Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562 is a purpose-built holster designed for professionals who demand a secure and accessible weapon carry solution. Manufactured by Safariland, a leader in law enforcement and military gear, this holster combines their renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a tactical thigh rig, offering both retention and rapid deployment capabilities. The OD Green finish adds a touch of concealment and tactical appeal, making it a favored choice among operators.

I was looking for a secure and comfortable way to carry my sidearm during tactical training scenarios. I needed a left-handed holster that wouldn’t compromise my movement, offered quick access, and provided a high level of retention, minimizing the risk of accidental weapon discharge.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and quality of the materials used. The SafariLaminate felt incredibly durable, and the stitching was clean and precise, indicating a high level of craftsmanship. Compared to cheaper nylon thigh holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6355 felt substantially more rigid and well-made.

My initial excitement was definitely justified; the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562 appeared to be a serious piece of kit designed for serious use.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562 at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The weather was typical for the season – damp and with occasional drizzle, which provided a good opportunity to test the holster’s performance in less than ideal conditions. Drawing and re-holstering were intuitive with the ALS system; I was able to maintain a solid grip even with wet hands.

The ALS (Automatic Locking System) provided excellent retention, and I had confidence that my weapon would stay secure even during dynamic movements. After the training, I noticed some minor scuff marks on the SafariLaminate, but nothing significant.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use in various training environments, including simulated urban patrols and woodland scenarios, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear beyond the expected superficial scuffs from abrasion against gear and terrain. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime.

In comparison to a previous kydex thigh holster I owned, the Safariland offers a more comfortable and stable platform, thanks to the double leg straps and well-designed leg shroud. It has definitely exceeded my expectations for both comfort and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562

Specifications

• The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562 features the Safariland Automatic Locking System (ALS), which secures the weapon once holstered and is released with a simple thumb activation. This system provides a high level of retention while still allowing for a quick and smooth draw.
• The holster is constructed from durable SafariLaminate, a thermal-molded material that protects the firearm and sights. The holster also features a suede lining to protect the handgun’s finish.
• It’s designed for left-handed users and finished in OD Green. Specifically, it fits Smith & Wesson 5946 & 5493 DAO pistols without rails.

These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the holster’s performance, durability, and user experience in tactical scenarios. The ALS ensures weapon security, the SafariLaminate provides robust protection, and the left-hand design ensures compatibility for left-handed shooters.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562 performs exceptionally well in its intended role, offering a secure and readily accessible platform for carrying a sidearm. The ALS system provides a reliable level of retention, and the draw stroke is consistently smooth and efficient.

The primary strengths are its retention, durability, and comfortable design. The only area for potential improvement is the leg strap buckles, which can sometimes be a bit stiff to operate with gloved hands.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562 features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and user comfort. The holster’s weight is well-distributed, and the adjustable leg straps allow for a customized fit.

The build quality is excellent, with robust materials and precise stitching. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS release, but once mastered, it becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562 is built to last, with its SafariLaminate construction and heavy-duty hardware. The holster is relatively easy to maintain; regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism are typically sufficient.

Minor repairs, such as replacing a worn leg strap, are possible with readily available replacement parts from Safariland.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562 is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including various tactical lights and magazine pouches that can be attached to the leg shroud. The holster can also be used with different ride heights and belt attachment systems, allowing for customization to individual preferences.

It’s worth noting that the holster is also compatible with many aftermarket leg strap systems, such as those from HSGI, allowing you to customize the comfort and fit even further.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562

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Who Should Buy Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562?

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure and accessible way to carry their sidearm. It’s also well-suited for tactical training scenarios and force-on-force simulations.

This product might not be ideal for concealed carry due to its size and design. Consider other options if you own a handgun with a rail, or are looking for a right-handed holster.

A must-have accessory would be a compatible Safariland tactical light or magazine pouch to further enhance the holster’s functionality.

Conclusion on Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562

Overall, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left Hand 6355-320-562 is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and accessibility. The price is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and reliable performance.

I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who needs a dependable thigh-carry solution for their Smith & Wesson 5946 or 5493 DAO pistol. If you’re a left-handed shooter looking for a high-quality tactical holster, this is definitely worth the investment!