Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left 6355-1972-552
The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left 6355-1972-552 is more than just a holster; it’s a piece of tactical gear designed to offer both security and rapid access to your firearm. Crafted by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and reliability in law enforcement and military circles, this holster leverages the Automatic Locking System (ALS) to provide a secure carry without sacrificing speed. The STX FDE Brown finish adds a professional and low-profile aesthetic, ideal for various operational environments.
My need for this particular holster arose during a recent series of tactical training exercises. I was searching for a secure and accessible way to carry my Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version, and thigh holsters, in my experience, offer the best combination of both.
Unboxing the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left 6355-1972-552 revealed a robust piece of equipment. The SafariLaminate construction felt solid and durable, while the FDE Brown finish provided a professional, non-reflective appearance. The suede lining was a welcome touch, promising to protect the firearm’s finish.
I considered other options, including a Blackhawk! Serpa thigh holster and a Blade-Tech WRS Level 2 Duty Holster, but ultimately chose the Safariland due to its proven ALS retention system and reputation for reliability. The ALS system seemed more intuitive and faster to operate than the Serpa’s release mechanism, and the overall construction appeared more durable than the Blade-Tech option.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential for fast, secure draws, but slightly concerned about the bulk of a thigh holster.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left 6355-1972-552 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left 6355-1972-552 at an outdoor shooting range during a force-on-force training scenario. The weather was dry but dusty, typical of our local range conditions. The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster performed admirably.
The ALS retention system proved quick and intuitive to disengage, allowing for rapid target acquisition. I had no issues drawing my H&K P2000, even while wearing tactical gloves. There was a bit of a learning curve adjusting the leg straps to fit comfortably, but once adjusted, it remained secure and didn’t shift during movement.
The only minor issue I encountered was the initial stiffness of the ALS release lever. A few practice draws smoothed it out.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left 6355-1972-552 has proven remarkably durable. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being subjected to repeated drills, scrapes against barricades, and exposure to the elements.
Maintenance is straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes dust and grime. The suede lining also benefits from occasional brushing to remove any accumulated debris. This surpasses my experience with previous nylon holsters that would show wear much faster.
This holster has significantly outperformed my previous experience with generic thigh holsters in terms of both security and speed of draw. The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster is truly a worthwhile piece of gear.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left 6355-1972-552
Specifications
- Category: Duty Gear. This speaks to the holster’s design and intended use in demanding professional environments.
- Group: ALS Holsters. Highlighting the Automatic Locking System as the core retention mechanism.
- Finish/Color: STX FDE Brown. Offers a low-profile, non-reflective finish that blends well in various environments.
- Gun Fit: Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version with ITI M3, TLR-1, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC2, or SSL-1, BBL 3.50″. This is crucial, dictating the specific handgun and weapon light combinations that will properly fit the holster.
- Hand: Left. Indicates this is a left-handed holster.
These specifications are crucial for selecting the correct holster for your firearm and intended use. A proper fit ensures both security and accessibility.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left 6355-1972-552 excels at its primary job: securely retaining and rapidly deploying a handgun. The ALS system provides excellent retention, preventing accidental dislodging even during strenuous activity. The straight-up draw stroke is intuitive and efficient.
The holster’s main strength lies in its balance of security and speed. The weakness is in the bulkiness of a thigh rig, which may not be ideal for every situation. It certainly exceeded my expectations, proving to be a reliable and efficient piece of equipment.
Design & Ergonomics
The SafariLaminate construction feels incredibly durable and provides excellent protection for the handgun. The holster’s weight is reasonable, considering its robust construction, and the thigh rig distributes the weight comfortably. There’s a minor learning curve with the ALS release, but it quickly becomes second nature.
The dual leg straps and adjustable vertical strap allow for a customized fit. This ensures the holster remains secure and comfortable during extended use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left 6355-1972-552 is built to last, with the SafariLaminate construction resisting scratches and abrasions. The robust design suggests a long service life, even under demanding conditions. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
The holster’s robust construction and simple maintenance mean it should provide years of reliable service. It’s a testament to Safariland’s commitment to quality.
Accessories and Customization Options
The holster itself doesn’t come with additional accessories, but the leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching other tactical gear, such as magazine pouches or medical kits. There are no specific customization options for the holster body itself.
It is compatible with various Safariland accessories, allowing users to configure their thigh rig to meet specific needs. This modularity enhances the holster’s versatility.
Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left 6355-1972-552
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The ALS system provides a secure hold on the handgun, preventing accidental dislodging during movement.
- Rapid Draw: The ALS system is intuitive and allows for a fast, straight-up draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: SafariLaminate construction ensures long-lasting performance, even in demanding environments.
- Comfortable Fit: The adjustable leg straps and vertical strap allow for a customized and secure fit.
- Accessory Mounting: The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching additional tactical gear.
Cons
- Bulkiness: Thigh holsters are inherently bulky, which may not be suitable for all situations.
- Caliber-Specific: Limited to the Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version.
Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left 6355-1972-552?
The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left 6355-1972-552 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical shooters who require a secure and accessible way to carry their Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version. It is ideal for those operating in dynamic environments where retention and speed are paramount.
This holster might not be ideal for concealed carry due to its size. It is also limited by its gun fit, so it is not appropriate for any weapon other than the specific H&K model.
A must-have accessory would be additional magazine pouches that can be mounted to the leg shroud. This creates a more comprehensive tactical platform.
Conclusion on Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left 6355-1972-552
The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left 6355-1972-552 is a well-designed and durable piece of tactical gear that delivers on its promise of security and speed. The ALS retention system is a standout feature, providing peace of mind without sacrificing rapid access to the firearm.
At $200.80, the price is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and reliable performance. This holster is a worthwhile investment for professionals and serious enthusiasts who demand the best.
I would highly recommend the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX FDE Brown, Left 6355-1972-552 to anyone seeking a secure, reliable, and accessible thigh holster for their Heckler & Koch P2000 US Version. Take your tactical readiness to the next level!