Let’s Dive into Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561
The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561 is a serious piece of kit, designed for professionals who need a secure and reliable way to carry their sidearm. This isn’t your average range holster; it’s built for duty, with the ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) hood offering dual levels of retention. I’ve been in the tactical gear game for over a decade, and I’ve seen holsters come and go, but Safariland has always been a name you can trust when the stakes are high.
I was looking for a holster that could stand up to the rigors of training and potential real-world use. I needed something that would keep my 1911 secure even during dynamic movements, but still allow for a smooth and quick draw. The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561 seemed to fit the bill perfectly, promising a balance of retention and accessibility.
Out of the box, the holster felt incredibly robust. The SAFARILAMINATE construction felt like it could withstand just about anything I could throw at it. The OD Green color was a nice touch, blending in well with most tactical environments, and the overall design screamed durability.
Compared to other tactical holsters I’ve used from brands like Blackhawk or SERPA, the Safariland felt noticeably more secure. While those other brands are generally faster on the draw, they often lack the level of retention required for more intense situations. I picked this one because I wanted the peace of mind knowing my weapon wasn’t going anywhere unless I wanted it to.
My first impression was definitely excitement, but also a bit of intimidation. This wasn’t a simple, passive holster; it required deliberate actions to draw the weapon. I knew there would be a learning curve, but I was confident that the added security was worth the effort.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561 to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561 at my local shooting range, setting up various drills that involved movement, transitions, and simulated close-quarters engagements. I wanted to get a feel for how the holster performed under stress. The OD Green color blended into the environment.
Even in slightly damp conditions, the holster maintained a solid grip on the firearm. Drawing smoothly required dedicated practice, but I found that once I ingrained the proper hand position and thumb movement, I could draw quickly and efficiently. One initial issue was accidentally bumping the SLS hood, preventing a clean draw, but focused practice eliminated this.
After the first range session, I realized that the leg shroud and straps were going to need some serious adjustment. The holster felt a bit too low and tended to shift around when moving dynamically. Getting the straps dialed in took a couple of hours.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561 has proven to be incredibly durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after repeated draws and re-holstering. The SAFARILAMINATE material has held up exceptionally well.
Maintaining the holster is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and some silicone lubricant on the locking mechanisms. This keeps everything running smoothly. I’ve previously used similar holsters that started showing wear within a few weeks, but the Safariland is a clear step above in terms of build quality.
Compared to my previous experience with other tactical holsters, the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561 outperforms them in retention and durability but sacrifices some speed. For my intended use case, the trade-off is more than worth it. The ALS system ensures that the weapon is secure, even in the most demanding situations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561
Specifications
The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561 is specifically designed for right-handed users and is finished in OD Green. It’s categorized as an ALS (Automatic Locking System) holster, and it fits Kimber 1911s with rails (Gold Combat RL, Custom TLE/RL with Surefire X200 or X300 light), Springfield Armory 1911s with rails (Operator with Surefire X200 or X300 light), and Wilson 1911s with rails (CQB with Surefire X200 or X300 light). It’s crucial to note that some models will not retain the weapon without the light attached.
The key specifications of this holster—the ALS and SLS—directly impact its performance. The ALS provides an intuitive thumb-activated release, while the SLS hood adds an extra layer of security. These systems provide confidence in retention, but require dedicated training to master.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. It provides a secure and reliable way to carry a 1911 in demanding environments. The holster is durable.
The main strength is obviously the retention system. The weakness is the reliance on attached lights for certain 1911 models. The holster is very reliable.
This holster definitely meets my expectations, providing a higher level of security than most other tactical holsters I’ve used. The double retention is great.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561 features robust SAFARILAMINATE construction. The weight is substantial, giving a reassuring feel of durability, and the holster’s ergonomics are generally good, although adjusting the leg shroud is critical for comfort and efficient draw. The OD Green helps with concealment.
There is a learning curve. Consistent practice is required to master the ALS and SLS release mechanisms.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the materials and construction, the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561 should last for years with proper care. Maintaining the holster is easy, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Minor repairs, such as replacing screws or adjusting tension, can be done with basic tools. Holster should be cleaned after every use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561 comes with the standard double leg strap and leg shroud, which has mounting holes for optional accessories. A Sentry is available as an option for even greater security. The holster is also compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, such as different belt attachments and mounting platforms.
The ability to customize the holster with various accessories enhances its versatility and makes it adaptable to different mission requirements. This is a great thing to customize to the user.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561
Pros
- Exceptional retention thanks to the ALS and SLS systems, providing peace of mind in demanding situations.
- Durable SAFARILAMINATE construction that can withstand heavy use and harsh environments.
- OD Green finish offers good camouflage and blends well with tactical gear.
- Compatibility with various Safariland accessories allows for customization to individual needs.
- Proven track record with law enforcement and military professionals.
Cons
- Requires dedicated training to master the draw stroke and release mechanisms, especially under stress.
- Holster may not retain weapon without a light attached for certain 1911 models, limiting versatility.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and reliability. It’s also well-suited for serious shooting enthusiasts who prioritize security over speed. The holster is for those with compatible firearms.
This holster is not ideal for concealed carry due to its size and design. New shooters who want speed might skip this product.
A good quality tactical belt and a reliable weapon-mounted light are must-have accessories. Also, regular practice is required.
Conclusion on Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561
The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561 is a top-tier duty holster that delivers on its promise of security and durability. While there’s a learning curve involved in mastering the draw stroke, the added retention is well worth the effort for those who need it. The build quality is excellent.
At $218.80, it’s not the cheapest holster on the market, but the price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and the peace of mind it provides. If you need a holster that can withstand the rigors of duty and keep your weapon secure, the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6304-560-561 is an excellent choice.
I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who needs a dependable and secure tactical holster. Invest in your safety, invest in Safariland.