Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6304-320-542 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6304-320-542

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6304-320-542 represents a culmination of decades of experience in crafting duty-grade holsters for law enforcement and military personnel. This holster isn’t just a container for a firearm; it’s a critical piece of equipment designed for secure retention, rapid deployment, and reliable performance in the most demanding situations. The Automatic Locking System (ALS), combined with the Self Locking System (SLS) hood assembly, offers a two-tiered security system that balances weapon security with ease of access.

After years of using level II retention holsters that felt bulky and slow, I sought a system that offered enhanced security without sacrificing speed. I needed a holster that would hold my firearm securely during rigorous training and potential real-world engagements. My decision ultimately came down to its reputation for durability, the proven track record of Safariland holsters, and the promise of a smooth, intuitive draw.

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster arrived in typical Safariland fashion: professional packaging, clear instructions, and a tangible sense of quality. The STX Foliage Green finish was consistent and visually appealing, offering a subtle but effective camouflage. The materials felt robust, the stitching was clean, and the overall build quality instilled confidence.

I was initially considering the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Galco Miami Classic II. The Serpa, while offering a similar level of retention, had a release mechanism I wasn’t entirely comfortable with, especially under stress. The Galco, a shoulder holster, didn’t provide the same level of retention and wasn’t suitable for tactical applications.

My first impression was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of anticipation. I was eager to test its performance and see if it lived up to the hype. The design seemed well-thought-out, and the retention system felt intuitive.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6304-320-542 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test of the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster was at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. I incorporated it into my standard tactical loadout, consisting of a plate carrier, battle belt, and other essential gear. The range conditions were relatively dry, with ambient temperatures around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

The ALS system proved exceptionally smooth and intuitive. After a few practice draws, the motion became second nature, allowing for fast and efficient weapon presentation. The holster securely retained my firearm throughout various drills, including running, prone shooting, and simulated grappling.

The only initial issue was a slight stiffness in the SLS hood rotation, which required some deliberate force to disengage. This issue dissipated after a few days of regular use. Overall, the first use experience was overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing my decision to choose the Safariland 6304.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use in a variety of training scenarios and outdoor environments, the Safariland 6304 has proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. I’ve used it in temperatures ranging from below freezing during winter training exercises to scorching heat during summer competitions. The STX finish has shown minimal signs of wear and tear.

Despite exposure to mud, rain, and dust, the holster continues to function flawlessly. The ALS and SLS systems remain secure and smooth, providing consistent weapon retention and rapid deployment. Cleaning and maintenance are simple, requiring only occasional wiping with a damp cloth and lubrication of the moving parts.

Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6304 significantly outperforms them in terms of security, speed, and durability. It’s a noticeable upgrade from standard Level II retention holsters. The confidence and peace of mind it provides is invaluable.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6304-320-542

Specifications

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6304-320-542 is specifically designed for left-handed users and fits the Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5493 DAO without rails. It’s crafted from thermal-molded SAFARILAMINATE construction, offering exceptional durability and protection for both the handgun and its sights. The holster features Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon upon holstering.

This model also includes the Self Locking System (SLS) hood assembly and a hood guard for enhanced security. The leg shroud assembly, similar to the popular 6004 series, provides a stable and comfortable platform for carrying the firearm. The holster features a standard double leg strap and adjustable vertical leg strap for a secure and customizable fit.

The STX Foliage Green finish offers a low-profile and effective camouflage option in various environments. The holster is also available with an optional Sentry, which provides an additional layer of security. The specification for the Safariland 6304 and the features listed contribute directly to its real-world performance by ensuring a secure fit, reliable retention, and rapid accessibility of the firearm.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster excels in its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS system works intuitively, releasing the weapon with a simple thumb activation as part of the draw stroke. This allows for a natural and fluid motion.

The SLS hood adds an additional layer of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm. The combination of these two systems ensures that the weapon remains secure under duress. While the holster meets expectations for security and speed, it could be improved with a slightly smoother SLS hood rotation out of the box.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6304 is designed with the user in mind, offering a comfortable and ergonomic fit. The leg shroud distributes the weight of the firearm evenly, preventing discomfort during extended periods of wear. The SAFARILAMINATE construction provides a robust and durable platform without adding excessive bulk.

The holster’s design is user-friendly, with the ALS release easily accessible and intuitive to operate. However, it requires a dedicated understanding of the Safariland method of draw to function effectively.

Durability & Maintenance

Built with the rigorous demands of law enforcement and military applications, the Safariland 6304 is exceptionally durable. The SAFARILAMINATE material is resistant to abrasions, impacts, and extreme weather conditions. With proper care and maintenance, this holster is designed to last for years of dependable service.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the moving parts. The robust construction and simple design minimize the need for repairs.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the Safariland 6304 comes standard with the ALS and SLS systems, hood guard, and leg shroud, Safariland offers a range of accessories to enhance its functionality. The optional Sentry provides an additional level of security. The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching other accessories, such as magazine pouches or medical kits.

The Safariland 6304 is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, allowing users to customize their setup to meet their specific needs. Many third-party accessories designed for the Safariland mounting pattern are also compatible, further expanding customization options.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6304-320-542