Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models Review

Let’s Talk About Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models represents a serious piece of kit for those who demand speed, security, and durability in their firearm carry. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality in the law enforcement and military communities, and this holster aims to deliver on that reputation. It boasts the ALS (Automatic Locking System), a quick-release mechanism, and a rugged build designed for demanding environments.

For years, I struggled to find a holster that balanced retention with rapid deployment, especially when working in dynamic field scenarios. Many Level II retention holsters are bulky and slow, while Level I options often lack the necessary security for open carry. The promise of the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models was a solution that could bridge that gap.

Upon unboxing, the holster exuded quality. The SafariLaminate felt incredibly robust, and the OD Green finish was evenly applied. The overall construction felt solid, with no loose seams or questionable components. It was noticeably lighter than some of my older duty holsters, which was a welcome surprise.

Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa Level 2 or a generic nylon tactical holster, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models stood out immediately. The Blackhawk’s button release always felt a bit clunky, and the nylon holster lacked the rigid security I needed. This Safariland holster seemed to offer a more refined, professional solution.

My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of healthy skepticism. I’ve been burned by tactical gear before, but the Safariland name and the holster’s solid construction gave me hope that this might be the real deal. I was eager to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models at a local shooting range and during a force-on-force training exercise. The range provided a controlled environment to practice draws and re-holstering. The training exercise, on the other hand, offered a more realistic simulation of the stresses of a real-world scenario.

The holster performed admirably in both environments. Even in the hot and humid conditions of the outdoor range, the holster maintained its grip and shape. Drawing the S&W M&P 9L with Thumb Safety became intuitive after just a few repetitions. There were no malfunctions, and the ALS system functioned flawlessly.

One initial surprise was how quiet the draw was. Many retention holsters create an audible “click” when the weapon is released, but the Safariland‘s ALS system disengaged smoothly and silently. This could be a significant advantage in certain tactical situations.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models has proven to be remarkably durable. Despite being subjected to scrapes, bumps, and exposure to the elements, the SafariLaminate shows minimal signs of wear. The OD Green finish has held up well, with no noticeable fading or chipping.

Maintenance has been minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The suede lining has remained soft and clean, protecting the firearm’s finish. I have found this holster to be exceptionally easy to maintain, which is a crucial factor for gear that sees regular use.

Compared to previous holsters I’ve used, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models has significantly outperformed them in terms of both security and speed. It allows me to maintain a high level of confidence in weapon retention, while still allowing for a lightning-fast draw when necessary. The holster has surpassed all expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models

Specifications

• Model: 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick Release. This model is one of twenty variations offered by Safariland, tailored for different firearms and hand orientations.
• Firearm Compatibility: Specifically designed for the S&W M&P 9L 5in. with Thumb Safety. This ensures a snug and secure fit.
• Hand Orientation: Left Hand. This is a vital specification for ensuring compatibility with the user’s dominant hand.
• Retention System: ALS (Automatic Locking System). This system secures the weapon once holstered, requiring a simple straight-up draw after deactivation.
• Construction Material: SafariLaminate. A proprietary thermoformed material known for its exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear.
• Lining: Soft suede lining. Protects the weapon’s finish and sights from scratches and abrasion.
• Color: OD Green. Offers a low-profile, tactical appearance.
• Leg Straps: Silicone-backed dual leg straps. Minimizes movement and provides a secure and comfortable fit.
• Mounting Options: Leg shroud accepts ELS, QLS, and MLS mounts. This allows for the addition of accessories like magazine pouches or other tactical gear.
• Hood Guard: Standard. This guard provides additional security and helps prevent unauthorized access to the weapon.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the holster’s performance, reliability, and user experience. The ALS system ensures a secure hold, while the SafariLaminate construction guarantees long-term durability. The compatibility with various mounting options allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models excels at its primary function: securely carrying and rapidly deploying a firearm. The ALS system provides excellent retention, giving me confidence that the weapon will remain in place even during strenuous activity.

The draw stroke is smooth and intuitive, requiring only a simple thumb release to deactivate the locking mechanism. The open-top design facilitates a fast and clean draw, allowing for quick target acquisition. The holster’s performance has been flawless in all testing scenarios.

The only potential area for improvement might be the height of the holster on the leg shroud. Depending on the user’s body type and gear configuration, it might be necessary to experiment with different mounting options to achieve the optimal draw angle and comfort. Overall, the holster performs exceptionally well and meets my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models is exceptional. The SafariLaminate feels incredibly robust, and the stitching and hardware are all top-notch. The holster is surprisingly lightweight for its size and level of security.

The holster’s design is well thought out, with a focus on both security and accessibility. The ALS release is easy to locate and manipulate, even under stress. The suede lining protects the firearm’s finish and prevents it from rattling inside the holster. There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system, but after a few practice draws, it becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models is built to last. The SafariLaminate construction is highly resistant to abrasion, impact, and the elements. The stitching is reinforced in high-stress areas, and the hardware is made from durable materials.

With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The suede lining can be cleaned with a soft brush to remove any accumulated dust or debris. The longevity of this holster ensures great value for money.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models is compatible with a wide range of accessories, thanks to its leg shroud’s ELS, QLS, and MLS mounting points. This allows users to attach magazine pouches, flashlight holders, or other tactical gear directly to the holster.

Safariland offers a variety of accessories specifically designed for their holsters, including different types of leg straps, drop adapters, and belt attachments. The holster is also compatible with many popular accessories from other brands, such as Blade-Tech and G-Code. The customization options allow users to tailor the holster to their specific needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models?

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a secure, reliable, and customizable holster for their S&W M&P 9L with Thumb Safety. It’s also a great choice for competitive shooters who value speed and precision.

This product may not be ideal for concealed carry due to its size and bulk. It might also be overkill for casual shooters who primarily use their firearms for recreational purposes.

A must-have accessory would be additional magazine pouches that mount directly to the leg shroud. Experimenting with different drop adapters might also be beneficial for optimizing the draw angle and comfort.

Conclusion on Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promises of security, speed, and durability. The ALS system provides excellent retention, while the open-top design facilitates a rapid draw. The SafariLaminate construction ensures long-term reliability, even in demanding environments.

The price is justified by the holster’s exceptional performance, durability, and customization options. This holster is an investment that will pay off in terms of enhanced security, improved performance, and increased confidence.

I would highly recommend the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Holster w/Quick – 1 out of 20 models to anyone who needs a high-quality, reliable, and customizable holster for their S&W M&P 9L with Thumb Safety. Upgrade your tactical setup today and experience the Safariland difference.