Let’s Dive into Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6354-560-542
The Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster in STX Foliage Green for left-handed shooters is more than just a holster; it’s a statement of preparedness, a testament to the understanding of tactical needs, and a reliable partner for anyone carrying a railed 1911 with a weapon light. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in law enforcement and military gear, this holster promises secure weapon retention, rapid deployment, and comfortable carry. Its standout feature, the Automatic Locking System (ALS), instantly secures the weapon upon holstering, providing peace of mind in dynamic situations.
For years, I’ve searched for a holster that balances security, accessibility, and comfort when carrying a 1911 with a weapon light in a tactical environment. Traditional holsters often sacrifice one of these aspects, either being too slow on the draw, not secure enough, or simply uncomfortable for extended wear. The Safariland 6354 ALS seemed to offer a solution to this trifecta of challenges.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the robustness of the construction. The SafariLaminate felt incredibly durable, and the STX Foliage Green finish provided a subdued, professional aesthetic. The thigh rig felt solid and well-built, promising stability and comfort during movement.
Compared to other thigh holsters I’ve used, like the Blackhawk! Serpa thigh holster and the Uncle Mike’s Tactical thigh holster, the Safariland stood out due to its ALS retention system and significantly higher build quality. While the Serpa offered a similar speed draw, its retention system felt less secure. The Uncle Mike’s, while affordable, lacked the durability and tailored fit of the Safariland.
My initial impression was one of cautious excitement. The Safariland 6354 ALS looked and felt like a professional-grade piece of equipment, but the real test would be in its performance under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6354-560-542 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland 6354 ALS was at an outdoor shooting range during a tactical training session. I focused on drills that involved rapid draws, movement, and re-holstering under simulated stress. The holster was paired with my Springfield Armory Operator 1911 equipped with a Surefire X300 weapon light.
The weather was mildly humid, and the ground was a mix of dirt and gravel. The ALS system proved incredibly intuitive. The thumb release was easy to locate and actuate, allowing for a smooth and natural draw stroke. Re-holstering was equally straightforward; the weapon clicked into place securely without requiring any conscious effort.
The draw stroke felt very intuitive, requiring minimal time to adapt. The firearm consistently cleared the holster without snagging or requiring excessive force. The thigh rig provided stable support, preventing the holster from flopping around during movement. No issues arose during the first use; the Safariland 6354 ALS performed flawlessly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use in various conditions, the Safariland 6354 ALS has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it during training sessions, outdoor excursions, and even a few force-on-force scenarios. The holster has been exposed to rain, dust, mud, and extreme temperatures ranging from freezing to well over 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
Despite this rigorous use, the holster shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The SafariLaminate has resisted scratches and abrasions. The STX Foliage Green finish has remained consistent without fading or chipping. The leg straps and shroud have maintained their integrity without any loosening or fraying.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use keeps the holster clean and functional. Occasionally, I’ll apply a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to previous holsters, which often required extensive cleaning and maintenance to prevent malfunctions, the Safariland has been exceptionally reliable and low-maintenance. It significantly outperforms other thigh holsters I’ve used in terms of durability and consistent performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6354-560-542
Specifications
The Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster features the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS) for intuitive and secure weapon retention. Constructed of durable SafariLaminate, it’s finished in STX Foliage Green. This left-hand holster is specifically designed to fit Kimber 1911s with rails (Gold Combat RL, Custom TLE/RL with Surefire X200 or X300), Springfield Armory 1911s with rails (Operator with Surefire X200 or X300), and Wilson 1911s with rails (CQB with Surefire X200 or X300).
These specifications matter because they ensure a precise fit for specific 1911 models, preventing unwanted movement or damage to the firearm. The ALS system provides a level of security unmatched by traditional friction-based holsters. The SafariLaminate construction guarantees long-term durability even under harsh conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6354 ALS excels at its primary job: securely retaining and rapidly deploying a railed 1911 with a weapon light. The ALS system provides a noticeable click when the weapon is holstered, assuring the user that it is locked in place. The thumb release is ergonomically positioned for a natural and efficient draw stroke.
The holster’s primary strength lies in its balance of speed and security. The ALS system is quick to disengage, yet provides a high level of retention that prevents accidental or unauthorized removal of the weapon. A minor improvement would be a slightly wider opening for the holster mouth to facilitate even faster re-holstering under stress. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a tactical thigh holster, proving to be a reliable and essential piece of gear.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6354 ALS is exceptional. The SafariLaminate material feels robust and well-constructed. The weight is well-distributed, and the thigh rig design ensures a comfortable and stable fit.
The design is user-friendly, although some may require a short period of adjustment to become fully accustomed to the ALS release. Overall, the holster’s ergonomic design contributes to a positive user experience.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust SafariLaminate construction, the Safariland 6354 ALS is built to last for years, even with heavy use. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are all that’s needed to keep the holster in optimal condition.
This level of durability and ease of maintenance makes it a worthwhile investment for anyone who relies on their gear in demanding environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6354 ALS comes standard with an adjustable thigh rig and double leg straps. Mounting holes on the leg shroud allow for the attachment of optional accessories such as magazine pouches or other MOLLE-compatible gear.
While no specific customization options are offered directly by Safariland for this model, the holster’s compatibility with standard 1911 weapon lights provides a degree of personalization.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6354-560-542
Pros
- Superior Weapon Retention: The ALS system provides excellent security, preventing accidental or unauthorized removal.
- Rapid Deployment: The thumb-activated release allows for a fast and smooth draw stroke.
- Exceptional Durability: The SafariLaminate construction is built to withstand harsh conditions and heavy use.
- Comfortable Carry: The adjustable thigh rig and double leg straps ensure a secure and comfortable fit.
- Professional Aesthetics: The STX Foliage Green finish provides a subdued and tactical appearance.
Cons
- The holster will not retain the weapon without the specified weapon light attached.
- Can be more expensive than some competitor models.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6354-560-542?
The Safariland 6354 ALS is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure and reliable method of carrying a railed 1911 with a weapon light. It’s also well-suited for tactical training enthusiasts and competitive shooters who prioritize speed and efficiency.
This holster may not be the best choice for casual shooters or individuals who do not plan to use a weapon light, as it will not function correctly without one attached.
A must-have accessory for this holster is a high-quality belt designed to support the weight of the firearm and thigh rig comfortably. Also, consider using a quality 1911 with a compatible rail-mounted light like a Surefire X300.
Conclusion on Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6354-560-542
The Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster is a top-tier piece of equipment that delivers on its promise of secure weapon retention, rapid deployment, and comfortable carry. Its durable construction, intuitive ALS system, and ergonomic design make it a worthwhile investment for anyone who relies on their firearm in tactical situations.
While the price may be higher than some competitor models, the superior quality and performance justify the cost.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6354 ALS to anyone seeking a professional-grade thigh holster for their railed 1911 with a weapon light. If you’re ready to upgrade your carry system and experience the confidence that comes with using top-quality gear, click here to order your Safariland 6354 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster today!