Let’s Dive into Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132
The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132 is a duty-grade holster designed for tactical environments, built by the reputable Safariland. This left-handed holster features their Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention and is designed for 1911s with rails and weapon lights, making it a popular choice for law enforcement and military personnel.
My career has involved countless hours on the range and in the field, requiring a holster that I can trust my life with. I needed a holster that would reliably secure my 1911 with a weapon light and allow for a quick, intuitive draw under stress.
Unboxing the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132, I immediately noted its robust construction and the quality of the STX Tactical Black finish. It felt solid and well-made, a stark contrast to some cheaper polymer holsters I’ve handled.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the Blade-Tech WRS Level II Duty Holster. Ultimately, I chose the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132 because of Safariland’s reputation for quality, the ALS system’s proven track record, and the compatibility with my specific 1911 and light combination. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited to test its real-world performance and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was the shooting range, where I put the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132 through a series of drills. These drills focused on drawing, firing, and re-holstering under simulated stress.
The holster performed admirably in various conditions, including in light rain where grip was maintained. The ALS system proved intuitive and reliable, providing a secure hold on the weapon while allowing for a smooth and consistent draw.
Initially, I needed to spend a bit of time familiarizing myself with the ALS release mechanism to ensure a natural draw stroke. There were no malfunctions or unexpected issues after the first use, only a growing confidence in the holster’s capabilities.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132 has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. Despite frequent use and exposure to the elements, the STX Tactical Black finish has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.
The holster requires minimal maintenance; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132 offers a superior combination of security, accessibility, and durability, outperforming my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132
Specifications
The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132 is a left-handed, open-top holster featuring the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS). It’s finished in durable STX Tactical Black and designed to fit specific 1911 models with rails and attached weapon lights like the Surefire X200 or X300.
The holster includes the SLS hood assembly and Hood Guard, enhancing weapon security and preventing accidental release. Its SAFARILAMINATE construction offers superior protection for both the handgun and its sights. The double leg strap and leg shroud provide a stable and comfortable platform for carrying a full-sized 1911.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132 excels at securely retaining the weapon while providing rapid access when needed. The ALS system locks the weapon in place upon holstering, requiring only a thumb release for a smooth, straight-up draw.
The holster’s primary strength lies in its balance of retention and speed; however, its specific fit for certain weapon and light combinations could be a limitation for some users. It definitely meets the expectations for a tactical holster demanding secure retention.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132 is built with high-quality materials, giving it a robust feel without being overly bulky. Its weight is noticeable but manageable, and the adjustable leg straps contribute to a comfortable fit.
The design is functional and intuitive, although the ALS release does require some practice to master, making it user-friendly once familiarized with the system. The learning curve is relatively short, and the benefits of the secure retention system outweigh the initial adjustment period.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its SAFARILAMINATE construction and robust design, the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132 is built to withstand the rigors of tactical use. Proper care involves regular cleaning to remove dirt and debris, ensuring smooth operation of the ALS mechanism.
The holster is relatively easy to maintain, requiring only basic cleaning tools and techniques; therefore, with proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132 is compatible with various Safariland accessories, including the optional Sentry for added security. Its leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching additional accessories like magazine pouches or medical kits.
While the holster is primarily designed for specific 1911s and weapon lights, it’s compatible with Safariland’s range of mounting platforms, allowing for versatile carry options. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of existing tactical setups.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132
Pros
- The Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides excellent weapon retention while allowing for a fast and smooth draw.
- The robust construction and durable STX Tactical Black finish ensure long-lasting performance in demanding environments.
- The leg shroud and double leg straps offer a stable and comfortable carry platform.
- The compatibility with Safariland accessories allows for customization and integration with existing gear.
- The secure fit for specific 1911 models with weapon lights ensures reliable performance.
Cons
- The fit is limited to specific 1911 models with rails and certain weapon lights.
- The ALS release requires practice to master for a consistent draw.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132?
The Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a secure and reliable holster for their 1911 with a weapon light. It’s ideal for those working in tactical environments where weapon retention is paramount, and a quick, intuitive draw is essential.
Individuals who prefer a more universal holster that accommodates various handgun models or those who don’t use a weapon light should skip this product. A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Sentry system for even greater weapon security.
Conclusion on Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132
In summary, the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132 is a high-quality, duty-grade holster that delivers on its promise of secure weapon retention and rapid access. Given its robust construction, reliable performance, and compatibility with Safariland accessories, the price is justified for professionals who rely on their equipment in critical situations.
I would personally recommend the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132 to anyone seeking a top-tier tactical holster for their 1911 with a weapon light. If you need a holster that won’t fail when your life depends on it, this is the one to choose; invest in your safety and get the Safariland 6304 ALS Tactical Holster – STX Tactical Black, Left Hand 6304-560-132 today.