safariland Sentry, which adds an additional layer of security to prevent unauthorized removal of the firearm.

The holster is compatible with various mounting platforms, allowing it to be attached to belts, vests, and other gear. The adjustable leg straps allow for a customized fit with different types of clothing and equipment.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6304-519-551

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6304-519-551?

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a secure, reliable, and fast-drawing holster. Its robust construction and tactical versatility make it ideal for those who operate in demanding environments.

This product might be overkill for casual shooters or those who primarily carry concealed. It’s designed for open carry scenarios where retention and rapid access are paramount.

A must-have accessory is a quality magazine pouch that can be attached to the leg shroud for quick and easy reloads. Also, consider adding the Safariland Sentry for an extra layer of security.

Conclusion on Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6304-519-551

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX FDE Brown, Right Hand 6304-519-551 is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. While it may require a slight investment and a brief learning curve, the benefits it provides in terms of performance and reliability are well worth the cost.

The price is justified given the quality of materials, the level of engineering, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your firearm is securely and readily accessible.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6304 to anyone who needs a professional-grade tactical holster. It’s a game-changer that will enhance your performance and confidence in the field. Upgrade your gear today and experience the difference!