Let’s Dive into Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6355-560-561
For over a decade, my life has revolved around the world of tactical gear, from advising law enforcement on load-bearing equipment to outfitting civilians for backcountry adventures. Holsters are more than just accessories; they’re vital pieces of kit that can impact safety, speed, and overall performance. Today, we’re dissecting the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6355-560-561, a duty-grade holster designed for professionals and serious enthusiasts who demand secure carry and rapid access.
I was looking for a holster system that could accommodate a railed 1911 with a weapon light, specifically for scenarios where open carry was permitted on private land. I needed something that offered both retention and a comfortable, stable carry platform during periods of movement. Thigh holsters have always been my preference in these situations because they distribute the weight more evenly and keep the firearm accessible while allowing for freedom of movement.
Out of the box, the Safariland 6355 ALS makes a strong impression. The OD Green SafariLaminate is rugged and the overall construction feels incredibly solid. The thigh rig is robust, and the Automatic Locking System (ALS) immediately inspires confidence in its retention capabilities.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa thigh holster and the Galco Miami Classic II shoulder holster, but both had drawbacks. The Serpa’s retention release mechanism has been debated within the tactical community, and shoulder holsters aren’t ideal for scenarios involving heavy kit or chest rigs. The Safariland 6355 ALS seemed like a better fit for my needs.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. Safariland has a solid reputation, but the price point set my expectations high. I was eager to see if the 6355 ALS could live up to the hype and justify its cost through performance and durability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6355-560-561 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test took place at a private shooting range, simulating tactical scenarios involving movement and target acquisition. I paired the Safariland 6355 ALS with my railed Springfield Armory 1911 Operator, equipped with a Surefire X300 weapon light. The environment was sunny and dry, providing ideal conditions for initial familiarization.
The draw stroke felt natural after a few practice repetitions. The ALS system is intuitive, requiring only a thumb release to disengage the lock and draw the weapon. The holster maintained a stable position on my thigh, even during rapid movements and transitions.
The only initial issue was adjusting the leg straps for optimal fit. It took some fine-tuning to achieve the right balance of security and comfort. Once properly adjusted, however, the holster felt secure and didn’t shift excessively.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland 6355 ALS has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. I’ve used it in various conditions, including humid summer days and cold, damp autumn mornings. The SafariLaminate has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.
The holster has retained its shape and structural integrity, even after being subjected to bumps and scrapes. Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The suede lining protects the firearm’s finish and prevents scratches.
Compared to a cheaper nylon holster I previously used, the Safariland 6355 ALS is in a different league. The retention is significantly more secure, the draw is smoother, and the overall build quality is far superior. It represents a noticeable upgrade in terms of performance, reliability, and peace of mind.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6355-560-561
Specifications
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6355-560-561 is a right-hand, open-top holster designed for tactical use. It features Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) for secure weapon retention. The holster is constructed from durable SafariLaminate and comes in OD Green.
This particular model fits: Kimber 1911s w/rails (Gold Combat RL, Custom TLE/RL with Surefire X200 or X300 light); Springfield Armory 1911s w/rails (Operator w/Surefire X200 or X300 light); and Wilson 1911s w/rails (CQB w/Surefire X200 or X300 light). Note: the holster will not retain the weapon without a light attached for the Springfield and Wilson models. The holster also features a quick-release leg harness, double leg straps, and a leg shroud with accessory mounting holes.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The ALS provides a high level of security, minimizing the risk of accidental or unauthorized weapon removal. The SafariLaminate construction ensures durability in demanding environments. The precise fit ensures a smooth, reliable draw stroke.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6355 ALS excels at its primary function: securely carrying and rapidly deploying a firearm. The ALS system provides excellent retention without hindering the draw. The thumb release is intuitive and easy to operate, even under stress.
The holster’s strengths lie in its secure retention, comfortable carry, and rapid access. The only minor weakness is the potential for the ALS release to become inadvertently activated if the thumb is positioned incorrectly during movement, though this requires significant pressure and is unlikely in normal use. Overall, the holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade tactical holster.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6355 ALS boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and ergonomics. The SafariLaminate construction is robust and provides excellent protection for the firearm. The thigh rig is designed for comfort and stability, distributing the weight evenly across the leg.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although some practice is required to master the ALS release and achieve a smooth draw stroke. The adjustable leg straps allow for a customized fit. Once properly adjusted, the holster feels comfortable and secure, even during extended periods of use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6355 ALS is built to last. The SafariLaminate is resistant to abrasions, impacts, and moisture. The stitching is reinforced in high-stress areas, ensuring long-term durability.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The suede lining can be brushed to remove any debris. With proper care, the Safariland 6355 ALS should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6355 ALS is designed to be compatible with a range of accessories. The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching pouches, knives, or other tactical gear. The holster itself is specifically molded to accommodate railed 1911s with Surefire X200 or X300 weapon lights.
While the Safariland ecosystem offers a wide range of compatible accessories, third-party pouches and attachments can also be used, provided they utilize a compatible mounting system (e.g., MOLLE, Tek-Lok). The ability to customize the holster with additional gear enhances its versatility and allows users to tailor it to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6355-560-561
Pros
- The Automatic Locking System (ALS) provides exceptional weapon retention.
- The SafariLaminate construction offers superior durability.
- The thigh rig is comfortable and stable, even during dynamic movement.
- The holster accommodates railed 1911s with popular weapon lights.
- The adjustable leg straps allow for a customized fit.
Cons
- The holster requires a weapon light attached for retention with certain 1911 models (Springfield Armory and Wilson).
- The initial adjustment of the leg straps can be time-consuming.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6355-560-561?
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, private security contractors, and serious recreational shooters who prioritize secure carry and rapid weapon access. It’s ideal for individuals who carry railed 1911s with weapon lights and require a holster that can withstand demanding conditions. This holster is especially beneficial for those needing hands-free operation while maintaining ready access to their firearm.
Individuals who should skip this product are those who do not use a weapon light on their 1911 (particularly if they own a Springfield or Wilson model), or those who prefer concealed carry options. The Safariland 6355 ALS is designed for open carry and is not suitable for concealed carry due to its size and design.
A must-have accessory would be additional Safariland leg shroud attachments for carrying magazines or other essential gear. A quality tactical belt is also essential for supporting the weight of the holster and firearm.
Conclusion on Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6355-560-561
The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Right Hand 6355-560-561 is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and performance. While the price tag may seem steep, the quality of construction and the reliability of the ALS system justify the investment. This holster is a vital tool for anyone who relies on a firearm for personal safety or professional duty.
The price is justified by the materials, construction and the proven reliability of Safariland’s ALS system. The peace of mind that comes with knowing your weapon is securely retained is priceless.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6355 ALS to anyone seeking a dependable, high-performance thigh holster for their railed 1911. Don’t settle for anything less than the best when it comes to your safety and readiness. Upgrade your kit today and experience the Safariland difference.