Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster

The Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement, military, and security professionals who require a secure and reliable way to carry their sidearm. This holster combines Safariland’s renowned Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self-Locking System (SLS) to provide Level III retention, ensuring the weapon remains secure while still allowing for a swift and efficient draw. Its durable construction and comfortable design make it a popular choice for those who spend long hours on duty.

For years, I struggled to find a duty holster that balanced security with speed. Many holsters I used were either too bulky and slow or lacked the necessary retention for high-risk environments. My search ended when a colleague recommended the Safariland 6360.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the holster’s robust construction and attention to detail. The STX finish felt incredibly durable, and the overall design exuded quality craftsmanship. It felt solid, but surprisingly not too heavy and seemed comfortable to wear.

I considered other duty holsters from Blackhawk and Bianchi, but the Safariland 6360’s reputation for superior retention and smooth draw ultimately swayed my decision. The other options felt less refined and offered fewer security features. My initial excitement was definitely justified.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster was at the shooting range during a force-on-force training exercise. The scenario involved simulated close-quarters combat in a variety of realistic environments. I also tested it in various weather conditions, including light rain and dusty environments, to assess its reliability.

The holster performed admirably in all conditions. The ALS/SLS system provided a secure hold on my weapon, even during dynamic movements and simulated struggles. The draw stroke was smooth and consistent, allowing for quick target acquisition.

It took a few repetitions to become fully accustomed to the ALS/SLS release mechanisms, but the learning curve was relatively short. The intuitive design quickly became second nature. Initially, I was concerned about the SLS hood interfering with my draw, but the rotating design proved to be exceptionally efficient.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster has proven to be incredibly reliable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to daily use and demanding training scenarios. The STX finish has held up well against abrasions and scratches.

Cleaning is straightforward and requires only a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. I periodically lubricate the ALS/SLS mechanisms to ensure smooth operation. This holster significantly outperforms other holsters I’ve used in terms of durability and retention.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster

Specifications

• The Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster is specifically designed to accommodate a Smith & Wesson Performance Center 5-inch barrel handgun. It’s critical to select the correct model for your specific firearm to ensure proper fit and function.
• It features both the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Self-Locking System (SLS), providing Level III Retention. This dual-retention system offers an exceptional balance of security and accessibility.
• The holster is constructed from durable Safariland SafariSeven nylon blend material with an STX Hi-Gloss finish. This ensures resistance to scratches, abrasions, and environmental factors.
• The holster rides in a mid-ride position, allowing for a comfortable and efficient draw. This height is ideal for users wearing body armor or other tactical gear.
• The molded sight track and soft SafariSuede lining protect the firearm’s sights and finish. This prevents unnecessary wear and tear on the weapon itself.

These specifications are essential because they directly influence the holster’s ability to securely retain the firearm while providing a fast and reliable draw. The level of retention, material durability, and ergonomic design all contribute to the holster’s overall effectiveness and user experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster excels in providing a secure and dependable method of firearm retention while enabling rapid deployment when needed. The ALS automatically engages upon holstering, providing an audible and tactile confirmation of weapon security.

The SLS rotating hood is intuitive to disengage with proper training and offers an additional layer of protection against unauthorized weapon removal. It provides a straight-up draw once both releases are deactivated. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a duty holster in terms of both retention and draw speed.

The holster’s main strength lies in its ability to provide Level III retention without sacrificing draw speed. Its primary weakness is that new users may require time to master the ALS/SLS release sequence under stress.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster is built with a focus on durability and functionality, utilizing high-quality materials and a robust construction. The SafariSeven nylon blend ensures that the holster can withstand the rigors of daily use in demanding environments.

The mid-ride design and slim profile enhance user comfort, distributing weight evenly and minimizing interference with movement. There is a slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS/SLS release sequence, but once this is overcome, the holster becomes incredibly user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

The durable SafariSeven nylon blend construction of the Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster suggests that it will last for years with proper care. Routine cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the ALS/SLS mechanisms is all that is required to maintain optimal performance.

The holster is designed for easy field maintenance, with readily accessible components for cleaning and lubrication. The STX finish is highly resistant to scratches and abrasions, further enhancing the holster’s longevity.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster is compatible with a range of Safariland accessories, including the optional Sentry device for increased retention. Users can also customize the holster with different leg straps and shrouds to suit their specific needs.

The holster is designed to integrate seamlessly with Safariland’s ELS (Equipment Locking System), allowing for quick and easy attachment of accessories such as magazine pouches and flashlight holders. This modularity enhances the holster’s versatility and adaptability. It does not directly interface with accessories from other brands, such as Blackhawk, without additional adaptors.

Pros and Cons of Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster

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Who Should Buy Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster?

The Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, military personnel, security professionals, and anyone who requires a highly secure and reliable duty holster. It’s especially well-suited for individuals who work in high-risk environments or situations where weapon retention is paramount.

Individuals who are new to duty holsters or prefer simpler retention systems might find the ALS/SLS release sequence challenging to learn. Those seeking a budget-friendly option may want to consider alternative holsters with fewer features. A must-have accessory would be the Safariland QLS (Quick Locking System) fork to allow for quick detachment and transfer of the holster to different platforms.

Conclusion on Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster

The Safariland S&W Perf. Center 5 in 6360 ALS/SLS Holster stands as a top-tier duty holster, offering an exceptional balance of security, durability, and functionality. Its Level III retention, robust construction, and smooth draw stroke make it an excellent choice for professionals who demand the best.

While the price may be higher than some competitors, the enhanced security and reliability offered by the Safariland 6360 justify the investment. I would absolutely recommend this holster to anyone seeking a dependable and secure way to carry their Smith & Wesson Performance Center 5-inch handgun. Invest in your safety and efficiency – you won’t regret it.