Let’s Dive into Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right 6035-7712-131
The Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right 6035-7712-131 isn’t just a piece of gear; it’s a critical component for anyone who relies on their sidearm in demanding situations. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military equipment, this holster is designed for secure carry, quick access, and lasting durability. Its most notable feature is the Self Locking System (SLS), providing excellent weapon retention while allowing for a smooth, single-motion draw.
My career has often led me into scenarios where a reliable and secure holster is non-negotiable. I needed a holster that could handle the rigors of tactical training, while also ensuring quick and easy access to my sidearm in dynamic environments. I chose the Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right 6035-7712-131 to replace my aging Level II retention holster, seeking an upgrade in both security and draw speed.
The holster arrived in typical Safariland packaging, secure and straightforward. My initial impression was one of robust construction; the SafariLaminate material felt incredibly durable, yet surprisingly lightweight. The black STX Tactical finish gave it a professional and subdued look, perfect for tactical operations.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the G-Code SOC Holster. The Safariland stood out due to its proven SLS system and reputation for reliability in the field, tipping the scales in its favor. My first impression was one of excitement, knowing I had a serious piece of kit that could handle whatever I threw at it.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right 6035-7712-131 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the holster at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The conditions were dry, but the high volume of movement and simulated stress created a challenging environment. It took a few repetitions to become fully comfortable with the SLS release, but after that, the draw became smooth and instinctive.
The holster performed admirably, even with repeated draws and re-holstering. I experienced no issues with retention or access during the intense drills. A slight initial stiffness in the rotating hood required some break-in, but after a couple of hours, this smoothed out significantly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the holster has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are some minor scuff marks on the STX Tactical finish, but the SafariLaminate construction shows no signs of wear or degradation. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps it in good working order.
Compared to my previous holster, the Safariland SLS offers a significantly more secure carry and a faster, more consistent draw. The holster has exceeded my expectations in terms of both durability and performance, and has become an essential part of my tactical gear. The user feedback about wear on the firearm frame is valid, so careful monitoring is advisable.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right 6035-7712-131
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Safariland. This company is known for producing high-quality, reliable holsters for law enforcement and military personnel.
- Color: Black. The black color provides a low-profile and professional appearance.
- Gun Make: SIG Sauer. This holster is specifically designed to fit SIG Sauer pistols.
- Gun Model: SIG Sauer P220, SIG Sauer P226. It ensures a snug and secure fit for these popular models.
- Hand: Right. It is designed for right-handed users, allowing for a natural and efficient draw.
- Holster Type: Thigh Holster. This style positions the firearm on the thigh for comfortable carry and quick access.
- Light/Laser Attachment: Insight Technology M6X, Insight Technology M3X. This holster accommodates pistols with these specific light/laser attachments.
- Finish: STX Tactical. The STX Tactical finish provides a durable and non-reflective surface.
- Holster Finish: STX Tactical. This finish enhances the holster’s resistance to scratches and wear.
- Application: Tactical. This holster is specifically designed for tactical operations and high-stress environments.
These specifications are vital because they ensure the holster is compatible with my specific firearm and intended use. The thigh holster design allows for comfortable carry and quick access, while the SLS retention system provides peace of mind knowing my weapon is secure. The compatibility with light/laser attachments is essential for low-light scenarios.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland SLS holster excels in its primary function: securely carrying a sidearm while allowing for a rapid and consistent draw. The SLS system is intuitive and provides excellent retention without hindering draw speed. The adjustable tension screws allow for a customized fit, ensuring the firearm is both secure and easily accessible.
One minor weakness is the initial stiffness of the SLS hood, which requires a short break-in period. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a tactical thigh holster, offering a superior combination of security, accessibility, and durability. The user feedback regarding the light compatibility with Streamlight TLR1 enhances the versatility beyond the listed Insight Technology models.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional. The SafariLaminate construction feels incredibly robust, yet the holster remains surprisingly lightweight. The adjustable leg straps and leg shroud provide a comfortable and secure fit, even during strenuous activity.
The SLS system has a slight learning curve, but becomes intuitive with practice. The ability to adjust the tension and customize the fit further enhances its user-friendliness.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the SafariLaminate construction and robust design, I expect this holster to last for years. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The holster’s durable materials and construction should withstand the rigors of tactical use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster comes standard with a double leg strap and a leg shroud with mounting holes for optional accessories. The adjustable vertical leg strap with a quick-release detachable leg strap version offers further customization. While no specific optics or barrel options are available, the holster is compatible with a wide range of MOLLE-compatible accessories, allowing for additional customization.
Pros and Cons of Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right 6035-7712-131
Pros
- Exceptional Weapon Retention: The SLS system provides outstanding security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
- Rapid and Consistent Draw: Once mastered, the SLS allows for a smooth and efficient draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: The SafariLaminate material is incredibly robust and designed to withstand harsh conditions.
- Adjustable Fit: The adjustable leg straps and tension screws allow for a customized and comfortable fit.
- Light/Laser Compatibility: Accommodates pistols with Insight Technology M6X and M3X, as well as, Streamlight TLR1, lights/lasers.
Cons
- Potential for Wear on Firearm Frame: Some users have reported minor wear on the firearm frame.
- Price: The holster is relatively expensive compared to other options on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right 6035-7712-131?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a highly secure and reliable way to carry their sidearm. It is also well-suited for tactical training and competitive shooting scenarios where rapid and consistent draws are essential. Anyone needing a secure level of retention for open carry on a range or in the backcountry would benefit from this holster.
This product might not be ideal for casual shooters or those who primarily carry concealed, due to its size and tactical design. It is also probably overkill for individuals who do not require a high level of weapon retention. A drop of oil for lubrication of the moving parts might be a good idea for initial setup.
Conclusion on Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right 6035-7712-131
In summary, the Safariland SLS Military Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right 6035-7712-131 is a top-tier tactical holster that offers exceptional weapon retention, a rapid draw, and outstanding durability. While it may come with a higher price tag, the performance and reliability justify the investment for professionals and serious shooters.
The price is justified given the build quality, retention features, and overall reliability, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone who depends on their sidearm in demanding situations. I would highly recommend this holster to anyone looking for a secure, reliable, and high-performance tactical thigh holster. Upgrade your kit today and experience the Safariland difference!