Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562
For over a decade, I’ve relied on my tactical gear to perform flawlessly under pressure. That’s why I was eager to get my hands on the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562. This holster, known for its Safariland quality and the innovative Automatic Locking System (ALS), promised both speed and security for my sidearm – a critical combination in any tactical scenario.
I needed a holster that could keep my Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with safety secure, yet readily accessible, during dynamic training exercises. My old holster, a generic nylon model, was proving unreliable, offering neither the retention nor the rapid draw I needed. The Safariland name carries weight in the industry, and the ALS system seemed like the ideal solution to address my concerns about weapon security and draw speed.
Upon unboxing the holster, I was immediately impressed by the ruggedness of its construction and the sleek OD Green finish. The thermal-molded SafariLaminate felt incredibly durable, promising excellent protection for my handgun. The thigh rig assembly appeared well-designed and robust, far surpassing the flimsy feel of my previous holster.
Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa and a Blade-Tech Total Eclipse I’ve used in the past, the Safariland ALS stood out. The Serpa’s trigger finger release felt less secure and the Blade-Tech lacked the level of retention I was after for tactical applications. I chose the Safariland for its reputation for reliability, its focus on weapon security without sacrificing draw speed, and its proven track record within law enforcement and military communities.
My first impression was one of excitement. I felt confident that this holster would provide the secure and reliable platform I needed. The build quality exuded professionalism, and the ALS mechanism felt solid and dependable.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562 at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The weather was mildly humid, but I wasn’t concerned. I wanted to see how the holster performed under conditions simulating real-world operational environments.
The holster performed admirably, even with sweat building up under my gear. The ALS system provided a consistently secure hold, and the draw was surprisingly intuitive after a few practice repetitions. There was a slight learning curve, as I needed to familiarize myself with the precise angle and pressure required to disengage the ALS.
The only initial issue I encountered was adjusting the leg straps for optimal comfort and stability. Once I found the right fit, the holster stayed securely in place during movement drills.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in training and simulated tactical scenarios, the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562 has proven exceptionally durable. The SafariLaminate construction shows no signs of wear or cracking. Even the suede lining remains in excellent condition, preventing any scratches or damage to my handgun’s finish.
Maintenance is straightforward. I simply wipe down the holster with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally apply a silicone-based lubricant to the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. This is far easier than maintaining leather holsters, which require regular conditioning.
Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland far outperforms them in terms of security, speed, and durability. It’s a significant upgrade that has improved my confidence and performance during training.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562 is a duty-grade holster designed for tactical applications. It features Safariland’s Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention. This holster is specifically molded to fit the Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with Safety, and is designed for left-handed users.
The holster is constructed from thermal-molded SafariLaminate. This material provides excellent protection for the handgun and sights. It features a standard double leg strap and leg shroud, which has mounting holes for optional accessories.
The holster has an adjustable vertical leg strap. The strap is suede lined to protect the handgun’s finish. It has an OD Green finish, suitable for various operational environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562 excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a handgun. The ALS system is highly effective, providing a positive lock that prevents accidental dislodgement. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent, allowing for rapid target acquisition.
The holster’s strength lies in its balance of security and speed. However, the ALS requires training to master for optimal performance. It easily meets my expectations for a tactical holster, exceeding the performance of less sophisticated designs.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562 is designed for comfort and functionality. The SafariLaminate is robust yet relatively lightweight. The thigh rig distributes the weight of the handgun evenly, minimizing fatigue during extended wear.
The holster is user-friendly, though the ALS requires a bit of practice to become second nature. The adjustable leg straps allow for a customized fit.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariLaminate construction of the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562 ensures long-lasting durability. With proper care, this holster should withstand years of use in demanding conditions. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562 is designed to be compatible with a range of accessories. The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching pouches, lights, or other tactical gear. It is also compatible with Safariland’s Quick Locking System (QLS), allowing for easy transfer of the holster between different platforms.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562
Pros
- Exceptional Weapon Retention: The ALS system provides a secure lock, preventing accidental weapon loss in dynamic situations.
- Rapid and Consistent Draw: Once mastered, the ALS allows for a smooth and fast draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: The SafariLaminate material is highly resistant to wear and tear.
- Comfortable Thigh Rig: The adjustable leg straps and padded shroud ensure a comfortable and stable fit.
- Accessory Mounting Options: The leg shroud allows for the attachment of essential tactical gear.
Cons
- ALS system requires practice to master.
- Price point is higher than some other holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562?
The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a secure and reliable holster for their Smith & Wesson M&P 45C with safety. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and weapon retention. Anyone needing a reliable and secure tactical holster will benefit.
This holster might not be ideal for casual shooters or those who prefer simpler, less feature-rich designs. Those who are unwilling to invest the time in mastering the ALS system may find it frustrating.
A must-have accessory is a Safariland QLS adapter, allowing for quick transfer of the holster to other mounting platforms. Regular lubrication of the ALS mechanism is also recommended for optimal performance.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562
The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-920-562 is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. While the price is higher than some alternatives, the quality and performance justify the investment for serious users. The ALS system provides a significant advantage in tactical situations.
I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who demands the best in weapon retention and accessibility. It’s a reliable and well-designed piece of gear that has earned its place in my tactical setup. Upgrade your carry system today and experience the Safariland difference!