Let’s Dive into Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6305-73-542
The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6305-73-542 is a purpose-built piece of kit designed for professionals and serious enthusiasts who demand secure weapon retention and rapid deployment. Built by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military equipment, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a rugged, comfortable leg harness. Its foliage green STX finish offers a tactical advantage in various environments.
My need for this holster stemmed from a desire for a more secure and accessible carry method while participating in tactical training scenarios. I required a left-handed holster solution that could accommodate my Beretta M9 and provide reliable retention during dynamic movements. The Safariland 6305 appeared to be the ideal solution, promising both security and speed.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6305 made a strong first impression. The STX Foliage Green finish felt robust, and the overall construction seemed exceptionally well-made. The leg harness felt substantial, and the quick-release buckles looked durable.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the Galco Miami Classic II shoulder holster before ultimately choosing the Safariland 6305. The Serpa, while popular, lacked the ALS system’s intuitive draw and the Galco’s concealment was a concern for my needs. The Safariland offered the best balance of retention, accessibility, and tactical suitability.
My initial feeling was a mix of excitement and anticipation. I was eager to test the holster’s retention capabilities and its overall comfort during extended use. I was particularly interested in how the ALS system would perform under pressure.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6305-73-542 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Safariland 6305 was at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training session. I was simulating active shooter scenarios, which involved a lot of running, kneeling, and transitioning between cover. The weather was dry and sunny.
The Safariland 6305 performed exceptionally well in these conditions. The ALS system provided reliable retention, even when I was moving aggressively. The holster allowed for a smooth, consistent draw.
There was a slight learning curve associated with the ALS release, but after a few repetitions, it became second nature. Initially, I experienced some minor discomfort from the leg harness, but after adjusting the straps, it fit comfortably. I was pleasantly surprised by the overall stability of the holster, even during rapid movements.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland 6305 continues to impress. The holster has proven to be exceptionally durable, showing minimal signs of wear and tear despite frequent use. The STX finish has held up remarkably well against scuffs and scratches.
Cleaning the holster is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s required to remove dirt and debris. The leg harness is equally easy to maintain.
Compared to other tactical holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6305 is superior in terms of both retention and comfort. Its ALS system provides a level of security that I haven’t experienced with other holsters. The adjustability of the leg harness also ensures a comfortable fit.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6305-73-542
Specifications
The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6305-73-542 is specifically designed for left-handed users and fits Beretta 92/96Vertec M9A1, M9; 96G SD, 92G SD; 96G; 96F, 96FS; 96DS; 96D; 96; 92G; 92FS; 92F; 92DS; 92D pistols. Its finish is STX Foliage Green. The holster features the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon once holstered.
The weight of the holster and leg harness is approximately 2 pounds. The construction is thermal-molded SAFARILAMINATE™, which protects the handgun and sights. It includes an SLS (Self Locking System) hood assembly and Hood Guard.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The ALS and SLS ensure that the weapon remains securely in place until intentionally drawn, preventing accidental dislodging. The SAFARILAMINATE™ construction provides exceptional durability, protecting the handgun from impacts and the elements. The left-handed configuration is obviously essential for left-handed shooters.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6305 excels at its primary function: securely retaining and quickly deploying a handgun. The ALS system works intuitively; as the handgun is holstered, it automatically locks into place. The release mechanism is easy to access and operate with the thumb.
The holster’s strengths lie in its robust retention, comfortable carry, and rapid draw. One area for potential improvement would be a slightly more aggressive texture on the ALS release lever. It meets my expectations for a high-quality tactical holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6305 features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The holster is constructed from high-quality materials and feels incredibly durable. The leg harness is adjustable, allowing for a customized fit.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release. The placement of the release lever is intuitive and allows for a smooth, natural draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6305 is built to last. The SAFARILAMINATE™ construction is incredibly resistant to wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The holster can also be lubricated with silicone-based products to ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6305 is compatible with a variety of accessories, including Safariland’s optional Sentry device, which provides an additional layer of security. The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching other tactical accessories, such as magazine pouches or medical kits. While Safariland accessories are generally preferred, the mounting points are often compatible with other MOLLE-compatible pouches and platforms. The user can also customize the ride height of the holster.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6305-73-542
Pros
- Unparalleled Weapon Retention: The ALS system provides exceptional security, preventing unauthorized access or accidental dislodging of the weapon.
- Rapid and Intuitive Draw: The ALS release mechanism is easy to access and operate, allowing for a smooth and natural draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: The SAFARILAMINATE™ construction ensures that the holster can withstand the rigors of tactical use.
- Comfortable Carry: The adjustable leg harness provides a customized fit and distributes the weight of the weapon evenly.
- Tactical Versatility: The foliage green color and accessory mounting points make this holster suitable for a wide range of tactical applications.
Cons
- Learning Curve: Mastering the ALS release mechanism requires some practice.
- Price: The Safariland 6305 is more expensive than some other tactical holsters on the market.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6305-73-542?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a secure and accessible way to carry their Beretta M9. It’s especially suitable for those who operate in dynamic environments and need a holster that can withstand rigorous use. This is a must have for left-handed shooters who demand reliability and speed.
This holster may not be the best choice for individuals who are new to firearms or who prefer concealed carry options. The size and design of the leg harness make it unsuitable for discreet carry. People who aren’t willing to dedicate some training time to the ALS system should also look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Sentry locking device for additional security. Also, consider adding compatible magazine pouches to the leg shroud.
Conclusion on Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6305-73-542
The Safariland 6305 ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – STX Foliage Green, Left Hand 6305-73-542 is a top-tier tactical holster that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. Its robust retention, comfortable carry, and rapid draw make it an excellent choice for professionals and serious enthusiasts. While the price may be a bit high for some, the quality and features of this holster justify the investment.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6305 to anyone who needs a dependable and secure tactical holster for their Beretta M9. If you’re a left-handed shooter in need of a quality holster, look no further. Invest in the Safariland 6305, and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your weapon is securely and readily accessible when you need it most.