Safariland Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Basket Black, Right 6287-219-81-175 Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Basket Black, Right 6287-219-81-175

The Safariland Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Basket Black, Right 6287-219-81-175 is a purpose-built holster designed for those who need to carry a firearm discreetly without sacrificing security or speed of access. Manufactured by Safariland, a trusted name in law enforcement and tactical gear, this holster combines the renowned SLS (Self Locking System) retention with a design optimized for concealment. The basket weave finish adds a touch of class to a highly functional piece of equipment.

I was in need of a holster that could effectively conceal my S&W M&P 9mm while maintaining a high level of retention. I needed something more secure than a standard open-top holster but less bulky than a full-sized duty holster. The Safariland Concealment SLS Belt Holster seemed to strike the right balance.

Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the quality of the materials and the meticulous construction. The leather felt sturdy, and the basket weave pattern was expertly applied. It felt substantial without being overly heavy – a crucial factor for all-day concealed carry.

Compared to a generic nylon holster and a Kydex OWB (Outside the Waistband) holster I had previously used, the Safariland offered superior retention and a more refined appearance. While the nylon holster lacked security, and the Kydex was difficult to conceal under light clothing, the Safariland promised a better compromise of both. I chose it over a similar Galco leather holster due to Safariland’s proven SLS system.

My initial impression was positive. I was excited to try it out and see if it lived up to Safariland’s reputation for quality and reliability. It felt like a serious piece of gear designed for serious professionals.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Basket Black, Right 6287-219-81-175 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Safariland Concealment SLS Belt Holster at an outdoor shooting range. I practiced drawing and re-holstering drills under various conditions. The weather was slightly humid, which can sometimes affect leather holsters, but it did not appear to affect the Safariland holster.

The SLS system took a little getting used to, but after a few repetitions, the draw became smooth and intuitive. The holster kept the weapon secure while still allowing for a fast draw. There were no immediate issues or surprises, aside from needing to dedicate a few minutes to mastering the SLS release motion.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, including daily concealed carry and multiple range sessions, the Safariland Concealment SLS Belt Holster has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, and the leather has maintained its shape and rigidity. The basket weave finish still looks new.

Maintenance has been simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional leather conditioning have kept it in top condition. This is a huge improvement compared to some leather holsters that require constant care and attention. Compared to previous holsters, the Safariland outperforms them in both retention and concealment.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Basket Black, Right 6287-219-81-175

Specifications

• The Safariland Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Basket Black, Right 6287-219-81-175 is specifically designed for concealed carry. Its key feature is the SLS (Self Locking System), which provides Level II Retention.
• It is finished in a stylish basket weave black leather. This model is designed for right-handed users and specifically molded to fit the Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm & .40 with a 4.50″ barrel.
• It fits belt loops of 1.50″, 1.75″, 2.00″, and 2.25″. The holster comes standard with the 1.50″ & 1.75″ Combination Belt Loop.
• An adjustable tension device allows users to customize the draw resistance. This enables a secure yet accessible carry.
• The holster features a semi-hi-ride position and a slightly forward cant. This design promotes both concealment and a natural drawing motion.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the holster’s ability to provide secure, comfortable, and discreet carry. The SLS system ensures the weapon stays put until needed, while the adjustable tension allows for a customized draw. The forward cant and hi-ride position enhance concealment.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland Concealment SLS Belt Holster excels at its primary job: securely concealing a firearm while providing quick access. The SLS system is reliable and provides peace of mind, knowing the weapon won’t accidentally dislodge. The draw is smooth and consistent once the user masters the SLS release.

The holster’s strength lies in its secure retention and relatively slim profile for a Level II retention holster. The primary weakness is the initial learning curve associated with the SLS. However, the benefits of the SLS retention outweigh the learning curve.

The holster meets and exceeds my expectations. It provides a level of security and concealment that other holsters simply cannot match.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. Safariland uses high-quality leather and durable hardware. The holster feels solid and well-constructed, indicating it can withstand daily wear and tear.

The holster is user-friendly but requires some practice to master the SLS release. The cant and ride height make it comfortable for extended wear, even while sitting.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the robust construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland Concealment SLS Belt Holster is expected to last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning and conditioning of the leather will further extend its lifespan. Repairing may require sending it back to Safariland, but the robust design minimizes the need for repair.

Accessories and Customization Options

The holster comes standard with a combination 1.50″ & 1.75″ belt loop. While there are no readily apparent customization options for the holster body itself, users can potentially experiment with different belt loops for varying ride heights or cants.

The holster is designed to securely hold the specified firearm model without additional accessories. Compatibility with other brands’ accessories is limited due to the holster’s custom molded design.

Pros and Cons of Safariland Concealment SLS Belt Holster – Basket Black, Right 6287-219-81-175