Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – OD Green, Left 6305-9202-562
The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – OD Green, Left 6305-9202-562 is more than just a piece of gear; it’s a critical component for professionals and serious enthusiasts who demand speed, security, and adaptability in the field. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military-grade equipment, this holster combines the proven Automatic Locking System (ALS) with a robust leg harness, offering a blend of retention and rapid deployment. The OD Green finish speaks to its tactical purpose, blending seamlessly with various environments.
My need for this holster stemmed from a search for a secure, yet accessible, carry solution during search and rescue operations in dense woodland. I needed a holster that could withstand harsh conditions and maintain reliable weapon retention, all while allowing for a quick and natural draw.
Unboxing the Safariland ALS Tactical Holster revealed a product that felt immediately solid and well-constructed. The SAFARILAMINATE material offered a reassuring rigidity, while the OD Green color was consistently applied and perfectly suited to its intended environment. The leg harness felt substantial, with strong buckles and adjustable straps promising a secure and customizable fit.
Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa level 3 tactical holster and a standard Safariland 6378 paddle holster, the Safariland ALS Tactical Holster stood out due to its superior weapon retention and modularity. The Serpa, while quick, lacked the adjustability of the leg harness, and the 6378 wasn’t designed for the tactical, high-movement scenarios I anticipated. The ALS system felt inherently more secure than the Serpa’s locking mechanism.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The Safariland name carried weight, but I was eager to see if the holster lived up to its reputation in demanding real-world situations. I was excited by the potential for improved weapon security and accessibility, but also aware that leg harnesses can sometimes be cumbersome and uncomfortable.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – OD Green, Left 6305-9202-562 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Safariland ALS Tactical Holster was during a training exercise simulating a search for a lost hiker in a heavily wooded area. This involved navigating uneven terrain, crawling under fallen trees, and quick changes in body position. The holster was put through its paces in a challenging environment.
The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster performed admirably in these conditions. The ALS system kept my S&W M&P 45C with Thumb Safety securely in place even during strenuous activity. The simple straight up draw once the ALS and SLS releases are deactivated felt natural and intuitive after only a short period of familiarization.
The quick release leg harness allowed for easy donning and doffing, and the adjustable straps ensured a snug, yet comfortable fit. One initial issue I noted was the placement of the secondary SLS hood release; it took a little practice to deactivate it smoothly without fumbling.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Safariland ALS Tactical Holster has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of kit. The SAFARILAMINATE construction has resisted scratches and abrasions, and the leg harness shows no signs of wear or fraying. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism have kept it functioning smoothly.
The holster has held up incredibly well, showing only minor cosmetic wear on the SAFARILAMINATE finish. I’ve paid particular attention to cleaning the ALS mechanism, especially after exposure to dusty environments. The quick release buckles on the leg harness still operate smoothly.
Compared to previous nylon leg holsters I’ve used, the Safariland offers a far superior level of weapon security and draw speed. The ALS system provides peace of mind, knowing that my firearm is securely retained, while the leg harness offers greater comfort and stability than traditional belt-mounted options in tactical scenarios.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – OD Green, Left 6305-9202-562
Specifications
The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – OD Green, Left 6305-9202-562 is designed for left-handed shooters and accommodates the S&W M&P 45C with Thumb Safety IT M3. It features the ALS (Automatic Locking System) which secures the weapon immediately upon holstering. The holster also includes the SLS (Self Locking System) hood assembly and Hood Guard for added security.
The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster is constructed with thermal-molded SAFARILAMINATE, a durable material that protects the handgun and sights. The holster is mounted on a leg shroud assembly similar to the popular 6005 series, offering compatibility with various accessories. The leg harness is adjustable with double leg straps and a vertical strap, all featuring quick-release buckles.
These specifications are vital as they directly impact the holster’s reliability and ease of use. The ALS and SLS systems ensure that the firearm remains secure even during intense physical activity, while the SAFARILAMINATE construction guarantees long-term durability. The compatibility with other accessories allows users to customize the holster to their specific needs and preferences.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster excels at its primary function: providing secure retention and rapid deployment of a sidearm. The ALS system operates smoothly and reliably, requiring only a thumb release to draw the weapon. The SLS hood adds an extra layer of security, preventing accidental disengagement.
The holster’s primary strength is its rock-solid retention, providing peace of mind in dynamic situations. The quick, straight-up draw is another advantage, minimizing the time needed to acquire a target. The SLS hood can occasionally be a minor hindrance, requiring practice to deactivate smoothly.
The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster far exceeds expectations for weapon retention and draw speed. The durability has also been impressive, standing up to rigorous use without any noticeable degradation in performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster is designed with both functionality and comfort in mind. The SAFARILAMINATE material is rigid enough to provide excellent weapon retention, yet lightweight enough to avoid unnecessary bulk. The leg harness distributes the weight of the firearm evenly, reducing pressure points and increasing comfort during extended wear.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although mastering the SLS hood release takes some practice. The ALS release is intuitive and easy to operate, even under stress. The modular design of the leg shroud allows for customization with various accessories.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster is built to last, thanks to its robust SAFARILAMINATE construction and high-quality hardware. With proper care, the holster should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
The holster is exceptionally durable, showing minimal signs of wear after months of intensive use. Cleaning involves wiping down the holster with a damp cloth and applying a small amount of lubricant to the ALS mechanism. The quick release buckles on the leg harness also benefit from occasional cleaning to ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster is highly customizable. The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching various accessories such as magazine pouches, medical kits, or tactical lights. Safariland offers a wide range of compatible accessories.
The holster is compatible with various Safariland accessories, including magazine pouches, handcuff cases, and tactical lights. The modular design allows users to configure the holster to meet their specific needs and preferences. The optional Sentry locking device provides an additional layer of security, preventing unauthorized access to the firearm.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – OD Green, Left 6305-9202-562
Pros
- Superior Weapon Retention: The ALS and SLS systems provide unmatched security, preventing accidental or unauthorized removal of the firearm.
- Rapid Deployment: The intuitive ALS release allows for a quick and natural draw, minimizing reaction time in critical situations.
- Exceptional Durability: The SAFARILAMINATE construction ensures long-lasting performance, even in harsh environments.
- Comfortable Leg Harness: The adjustable leg harness distributes the weight of the firearm evenly, increasing comfort during extended wear.
- Modular Design: The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching various accessories, allowing for customization.
Cons
- SLS Hood Release: The secondary SLS hood release can be cumbersome and requires practice to master.
- Price: The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster is more expensive than some competing models.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – OD Green, Left 6305-9202-562?
The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – OD Green, Left 6305-9202-562 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and serious shooting enthusiasts who require a secure, reliable, and customizable holster. It’s also well-suited for search and rescue teams or anyone operating in demanding environments where weapon retention is paramount.
This holster may not be ideal for casual shooters or those who prioritize concealment over weapon security and accessibility. The leg harness can be bulky and may not be suitable for everyday carry.
Must-have accessories include compatible Safariland magazine pouches and a tactical light. The optional Sentry locking device provides an extra layer of security for those who require it.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – OD Green, Left 6305-9202-562
The Safariland ALS Tactical Holster w/ Quick Release Leg Harness – OD Green, Left 6305-9202-562 is a top-tier holster that delivers on its promise of security, speed, and durability. The price is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and innovative features.
I would highly recommend this holster to anyone who demands the best in weapon retention and accessibility. It’s a worthwhile investment for professionals and serious enthusiasts who rely on their gear to perform under pressure.
If you need a holster that can withstand the rigors of tactical operations and provide unwavering reliability, the Safariland ALS Tactical Holster is the one to choose. Don’t settle for anything less.