What Makes Safariland 6384 ALS OMV Tactical Holster, S&W – 1 out of 3 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 6384 ALS OMV Tactical Holster, S&W – 1 out of 3 models is not just another piece of gear; it’s a meticulously designed tool for professionals who rely on their sidearm in high-stakes situations. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in law enforcement and military equipment, this holster promises rapid weapon deployment and secure retention. This particular model is crafted for the S&W M&P 9/40 with an X300 weapon light, featuring the Automatic Locking System (ALS), an open-top design, and a Flat Dark Earth (FDE) finish.
For years, I struggled to find a holster that balanced speed, security, and comfort, particularly when wearing a plate carrier. Many holsters felt bulky, shifted excessively, or compromised the draw stroke, costing precious milliseconds in critical situations. The Safariland 6384 seemed to address these issues head-on, promising a streamlined profile and a lower center of gravity optimized for use with MOLLE vests (OMV).
Unboxing the Safariland 6384, my initial impression was one of rugged durability and thoughtful design. The STX finish felt robust, and the ALS mechanism engaged with a satisfying click, indicating positive retention. The suede lining was a welcome touch, suggesting attention to protecting the handgun’s finish.
Compared to my older Blackhawk Serpa and a generic Kydex holster, the Safariland felt noticeably more refined. While the Serpa offered a similar speed draw, its retention system felt less secure and its bulk was cumbersome. The Kydex holster, although minimalist, lacked active retention and didn’t integrate well with my tactical gear.
From the moment I held it, I was excited by the Safariland 6384. It felt like a purpose-built tool, not a compromise. It was clear that this holster was designed with serious users in mind.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6384 ALS OMV Tactical Holster, S&W – 1 out of 3 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland 6384 was at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. I wore a full tactical loadout, including a plate carrier, and put the holster through its paces in dynamic drills. The weather was dry and dusty, presenting a typical challenging environment.
The Safariland 6384 performed admirably. The ALS system allowed for a smooth, straight-up draw once deactivated, even under pressure. The lower center of gravity, true to its promise, reduced pulling on my vest, providing a more stable and comfortable platform.
Initially, deactivating the ALS required a bit of practice to find the optimal thumb position. However, after a few repetitions, it became second nature. There were no malfunctions or unexpected releases during the first session, inspiring confidence in its reliability.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including weekly range sessions and a weekend-long tactical training course, the Safariland 6384 has proven its worth. The STX finish shows minimal signs of wear, even after repeated contact with gear and abrasive surfaces. The holster has maintained its structural integrity, with no loosening of screws or degradation of materials.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional cleaning of the ALS mechanism with a dry brush keeps it functioning flawlessly. I’ve also applied a small amount of silicone lubricant to the ALS components to maintain smooth operation.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6384 significantly outperforms them in terms of retention, speed, and comfort. It’s a clear upgrade and has become my go-to holster for any tactical application. It has exceeded expectations in every measurable way.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6384 ALS OMV Tactical Holster, S&W – 1 out of 3 models
Specifications
Manufacturer: Safariland. A leading producer of law enforcement and military equipment.
Model: 6384 ALS OMV Tactical Holster. Designed for tactical applications with MOLLE vest integration.
Weapon Compatibility: S&W M&P 9/40 with X300 weapon light. Ensures a snug and secure fit for the specified firearm and light combination.
Retention System: ALS (Automatic Locking System). Offers secure weapon retention with a simple, straight-up draw once deactivated.
Material: STX Flat Dark Earth finish. Provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing exterior.
Handedness: Right Hand. Specifically molded for right-handed users.
Mounting System: OMV (Optimized for MOLLE Vest). Features a lower center of gravity for reduced vest pull.
Leg Strap: Adjustable vertical leg strap. Provides added stability and security.
Lining: Suede lined. Protects the handgun’s finish from scratches and wear.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance, reliability, and comfort. The ALS ensures positive retention, preventing accidental weapon loss, while the OMV design enhances comfort and stability when used with a plate carrier. The suede lining protects the firearm, and the adjustable leg strap allows for a customized fit.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6384 ALS OMV Tactical Holster performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The ALS provides a secure level of retention without sacrificing speed of draw. Its usability is further enhanced by the open-top design, allowing for quick target acquisition and engagement.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust construction, secure retention, and comfortable carry. A potential area for improvement could be the addition of an optional ALS guard for added security in certain environments. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a tactical holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6384 is built with high-quality materials, resulting in a durable and confidence-inspiring product. Despite its robust construction, the holster is relatively lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods. The design is user-friendly, although the ALS mechanism requires some initial familiarization.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6384 is built to last, with a durable STX finish and robust construction. It is easy to maintain with regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6384 includes a standard hood guard and an adjustable vertical leg strap. While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization, it is compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as different mounting platforms and ALS guards. The compatibility with SureFire X300 weapon lights is a significant advantage.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6384 ALS OMV Tactical Holster, S&W – 1 out of 3 models
Pros
- Superior Retention: The ALS system provides excellent weapon retention without sacrificing speed of draw.
- OMV Design: The optimized-for-MOLLE-vest design distributes weight evenly and reduces vest pull.
- Durability: The STX finish and robust construction ensure long-lasting performance.
- Suede Lining: The suede lining protects the firearm’s finish.
- Compatibility: Designed specifically for the S&W M&P 9/40 with a SureFire X300 weapon light for a secure fit.
Cons
- ALS requires practice: The Automatic Locking System takes practice to master for smooth draws.
- Price: At $192.80, it’s an investment compared to simpler holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6384 ALS OMV Tactical Holster, S&W – 1 out of 3 models?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure and reliable holster for their S&W M&P 9/40 with an X300 weapon light. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters and tactical training participants who prioritize speed and retention. Anyone using a MOLLE vest or plate carrier will benefit from the OMV design.
This product may not be ideal for casual shooters or individuals who prioritize concealed carry, as its size and design are geared towards open carry tactical applications. Those who prefer simpler, passive retention holsters might also find the ALS system unnecessary.
A must-have accessory is an ALS guard for added security in high-risk environments. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism are also recommended.
Conclusion on Safariland 6384 ALS OMV Tactical Holster, S&W – 1 out of 3 models
The Safariland 6384 ALS OMV Tactical Holster, S&W – 1 out of 3 models 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 its superior retention, durability, and OMV design. The holster is a finely crafted tool that will provide years of reliable service in demanding environments.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6384 to anyone who needs a professional-grade holster for their S&W M&P 9/40 with an X300 weapon light. If you are serious about your gear and demand the best, this holster is a must-have. Upgrade your tactical setup today and experience the difference a quality holster can make!