Let’s Dive into Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-39-62
The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-39-62 is a specialized piece of kit designed for the serious professional or legally armed citizen who demands both security and discreet carry. Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and tactical gear, built this holster with their proven Self Locking System (SLS), offering Level II Retention in a relatively compact package. It’s tailored for left-handed shooters carrying specific Smith & Wesson Sigma series pistols, marrying retention, speed, and concealment.
I’ve spent years evaluating holsters, searching for that perfect balance of security, accessibility, and comfort. I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily carry, keep my firearm secure in dynamic situations, and still allow for a smooth, rapid draw when needed. After a close call during a search warrant execution where a suspect attempted to disarm me, the need for enhanced retention became paramount.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6287 exudes quality. The plain black finish is professional and low-profile, while the sturdy construction and molded form inspire confidence. The holster feels substantial without being overly bulky, suggesting a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both durability and concealment.
Compared to a Galco leather holster and a Blackhawk SERPA, the Safariland 6287 stood out for its superior retention system and closer-to-the-body profile. The Galco offered good concealment but lacked active retention, while the SERPA, while fast, didn’t feel as secure or conceal as well. The Safariland offered the best of both worlds, combining a secure locking mechanism with a design conducive to concealed carry.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to see how the SLS system would perform under stress and whether the holster would live up to Safariland’s reputation for reliability and durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-39-62 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6287 at the range, running drills that simulated real-world scenarios – drawing from concealment, moving while drawing, and engaging targets at varying distances. The weather was typically unpredictable for my area; sunshine gave way to light rain later in the day. The holster performed admirably in both conditions, retaining the firearm securely even when wet.
The SLS hood required a bit of practice to master, but once I developed the muscle memory, the draw stroke became smooth and intuitive. There were no issues with the holster interfering with my grip or snagging during the draw. The holster’s slight forward cant aided in concealment and allowed for a natural presentation of the firearm.
The only initial issue was a slight stiffness in the SLS hood rotation, which improved with repeated use and a bit of silicone lubricant.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of daily carry and regular range sessions, the Safariland 6287 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after exposure to sweat, dirt, and the occasional bump against hard surfaces. The finish has held up well, showing minimal scratching or fading.
Maintenance is simple – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the SLS mechanism is all that’s required. The holster’s robust construction and high-quality materials inspire confidence that it will withstand years of hard use.
Compared to previous concealment holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6287 offers a superior level of security and peace of mind. While other holsters may be slightly more comfortable for all-day carry, none offer the same level of retention and confidence in a potentially dangerous situation. It definitely outperforms the cheap nylon holster I first started with.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-39-62
Specifications
The Safariland 6287 is a concealment version of the SLS (Self Locking System) holster, providing Level II Retention. This means the firearm is secured by both the holster body and the rotating SLS hood.
It features a unique rotating hood design and a semi-hi-ride position with a slight forward cant. The rotating hood design is crucial for the SLS as it allows for a smooth, yet secure draw.
The holster is designed to ride close to the body, aiding in concealment and weapon retention. This close-to-the-body design also ensures a more comfortable carry, minimizing printing.
It accommodates 1.50″, 1.75″, 2.00″, and 2.25″ belt loops and comes standard with the 1.50″ & 1.75″ Combination Belt Loop. The ability to fit various belt sizes makes it versatile for different carry setups.
An adjustable tension device allows users to customize the draw stroke to their preference. The adjustable tension device ensures a snug fit and helps prevent accidental dislodging of the firearm.
The holster is available in a plain black finish. The black finish is both professional and discreet, making it suitable for concealed carry.
Specifically, this model (6287-39-62) is designed for left-handed shooters and fits Smith & Wesson Sigma 40C and Sigma 9C pistols. Ensuring a proper fit is paramount for both safety and performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6287 excels at its primary function: securely and discreetly carrying a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The SLS system provides excellent retention, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm while still allowing for a smooth and intuitive draw stroke once the hood is disengaged.
Its strength lies in its secure retention and reasonable concealability, but its weakness might be the slight learning curve associated with mastering the SLS. It absolutely meets the expectations of a Safariland product.
Design & Ergonomics
The holster is constructed from durable Safariland SafariSeven material, which is both rugged and lightweight. The holster’s molded design conforms to the shape of the firearm, providing a snug and secure fit.
While the SLS hood takes some getting used to, the overall design is user-friendly and well-suited for concealed carry.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6287 is built to last, thanks to its robust construction and high-quality materials. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the SLS mechanism will ensure smooth and reliable operation for years to come.
It is designed for easy maintenance with readily available Safariland cleaning products.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6287 comes with a standard belt loop attachment, but other attachment options are available, such as paddle attachments and MOLLE-compatible platforms. While the holster itself is not extensively customizable, the wide range of Safariland accessories allows users to tailor the carry system to their specific needs.
The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland belt mounts, drop-leg platforms, and other accessories, providing extensive customization options.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-39-62
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The SLS system provides Level II Retention, ensuring the firearm remains secure even in dynamic situations.
- Concealability: The holster’s close-to-the-body design and slight forward cant aid in discreet carry.
- Durability: Constructed from high-quality Safariland SafariSeven material, the holster is built to withstand years of hard use.
- Compatibility: Accommodates various belt sizes and is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories.
- Professional Appearance: The plain black finish is discreet and suitable for both law enforcement and civilian use.
Cons
- SLS Learning Curve: The SLS system requires practice to master, which may be a drawback for some users.
- Limited Customization: The holster itself is not extensively customizable beyond attachment options.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-39-62?
The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-39-62 is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and legally armed citizens who prioritize security and discreet carry. It’s also ideal for anyone who carries a Smith & Wesson Sigma 40C or Sigma 9C and wants a reliable and durable holster.
Those who prioritize extreme comfort over security or who prefer a simpler, less secure holster design may want to skip this product.
A good quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to ensure proper holster support and weight distribution. Also, regular practice with the SLS system is essential to develop muscle memory and ensure a smooth and efficient draw stroke.
Conclusion on Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-39-62
The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Left Hand 6287-39-62 is a well-designed and expertly crafted holster that delivers on its promise of security, concealability, and durability. While the SLS system may require some practice to master, the peace of mind it provides is well worth the effort.
At $146.80, the price is justified by the holster’s high-quality materials, robust construction, and proven performance. This is more than just a holster; it’s a crucial piece of safety equipment.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6287 to anyone looking for a reliable and secure concealment holster for their Smith & Wesson Sigma pistol. Invest in your safety and peace of mind – order your Safariland 6287 today!