What Makes Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 2 models Stand Out?
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 2 models is designed for professionals who demand both security and rapid access to their firearm. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and military gear, this holster features the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and a quick-release leg harness. These features combine to offer a secure, comfortable, and highly functional carry solution for duty or tactical applications.
I needed a level of retention that wouldn’t fail, even under duress, but also one that allowed for a smooth, intuitive draw. My previous holster, a simple friction fit model, felt inadequate after a training exercise where I nearly lost my sidearm during a dynamic movement drill. The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick seemed like the perfect answer.
Upon unboxing, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick makes an immediate impression. The SafariLaminate construction feels incredibly robust, while the suede lining gives a sense of quality and care. The leg shroud and straps are substantial but surprisingly comfortable, suggesting a well-thought-out design.
Compared to the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Blade-Tech WRS Level 2, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick stood out due to its intuitive ALS release and the adjustability of the leg harness. The Blackhawk! system felt clunky, while the Blade-Tech lacked the same level of security and adjustability. I chose the Safariland for its balance of speed, security, and comfort.
I was excited but cautiously optimistic. I’ve used other Safariland products before and have been generally impressed. This 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick looked the part, but I needed to see if it would perform under real-world stress.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 2 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training scenario. The temperature was moderate, and conditions were dry. The 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick immediately proved its worth.
The ALS release was easy to master, becoming second nature after only a few repetitions. Drawing from the holster was smooth and fast, and the weapon re-holstered securely every time. I experienced no fumbling or hesitation, even under the pressure of the simulated engagement.
After an hour of drills, the holster remained comfortable and secure. The leg straps didn’t dig into my thighs, and the non-slip silicon on the leg shroud kept the holster in place during rapid movements. I did notice a slight bit of initial adjustment needed to get the leg straps exactly where I wanted them, but once set, it was perfect.
Extended Use & Reliability
After six months of regular use in both training and field exercises, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick has held up remarkably well. The SafariLaminate still looks new, with only minor scuff marks. The suede lining shows no signs of wear, and the ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly.
Durability is a strong point of this holster. I’ve worn it during several rigorous outdoor exercises, including runs through dense brush and crawling over uneven terrain. The holster has withstood significant abuse without any damage to its structure or functionality.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and debris. I occasionally use a silicone-based lubricant on the ALS mechanism to ensure smooth operation. This holster has significantly outperformed other tactical holsters I’ve used in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 2 models
Specifications
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick is specifically designed for the Sphinx SPP-S Li-Aa pistol. It features Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention. The holster body is constructed from durable SafariLaminate, a thermal-molded material known for its strength and resistance to wear.
The holster is right-hand configuration. It includes a standard double leg strap and leg shroud with mounting holes for accessories. The adjustable vertical leg strap features a quick-release detachable leg harness.
These specifications are crucial because they directly affect the holster’s performance and reliability. The ALS ensures that the weapon stays securely in place until needed. The SafariLaminate construction provides exceptional durability in demanding environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick excels in its primary function: providing secure retention and rapid access to a firearm. The ALS system is intuitive and reliable, allowing for a fast and smooth draw with minimal training. Re-holstering is equally straightforward, with the ALS automatically engaging to secure the weapon.
The holster’s design minimizes the risk of accidental discharge during the draw or re-holstering process. It offers excellent weapon security without sacrificing speed or accessibility. The only potential improvement would be the addition of an optional ALS guard for even greater security in extremely high-risk situations.
This holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a tactical holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick is well-designed and ergonomically sound. The SafariLaminate material provides a rigid and protective shell for the firearm. The suede lining protects the weapon’s finish from scratches and abrasions.
The holster’s weight is balanced, distributing the load evenly across the leg. The leg shroud and adjustable straps provide a comfortable and secure fit for a wide range of body types. There is a minimal learning curve associated with the ALS release, making it easy to train with and master.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick is built to last. The SafariLaminate construction is exceptionally durable, resisting scratches, abrasions, and impacts. The hardware is also high-quality and corrosion-resistant.
The holster requires minimal maintenance. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep it in good condition. Periodic lubrication of the ALS mechanism will ensure smooth and reliable operation over the long term.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick comes standard with a double leg strap and leg shroud. The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching accessories such as magazine pouches, flashlights, or medical kits.
While Safariland offers a range of compatible accessories, the mounting holes are also compatible with many popular MOLLE-compatible accessories from other brands. This allows for a high degree of customization to suit individual needs and preferences. One particularly useful addition is a Safariland Model 745BL Belt Clip, allowing for belt carry when a full leg rig isn’t necessary.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 2 models
Pros
- Exceptional retention provided by the Automatic Locking System (ALS).
- Durable SafariLaminate construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Quick-release leg harness allows for easy donning and doffing.
- Comfortable and adjustable fit for a wide range of body types.
- Compatible with a wide range of accessories for customization.
Cons
- Limited to right-hand configuration as listed; check availability for left-handed users.
- The Sphinx SPP-S Li-Aa specific design limits its compatibility with other firearms.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 2 models?
Perfect for: Law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a secure and reliable holster for their Sphinx SPP-S Li-Aa pistol. It’s also ideal for tactical training and force-on-force scenarios.
Who should skip this product? Those who own different firearm models or are looking for a concealed carry holster. This holster is specifically designed for the Sphinx SPP-S Li-Aa and is not easily concealed due to its leg-mounted design.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Additional magazine pouches or a flashlight mount can enhance the holster’s functionality. As previously mentioned, the Model 745BL belt clip is useful for situations where a full leg rig is not required.
Conclusion on Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 2 models
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick is a top-tier tactical holster that delivers on its promise of security, speed, and durability. The ALS system provides exceptional weapon retention, while the SafariLaminate construction ensures long-lasting performance in demanding environments. The quick-release leg harness and adjustable straps offer a comfortable and customizable fit.
The price is justified given the quality of materials, construction, and functionality. This holster is an investment in your safety and performance. I highly recommend the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick to anyone who needs a reliable and high-performing holster for their Sphinx SPP-S Li-Aa pistol. If you need a holster that will stand up to the rigors of tactical operations and provide quick, reliable access to your firearm, look no further.