Let’s Dive into Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6354-4192-561
The Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6354-4192-561 is more than just a holster; it’s a piece of mission-critical gear designed for professionals and serious enthusiasts who demand speed, security, and adaptability. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality in the law enforcement and military communities. This particular holster, finished in OD Green, is built for right-handed users and features the ALS (Automatic Locking System) for enhanced weapon retention.
My journey to finding the perfect thigh holster was driven by a need for a secure and accessible platform for my sidearm while conducting training exercises and outdoor activities. I needed a holster that wouldn’t shift or impede movement during dynamic situations and provided a rapid, reliable draw. I was looking for something more robust and secure than the belt holsters I had previously used.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6354 ALS immediately impressed me with its robust construction and thoughtful design. The SafariLaminate material felt incredibly durable, and the OD Green finish provided a tactical aesthetic. The leg shroud and straps felt sturdy and well-designed.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa thigh holster and the Galco Miami Classic II shoulder holster before ultimately choosing the Safariland 6354. The Blackhawk! Serpa, while popular, lacked the robust retention system of the ALS. The Galco shoulder holster, while excellent for concealment, didn’t offer the rapid access I needed in tactical scenarios.
My first impression was excitement. This felt like a serious piece of kit built for serious use. The combination of the proven Safariland reputation, the robust construction, and the ALS system gave me confidence that this holster would perform under pressure.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6354-4192-561 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training scenario. I practiced drawing and re-holstering my S&W M&P .45 while moving and engaging targets. The holster performed flawlessly even while running and changing firing positions.
The Safariland 6354 performed well even when it was cold, wet, and the range was covered in a light layer of mud. The ALS system continued to function smoothly, providing secure retention without hindering my draw. The suede lining also prevented any scratches on my pistol.
The learning curve was minimal. The ALS system is intuitive, requiring only a thumb release to disengage the locking mechanism and draw the weapon. After a few practice repetitions, drawing from the 6354 became second nature.
The only initial issue was adjusting the leg straps for a comfortable and secure fit. However, once adjusted, the holster remained stable throughout the training session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in training scenarios and field exercises, the Safariland 6354 ALS has proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The SafariLaminate has held up exceptionally well, resisting scratches and abrasions.
The only maintenance I’ve needed to perform is occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The ALS mechanism has continued to function reliably without any lubrication or special maintenance. The suede lining has remained in excellent condition.
Previously, I used a nylon thigh holster from a less reputable brand, and the difference is night and day. The Safariland offers superior retention, stability, and durability. It significantly outperforms my previous holster in every aspect.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6354-4192-561
Specifications
Category: ALS Holsters. This denotes the Automatic Locking System as the primary retention method, known for its secure and rapid draw capabilities.
Finish/Color: OD Green. The OD Green finish provides effective camouflage in various environments and reduces visibility.
Fits: Smith & Wesson – S&W M&P .45 without manual safeties with ITI M3, M6, TLR-1, TLR-2, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC 2, or Insight XTI Procyon lights. This specific model is designed to accommodate the S&W M&P .45 equipped with various weapon lights, ensuring a secure fit.
Type: Right Hand. This holster is specifically designed for right-handed users.
The specifications of the Safariland 6354 ALS are crucial for its performance and overall user experience. The ALS ensures that the weapon remains securely holstered until intentionally drawn, a critical feature in high-stress situations. The compatibility with weapon lights is also essential for tactical applications, allowing users to maintain positive identification and target acquisition in low-light environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6354 ALS excels at its primary function: providing a secure and rapidly accessible platform for a sidearm. The ALS system offers excellent retention. It ensures that the weapon will not be dislodged accidentally while allowing for a smooth and efficient draw stroke.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, secure retention, and compatibility with weapon lights. The main weakness is the potential for the leg straps to loosen during extended periods of movement, requiring occasional adjustment. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for a tactical thigh holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6354 features a well-thought-out design and excellent ergonomics. The SafariLaminate material provides exceptional durability without adding excessive weight. The holster sits comfortably against the leg, and the adjustable straps allow for a customizable fit.
The ALS system is intuitive and easy to operate, requiring only a thumb release to draw the weapon. The open-top design allows for a fast and unobstructed draw. There is virtually no learning curve for users familiar with similar retention systems.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6354 ALS is built to last. The SafariLaminate material is highly resistant to abrasion, impact, and environmental factors. The holster should provide years of reliable service with minimal maintenance.
Maintenance is straightforward. Simply wiping down the holster with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. The ALS mechanism may benefit from occasional cleaning and lubrication with a dry lubricant, if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6354 ALS comes with a standard double leg strap and leg shroud with mounting holes for optional accessories. This allows users to attach pouches, knives, or other mission-essential gear directly to the holster platform. The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different types of leg straps and mounting platforms.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6354-4192-561
Pros
- Superior Retention: The ALS system provides excellent weapon retention, ensuring the firearm remains secure during dynamic activities.
- Rapid Draw: The open-top design and intuitive ALS release allow for a fast and efficient draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: The SafariLaminate material is highly resistant to abrasion, impact, and environmental factors.
- Weapon Light Compatibility: Designed to accommodate S&W M&P .45 with various weapon lights.
- Customizable Fit: Adjustable leg straps allow for a comfortable and secure fit for various body types.
Cons
- Leg Strap Adjustment: Leg straps may require occasional adjustment during extended periods of activity.
- Price: The Safariland 6354 ALS is more expensive than some other thigh holsters on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6354-4192-561?
The Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6354-4192-561 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical trainers who require a secure and accessible platform for their sidearm. It is also well-suited for competition shooters who prioritize speed and efficiency. This holster is the best option for those who utilize a weapon light and require a reliable retention system.
This product may not be ideal for casual shooters or individuals who prioritize concealment over accessibility. Those on a very tight budget may also find the price point prohibitive.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality tourniquet. Having a tourniquet readily accessible on your thigh rig can be life-saving in an emergency.
Conclusion on Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6354-4192-561
The Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6354-4192-561 is a top-tier piece of tactical gear that delivers on its promise of security, speed, and durability. The price is justified given the quality of materials, robust construction, and reliable performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a dependable thigh-mounted platform for their sidearm. If you’re looking for a holster that will stand up to the rigors of demanding use, the Safariland 6354 ALS is an excellent choice. Invest in your safety and efficiency – get yours today!