First Impressions of Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork
The Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork arrives with a reputation for being a top-tier choice for law enforcement and tactical operators. Safariland is a brand synonymous with quality and dependability, and this holster is no exception. Designed specifically to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights, it promises secure retention, rapid deployment, and comfortable carry, making it a serious contender for anyone needing a duty-grade drop leg holster.
For years, I struggled to find a holster that could comfortably and securely carry my Glock 17 with a mounted Trijicon RMR. Many holsters felt bulky, insecure, or were simply incompatible with the red dot sight. The promise of the 6354RDS being purpose-built for RDS-equipped pistols immediately piqued my interest.
Unboxing the Safariland 6354RDS, the immediate impression is one of robustness. The SafariLaminate construction feels incredibly durable, while the double leg straps appear well-made and ready for heavy use. The holster’s design is functional, prioritizing weapon security and accessibility.
Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa drop leg or a generic nylon holster, the Safariland’s build quality is palpably superior. I ultimately chose the 6354RDS for its proven track record, ALS retention system, and specifically, its compatibility with my red dot sight. My initial excitement was tempered by a slight concern about the bulkiness of drop leg holsters in general, but I was eager to see if the Safariland’s design minimized this.
My first impression was definitely excitement. The Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork looks and feels like it’s built for serious work, a testament to the brand’s reputation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6354RDS at a local shooting range during a dynamic shooting course. The course involved moving between shooting positions, drawing and firing under time pressure, and performing reloads. I wanted to simulate the kind of stress a law enforcement officer or military operator might experience.
The holster performed admirably in varying conditions – from bright sunlight to overcast skies, the draw stroke remained consistent and reliable. Getting used to the ALS system took a few repetitions, but it quickly became intuitive. The intuitive nature is a massive plus in high-stress scenarios.
There was a slight learning curve with the ALS release, as it requires a deliberate thumb movement. However, once mastered, the draw was incredibly fast and smooth.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6354RDS has proven to be exceptionally durable. The SafariLaminate shows minimal wear and tear, even after repeated exposure to dirt, sweat, and abrasion. Periodic cleaning with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it in good working order.
I haven’t observed any significant signs of wear, and the ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly. Compared to cheaper nylon holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland is in a different league in terms of durability and reliability. It significantly outperforms anything else I’ve tried in the drop leg category.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork
Specifications
The Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork is constructed from SafariLaminate, a proprietary thermal-molded nylon blend renowned for its ruggedness and resistance to abrasion. It utilizes the Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention and is designed to accommodate firearms equipped with red dot sights. The holster also features a QLS 19 Fork for quick attachment and detachment from various mounting platforms.
The choice of SafariLaminate ensures the holster can withstand harsh environmental conditions and heavy use. The ALS system provides a high level of security while still allowing for a rapid draw. The QLS 19 Fork enhances modularity, enabling the user to quickly transition the holster between a drop leg platform and other compatible mounting systems.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6354RDS excels in providing secure weapon retention, rapid deployment, and comfortable carry. The ALS system locks the weapon in place once holstered, preventing accidental dislodgement. The open-top design, combined with the easily deactivated ALS, allows for a very fast and instinctive draw.
Its strength lies in its secure retention and rapid draw capability, making it ideal for tactical applications. The main weakness is the bulk associated with any drop leg holster, which can sometimes hinder movement in confined spaces. The Safariland 6354RDS meets and exceeds expectations in terms of security and accessibility.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6354RDS is built with durability and functionality in mind. The SafariLaminate construction feels robust and provides excellent protection for the handgun. The double leg straps distribute the weight effectively, and the leg shroud adds stability.
There’s a slight learning curve due to the ALS mechanism, but it quickly becomes second nature. Overall, the design prioritizes functionality and durability over pure comfort.
Durability & Maintenance
The SafariLaminate construction ensures the Safariland 6354RDS is built to last. With proper care, it should withstand years of heavy use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris.
The SafariLaminate construction resists wear and tear, while the ALS mechanism is designed for reliable operation. It is expected to last for years under normal conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6354RDS comes standard with the QLS 19 Locking Fork, enabling quick attachment to compatible mounting platforms. Safariland also offers an optional Optic Hood Cover for added protection of the red dot sight. The holster is designed to accommodate a wide range of red dot sights and is compatible with various Safariland accessories, such as different leg straps and mounting hardware.
The QLS 19 Fork allows for easy transfer of the holster between different platforms. The optional Optic Hood Cover provides extra protection for the mounted optic. The holster’s compatibility with a wide range of accessories allows users to customize it to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork
Pros
- Superior Weapon Retention: The ALS (Automatic Locking System) provides exceptional security, preventing accidental or unauthorized removal of the firearm.
- RDS Compatibility: Specifically designed to accommodate pistols equipped with red dot sights, ensuring a proper fit and unobstructed draw.
- Durable Construction: Built from SafariLaminate, a rugged material that withstands harsh conditions and heavy use.
- Rapid Draw: The open-top design and easily deactivated ALS allow for a fast and intuitive draw stroke.
- QLS System: The included QLS 19 Fork enables quick and easy transfer of the holster between different mounting platforms.
Cons
- Bulkiness: Drop leg holsters, in general, can be bulky and may hinder movement in confined spaces.
- Learning Curve: The ALS system requires some practice to master, although it quickly becomes intuitive.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork?
The Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical shooters who require a secure, reliable, and rapidly accessible holster for their RDS-equipped pistols. It’s also ideal for individuals who prefer the drop leg carry position for comfort or accessibility reasons. Those prioritizing concealability or operating in very confined spaces might find the bulkiness of the drop leg design less suitable.
A must-have accessory would be the Safariland Optic Hood Cover for added protection of the red dot sight. Consider also investing in additional QLS receivers for other mounting platforms.
Conclusion on Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork
The Safariland 6354RDS ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster w/ QLS19 Fork stands out as a top-tier choice for those seeking a secure, reliable, and rapidly accessible holster for their RDS-equipped pistols. The price is justified by its exceptional build quality, innovative features, and proven performance.
I wholeheartedly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a duty-grade drop leg solution. If you demand the best in terms of security, accessibility, and durability, the Safariland 6354RDS is an investment that will pay off in spades. Step up your tactical game and experience the Safariland difference today!