Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561

The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561 is more than just a place to stow your sidearm; it’s a critical piece of equipment for professionals who demand security, speed, and reliability. Safariland, a name synonymous with quality in law enforcement and military circles, has built a reputation on producing holsters that stand up to the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. This particular model, in its OD Green finish and right-hand configuration, combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a tactical leg shroud, making it an excellent choice for those requiring a secure and accessible carry option.

For years, I relied on a traditional thumb-break holster, but I needed something more secure when navigating rough terrain during search and rescue operations. The ALS system promised a significant upgrade in retention without sacrificing draw speed, so I began my search.

Upon receiving the Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561, my initial impression was dominated by the robust construction and feel of the SafariLaminate. The OD Green color is a classic, subdued tone that blends well with a variety of tactical gear. It felt solid, well-made, and ready for serious use.

Compared to a similarly priced Blackhawk! Serpa holster and a leather Galco option, the Safariland stood out due to its superior retention mechanism and overall build quality. The Serpa, while popular, always felt a bit too plastic-y, and the Galco, while comfortable, lacked the active retention I was after.

I was immediately excited by the Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561. It represented a deliberate step toward enhanced security and performance.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561 came at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. I was running drills that simulated close-quarters engagements and required quick draws and re-holstering. The holster performed exceptionally well, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw stroke once I became familiar with the ALS release.

The weather was mild but humid, and the holster remained secure and functional, even when my hands were slightly sweaty. It took about an hour of practice to completely internalize the muscle memory for disengaging the ALS while drawing. After that, it felt natural and intuitive.

The only minor issue I encountered was adjusting the leg straps to the perfect tension; initially, they were either too tight, restricting movement, or too loose, allowing the holster to shift around. A few minutes with the adjustment buckles solved the problem.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use in various training scenarios, as well as during search and rescue operations in forested areas, the Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561 has proven to be incredibly durable. There are some minor scuff marks on the SafariLaminate, but the ALS mechanism continues to function flawlessly. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed.

Compared to my previous thumb-break holster, the Safariland provides a significantly higher level of security and peace of mind. I no longer worry about my firearm accidentally dislodging while navigating through dense brush or during dynamic movements. It definitely outperforms my previous setups.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561 is designed for right-handed users and features Safariland’s renowned ALS (Automatic Locking System). It accommodates the Beretta PX4 Storm 9/40 DAO with a 4.00″ barrel. The holster’s construction consists of thermal-molded SafariLaminate, providing excellent protection for the handgun and its sights.

The holster is finished in OD Green and includes an SLS (Self Locking System) hood assembly and Hood Guard for added security. The holster mounts to a leg shroud assembly, similar to the Safariland 6004 series, with a double leg strap and mounting holes for optional accessories. An adjustable vertical leg strap is included for customized fit.

• Category: Duty Gear – This indicates the holster is built for professional use, capable of withstanding daily wear and tear.
• Group: ALS Holsters – This confirms the holster utilizes Safariland’s Automatic Locking System, a key feature for secure weapon retention.
• Finish/Color: OD Green – Offers a low-profile, tactical aesthetic that blends well in various environments.
• Gun Fit: Beretta – PX4 Storm 9/40 DAO, BBL 4.00″ – Ensures a precise and secure fit for the specified firearm.
• Hand: Right – Designed specifically for right-handed shooters, optimizing draw speed and accessibility.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s performance, security, and user comfort. The ALS, the SafariLaminate, and the specific gun fit all contribute to a holster that is both reliable and easy to use under pressure.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561 performs its primary function – securing and providing quick access to a firearm – exceptionally well. The ALS system offers excellent retention, preventing accidental dislodgement, while the SLS hood adds another layer of security. Once the ALS is disengaged, the draw is simple and straight-up.

The strength lies in the intuitive design of the ALS and the robustness of the overall construction. The only slight weakness is that it requires practice to master the draw stroke, but once learned, it is incredibly fast and efficient. This holster definitely meets and even exceeds expectations for a tactical duty holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is outstanding; the SafariLaminate is tough and durable, while the hardware is robust and well-made. The holster sits comfortably on the leg, thanks to the adjustable straps and leg shroud design. The design considers the ergonomics of drawing and re-holstering, making it relatively user-friendly after the initial learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the quality of materials and construction, the Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561 should last for many years of regular use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and inspection of the hardware. Replacing the ALS mechanism is relatively simple if it ever wears out.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561 comes standard with the SLS hood assembly and Hood Guard. The leg shroud features mounting holes that allow for the addition of accessories such as magazine pouches, knives, or tourniquet holders. Safariland also offers an optional Sentry device, which further enhances the security of the ALS system.

The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories and can be easily adapted to suit individual needs. Users can customize the ride height, cant angle, and leg strap configuration to achieve the perfect fit and draw stroke.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561?

The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and competitive shooters who demand a secure, reliable, and fast-drawing holster. It is also a great choice for anyone who carries a firearm in demanding environments, such as during search and rescue operations or backcountry adventures.

This holster is probably not the best choice for casual shooters or those who primarily carry concealed, as it is a large and somewhat bulky design. Those on a very tight budget may also want to consider less expensive options, though the Safariland’s durability and performance justify the investment for serious users.

A must-have accessory is the Safariland Sentry, which provides an extra layer of security against unauthorized access to the firearm. Users may also want to consider adding magazine pouches or other tactical accessories to the leg shroud.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561

The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561 is a top-tier tactical holster that offers an exceptional combination of security, durability, and performance. While it may require some initial practice to master the ALS system, the benefits are well worth the effort for those who demand the best. The price is justified by the quality of materials, construction, and overall functionality.

I would definitely recommend this holster to anyone who needs a reliable and secure way to carry a Beretta PX4 Storm in demanding environments. If you’re looking for a holster that will stand up to the rigors of daily use and provide peace of mind knowing your firearm is safe and accessible, look no further than the Safariland ALS Tactical Holster – OD Green, Right 6304-181-561. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t regret it.