First Impressions of Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster
The Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster promises a secure and accessible carry for law enforcement and security professionals. Safariland is a name synonymous with quality and reliability in the duty gear world, and this holster aims to deliver on that reputation. The combination of the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Self Locking System (SLS) immediately grabs attention, suggesting a high level of weapon retention while still allowing for a swift draw when needed.
For years, I’d relied on older Level II retention holsters, finding them lacking in security, especially during foot pursuits or grappling scenarios. I needed a holster that offered enhanced retention without sacrificing speed or comfort. The Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster seemed like the ideal solution, offering that extra layer of security while maintaining a reasonable draw stroke.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the Safariland‘s robust construction. The SafariLaminate material felt incredibly durable, and the leather-look finish gave it a professional, high-quality appearance. The weight was noticeable, but not excessive, suggesting a solid build without being overly cumbersome.
Compared to a BlackHawk Serpa Level 3 and a Bianchi Accumold Level II, the Safariland felt significantly more secure. While the Serpa’s trigger finger release felt unnatural and the Bianchi lacked true Level III retention, the Safariland’s ALS/SLS system appeared intuitive and trustworthy. I chose the Safariland for its proven track record, positive reviews, and the promise of a better balance between security and accessibility.
My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster looked and felt like a serious piece of gear, but I was eager to see how it performed under real-world stress. Would the retention system be as easy to use as advertised, and would the mid-ride design be comfortable during extended wear?
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster at a local shooting range during a force-on-force training session. We simulated various scenarios, including foot pursuits, close-quarters engagements, and weapon retention drills. The holster was subjected to rapid draws, re-holstering under stress, and exposure to sweat and dirt.
The Safariland performed admirably in dry conditions, offering a smooth and consistent draw stroke. The ALS and SLS systems were surprisingly intuitive to operate, even under pressure. However, when exposed to heavy sweat, the SLS hood became slightly sticky, requiring a more deliberate motion to disengage.
The initial draw stroke required a period of adjustment. Unlike my previous holsters, the ALS thumb release needed to be depressed simultaneously with the SLS hood rotation. After a few hours of practice, I was able to consistently achieve a fast and clean draw.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including weekly range sessions and daily wear during security patrols, the Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of equipment. There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the SafariLaminate exterior. The suede lining inside the holster has protected the finish of my Glock 17 Gen 5 without any noticeable scratches.
Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional application of leather conditioner have kept the holster in excellent condition. The ALS and SLS mechanisms continue to function smoothly with minimal maintenance.
Compared to my previous nylon duty holsters, the Safariland offers superior retention and durability. The Level III retention system provides peace of mind knowing my firearm is secure, even in demanding situations.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster
Specifications
The Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster is designed for duty use and features a Level III retention system. It’s constructed from durable SafariLaminate, which is known for its resistance to scratches, abrasions, and moisture.
The holster is designed to fit specific firearms, in this case a Glock 17 Gen 5 with a SureFire X300U weapon light attached. It utilizes both the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and the Self Locking System (SLS) for enhanced security. The mid-ride belt loop allows the holster to sit slightly lower on the hip for improved comfort and accessibility. These features are critical for law enforcement and security personnel who require a holster that provides both retention and a quick draw.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster performs its primary job – securing and presenting a firearm – exceptionally well. The ALS and SLS systems work in tandem to provide a high level of retention, preventing unauthorized removal of the weapon.
The draw stroke is smooth and consistent once the user becomes familiar with the release mechanisms. The holster offers excellent weapon security and relatively quick access. A potential weakness is the slight learning curve associated with mastering the ALS/SLS release, although that is easily overcome with practice.
The holster meets and exceeds expectations for a Level III retention duty holster. The Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster provides a confidence-inspiring level of security without significantly hindering draw speed.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster is excellent, with high-quality materials and precise construction. The SafariLaminate is incredibly durable and the suede lining protects the firearm’s finish.
The mid-ride design sits comfortably on the hip and allows for a natural draw stroke. The Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster has a relatively short learning curve, and the ALS/SLS release mechanisms are intuitive once mastered.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster is built to last, thanks to its robust SafariLaminate construction and quality hardware. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
The holster is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and lubrication of the ALS/SLS mechanisms. This minimal maintenance is a major advantage for users who rely on their gear daily.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster is primarily designed for use with a specific firearm and light combination. It may not be compatible with other firearms or light attachments without modification.
Safariland offers a range of accessories, such as different belt loops and leg straps, to customize the holster’s ride height and carry position. The holster is compatible with Safariland‘s Quick Locking System (QLS), allowing for quick attachment and detachment from different mounting platforms. The QLS system is a particularly useful upgrade for users who need to switch between different carry configurations frequently.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster
Pros
- Superior Weapon Retention: The ALS/SLS system provides Level III retention, offering excellent security against unauthorized weapon removal.
- Durable Construction: The SafariLaminate material is incredibly robust and resistant to wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Smooth Draw Stroke: Once mastered, the draw stroke is smooth and consistent, allowing for quick and efficient weapon presentation.
- Comfortable Mid-Ride Design: The mid-ride belt loop positions the holster comfortably on the hip, promoting a natural draw stroke.
- Compatibility with Weapon Light: The holster is designed to accommodate a SureFire X300U weapon light, which is essential for low-light operations.
Cons
- Learning Curve: The ALS/SLS release mechanisms require practice to master, which may be a drawback for new users.
- SLS Hood Stickiness: The SLS hood can become slightly sticky when exposed to heavy sweat or moisture, requiring a more deliberate release motion.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster?
The Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security professionals, and private military contractors. Any professional requiring a secure and reliable duty holster will benefit from this product. It’s also a good choice for competition shooters participating in practical shooting disciplines that require a high level of weapon retention.
Those who prefer a simpler Level II retention system or those who are unwilling to invest time in mastering the ALS/SLS release mechanisms should skip this product. People who frequently switch between firearms or weapon light attachments may also find the holster’s limited compatibility to be a drawback.
A must-have accessory is the Safariland Quick Locking System (QLS), which allows for quick and easy transfer of the holster between different mounting platforms. Regular cleaning and lubrication of the ALS/SLS mechanisms are also recommended to ensure smooth operation.
Conclusion on Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster
The Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster is a top-tier duty holster that provides an excellent balance of security, accessibility, and durability. While it has a slight learning curve, the benefits of the ALS/SLS retention system and robust construction far outweigh the drawbacks.
At $235.99, the price is justified for those who require a professional-grade duty holster. The Safariland is a worthwhile investment in safety and security for any professional.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster to anyone seeking a Level III retention duty holster. Invest in your safety and confidence – purchase the Safariland 6360AP ALS/SLS Mid Ride Level III Retention Duty Holster today.