Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster Review

Let’s Dive into Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster

The Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster is more than just a place to stow your firearm; it’s a meticulously engineered piece of tactical gear designed for duty use, offering Level III retention and a smooth, secure draw. Crafted by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the law enforcement and military communities, this holster combines the proven SLS (Self Locking System) with the ALS (Automatic Locking System) for unparalleled weapon security.

I needed a holster that offered maximum retention without sacrificing speed and ease of access. My previous open-carry holster lacked the security necessary for higher-risk environments, and I wanted something that would provide a confident carry, knowing my firearm was secure against unauthorized access. Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and the seemingly complex, yet intuitive, locking mechanisms. The STX Basketweave finish gave it a professional, durable look.

Compared to the Blackhawk Serpa and the Galco Concealable Belt Holster, the Safariland 6360 stood out due to its Level III retention and reputation for reliability among law enforcement professionals. While the Serpa offered a fast draw, its retention system had been criticized in the past. The Galco, while comfortable, lacked the active retention features I required. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; I was eager to see if the holster lived up to its reputation for security and ease of use in the field.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster at a local shooting range during a training session focused on weapon retention and rapid deployment. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal conditions for testing the holster’s draw speed and security. The SLS system initially required some familiarization, but after a few practice draws, the motion became fluid and intuitive.

Even with gloved hands, the SLS hood was easily manipulated, allowing for a smooth, single-motion draw. The holster held the M&P 40 securely, even during dynamic movements, providing confidence in its retention capabilities. One minor issue was the initial stiffness of the STX finish, causing some friction during the draw stroke, but this improved with use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster has proven to be incredibly durable and reliable. There are minimal signs of wear and tear on the STX Basketweave finish, even after exposure to rain, mud, and abrasive surfaces. The locking mechanisms continue to function smoothly and reliably, providing consistent retention and draw speed.

Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth and occasional lubrication of the moving parts. Compared to my previous holsters, the Safariland 6360 offers a superior level of security and durability, far exceeding my expectations for a duty-grade holster. It has become an indispensable piece of my tactical gear, providing peace of mind knowing my firearm is secure and readily accessible.

Breaking Down the Features of Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster

Specifications

• The Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster is specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P 40 pistol with a manual safety. This ensures a precise fit and proper function of the retention mechanisms.
• It features a Level III Retention, incorporating the SLS (Self Locking System) rotating hood and the ALS (Automatic Locking System) internal locking device. This provides three levels of security, making it extremely difficult for unauthorized individuals to remove the firearm.
• The holster has a durable STX Basketweave finish. This finish is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and environmental factors, ensuring a professional appearance and long service life.
• The 6360 model is a Mid-Ride belt holster, positioning the firearm at a comfortable and accessible height on the user’s hip. This allows for a faster, more natural draw stroke compared to lower-riding or higher-riding holsters.
• It’s constructed from SafariSeven nylon blend, a proprietary material by Safariland, that is highly resistant to heat, cold, and impact. This construction provides exceptional durability and performance in extreme conditions.
• The holster is available in right-hand configurations only, at this time. This caters to the vast majority of users.
• The application is Duty, and the Hand is Right. The Holster Type is Belt Holster.
• The Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster comes in Black, with Holster Finish STX Basketweave. The Gun Make is Smith & Wesson, and the Gun Model is Smith & Wesson M&P 40.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the holster’s security, durability, and ease of use. The Level III retention ensures that the firearm is secure in a variety of situations, while the STX finish protects the holster from damage and maintains a professional appearance. The mid-ride design and SafariSeven construction contribute to a comfortable, reliable, and long-lasting holster that is well-suited for duty use.

Performance & Functionality

The Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster excels in its primary function: securely holding and quickly deploying a firearm. The ALS system automatically engages upon holstering, providing immediate retention, while the SLS hood requires a deliberate downward push and rotation to release. This combination provides excellent security against weapon takeaways while still allowing for a relatively fast and smooth draw.

The holster’s strengths lie in its robust retention, durable construction, and comfortable mid-ride design. The SLS hood, while initially requiring practice, becomes intuitive and provides an extra layer of security. One area for potential improvement is the initial stiffness of the STX finish, which can create friction during the draw stroke until broken in.

Overall, the Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster meets and exceeds expectations for a duty-grade holster. Its combination of security, durability, and ease of use make it a top choice for law enforcement and security professionals.

Design & Ergonomics

The Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster features a well-thought-out design that balances security, accessibility, and comfort. The materials used are high-quality and durable, providing a solid and reliable platform for carrying a firearm. The mid-ride height positions the firearm at a comfortable and easily accessible location on the hip, allowing for a natural draw stroke.

The holster is relatively lightweight, considering its robust construction and retention features. There is a slight learning curve associated with the SLS system, but once mastered, it becomes second nature. The holster’s design is specifically tailored for the S&W M&P 40 with a manual safety, ensuring a precise and secure fit.

Durability & Maintenance

The Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster is built to last, thanks to its high-quality materials and robust construction. The SafariSeven nylon blend and STX finish provide excellent resistance to wear, tear, and environmental factors. With proper care, this holster should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the moving parts. The holster’s durable construction and minimal maintenance requirements make it a practical and reliable choice for duty use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster is compatible with a variety of Safariland accessories, allowing users to customize their carry setup to meet their specific needs. These accessories include:

• Different belt attachment options, such as the Safariland UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for added stability and versatility.
• Leg shrouds for a lower-riding carry position.
• QLS (Quick Locking System) adapters for quickly transferring the holster between different platforms.
• The optional Sentry installed to make it Level IV Retention.

While the holster is designed specifically for the S&W M&P 40 with a manual safety, it may be compatible with some aftermarket sights and accessories, depending on their size and profile. However, it’s essential to ensure proper fit and function before carrying a firearm with aftermarket accessories in this holster.

Pros and Cons of Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster

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Who Should Buy Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster?

The Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster is perfect for: Law enforcement officers, security professionals, and private citizens who prioritize firearm security and require a durable, reliable, and easy-to-use holster for duty or open carry. It also benefits those who regularly train with their firearm and need a holster that can withstand rigorous use and provide a consistent draw.

This product is NOT ideal for: Individuals seeking a minimalist concealed carry holster, as the Safariland 6360 is designed for duty use and may be too bulky for effective concealment. It may also not be the best choice for those who are completely new to firearms or prefer a simple, passive retention system, as the SLS system requires practice and familiarization.

Must-have accessories or modifications: A Safariland UBL (Universal Belt Loop) for added stability and versatility, and potentially a QLS (Quick Locking System) adapter for easily transferring the holster between different platforms.

Conclusion on Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster

The Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster is a top-tier duty holster that delivers exceptional security, durability, and ease of use. While the SLS system requires some practice, the benefits of its Level III retention and smooth draw far outweigh the initial learning curve. The value proposition is excellent, as the holster is priced competitively compared to other duty-grade holsters with similar features.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland S&W M&P 40 W/ Safety 6360 Holster to anyone who prioritizes firearm security and needs a reliable and durable holster for duty, training, or open carry. Invest in your safety and peace of mind – get the Safariland 6360 and experience the difference a quality holster can make.