Let’s Dive into Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132
The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132 is a serious piece of kit for the serious professional. Crafted by Safariland, this holster combines their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a robust, quick-release leg harness, making it a go-to option for law enforcement, military personnel, and anyone requiring secure and rapid access to their firearm. This left-handed variant, finished in STX Tactical Black, offers a blend of security, comfort, and accessibility crucial in high-stakes situations.
My journey to this holster started with a need for enhanced weapon retention and accessibility during tactical training scenarios. Standard belt holsters often felt cumbersome and restrictive, especially when navigating complex terrain or wearing bulky gear. The promise of the ALS system coupled with the stability of a leg harness drew me towards the Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132.
Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of quality and durability. The STX Tactical Black finish provided a rugged, non-reflective surface, while the SAFARILAMINATE construction felt incredibly robust. The leg harness appeared well-designed, with adjustable straps and a quick-release buckle that inspired confidence.
Compared to other leg holsters I’ve used, such as the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the Bianchi M12 Universal Military Holster, the Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132 seemed to offer a superior balance of retention, speed, and comfort. The ALS system promised a more secure hold than the Serpa’s friction-based mechanism, and the overall design appeared more streamlined and ergonomic than the Bianchi’s more traditional approach. My initial reaction was excitement – this seemed like the upgrade I had been searching for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of the Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132 was at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. This environment provided a safe but dynamic setting to evaluate the holster’s performance under pressure. I specifically focused on draw speed, retention during movement, and overall comfort while wearing it for extended periods.
The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132 performed admirably, even in less-than-ideal conditions. The weather turned unexpectedly, resulting in wet and muddy conditions. The ALS system remained reliable, securely retaining my S&W M&P .45 even when soaked, while the quick-release leg harness allowed for easy adjustment despite my gloved hands.
The draw stroke became intuitive quickly; deactivating the ALS with my thumb during the draw felt natural. There was a slight learning curve adjusting the leg straps for optimal positioning, but the results were well worth the effort, providing stability and minimizing movement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132 has proven to be exceptionally durable. It has endured numerous training sessions, exposed to everything from dry desert environments to humid coastal conditions. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, with only minor scuff marks on the STX Tactical Black finish.
The SAFARILAMINATE construction has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of cracking or deformation. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. This holster far outperforms previous options I’ve used in terms of both durability and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132
Specifications
Category: ALS Holsters. This places it firmly within Safariland’s line of retention-based holsters, known for their security and reliability.
Finish/Color: STX Tactical Black. The matte black finish provides a low-profile, non-reflective appearance suitable for tactical applications.
Fits: Smith & Wesson M&P .45 without thumb safety. This specific model is tailored for a secure fit with this particular firearm, ensuring optimal retention and draw.
Type: Left Hand. Designed specifically for left-handed shooters, ensuring proper ergonomics and accessibility.
ALS (Automatic Locking System): Securely locks the weapon in place upon holstering. Deactivation is achieved via a simple thumb release, allowing for a fast and intuitive draw.
SLS (Self Locking System) Hood: Further enhances weapon retention. The rotating hood adds an extra layer of security, preventing unauthorized access.
Hood Guard: Provides additional protection to the SLS hood, preventing accidental release.
SAFARILAMINATE Construction: A proprietary thermal-molded laminate that protects the handgun and sights. This material is incredibly durable and resistant to scratches, abrasions, and moisture.
Quick Release Leg Harness: Allows for rapid donning and doffing of the holster. Adjustable straps ensure a secure and comfortable fit for a wide range of body types.
Double Leg Straps: Provide enhanced stability and weight distribution.
Accessory Mounting Holes: Located on the leg shroud, allowing for the attachment of additional gear.
These specifications are important because they translate directly to the holster’s performance, security, and usability. The ALS and SLS systems provide peace of mind knowing that the firearm is securely retained, while the ergonomic design and adjustable harness contribute to a comfortable and efficient draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and rapidly deploying a firearm. The ALS system provides a confident level of retention without hindering draw speed. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, becoming intuitive with practice.
One strength is the secure retention provided by the ALS and SLS systems. A potential weakness might be the slight learning curve for those unfamiliar with these types of retention mechanisms. Overall, it exceeds expectations, providing a significant upgrade in both security and accessibility compared to more basic holster designs.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The SAFARILAMINATE material feels incredibly robust, and the stitching is clean and precise. The holster is surprisingly lightweight considering its size and features. The leg harness is well-designed, distributing weight evenly and minimizing movement.
The holster is reasonably user-friendly, although some adjustment of the leg straps is necessary to achieve an optimal fit. The ALS release mechanism is intuitive and easy to operate, even under stress.
Durability & Maintenance
The SAFARILAMINATE construction and robust hardware suggest excellent long-term durability. The holster has already withstood significant use without showing any signs of structural weakness.
Maintenance is straightforward; occasional cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The ALS mechanism may benefit from occasional lubrication, but overall, the holster requires minimal upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132 is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including various light mounts and optic covers. The leg shroud features mounting holes that allow for the attachment of magazine pouches, knives, or other essential gear.
The holster also integrates well with other tactical gear, such as plate carriers and battle belts. While designed specifically for the S&W M&P .45, the modularity of the leg harness allows for adaptation to different mission requirements.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132
Pros
- Superior Weapon Retention: The ALS (Automatic Locking System) and SLS (Self Locking System) provide multiple layers of security.
- Durable Construction: The SAFARILAMINATE material is incredibly tough and resistant to wear and tear.
- Rapid Deployment: The ALS system allows for a fast and intuitive draw stroke once mastered.
- Comfortable and Adjustable: The quick-release leg harness is designed for comfortable, all-day wear and can be easily adjusted.
- Accessory Mounting Options: The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching additional gear.
Cons
- Price: The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132 is more expensive than many other holster options.
- Learning Curve: Requires some practice to master the ALS and SLS release mechanisms.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132?
The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure and accessible way to carry their firearm. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and retention.
Individuals who prioritize affordability above all else, or those who are new to firearms and prefer simpler holster designs, might want to skip this product. A quality belt holster might be a better starting point.
A must-have accessory is a reliable cleaning kit to maintain the ALS mechanism and keep it functioning smoothly. Additionally, consider purchasing compatible magazine pouches to attach to the leg shroud for increased carrying capacity.
Conclusion on Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132
The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132 is a top-tier holster that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. While the price point may be higher than some alternatives, the investment is justified by the superior security, durability, and functionality it provides.
I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who demands the best in weapon retention and accessibility. If you’re serious about your gear and require a holster that can withstand the rigors of professional use, look no further. Don’t settle for anything less – upgrade to the Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6305-419-132 and experience the difference.