Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – Right Hand Review

Why the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 Caught My Eye

As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless holsters come and go, each promising the perfect blend of security, accessibility, and comfort. The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 immediately stood out due to Safariland’s reputation for durable, duty-grade equipment and the proven track record of their Automatic Locking System (ALS). This holster promised to address my primary concerns: a secure carry for my Springfield XD 9mm while maintaining a quick and intuitive draw in high-pressure situations.

My role often requires me to carry a sidearm for extended periods in various terrains and conditions. I needed a holster that wouldn’t shift or dig, offered level 2 retention, and allowed for a natural draw stroke without unnecessary fumbling. The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131, with its thigh rig configuration and ALS, seemed like the perfect solution.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and attention to detail. The STX Tactical Black finish gave it a professional and understated look, while the Safari-Laminate material felt incredibly durable. The suede lining was a welcome touch, promising to protect my firearm’s finish.

I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Thigh Holster and the Galco Miami Classic II Shoulder System, but the Safariland won out because of its superior retention system and comfortable thigh platform. The Serpa’s release mechanism felt less intuitive, and the shoulder system wasn’t ideal for situations requiring rapid movement and transitions. My initial excitement was high, tempered only by the anticipation of putting it through its paces in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test of the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 was at a shooting range during a training exercise simulating close-quarters combat scenarios. This involved a lot of running, kneeling, and transitioning between different shooting positions.

The ALS system proved to be incredibly reliable, keeping my Springfield XD securely in place even during strenuous activity. Releasing the weapon felt natural and intuitive after only a few practice draws, and the holster’s design facilitated a smooth, unobstructed draw stroke. There were no issues with retention or accidental releases.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use in various conditions, including hot, humid weather and dusty environments, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 has held up remarkably well. The Safari-Laminate construction has proven to be highly resistant to abrasion and impact, with only minor cosmetic wear visible.

The thigh platform has remained comfortable even during extended wear, thanks to the adjustable straps and ergonomic design. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and grime. Compared to other holsters I’ve used in the past, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 far exceeds them in terms of durability, security, and comfort.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131

Specifications

• Category: ALS Holsters. This signifies its primary feature: the Automatic Locking System for enhanced weapon retention.
• Finish/Color: STX Tactical Black. The STX Tactical Black finish provides a low-profile, non-reflective appearance suitable for tactical applications.
• Fits: Springfield Armory – .357, .40, .45, XD 9mm. This holster is specifically molded to fit the Springfield XD series of pistols, ensuring a snug and secure fit.
• Type: Right Hand. The holster is designed for right-handed users.
• Material: Safari-Laminate thermal-molded construction. This provides excellent protection for the handgun and sights, ensuring durability.

These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The ALS ensures the weapon remains secure during movement and potential confrontations. The precise fit for Springfield XD models guarantees proper retention and a smooth draw. The Safari-Laminate construction provides the necessary durability for demanding environments.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 excels at its primary function: securely carrying a firearm while allowing for a rapid and reliable draw. The ALS retention system works flawlessly. Its intuitive design minimizes training time.

The holster’s strengths lie in its secure retention, comfortable thigh platform, and smooth draw stroke. One area for potential improvement is the leg strap adjustability; some users with smaller frames may find it challenging to achieve a perfectly snug fit. Overall, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade tactical holster.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 boasts excellent build quality. The materials are robust, and the construction is solid. The holster is surprisingly lightweight considering its size and features, and the thigh platform is contoured for comfortable wear.

The ALS release mechanism is intuitive, but requires some practice to master. The holster is generally user-friendly. The adjustable leg straps allow for a customized fit.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its robust construction, the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 is expected to last for many years with proper care. The Safari-Laminate material is highly resistant to wear and tear.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap. The internal suede lining should also be brushed occasionally to remove any debris.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 is designed to be compatible with a range of accessories, including magazine pouches, tactical lights, and other gear that can be attached to the leg shroud.

Safariland offers various accessories specifically designed for their holsters. Its modular design allows for some customization with other compatible accessories from different brands.

Pros and Cons of Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131

Who Should Buy Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131?

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and competitive shooters who require a secure, reliable, and comfortable way to carry their Springfield XD series pistol. Its rugged construction and level 2 retention make it well-suited for demanding environments and high-stress situations.

This holster may not be ideal for individuals who prioritize concealed carry or those who are new to firearms and prefer simpler retention systems. A quality gun belt is a must-have accessory to support the weight of the holster and firearm.

Conclusion on Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131

The Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 is a top-tier tactical holster that delivers on its promise of security, reliability, and comfort. The price is justified by the holster’s superior build quality, advanced retention system, and proven performance in real-world scenarios.

I would highly recommend the Safariland 6355 ALS Tactical Thigh Holster – STX Tactical Black, Right Hand 6355-149-131 to anyone who needs a duty-grade holster for their Springfield XD pistol. Invest in your safety and performance – get yours today!