Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542

The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542 isn’t just another piece of gear; it’s a statement of preparedness and efficiency. Crafted by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in law enforcement and military equipment, this holster promises rapid weapon access and superior retention. The Automatic Locking System (ALS) is at the heart of this holster, ensuring secure weapon carry until you decide it’s time to draw.

My agency recently transitioned to a new sidearm, and the standard-issue belt holsters weren’t cutting it for tactical operations. I needed a thigh holster that offered both speed and security, capable of accommodating the H&K P2000 with a weapon light. This holster appeared to be the perfect solution, promising the reliability Safariland is known for and the tactical advantage I needed.

The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542 arrived in a standard cardboard box, but the contents spoke volumes. My initial impression was excellent, from the robust SafariLaminate construction to the well-thought-out thigh rig design. The foliage green color is practical and blends well with various operational environments.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 Tactical Thigh Holster and the Blade-Tech WRS Level II Duty Holster before ultimately settling on this Safariland model. The deciding factor was the ALS retention system, which I believe offers a more intuitive and reliable draw compared to the Serpa’s finger-activated release. The Blade-Tech, while offering good retention, lacked the light compatibility I needed.

I was immediately impressed. The build quality felt outstanding, the ALS system was smooth, and the holster’s overall design exuded confidence. This wasn’t just a holster; it felt like a meticulously engineered tool for serious use.

Check Best Price HERE

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542 at our agency’s shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The exercise simulated various scenarios, from active shooter response to close-quarters combat, providing a realistic environment to assess the holster’s performance. The holster was subjected to rain during an outdoor training session, presenting a wet condition test.

The holster performed admirably, allowing for rapid and consistent draws even under pressure. The ALS retention system proved intuitive and reliable, preventing accidental weapon release while still allowing for a quick draw stroke. There were no immediate issues, and the holster felt comfortable and secure throughout the training.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use in various training scenarios and operational deployments, the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542 has proven its durability. The SafariLaminate construction has held up well, showing only minor scuffs and scratches despite being subjected to harsh conditions. The suede lining has kept the handgun finish protected.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and a silicone-based protectant for the SafariLaminate. I’ve found no need for specialized tools or solvents, making it easy to maintain in the field. This holster outperforms the older nylon thigh holsters I’ve used in the past, offering superior retention, durability, and weapon access speed.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542

Specifications

• Automatic Locking System (ALS): This is the core of the holster’s retention, automatically securing the weapon upon holstering. A simple thumb release allows for a smooth, straight-up draw.
• SafariLaminate Construction: The thermal-molded SafariLaminate provides excellent protection for the handgun and sights. This rugged material resists scratches, abrasions, and moisture.
• STX Finish: The STX finish on the SafariLaminate gives the holster a durable, textured surface. It enhances grip and provides a professional appearance.
• Foliage Green Color: The foliage green color offers effective camouflage in various environments. This makes it ideal for tactical operations in wooded or vegetated areas.
• Thigh Rig Design: The thigh rig features a standard double leg strap and leg shroud. This provides a stable and secure platform for the holster.
• Adjustable Leg Straps: The adjustable vertical leg strap allows for a customized fit. Suede lining protects the handgun’s finish, preventing scratches and wear.
• Accessory Mounting Holes: Mounting holes on the leg shroud allow for the attachment of optional accessories. This enables customization with magazine pouches, medical kits, or other essential gear.
• Left-Handed Configuration: Specifically designed for left-handed users, ensuring a comfortable and efficient draw stroke. This is crucial for maintaining tactical advantage.
• Heckler & Koch P2000 Compatibility: Specifically molded to fit the H&K P2000 US Version with ITI M3, TLR-1, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC2, or SSL-1 weapon lights. This ensures a secure and precise fit.

These specifications directly impact the holster’s performance by ensuring secure weapon retention, rapid access, and comfortable carry. The ALS system provides peace of mind, while the SafariLaminate construction guarantees durability in demanding environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542 excels in its primary function: securely carrying and rapidly deploying a handgun. The ALS system provides excellent weapon retention, giving me confidence that the firearm will remain secure during strenuous activities. The draw stroke is smooth and intuitive, allowing for quick target acquisition.

The holster’s primary strength lies in its ALS retention system, offering a perfect balance of security and accessibility. The foliage green STX finish not only looks professional but also provides a durable, non-slip surface. One area for potential improvement is the leg shroud design; while functional, it could be slightly more streamlined for enhanced comfort during extended wear.

The holster meets and exceeds my expectations for a tactical thigh holster. The combination of secure retention, rapid access, and durable construction makes it an outstanding choice for law enforcement and military personnel.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542 is built with high-quality materials, resulting in a robust and reliable product. The SafariLaminate is both durable and lightweight, providing excellent protection without adding unnecessary bulk. The holster’s weight is well-distributed, minimizing discomfort during extended wear.

The holster is user-friendly, with a simple and intuitive ALS release mechanism. While there is a slight learning curve to master the draw stroke, it becomes second nature with practice.

Durability & Maintenance

The SafariLaminate construction ensures that the holster can withstand the rigors of tactical operations. The finish resists scratches and abrasions, maintaining a professional appearance even after prolonged use.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The simple design minimizes the risk of malfunctions, ensuring long-term reliability.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542 includes the thigh rig with double leg straps and leg shroud. The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching optional accessories such as magazine pouches, medical kits, or other tactical gear.

The holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, allowing for extensive customization. It’s also compatible with many aftermarket accessories designed for Safariland holsters, providing flexibility in configuring the holster to individual needs.

Pros and Cons of Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542?

This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and security professionals who require a secure and rapidly accessible weapon-carrying system. It’s also suitable for tactical training enthusiasts who want to simulate real-world scenarios.

This product might not be ideal for casual shooters or those primarily focused on concealed carry, as a thigh holster isn’t typically suitable for those roles.

Must-have accessories include additional magazine pouches, a tactical flashlight, and a trauma kit for a complete operational loadout. A quality belt to interface with the thigh rig is also essential for proper support and stability.

Conclusion on Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542

In summary, the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542 is a top-tier weapon-carrying system that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. The ALS retention system, durable construction, and customizable platform make it an outstanding choice for tactical professionals.

The price is justified by the quality and performance it delivers. This is an investment in your safety and operational effectiveness.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Foliage Green, Left 6354-1972-542 to anyone seeking a secure, rapid, and durable weapon-carrying solution. Upgrade your gear and experience the Safariland difference!