All About the Safariland 6004SS Single Strap SLS Tactical Holster: Start Here
The Safariland 6004SS Single Strap SLS Tactical Holster is a purpose-built piece of kit from a manufacturer renowned for its duty-grade gear. Safariland has long been a trusted name amongst law enforcement and military professionals. This thigh holster is designed for rapid deployment and secure carry of a handgun, specifically a Colt 1911 with a SureFire X300U, X300, or X200 weapon light.
Years ago, I found myself consistently frustrated with belt-mounted holsters that interfered with my tactical vests and plate carriers. I needed a solution that kept my sidearm accessible without compromising mobility or adding excessive bulk to my waistline. This led me down the path of exploring thigh holsters, and the Safariland 6004SS quickly became a frontrunner due to its reputation and proven track record.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the robust construction and purposeful design. The SafariLaminate material felt incredibly durable, and the single leg strap design seemed streamlined and efficient. The holster had a reassuring weight, instilling confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of demanding use.
I considered several other thigh holsters at the time, including models from Blackhawk and Blade-Tech. However, Safariland’s Self Locking System (SLS) stood out as a superior retention mechanism. The fact that the Safariland 6004SS was specifically designed for use with a weapon light was also a major selling point.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential for improved accessibility and comfort, but also a little apprehensive about the learning curve associated with a thigh holster. Only real-world testing would reveal whether the Safariland 6004SS lived up to its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6004SS Single Strap SLS Tactical Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Safariland 6004SS was at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. The varied drills involved moving through simulated environments and engaging targets under pressure. I encountered challenges that pushed both my skills and the holster’s performance.
The holster performed admirably in dry conditions, allowing for a smooth and consistent draw. The SLS system was intuitive to learn and offered a secure level of retention without hindering speed. The holster remained stable during rapid movement, thanks to the single leg strap and well-designed leg shroud.
There was a slight learning curve as I adjusted to the new draw stroke. It took some time to re-train my muscle memory to accommodate the lower carry position. After a few hours of practice, my draw times were comparable to those with my previous belt-mounted holster.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use in various training scenarios, the Safariland 6004SS has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. It has held up remarkably well to the wear and tear of repeated use. The SafariLaminate material shows no signs of cracking or deformation.
The STX finish has also proven to be scratch-resistant. There are only minimal cosmetic blemishes from contact with gear and the environment. Maintenance is straightforward: a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris.
Compared to my previous experiences with other holsters, the Safariland 6004SS offers a superior combination of security, accessibility, and comfort. It’s a noticeable step up in terms of quality and performance. It has exceeded my expectations for a tactical thigh holster.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6004SS Single Strap SLS Tactical Holster
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Safariland
- Color: Coyote Brown
- Gun Make: Colt
- Gun Model: 1911
- Holster Material: SafariLaminate – This proprietary material is known for its exceptional strength and resistance to abrasion, chemicals, and temperature extremes.
- Holster Type: Thigh Holster
- Light/Laser Attachment: SureFire X300U, SureFire X300, SureFire X200 – The ability to accommodate these popular weapon lights enhances the holster’s versatility in low-light environments.
- Finish: STX Tactical – The STX finish provides a durable, non-reflective surface that minimizes glare and resists scratches.
These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the holster’s functionality and durability. The SafariLaminate construction ensures longevity and resistance to harsh conditions. The compatibility with specific SureFire weapon lights streamlines the overall setup.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6004SS performs its primary function exceptionally well: securely retaining and rapidly deploying a 1911 pistol equipped with a weapon light. The SLS rotating hood is intuitive to operate and provides a confident level of retention. The draw stroke is smooth and consistent once the user becomes accustomed to the thigh-mounted position.
The primary weakness is the bulk inherent to thigh holsters in general. While the single strap design minimizes this, the holster can still snag on obstacles in tight environments. The robust construction is its greatest strength; it is able to withstand the abuse of tactical environments, but it does add to the overall weight.
The Safariland 6004SS meets and even exceeds my expectations for a tactical thigh holster. Its secure retention and smooth draw are exceptional.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is outstanding. The SafariLaminate material is molded with precision. The stitching is clean and robust. The weight is substantial, but balanced.
The holster is relatively user-friendly, although some practice is required to master the SLS retention system and adapt to the thigh-mounted draw stroke. The design is straightforward and purposeful, prioritizing functionality over aesthetics.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Safariland 6004SS is expected to last for many years with proper care. The SafariLaminate is resistant to cracking, warping, and degradation. Minimal maintenance is required.
Cleaning involves wiping down the holster with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The SLS mechanism can be lubricated with a small amount of silicone-based lubricant.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6004SS comes with the leg shroud and single leg strap. The leg shroud features mounting holes for optional accessories such as magazine pouches, medical kits, or other small items. While not a customization in the typical sense, the holster does come in various sizes to accommodate 1911s of differing overall dimensions.
The holster is also compatible with Safariland’s Quick Locking System (QLS), which allows the user to quickly detach and re-attach the holster to different mounting platforms. The QLS system significantly enhances the holster’s adaptability.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6004SS Single Strap SLS Tactical Holster
Pros
- Exceptional Retention: The SLS (Self Locking System) provides a secure level of retention, minimizing the risk of accidental weapon release or unauthorized access.
- Rapid Deployment: The SLS allows for a smooth, single-motion draw. This helps facilitate faster target engagement.
- Durable Construction: The SafariLaminate material is incredibly robust and resistant to wear, tear, and environmental factors.
- Weapon Light Compatibility: Designed to accommodate popular SureFire weapon lights, enhancing its versatility in low-light conditions.
- Accessory Mounting Options: The leg shroud features mounting holes for attaching additional pouches and gear, optimizing load carriage.
Cons
- Bulk: Thigh holsters are inherently bulky and can snag on obstacles in tight spaces.
- Learning Curve: Adapting to the thigh-mounted draw stroke requires practice and muscle memory re-training.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6004SS Single Strap SLS Tactical Holster?
The Safariland 6004SS is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, and tactical training enthusiasts. It is ideal for individuals who require a secure and accessible way to carry their sidearm while wearing tactical vests or plate carriers. Anyone who frequently operates in low-light environments will also benefit from its weapon light compatibility.
This product might not be the best choice for concealed carry due to its size and open-carry design. It may also not be suitable for individuals who prioritize minimalist gear setups or who operate primarily in confined spaces.
A must-have accessory for the Safariland 6004SS is the Safariland Quick Locking System (QLS). The QLS enhances versatility by allowing the user to quickly detach and re-attach the holster to different platforms.
Conclusion on Safariland 6004SS Single Strap SLS Tactical Holster
The Safariland 6004SS Single Strap SLS Tactical Holster is a top-tier piece of gear that delivers on its promises. It provides secure retention, rapid deployment, and exceptional durability. The SLS retention system and weapon light compatibility make it a valuable asset for tactical professionals and enthusiasts.
At $229.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials, robust construction, and proven performance. While the bulk and learning curve may be drawbacks for some, the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages for those who require a reliable and accessible thigh holster.
I would highly recommend the Safariland 6004SS to anyone looking for a professional-grade tactical holster. It’s an investment in safety, efficiency, and peace of mind. If you value quality and reliability, then consider adding the Safariland 6004SS to your loadout.
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