Let’s Dive into Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-96-61
The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-96-61 is a purpose-built piece of kit from a manufacturer renowned for duty-grade holsters. Safariland has a long and storied history of serving law enforcement and military professionals, and this holster aims to bring that same level of security and reliability to concealed carry. It boasts the SLS (Self Locking System), a rotating hood design meant to provide a high level of weapon retention in a compact, concealable package.
As a firearms instructor and someone who often carries concealed, I’ve always been on the lookout for holsters that balance security, accessibility, and comfort. The constant search for the “perfect” holster is a familiar story to many, and I was hoping the Safariland 6287 would get me closer to that ideal. After years of struggling with overly bulky or insecure holsters, I was eager to try something designed specifically for concealment without sacrificing the retention I value.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6287 felt solid and well-made. The plain black finish gave it a professional, no-nonsense look, and the SLS hood felt positive and secure. It had a reassuring weight without being overly heavy, suggesting durable construction.
Compared to other concealment holsters I’ve used, like a basic Kydex pancake holster or a hybrid leather/Kydex model, the Safariland 6287 immediately stood out due to its active retention system. While Kydex offers passive retention, and hybrids try to balance comfort with some level of grip, the SLS offers a distinct mechanical advantage. I chose this over a similar Safariland ALS (Automatic Locking System) model because I wanted the slightly lower profile offered by the rotating hood of the SLS.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for secure concealed carry, but also a little apprehensive about the learning curve of the SLS system. Would it be fast enough for real-world use?
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-96-61 to the Test
First Use Experience
I initially tested the Safariland 6287 at my local shooting range during a regular practice session. I wanted to get a feel for drawing and re-holstering under controlled conditions before trusting it for everyday carry. The weather was dry and mild, providing ideal conditions for familiarization.
The draw stroke required a deliberate motion to disengage the SLS hood, which took some getting used to. However, after a few repetitions, it became much more natural. The holster maintained excellent retention throughout various drills, even when simulating grappling scenarios. There were no unexpected releases or malfunctions.
The semi-hi-ride position and slight forward cant aided in concealment, as advertised. After an hour of drills, I appreciated the holster’s secure feel. My only initial concern was the speed of the draw under pressure, but I knew that would improve with practice.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6287 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It has seen action in various conditions, including humid summer days and colder autumn weather. The holster’s plain black finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear.
The SLS hood continues to function flawlessly, providing consistent and secure retention. I’ve incorporated the Safariland 6287 into my daily carry routine. I’ve also used it during training courses and have had no issues with durability or performance.
Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only occasional wiping down with a damp cloth. Compared to some of my previous concealment holsters, the Safariland 6287 stands out for its superior retention and durability. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of reliability and performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-96-61
Specifications
The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-96-61 is designed for right-handed users and features a plain black finish. It is specifically molded to fit the Heckler & Koch USP 40 Expert. The holster incorporates the SLS (Self Locking System), a rotating hood design for enhanced weapon retention.
It accommodates belt loops of 1.50″, 1.75″, 2.00″ and 2.25″, coming standard with a 1.50″ & 1.75″ combination belt loop. An adjustable tension device allows for fine-tuning the holster’s draw resistance. The semi-hi-ride position and slight forward cant contribute to enhanced concealment.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s security, comfort, and concealability. The SLS provides a high level of retention. The adjustable tension allows the user to customize the draw to their preference. The belt loop options ensure compatibility with a wide range of belts.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6287 performs its job admirably, providing secure weapon retention and a relatively quick draw once the SLS is mastered. Its accuracy stems from the consistency it provides in drawing and re-holstering the firearm. It provides the user with a very positive and intuitive interaction.
The strength of this holster is undoubtedly its SLS retention system, offering a high degree of security against unauthorized removal. The weakness, if any, lies in the slight learning curve required to master the draw stroke. However, with consistent practice, this quickly becomes second nature.
The Safariland 6287 largely meets my expectations for a concealment holster with active retention. The SLS provides peace of mind, and the holster’s build quality instills confidence.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6287 is constructed from a durable synthetic material, likely Safariland’s proprietary SafariSeven nylon blend. The plain black finish is understated and professional. The holster feels solid and well-made, with a weight that inspires confidence without being overly cumbersome.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although the SLS requires some initial practice. The semi-hi-ride position and slight forward cant make it comfortable to wear for extended periods. There is a slight learning curve to ensure smooth operation.
Durability & Maintenance
Given Safariland’s reputation and the holster’s construction, I expect the Safariland 6287 to last for many years with proper care. The synthetic material is resistant to moisture and abrasion.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. Minor wear and tear can be expected. Overall, the Safariland 6287 is designed for long-term durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6287 is fairly basic in terms of accessories; it comes with the combination belt loop for 1.5″ and 1.75″ belts. However, Safariland offers a range of belt loop options that can be swapped out to accommodate different belt widths and carry positions.
While the holster itself isn’t highly customizable, its compatibility with various belt attachments allows for some degree of personalization. It is compatible with a range of Safariland belt loops. The mounting platform can also be adapted to other carry methods, such as thigh rigs, with the appropriate adapters.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-96-61
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The SLS (Self Locking System) provides a secure and reliable retention mechanism, greatly reducing the risk of unauthorized firearm removal.
- Durable Construction: Made from Safariland’s high-quality synthetic material, the holster is built to withstand daily wear and tear.
- Concealable Design: The semi-hi-ride position and slight forward cant aid in concealment, making it suitable for everyday carry.
- Adjustable Tension: The tension adjustment screw allows users to fine-tune the draw resistance to their preference.
- Professional Appearance: The plain black finish provides a discreet and professional look.
Cons
- Learning Curve: The SLS requires practice to master the draw stroke, which may not be ideal for beginners.
- Limited Customization: The holster itself offers limited customization options beyond belt attachment swaps.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-96-61?
The Safariland 6287 is perfect for:
- Law enforcement officers seeking an off-duty or plainclothes concealment holster with duty-grade retention.
- Experienced concealed carriers who prioritize weapon security and are willing to practice the SLS draw stroke.
- Private security professionals who need a reliable and discreet carry option.
Who should skip this product?
- Beginner shooters who are unfamiliar with active retention systems.
- Those who prioritize speed over security and prefer simpler, passive retention holsters.
- Users who require a highly customizable holster with extensive accessory options.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A high-quality belt designed for concealed carry is essential for optimal comfort and stability.
- Consider purchasing a Safariland belt loop that best suits your preferred carry position and belt width.
Conclusion on Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-96-61
The Safariland 6287 Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Plain Black, Right Hand 6287-96-61 is a well-built and reliable holster that offers a high level of weapon retention in a concealable package. Its SLS system provides peace of mind for those who prioritize security. However, the learning curve may not be ideal for all users.
The price of $153.80 is justified given the holster’s build quality, durability, and the added security of the SLS. It’s a worthwhile investment for experienced concealed carriers who value retention above all else.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 6287 to anyone seeking a secure and reliable concealment holster, especially those with prior experience with active retention systems. Take the time to practice the draw stroke, and you’ll be rewarded with a holster that provides both security and peace of mind. If you’re serious about concealed carry and prioritize weapon retention, the Safariland 6287 is definitely worth considering.