Let’s Dive into Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models
The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models isn’t just a piece of kit; it’s a statement of readiness, a testament to Safariland’s commitment to quality, and a serious piece of gear for professionals who rely on rapid weapon access. This particular model, designed for a Glock 17 MOS with a light and finished in Kryptek Highlander, marries form and function in a way that few holsters can. It leverages Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure retention and a streamlined open-top design for unparalleled draw speed, making it a formidable choice for tactical applications.
My own quest for the perfect drop leg holster was driven by a need for a reliable, secure, and easily accessible carry solution while conducting range training and participating in force-on-force scenarios. Standard belt holsters, while convenient for everyday carry, often felt restrictive and slow when wearing body armor or other tactical gear. I needed something that could accommodate a weapon-mounted light and red dot sight, providing a consistent and lightning-fast draw under pressure.
The unboxing experience was classic Safariland: no-nonsense packaging, but the holster itself felt substantial and well-made. The SafariLaminate material felt rugged and durable, and the suede lining hinted at a thoughtful design intended to protect the firearm’s finish. Its weight was noticeable, but that was expected with a drop leg platform designed for a full-sized handgun with accessories.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Holster and the Blade-Tech WRS Level II Duty Holster, both strong contenders in the tactical holster market. Ultimately, the Safariland won out due to its proven track record, the intuitive nature of the ALS system, and the compatibility with red dot sights and weapon lights straight out of the box. My first impression was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of anticipation: this holster looked like it meant business.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial testing ground for the Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models was a two-day intensive shooting course focused on dynamic movement and close-quarters combat. The course involved a variety of scenarios, including drawing and firing from awkward positions, shooting on the move, and engaging targets in low-light conditions. The holster was tested in both dry and humid conditions, with temperatures ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
The holster performed admirably, with the ALS system providing secure retention during dynamic movements and the open-top design allowing for incredibly fast draws. The drop leg platform kept the pistol clear of body armor and allowed for a consistent grip purchase, even while wearing gloves. There was a slight learning curve to deactivating the ALS system smoothly and consistently, but after a few hours of practice, it became second nature.
The only initial issue was a slight rubbing of the holster against my thigh during prolonged movement, which was easily addressed with a minor adjustment to the leg straps.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of regular use, including weekly range sessions, force-on-force training, and a multi-day wilderness survival exercise, the Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models has proven to be incredibly reliable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, with only minor scuff marks on the SafariLaminate finish. The suede lining remains in excellent condition, showing no signs of fraying or damage.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth after each use is generally sufficient to keep it clean. Occasionally, I’ll use a silicone-based lubricant on the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. Compared to other holsters I’ve used in the past, this one stands out for its robust construction and consistent performance.
The Safariland holster far outperforms the cheaper nylon drop leg holsters I used in my early days; there is no comparison regarding retention, speed, and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models
Specifications
The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models is specifically designed for the Glock 17 MOS with a weapon light attached. The construction utilizes Safariland’s SafariLaminate thermal-molded material, which provides excellent durability and protection for the handgun. It incorporates the ALS (Automatic Locking System), which secures the weapon once holstered and allows for a straight-up draw upon deactivation.
The holster features an open-top design, eliminating the need for a separate SLS (Self Locking System) hood and maximizing draw speed. It comes equipped with a QLS 19 Locking Fork, enabling quick attachment and detachment from other Safariland QLS-compatible platforms. The internal lining is made of suede, which protects the handgun’s finish from scratches and abrasions.
This model is finished in Kryptek Highlander camouflage, providing effective concealment in various environments. This is critical for blending into varied terrains during tactical operations.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models excels at its primary job: providing secure retention and rapid access to a handgun. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke. The drop leg platform positions the handgun in an optimal location for quick access, particularly when wearing body armor or other gear.
The open-top design further enhances draw speed, making it a significant advantage in dynamic situations. The holster is well-suited for tactical applications, law enforcement, and military use. A potential weakness is the reliance on the ALS system: if the release mechanism were to fail, drawing the weapon could be compromised.
This Safariland holster exceeds expectations in terms of retention and draw speed, making it a top-tier choice for professional use.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and ergonomics. The SafariLaminate construction provides excellent rigidity and protection without adding excessive weight. The suede lining ensures that the handgun’s finish remains pristine, even with repeated draws and re-holstering.
The drop leg platform is adjustable, allowing users to customize the ride height and angle for optimal comfort and accessibility. While the holster is generally user-friendly, mastering the ALS system requires some practice. The holster’s adjustability allows for customized comfort.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models is built to withstand the rigors of demanding use. The SafariLaminate material is highly resistant to abrasions, impacts, and extreme weather conditions. The suede lining is durable and easy to clean.
With proper care and maintenance, this holster should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication of the ALS mechanism. The high-quality materials ensure long-term durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models comes standard with the QLS 19 Locking Fork, which allows for quick attachment and detachment from other QLS-compatible platforms. While the holster itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the QLS system allows users to easily swap between different carry configurations.
The holster is specifically designed for the Glock 17 MOS with a weapon light, which limits compatibility with other handgun models. However, it is compatible with a wide range of popular weapon lights, such as those from Streamlight and SureFire. The QLS system enhances versatility and compatibility.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides secure weapon retention, preventing accidental dislodgement during dynamic activities.
- Lightning-Fast Draw Speed: The open-top design and intuitive ALS release mechanism allow for incredibly fast draws.
- Durable Construction: The SafariLaminate material is highly resistant to abrasions, impacts, and extreme weather conditions, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Comfortable and Adjustable: The drop leg platform is adjustable, allowing users to customize the ride height and angle for optimal comfort and accessibility.
- QLS Compatibility: The QLS 19 Locking Fork enables quick attachment and detachment from other QLS-compatible platforms, providing enhanced versatility.
Cons
- ALS Mechanism Dependence: Reliance on the ALS system could be a vulnerability if the release mechanism were to fail.
- Limited Handgun Compatibility: Designed specifically for the Glock 17 MOS with a weapon light, limiting compatibility with other handgun models.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models?
The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical shooters who require a secure, reliable, and easily accessible carry solution. It is also well-suited for individuals participating in dynamic shooting competitions or training exercises. Anyone who needs to carry a Glock 17 MOS with a weapon light and red dot optic in a tactical environment will benefit significantly from this holster.
This product isn’t ideal for concealed carry due to its size and design. Those seeking a low-profile or easily concealable holster should explore other options.
A must-have accessory for this holster is additional Safariland QLS forks and receivers. This allows users to quickly swap the holster between different platforms, such as a thigh rig, belt attachment, or MOLLE vest.
Conclusion on Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models
The Safariland 6354RDSO ALS Tactical Drop Leg Holster – 1 out of 10 models is a top-tier tactical holster that delivers on its promise of secure retention, rapid access, and exceptional durability. While the $191.40 price tag may seem steep, the holster’s performance and longevity justify the investment for professionals who rely on their gear. The level of confidence provided, knowing your firearm is secure yet instantly accessible, is priceless in a critical situation.
I would personally recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and high-performing tactical carry solution for their Glock 17 MOS with a weapon light and red dot sight. It’s a solid piece of kit from a trusted manufacturer, and it will not disappoint. Step up your tactical game today!
