Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562

The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562 is a serious piece of kit for anyone needing secure and accessible weapon retention. Made by Safariland, a name synonymous with law enforcement and military-grade gear, this holster offers a combination of security and rapid deployment capabilities. The ALS (Automatic Locking System) is the key feature, promising a secure hold until you need it.

I’ve always struggled with finding a thigh holster that balances retention with accessibility. Many holsters I’ve used either make it difficult to draw quickly or don’t offer adequate security in dynamic situations. I needed a holster that would hold my Beretta PX4 Storm securely during training exercises and potential emergency scenarios, especially considering my preference for a left-handed draw.

My first impression upon unboxing the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562 was that it’s built to last. The SafariLaminate construction felt incredibly robust, and the OD Green color provides excellent camouflage in outdoor environments. It also has a nice heft to it that lets you know it means business.

Compared to a Blackhawk Serpa thigh holster I previously owned, the Safariland felt noticeably more secure and less prone to accidental release. A cheaper Condor thigh holster I had lying around didn’t even compare in terms of build quality and retention. I chose the Safariland because of its reputation for reliability and the ALS system, figuring the slightly higher price was worth the peace of mind.

Initially, I was excited by the promise of the ALS system and the rugged construction, but also a bit apprehensive about the learning curve. Would the ALS release be intuitive enough under pressure? Only time and testing would tell.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562 at my local shooting range during a practical pistol course. The course involved various drills, including drawing from different positions and engaging targets while moving. The holster had to perform well under pressure in a dynamic setting.

Despite it being a dry, dusty day, the ALS mechanism functioned flawlessly, and the draw remained smooth and consistent. The only adjustment I had to make was tweaking the leg straps for a more comfortable and secure fit. Drawing from the holster quickly became second nature after a few practice runs.

My biggest initial concern was whether the ALS release would be easy to manipulate under stress. Thankfully, with a little practice, the thumb release became very intuitive, allowing for a fast, clean draw even while moving.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use in training and some weekend hiking trips, the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562 has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are only a few minor scuff marks on the SafariLaminate, but no signs of structural damage or wear. The holster is clearly holding up well.

The suede lining has kept my Beretta PX4 Storm’s finish protected, preventing any unwanted scratches or wear marks. Cleaning is simple; just wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth and occasionally lubricate the ALS mechanism with a silicone-based lubricant. I’ve had to adjust the leg straps slightly after some use but that’s to be expected.

Compared to the other holsters I’ve used, the Safariland far surpasses them in terms of retention, durability, and overall performance. The ALS system offers a level of security I simply haven’t found in other holsters, and the rugged construction gives me confidence that it will hold up under the most demanding conditions. It has definitely outperformed my expectations, providing a reliable and secure platform for my sidearm.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562

Specifications

The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562 is specifically designed for left-handed users and fits the Beretta PX4 Storm 9mm & .40 with a 4.00″ barrel. It features Safariland’s renowned ALS (Automatic Locking System) which secures the weapon once holstered. The holster is constructed from thermal-molded SafariLaminate.

The OD Green finish provides excellent camouflage in various outdoor environments. It utilizes a standard double leg strap and leg shroud with mounting holes for attaching optional accessories. The adjustable vertical leg strap is suede-lined to protect the handgun’s finish.

These specifications are crucial for reliable performance. The ALS ensures that the weapon remains secure during movement and prevents unauthorized access. The SafariLaminate construction provides exceptional durability and protection against the elements, and the suede lining prevents wear and tear on the firearm’s finish.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562 performs its job exceptionally well, providing a secure and accessible platform for carrying a Beretta PX4 Storm. The ALS system offers excellent retention, preventing the weapon from being dislodged accidentally, while still allowing for a rapid and smooth draw when needed. The system is intuitive.

One of the holster’s strengths is its robust construction and reliable retention. However, the holster can feel a bit bulky, especially when worn for extended periods. It meets and mostly exceeds expectations, offering a high level of security and accessibility in a durable package, but perhaps could be slimmed down a bit.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562 is outstanding. The materials used are top-notch, and the construction is solid and durable. The holster feels substantial without being overly heavy, striking a good balance between robustness and comfort.

There is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system, but after a few practice sessions, it becomes second nature. The adjustable leg straps allow for a customized fit, ensuring that the holster sits comfortably and securely on the leg. Overall, the design is well thought out, providing a secure and accessible platform for carrying a sidearm.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the rugged construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562 is built to last for years, even with regular use in demanding environments. The SafariLaminate construction is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and moisture. The holster is easy to maintain and repair.

Cleaning is as simple as wiping down the exterior with a damp cloth and lubricating the ALS mechanism occasionally. With proper care, this holster should provide reliable service for many years, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone needing a secure and durable weapon-carrying solution.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562 is primarily designed as a standalone holster, but the leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching various accessories. These include magazine pouches, flashlights, and other tactical gear. The mounting options allow for greater versatility.

The holster is compatible with many Safariland accessories, such as drop leg extenders and quick-release buckles. Users can also attach accessories from other brands, as long as they are compatible with the mounting hole pattern on the leg shroud. There is a good level of customization, although it is mostly focused on adding accessories to the leg shroud rather than modifying the holster itself.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562?

The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and private security professionals who require a secure and accessible weapon-carrying solution. It’s also a solid choice for competition shooters or anyone participating in tactical training exercises. It’s an excellent piece of gear.

Anyone prioritizing concealability over accessibility or who prefers a less bulky holster should skip this product. It is not designed for concealed carry. A must-have accessory is a good quality magazine pouch to attach to the leg shroud for quick reloads.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562

Overall, the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562 is an exceptional piece of equipment that delivers on its promises of security, durability, and accessibility. While it may be a bit bulky and have a slight learning curve, the benefits of the ALS system and the rugged construction far outweigh any drawbacks. The peace of mind it provides is worth it.

At $180.80, the price is justified given the quality of materials, the robust construction, and the reliable performance. This is an investment that will pay off in the long run. I would personally highly recommend the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – OD Green, Left 6354-181-562 to anyone needing a secure and reliable weapon-carrying solution.

If you are a left-handed shooter with a Beretta PX4 Storm, this holster is a game-changer. Invest in your safety and performance – you won’t regret it!