Let’s Dive into Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride, Level III Retention Duty Holster
The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride, Level III Retention Duty Holster is a name synonymous with law enforcement and security professionals who demand the utmost in firearm retention and accessibility. Manufactured by Safariland, this holster has carved a niche for itself as a reliable and trusted piece of equipment for those in high-risk environments. The combination of the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) provides a formidable Level III Retention, assuring users that their firearm remains secure until intentionally drawn.
My journey to this holster began with a need for enhanced security and faster access during tactical training scenarios. Standard Level II retention holsters weren’t cutting it; I needed something that offered a higher degree of security without sacrificing draw speed. I needed a holster I could trust when someone else needed to trust it as well.
The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS felt robust right out of the box. The STX finish provided a nice grip, and the mid-ride height felt comfortable and natural. Its weight felt reassuring, suggesting a build quality that could withstand the rigors of daily duty.
Compared to the Blackhawk Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS stood out because of its proven track record among law enforcement. While the Blackhawk Serpa offers a different approach to retention, concerns about its button-release mechanism under stress led me away. The Bianchi, while comfortable, didn’t provide the same level of confidence in retention as the Safariland.
I was excited to put the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS through its paces. The initial impression was that this was a serious piece of kit designed for serious professionals. The immediate sense of security and the smooth draw motion instilled confidence, making me eager to see how it performed in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride, Level III Retention Duty Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS was at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The weather was typical for late summer – humid and dusty, providing a good initial test of the holster’s ability to function in less-than-ideal conditions. The exercise simulated close-quarters combat scenarios, requiring rapid draws and re-holstering.
The draw stroke felt intuitive and smooth with minimal training. The ALS disengaged easily with my thumb, and the SLS hood rotated forward without any snagging, allowing for a quick and efficient presentation of the weapon. Even with sweaty hands, the holster retained a solid grip on my firearm.
The only minor issue was getting accustomed to the simultaneous manipulation of the ALS and SLS, but this disappeared with dedicated practice. After the first few drills, the process became second nature. The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS instilled a huge sense of confidence in its ability to perform in difficult conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use in training and duty scenarios, the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS has proven itself to be exceptionally durable. The STX finish shows only minor signs of wear, mostly around the edges, indicating its resistance to abrasions. The mechanisms for ALS and SLS continue to operate smoothly without any degradation.
Maintenance involves regular cleaning with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris, and occasional lubrication of the ALS and SLS mechanisms to ensure optimal function. This simple routine ensures that the holster remains in top condition. Compared to my previous holsters, which required more frequent cleaning and adjustments, the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS has outperformed them significantly.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride, Level III Retention Duty Holster
Specifications
The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride, Level III Retention Duty Holster is specifically designed to offer a high level of security and ease of access. It comes in a black finish. The holster type is a belt holster, and the application is for duty use. The level of retention is Level III.
Automatic Locking System (ALS): This is an internal locking device that secures the weapon in all directions upon holstering. It’s activated automatically and released with a simple thumb swipe. This adds a substantial layer of security, reducing the risk of unauthorized firearm removal.
Self Locking System (SLS): The SLS rotating hood further enhances retention by covering the weapon’s ejection port. It requires a deliberate motion to rotate the hood forward before drawing, adding another layer of protection against accidental or unauthorized removal.
Mid-Ride Belt Loop: The mid-ride design positions the holster lower on the hip compared to traditional holsters. This enhances comfort and allows for a more natural draw stroke, particularly when wearing body armor or other tactical gear.
STX Finish: The Safariland STX finish offers a durable and textured surface, providing a secure grip and resistance to scratches and abrasions. This ensures that the holster maintains a professional appearance even after extended use.
Level III Retention: Combining ALS and SLS, this holster achieves a Level III Retention rating. This indicates that it requires three distinct actions to release the firearm, providing a high degree of security suitable for law enforcement and security professionals.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS excels in its primary function: securing a firearm while providing quick and reliable access. The ALS/SLS system offers a balanced approach, providing ample retention without compromising draw speed. The holster’s design ensures that the firearm is held securely in place, preventing movement during dynamic activities.
The primary strength lies in its robust retention system, which minimizes the risk of firearm loss or theft. Its main area for improvement is the learning curve associated with mastering both ALS and SLS concurrently; however, this can easily be overcome with regular practice. The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS exceeds expectations by delivering a blend of security and accessibility crucial in high-stress situations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS features a durable construction using a proprietary Safariland SafariSeven nylon blend that offers exceptional strength and resistance to extreme temperatures. Its weight is balanced, ensuring it doesn’t feel overly cumbersome on the belt. The mid-ride height and adjustable cant provide enhanced comfort and allow for a customized fit.
The holster is mostly user-friendly. It requires some practice to master the ALS and SLS release simultaneously. The mid-ride design and adjustable cant angle facilitate a more natural and comfortable draw stroke.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction and high-quality materials used in the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS ensure a long service life. With proper care, it can withstand years of daily use in demanding environments. Regular cleaning and occasional lubrication are all that’s needed to keep it in optimal condition.
The simplicity of the design also facilitates easy repairs should the need arise. Replacement parts, such as springs and screws, are readily available from Safariland.
Accessories and Customization Options
While the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS doesn’t come with a multitude of accessories, its compatibility with various Safariland belt loops and mounting systems allows for customization. Users can adjust the ride height and cant angle to suit their preferences. It also features compatibility with Safariland’s Quick Locking System (QLS), facilitating rapid holster changes.
The holster is designed to accommodate firearms with or without mounted lights, provided they fit within the specific model’s parameters. It is crucial to select the correct model based on the firearm and any attached accessories to ensure proper fit and function.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride, Level III Retention Duty Holster
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: Provides unparalleled firearm security, preventing unauthorized removal.
- Smooth and Rapid Draw: Allows for quick and efficient weapon deployment.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand harsh conditions and prolonged use.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Design: Enhances comfort, especially with body armor.
- Customizable Options: Offers compatibility with various Safariland accessories and mounting systems.
Cons
- Potential learning curve with ALS/SLS release
- Higher price point compared to Level II retention holsters.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride, Level III Retention Duty Holster?
The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride, Level III Retention Duty Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and military professionals who require a high level of firearm security and quick access in high-risk environments. It is also well-suited for competition shooters who participate in tactical shooting events and those who prioritize safety and retention.
Individuals who may not require Level III retention or who are on a tight budget might consider alternative options. Those who prefer simpler retention mechanisms may find the ALS/SLS system unnecessarily complex. Must-have accessories include compatible Safariland belt loops, QLS adapters, and potentially a leg shroud for enhanced stability.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride, Level III Retention Duty Holster
The Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS Mid-Ride, Level III Retention Duty Holster is a top-tier product that delivers on its promise of exceptional firearm security and accessibility. Its robust construction, combined with the innovative ALS/SLS retention system, makes it a standout choice for professionals who demand the best.
The price is justified given the level of security, durability, and performance it offers. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS to anyone seeking a reliable and secure duty holster. Take your security to the next level and invest in the Safariland 6360 ALS/SLS – you won’t regret it.